About King Street–Old Town Station
King Street–Old Town is one of the most visitor-friendly stations in the WMATA system, serving as the gateway to Old Town Alexandria — a beautifully preserved 18th-century port town on the Potomac River. Opened in 1983, the station anchors the western end of King Street, Alexandria's main commercial corridor lined with boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and historic landmarks.
Both the Blue and Yellow lines serve this station, providing frequent service from downtown Washington DC and the airports. The free King Street Trolley (DASH AT-5 bus) runs from the Metro station all the way to the Potomac waterfront, making it easy to explore Old Town without walking the full 1.3-mile stretch of King Street.
The station also serves as a hub for DASH bus routes throughout Alexandria, and its Zone 2 fare makes it an affordable destination from downtown DC. Weekend trips are especially popular for dining and exploring Old Town's cobblestone streets and the Potomac waterfront.
Lines & Schedules
To Reagan National Airport: ~7 min. To Pentagon: ~10 min. To Metro Center: ~20 min.
Nearby Attractions
Station Exits
Rider Tips
- Take the free King Street Trolley (DASH AT-5) from right outside the station to reach the waterfront. It runs every 10–15 minutes and stops along the length of King Street — no fare required.
- Old Town is one of the DC area's premier dining destinations. Weekend evenings get very busy — consider arriving early (5–6 pm) for easier restaurant reservations or just walk King Street until something catches your eye.
- Reagan National Airport is just 2 stops away (~7 min). Many travelers use King Street as a base for staying near the airport without airport hotel prices.
- The station garage and lot fill quickly on weekday mornings. Arrive by 8 am. On weekends, parking is free and availability is generally better by mid-morning.
Adjacent Stations
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Old Town Alexandria by Metro?
Take the Blue or Yellow Line to King Street–Old Town station. From Metro Center, the ride takes about 20 minutes. A free King Street Trolley runs along King Street to the waterfront, or you can walk the 1.3 miles in about 25 minutes.
Is there parking at King Street Metro?
Yes. King Street–Old Town has a WMATA parking garage and surface lot. Parking is paid on weekdays and free on weekends and federal holidays. It fills quickly on weekday mornings — plan to arrive early.
What is the King Street Trolley?
The King Street Trolley is a free DASH bus (AT-5) that runs between King Street Metro station and the Potomac waterfront along King Street. It operates every 10–15 minutes during most hours and is a great way to explore Old Town without walking the full length of King Street.
How far is King Street Metro from Reagan Airport?
King Street–Old Town is 2 stops from Reagan National Airport on the Blue or Yellow Line — approximately 7 minutes. Many travelers use Old Town hotels as a base when flying into or out of Reagan.