Cocktails Perfect for Fall Living at The Dalton

Fall is made for big sweaters, warm blankets, crunchy leaves and crisp cool air. How could it get any better? We think the only way is by adding in a delicious autumn-inspired cocktail to your routine. We’ve compiled a few recipes we think would be the perfect addition to living your best life at The Dalton during one of the most anticipated seasons of the year. 

Smoky Harvest Apple Cider Margaritas

It doesn’t have to be warm outside to enjoy an ice-cold margarita. Whether you’re looking for a signature Thanksgiving cocktail or something to sip during a cozy evening at home, this Smoky Harvest Apple Cider Margarita is sure to be a hit. Featuring apple cider and cinnamon stick garnishes, this must-try is ideal for sipping through the holidays.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ – 2 ounces mezcal or silver tequila 
• 4 ounces apple cider
• 1-ounce fresh lime juice
• 1-2 teaspoons agave nectar 
• Cinnamon, granulated sugar and kosher salt for the rim
• Sliced apples and cinnamon sticks for serving 

Click here for the full recipe

Spiced Maple Manhattan 

For all whiskey lovers out there, this fall-inspired refreshment will really speak to your soul. Cheers to the Spiced Maple Manhattan. This recipe takes the classic cocktail and mixes things up with some orange bitters and cinnamon maple syrup to give it that true autumn feel. Don’t worry, you still get a cherry! 

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces rye whiskey 
• ½ ounce sweet red vermouth
• ¼ ounce infused vanilla, cinnamon and star anise maple syrup 
• 2 dashes orange bitters
• Maraschino cherries for garnish 

Click here for the full recipe

Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria

Another fall-worthy refreshment to whip up in your kitchen at The Dalton is the Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria. This drink is a delightful mix of red wine, apple cider and cranberry juice, giving you the perfect excuse to host friends and family for a harvest get-together. We promise your guests will be asking for the recipe because who doesn’t love a good sangria? 

Ingredients:

• 1 750ml bottle red wine
• 3 cups soft apple cider
• 1 cup unsweetened cranberry juice
• ½ cup orange liqueur
• ½ cup honey
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• Sparkling water to top off
• 1 cup freshly diced red and/or green apple cubes
• cinnamon sticks for garnish

Click herefor the full recipe

Pumpkin Spice Moscow Mules

Leaves are falling and autumn is calling with these festive Pumpkin Spice Moscow Mules. This drink takes the beloved ginger beer Moscow Mule and sweetens it up with a heaping spoonful of pumpkin puree, along with pumpkin pie spices. We recommend serving these up in copper mule mugs for full impact.

Ingredients:

• 2-4 ounces vanilla vodka
• 1 heaping tablespoon pumpkin puree plus more for garnish
• ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• Squeeze of lime
• Spicy ginger beer

Click here for the full recipe. 

Get Festive This October Around The Dalton

Fall is the perfect time of year to get out and explore everything that our vibrant community has to offer. From festive parades to the perfect place to get a cold drink, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Our convenient location means you’re never far from a new adventure.

October 12th – Portside in Old Town Fall Festival

If you’re looking to get into the fall spirit, look no farther than Waterfront Park, just 10 minutes from The Dalton. Spend your day at Portside in Old Town Fall Festival, complete with live music, nautical demonstrations, kids’ activities and more, right next to the water. On top of fun activities, take advantage of delicious local food, beer and wine. Admission to the event is free, but make sure to bring money for food, drinks and select activities.

October 12th – Old Town Farmers’ Market

Each Saturday from October 12th – November 9th, head to the Old Town Farmers’ Market from 7am-noon at Alexandria City Hall. Located just 7 minutes away, find local vegetables, meats, cheeses, pastries, potted plants, art and more! This farmers’ market has been running for over 260 years and is the oldest market in the country. Find everything you need to add design to your home or cook up your next delicious recipe.

