In a dog-friendly city like Alexandria, there’s no doubt it has plenty of green spaces and fenced-in dog parks to let your furry friend run and socialize with other dogs.

Here are the nominees for “Best Dog Park in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to dog park? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Taco Spot in Alexandria is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Bar in Alexandria. The results are now official:

1. Chadwicks

2. The Commodore

3. Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub


Alexandria has no shortage of taco spots that have gained loyal followings by serving up fresh ingredients, handmade tortillas and house-made salsas.

Here are the nominees for “Best Taco Spot in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to taco spot? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Bar in Alexandria is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Family Dinner Spot in Alexandria. The results are now official:

1. Chadwicks

2. Lost Dog Cafe

3. Mia’s Italian Kitchen


Between dives with no frills and modern outposts with crafty cocktail options, Alexandria is abundant with bars locals and visitors can patronize.

Here are the nominees for “Best Bar in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to bar? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Family Dinner Spot in Alexandria is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Race for Runners. The results are now official:

1. PNC Alexandria Half

2. Alexandria Turkey Trot

3. George Washington Patriot Run


Finding a restaurant that works for the whole family — from picky toddlers to adults seeking variety — can be a challenge in any city. Alexandria has no shortage of family-friendly dining options, from casual spots with children’s menus to restaurants with activities to keep little ones entertained.

Here are the nominees for “Best Family Dinner Spot in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to restaurant? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Race for Runners is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Food Truck in Alexandria. The results are now official:

1. La Tingeria

2. Flavor Hive

3. Flavor of Mexico Taco Truck


Fall is months away, which means peak season for Alexandria’s beloved running events. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a casual 5K participant, Alexandria has a variety of races that showcase scenic routes, strong community spirit and charity causes.

Here are the nominees for “Best Race for Runners in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to race? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Food Truck in Alexandria is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Three weeks ago, we voted on the Best Pool in Alexandria. The results are now official:

1. Great Waves Waterpark

2. Minnie Howard Aquatics Facility

3. Chinquapin Park Recreation Center & Aquatics Facility


From producing viral food creations to feeding the masses during outdoor festivals, food trucks serve Alexandria with a variety of cuisines on wheels.

Here are the nominees for “Best Food Truck in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to food truck? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Pool in Alexandria is now closed after two weeks of voting. Results will be shared next Friday.

Three weeks ago, we voted on the Best Dog-Friendly Restaurant in Alexandria. The results are now official:

  1. The Garden 
  2. Port City Brewing Co.
  3. Vola’s Dockside Grill

On hot summer days, there’s nothing better than cooling off at a local pool. Alexandria has a variety of options for families, from public pools to swim clubs and even a waterpark with a wave pool and slides.

Here are the nominees for “Best Pool in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to pool? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Dog-Friendly Restaurant in Alexandria is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Ice Cream Shop in Alexandria. The results are now official:

  1. The Dairy Godmother
  2. Pop’s Old Fashion Ice Cream Co
  3. Casa Rosada Artisan Gelato

In Alexandria, it’s not uncommon to see dogs accompany diners on outdoor patios. Some restaurants will even go a step further and offer treats and water to furry friends.

Here are the nominees for “Best Dog-Friendly Restaurant in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to dog-friendly eatery? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Ice Cream Shop in Alexandria is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Summer Camp in Alexandria. The results are now official:

  1. Bishop Ireton High School Summer Camps
  2. Alexandria Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities
  3. St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School Summertimes

On the warm summer days, Alexandrians will venture out to their favorite ice cream shop to enjoy a frozen treat. The city has no shortage of options, from classic ice cream parlors to gelato and frozen custard shops.

Here are the nominees for “Best Ice Cream Shop in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to ice cream shop? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Summer Camp in Alexandria is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Outdoor Dining Spot in Alexandria. The results are now official:

  1. BARCA Pier & Wine Bar
  2. Ada’s on the River
  3. Vola’s Dockside Grill & Hi-Tide Lounge

Picturesque waterfront seating, lively sidewalk dining and spacious outdoor patios present a range of options at restaurants around Alexandria. Whether you’re grabbing small bites, drinks or a full brunch or dinner, these outdoor dining options are great to enjoy with companions.

Here are the nominees for “Best Outdoor Dining Spot in Alexandria” as part of our returning ALXnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your go-to outdoor dining spot? Write them in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for the Best Florist in Alexandria is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Car Wash/Auto Detailing Service in Alexandria. The results are now official:

  1. Mr Wash Car Wash
  2. Mr. Xtractor Auto Detailing
  3. Yates Car Wash & Detail Center

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