Alexandria Nominated Again for “Best Small City in the U.S.”—Now It Needs Your Vote

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Alexandria is back in the national spotlight—and this time, it’s up to locals and fans to help keep it there.

The Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards have once again nominated Alexandria for “Best Small City in the U.S.” for 2026, continuing a remarkable run that has kept the city in the top tier for years.

Since the category launched in 2018, Alexandria has consistently punched above its weight, landing in the top three as recently as 2023—and previously in 2021 and 2019. In 2025, the city held its own alongside heavy hitters like Charleston and Santa Fe, while outperforming destinations such as Savannah and Honolulu.

That kind of national recognition doesn’t happen by accident—and it doesn’t stick without support.

A Big Moment for a Small City

Tourism leaders at Visit Alexandria say the annual rankings play a real role in shaping travel decisions. The exposure from outlets like Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure helps drive visitors, boost local businesses, and reinforce Alexandria’s reputation as one of the country’s most charming—and walkable—destinations.

And there’s a unique advantage here: Alexandria offers a small-city experience just minutes from a major one. Visitors can stay in Old Town and still easily explore Washington, D.C.—a rare two-for-one destination pairing.

How to Help

Voting is open now through June 30, 2026 (11:59 p.m. ET) at cntraveler.com/vote.

To give Alexandria the best shot:

• Rate the city “excellent” across all categories
• Consider supporting local hotels, including Archer Old Town, Hotel AKA, Hotel Heron, Hyatt Centric, Morrison House, and The Alexandrian
• Share the campaign on social media using #CondeNastTraveler and #visitALX

Bonus: Voters are automatically entered for a chance to win a luxury Viking cruise.

Why It Matters

More than 750,000 readers participate in the Condé Nast Traveler survey each year, making it one of the most influential—and longest-running—awards programs in the travel industry. Winners are featured in the magazine’s November issue, putting Alexandria in front of a global audience.

For a city built on history, hospitality, and small-business energy, that visibility translates directly into economic impact—from restaurant reservations to hotel stays to foot traffic along King Street.

Bottom line: Alexandria has earned its place among the nation’s best. Now it’s a matter of keeping it there.