ALEXANDRIA, VA – Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, declared a National Historic Landmark in 1963, will reopen to the public on Friday, August 7. It has been shuttered since March for health concerns. Gadsby’s Tavern and all other city museums will allow 25 percent capacity.
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum will be open on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. The limited hours are to help ensure the safety of staff, volunteers, and visitors. Tickets for time slots must be purchased, but visitors can tour the museum at their own pace.
Gadsby’s Tavern is named for John Gadsby, an Englishman who operated the tavern (circa 1785) and the City Hotel (1792). These are two popular tourist destinations in Alexandria, frequented by Founding Fathers George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams. In the 19th century, the site was a center of political activity and known for its entertainment.
Alexandria residents can attend for free, along with Key to the City pass holders and Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Society members. Non-residents will be charged $5. Select a time slot and reserve tickets HERE.
Please be aware of the safety measures in place. Visitors are asked to:
1. Wash hands upon arrival at the hand-sanitizing station at the entrance.
2. Wear a face covering while visiting as required by the Commonwealth of Virginia (exceptions include children under 10 and people with health conditions that do not allow them to wear face coverings).
3. Follow one-way traffic patterns through the museum and maintain physical distancing.
4. Limit group sizes to 10 people or less.
5. Credit card payments are the preferred method of payment for museum shop purchases.
6. To help keep our spaces clean, we ask guests to refrain from touching exhibits and displayed materials.
Museum staff are following guidance from the the Alexandria Department of Health, including:
1. Requiring all staff wear face coverings in the building.
2. Enhancing daily cleaning, including disinfecting high-touch surfaces throughout the day.
3. Providing hand sanitizer throughout the museum.
4. Restricting admission to timed entry to ensure physical distancing.
5. Installing plexiglass at shop counters.
To take a virtual tour, click HERE.
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