October 13th – Oktoberfest at Village Brauhaus

Looking to grab a drink with family or friends? Oktoberfest at Village Brauhaus is the watering hole you need to visit. Get out your lederhosen and dirndls to enjoy their last Oktoberfest event of the season in style. Situated just a mile away, ice-cold beer, games, prizes, giveaways and live music are right down the street. Treat yourself to an authentic experience without going far from home.

October 19th – Fall Harvest Family Day

Take the whole family to George Washington’s Mount Vernon for Fall Harvest Family Days. All ages are sure to love fun 18th-century activities, exploring through a straw bale maze, taking a horse-drawn wagon ride and colonial tunes. The event runs from 9am-5pm and tickets are $20 for adults and $12 for youth. Start a new family tradition this year, just 20 minutes from The Dalton.

October 27th – Annual Del Ray Halloween Parade

Get into the Halloween spirit with the Del Ray Halloween Parade. This spooky event begins at Mt. Vernon Ave, south of E. Bellefonte, and goes to Mt. Vernon Recreation Center playing fields from 2pm-4pm. Dress your children, pets and strollers up in festive decor for a chance to win one of many awards for best costume! This family-friendly event is free, so make this season one to remember.

The entertainment is endless when you live in such an energetic location. Find plenty of ways to get festive and much more when you call The Dalton home.

Upgrade Your Interior at The Dalton

Your home at The Dalton is the perfect canvas to create your masterpiece. No matter your style and budget, there are multiple distinct home stores near The Dalton. Get out and explore new interior design concepts that will make your home uniquely yours. 

Red Barn Mercantile

Mixing rustic with urban chic, Red Barn Mercantile delivers the finest mix of old and new signature designs at great prices. Located just 4 minutes from The Dalton, they sell new, modern pieces, as well as vintage furniture, home décor and gifts that you can’t find anywhere else. 

HomeGoods

Looking for a place that will work with your tight budget? HomeGoods is the spot to find excellent savings. HomeGoods provides shoppers with everything they need to complete their home in just one place. Whether you are looking for a new chair, wall art or kitchen essentials, HomeGoods has it all, just 6 minutes away from our front doors. 

Anthropologie

For the bohemian crowd, Anthropologie is the place to be. In-store and online, their product offering consists of womenswear, shoes and accessories, as well as high-quality furniture, bedding, kitchenware and home décor. Give your home the cozy, urban feel you’ve always wanted with a complete Anthropologie makeover. They have a location just 7 minutes from The Dalton. 

Evolution Home

Evolution Home has been providing Northern Virginia’s favorite home furnishings for 15 years. Just 12 minutes from home, they’re known for having the finest antique, vintage, modern and consignment furniture. Don’t forget to check out their vintage jewelry and wide selection of home accessories that includes glassware, lighting, artwork and rugs.

Random Harvest 

Just a 5-minute from The Dalton, you will find Random Harvest. With only 3 locations, their stores consist of a hand-picked selection of furniture and accessories, from one-of-a-kind pieces, to their own line of handmade upholstery. The best part? Most of their items are in-stock and ready for immediate pick up or delivery.

Our spacious layouts and top finishes are the perfect complement to your unique style. Come take a tour of The Dalton and start planning your interior design today!

Discover Pet-Friendly Living at The Dalton

Your pet is a priority, and we understand that they can play a huge factor in deciding where to live. Don’t worry, there are plenty of things to do just steps from The Dalton that both you and your best friend will appreciate in historical Alexandria. Prepare to make memories with your furry companion that will last a lifetime. 

Canine Cruise

With or without a four-legged friend, all are invited to join the Potomac Riverboat Company on the Canine Cruise, a pet-friendly boat tour around Alexandria’s seaport. Enjoy this leisurely 45-minute ride with man’s best friend, while taking in the spectacular views that Alexandria has to offer. Dogs ride for free. 

The Dog Park Boutique

Clip on the leash and take a 1-mile stroll with Fido down to The Dog Park boutique. Located on King Street in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, The Dog Park features a wide selection of high-quality products for your dog and cat that you won’t find just anywhere, including food, collars, toys, apparel and much more. Plus, if you bring your good boy or girl with you, they might even get a free treat!

