This Greek Revival building houses a museum depicting Alexandria’s history from the 17th to the 20th centuries. It features changing exhibits and an ongoing series of lectures, concerts, and educational programs. The knowledgeable staff will be happy to answer questions.

The striking brick-and-stucco Lyceum also merits a visit. Built in 1839, it was designed in the Doric temple style to serve as a lecture, meeting, and concert hall. It was an important center of Alexandria’s cultural life until the Civil War, when Union forces appropriated it for use as a hospital. After the war it became a private residence, and still later was subdivided for office space. In 1969, however, the city council’s use of eminent domain prevented the Lyceum from being demolished in favor of a parking lot. Allow about 20 minutes here.