Founders Park

Alexandria features several pet-friendly parks and outdoor recreation, but the most popular is Founders Park. Located just 7 minutes from The Dalton, this 5-acre park boarders the Potomac River and provides a pet-friendly atmosphere with riverside views, numerous walking paths, and a fully equipped dog exercise park for your pup to meet new friends.

Lost Dog Cafe

Located in the historic Parker-Grey neighborhood, the Lost Dog Café is a pet-friendly deli, catering both humans and dogs. The best part? Profits are donated to the Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation. So, not only will you be spending quality time with your furry-friend, you’ll be contributing to a considerable cause. 

All the Presidents’ Pups Walking Tour

Last, but not least, dip into the history of our founding fathers’ canine companions at the All the Presidents’ Pups Walking Tour at Mount Vernon. During the 60-minute tour, you and your dog will learn the bizarre names of George Washington’s 50-plus dogs and his appreciation for every single one of them. 

Keep calm and bark on! Find the perfect lifestyle that you and your best friend have been looking for. Take a tour of The Dalton today!

Break a Sweat Around The Dalton

Who doesn’t want to look and feel their best? Whether you’re new to working out or an experienced athlete, the perfect workout for you is nearby. From organized 60-minute classes to a quick ride on the elliptical, we have what you’re looking for.

24-Hour Fitness Center at The Dalton

You can find everything you need for an effective and convenient workout just steps away from your front door. Our 24-hour fitness center has all the tools you need to achieve your health goals. Choose from treadmills, ellipticals and bikes for cardio, then get a lift with dumbbells, kettlebells, benches and more. Create a plan, find a time and get your blood flowing without leaving The Dalton.

Yoga Studio at The Dalton

Are you looking for something with more instruction? Head down to our sleek Yoga Studio, complete with WELLBEATS virtual fitness classes and state-of-the-art Peloton bikes. WELLBEATS offers 400 virtual fitness classes on 28 channels, so you can receive a personalized class on your schedule. Our Peloton bikes also offer on-demand classes to push yourself with the help of an instructor. Enjoy top spin classes at any time at the click of a button!

F45 Old Town, Alexandria

Do you prefer being motivated by a group? Check out F45 Old Town, Alexandria and burn up to 750 calories per 45-minute session. They offer a full-body workout that is designed to improve energy levels, metabolic rate, strength and endurance. Encourage and be encouraged by team members to transform your lifestyle physically and mentally. You’re going to love this sweat-dripping, heart-pumping fun! F45 is only 4 minutes away and new local residents can receive a 7-day free trial.

Studio Barre Alexandria

Want to become stronger, leaner and more confident? Head 2 minutes down the road and discover what Studio Barre Alexandria is all about. They’re a premier boutique fitness studio offering 60-minute barre classes personalized for all fitness levels. Once you try these calorie-torching, music-bumping exercises, you’re sure to be hooked. Unlimited classes for the month are $179, but new clients can start for $99 their first month. They also offer single classes for $25, so get out and try something new!

Orangetheory Fitness 

Discover a workout unlike anything you’ve experienced before. At Orangetheory Fitness, inspirational coaches and cutting-edge technology combine to help you achieve your goals. A fitter, stronger, better version of yourself is within reach with their total-body, 60-minute workouts. Professionals will guide you and tailor your workout to meet your specific health goals, no matter what they are. They’re located only 3 minutes away and you can receive your first class free* (some restrictions may apply). Orangetheory offers packages that include 4 classes per month, 8 classes per month, or unlimited classes.

With so many top fitness options nearby, it’s time to say goodbye to the excuses. Come take a tour of The Dalton today and get your sweat on tomorrow!

Indulge in a World of Restaurants Near The Dalton

Whether you’re craving Tex-Mex, saving room for sushi or hankering for an American classic, there’s endless options for dining near The Dalton. Our central location provides the option to try cuisine from around the world, all without wandering more than 5 minutes from home. Before you make dinner plans, you’ll want to take a look at this list. We hope you’re hungry!

Dos Amigos 

Did someone say tacos? Dos Amigos will quickly be your new go-to Tex-Mex spot. We recommend starting with a refreshing margarita while you look through their extensive menu. Choose from classic Mexican dishes, seafood, burgers, salads, combination plates, and much more. This flavorful neighbor of ours offers various options and is just a quick drive from The Dalton.

Vaso’s Mediterranean Bistro 

Get a taste of the Mediterranean just 3 minutes away at Vaso’s Mediterranean Bistro. Their menu offers a little bit of everything. Start with a savory appetizer, such as their escargot or stuffed mushrooms with crabmeat. Following your light bites, you can choose an entrée from their authentic menu,including chicken marsala, eggplant parmesan, shrimp scampi & garlic, just to name a few. The hardest part will be deciding what to feast on with so many plates.

TJ Stone’s 

Grab a burger and a brew at this grill house and tap room, located just 5 minutes from your Dalton front door. TJ Stone’s offers 200 seasonal, craft, and stable beers made around the world, so it might be hard to pick just one. They also have over 100 bottles of wine, for all pallets, that you can pair easily with their crave-worthy menu items. Indulge inAmerican BBQ classics like wings, brisket, ribs, and burgers, as well as lighter options like soups and salads.

Bastille 

Treat yourself to some French cuisine at Bastille, only 2 minutes from The Dalton. You can choose from single entrees or indulge in their three- or four-course meal options. Head to Bastille on Tuesday for their Twos-Day Dinner specia. You really can’t beat $59 for two when it comes with as much as it does. Want to elevate your meal? Pair your delicious cuisine with a glass of red or white from their extensive wine list. Cheers!

Zento Japanese Restaurant 

You can never go wrong with sushi. Zento Japanese Restaurant offers a huge selection of fresh fish, as well as hot dishes. We suggest starting with their miso soup and a tasty spring roll, then moving onto a shrimp tempura roll and finishing things off with your choice of their fresh nigiri or sashimi. Thankfully, you’re only 5 minutes away from your couch after that huge meal. 

Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap 

We might have saved the best for last. Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap is the perfect place to enjoy a cold beer and some Italian classics. We recommend the wood-fired pizzas and house made pastas, but we can’t forget to call attention to their garlic bread, wings, and paninis. Start your night off right and locally, only 5 minutes from The Dalton.

With so many  foodie options nearby, The Dalton’s location makes it easy to try new things. What are you waiting for? Bon Appetit!

Slip into Summer Near The Dalton

Temperatures are heating up and so are things to do near The Dalton. Our central location makes us the perfect home base for sightseeing, exploring, relaxing and dining. Before the summer comes to a close, make sure to take advantage of all of these activities. After all, they’re just steps from your Dalton door.

Resort-Style Rooftop Pool

There’s nothing more refreshing than lounging by the pool on a hot summer day. Lucky for you, there’s no need to leave home. The Dalton’s resort-style rooftop pool is the perfect place to relax in style. Float in the pool or find your zen laying out on our lounge chairs. Whichever you choose, make sure to take in the extensive views of Alexandria while you do it.

The Capital Wheel at National Harbor

Once it cools off at night, head to The Capital Wheel at National Harbor for a unique experience, located just 5 miles away from The Dalton. This massive Ferris wheel and carousel will make you feel like a kid again. This summer, enjoy live music and happy hour drinks on American Way at National Harbor from 5-7pm every Friday. Make it a date night with two tickets to The Capital Wheel plus two drinks at Flight Deck for just $45.

Mount Vernon Trail

Whether you’re running to set a personal-best, cruising on a bike, or just walking to enjoy the fresh air, Mount Vernon Trail is the perfect place for you. Take in all of the beauty and history that our area has to offer, all while  getting in your daily exercise. Mount Vernon Trail spans 18 miles down the Potomac River, offering picturesque views of the national monuments, Old Town Alexandria and George Washington’s waterfront estate. 

Barbecue on the Rooftop Terrace

Why go out to eat when you have everything you need for a memorable night of dining right at home? Call some friends, fill your ice chest, and head up to our grilling area on the rooftop terrace for a barbecue. You’re sure to find what you want to cooke up at nearby Trader Joe’s or Harris Teeter, located just down the street. Make memories at The Dalton without reservations.

Waterfront Dining

There’s no better time to take advantage of the waterfront than in the warm months. If you don’t feel like cooking, wander over to Vola’s Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge. This hideaway bar offers 87 outdoor seats on the water and a wide-variety of fresh seafood, including: shucked oysters, crab cakes, lobster rolls, as well as shrimp and oyster po-boys, to name a few. Another option is Blackwall Hitch, a waterfront restaurant with locally sourced food and spirits that are seasonally driven. Bask in the relaxing setting with their signature Shrimp Blackwall or wood-fired flatbreads.

No matter what you choose to do for fun, there’s something you’re sure to make memories doing when you live near The Dalton. Make this summer one to remember at your dream residence in Old Town Alexandria. Schedule a tour of our luxurious property today to see everything The Dalton has to offer.

Places you Should Take a Day Trip to Near The Dalton

With a community like The Dalton as our home base, we’re usually all about staying in and enjoying our abode. However, our amazing location makes it oh so easy to see so much more when we’re feeling adventurous. Lucky for us, amazing nature spots are close to home, so we can make a day of it and still get back in time for dinner. Here’s a few of the beautiful locations you have to visit near The Dalton when you get the chance. 

Prince William Forest Park

Distance from The Dalton: 42-minute drive

With over 15,000 acres of beautiful forest to explore, The Prince William Forest Park is a must-see when it comes to outdoor spots. This historic park boasts stunning views, interactive exploration, and a never-ending list of things you can do when you visit. If you’re just looking to enjoy the space for the day, there’s plenty of hiking, biking, and stream splashing you can take part in. Plus, there’s over 100 cabins for you to rent and spots for you to set up camp for a longer stay. While you’re out and about in the wilderness, you’re bound to come across countless birds, amphibians, marine creatures, and more to see up close and personal. When you’re there, you’re sure to be a happy camper.

George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

Distance from The Dalton: 3 and a half hour drive

Another iconic locale close to The Dalton, The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests should be the next on your list to explore. The two vast forests span across the Appalachian Mountains and even cross into other states. Huge, right? That just means there’s a ton for you to discover and endless opportunities for adventure. While there, you can hike The Appalachian Trail, also known as “America’s footpath” and the very first National Scenic Trail in the United States. Or if you like to get around on two wheels, you can bike along numerous other trails. If you just can’t bring yourself to leave the beauty, you can rent a cabin, RV camp, enjoy group campsites, and snag a personal camping spot for the night. We’ll see you on the trails. 

Burke Lake Park

Distance from The Dalton: 30-minute drive

If you are in the mood for a family-friendly outing close to home, we recommend heading to Burke Lake Park for the day. The quaint park is 888 acres and is chock full of activities for the entire family to enjoy. There’s the typical outdoor stuff like fishing, biking, camping, boating, and hiking, as well as plenty of out of the box fun. The kiddos can head over and ride the miniature train, take a spin on the carousel, or show off on the mini-golf & disc golf courses. When you’ve all worked up an appetite and need a rest, you can find a cozy spot for a picnic and enjoy a refreshing scoop of ice cream. Like the other spots on our list, they too offer camping spaces for an extended stay. Time for some fun in the sun. 

Go-to Spots for Amazing Cocktails Near The Dalton

When it comes to choosing the right place to live, the proximity to local hotspots is important to keep in mind. From coffee shops to grocery spots, it can be daunting picking the perfect hub. One of our main requirements is being located near some killer places to grab a cocktail, because sipping on something spiked can make any day a little bit better. Here are a few of our favorite local gems and one of their cocktails that help make the choice to live at The Dalton even more amazing.

The People’s Drug

One of our neighborhood favorites and a location we have to start with is The People’s Drug. Not only is their speakeasy ambiance one that keeps us coming back for more, but so is there cocktail list, of course. Whether you’re choosing from their classic cocktail menu or picking on from their list of seasonal concoctions, you’re sure to find your new favorite drink. It’s hard to narrow it down to our  go-to, but if we have to choose…we’d definitely go with the People’s Signature Old Fashioned. We promise, it’s a fan favorite for a reason. The ingredients list includes a few delicious additions, but bourbon mixed with orange bitters? Can’t go wrong. However, we’re also absolutely loving the seasonal Pistachio Mustachio’s mix of Bluecoat Gin infused with Cardamom, lemon juice and more. What’ll you get?

PX

Another speakeasy style spot near us, and equally delicious, is PX. Not only does their reservation requirement make things mysterious, but their limit of only 25 people at a time does as well. When we visit, we absolutely have to order the The Ichabad Crane. Why? Well, it’s ingredient list of Calvados, Benedictine, house made pecan bitters, and toasted cinnamon syrup make it taste exactly like an apple pie. Need we say more? If you’re looking for something a little more classic, we suggest trying the Smoker’s Delight. It’s a mixture of bourbon, tobacco tea, honey syrup & lemon. Yum.

Captain Gregory’s 

Last, but certainly least, is Captain Gregory’s. This local gem is nautical themed, making it not only an amazingly tasty place, but a fun place, too. They offer a rotating menu of 15 cocktails every month, as well as Experimental Sundays, where an additional 3-4 drinks that each bartender created are added to the menu. Did we also mention they have something called Tiki Thursdays, where they feature 3-4 classic tiki drinks. Out of all of their amazing sips, one of our favorites is definitely their classic, old guard Hearty Breakfast cocktail of bacon fat rye, maple syrup, salt and black pepper. Cheers.

The Best Coffee Shops Near your Home at The Dalton

There’s no better feeling than that first cup of coffee in the morning, right? We couldn’t agree more. That’s why having go-to local spots to frequent is a must when it comes to choosing your home. Whether you’re already a resident here at The Dalton, or just shopping around for your next space, we think this list of nearby coffee shops might help make the decision a little bit easier. Here’s a few of our favorite places to pick up a brew near The Dalton. 

Killer E.S.P.

Distance from The Dalton: 16-minute walk

Located amongst the shops & hotspots on the beautiful brick-lined King St., Killer E.S.P is definitely one of our top stops for a cup of coffee. They serve up tasty brews, homemade gelato, pies, and espresso that is sure to kickstart your morning the right way. We’re pretty sure that there’s nothing better than pairing your morning cup with a sweet treat of your choosing. Once you’ve got your fill, you can head right back out the door to explore the rest of Old Town Alexandria, or continue on to work. Good morning, indeed. 

Swing’s Coffee Roasters

Distance from The Dalton: 16-minute walk

Swing’s Coffee has been serving up amazingly delicious roasted coffee for over 100 years, and their experience shows in every cup. They’re passionate about every single thing that goes into each cup, and you get to easily enjoy it as often as you’d like. Not to mention, they have a ton of different blends, so you’re sure to find the one that fits your flavor profile perfectly. From their sweet, creamy 1013 Reserve Blend to the lemon, spice and chocolate notes of their Four Mile Espresso, they’ve got an array of amazing tastes. What’ll it be?

Sugar Shack Donuts & Coffee

Distance from The Dalton: 5-minute walk

If you’re in the market for a sweet breakfast to get you going, Sugar Shack Donuts & Coffee is the spot for you. Their list of goods includes donuts by the dozen, coffee boxes, donut cakes, hot chocolate, and much more. What makes their operation so unique is the fact that they hand roll and hand cut small batches of their donuts throughout the day to keep things as fresh as possible. Once you’ve chosen your donut of choice from their over 300 options, you can pair it with a cup of coffee of your choosing. If we had to recommend one besides their stellar classics, we’d absolutely recommend the Honey Lavender Latte. You’ll become obsessed, we promise.