Originally a working munitions factory, the Torpedo Factory Art Center in Washington, D.C., now supports 160 resident artists in 82 working studios and six galleries as well as the Alexandria Archaeology Museum. Visitors to the Torpedo Factory can interact and ask questions of artists at work as well as purchase artwork in the individual studios and galleries. Art classes are also available through the Art League School.
Parking and public transportation at the Torpedo Factory Art Center
Metered street parking can usually be found during the week. On weekends visitors can make use of the parking garages scattered throughout Old Town Alexandria or take Metrorail. The closest Metro station is King Street (blue/yellow lines.) From the station take the free Dash trolley, which runs up and down King Street between the Metro and the waterfront.
Best and worst times to go to Torpedo Factory Art Center
Artists keep their own schedules so not every studio will be open every day. Typically the largest number of studios are open Saturday and Sunday afternoons. On weekends, particularly in spring and summer, artists, musicians and performers can be found busking on the Potomac River boardwalk behind the Torpedo Factory and just outside the main entrance off King and Union streets.
Admission to Torpedo Factory Art Center
There is no cost to visit the Torpedo Factory Art Center. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The Alexandria Archaeology Museum is open for limited hours Tuesday through Sunday. It is closed on Monday.
Must see/do at Torpedo Factory Art Center.
Talk to the artists about their work. The Torpedo Factory Art Center is home to the largest number of publicly accessible working artist studios in the U.S. and part of its mission is to connect artists with the public to inspire and foster creativity. For those feeling inspired, take a class at the Art League School.
Other places to visit near Torpedo Factory Art Center
Stroll along King Street and visit the numerous shops, restaurants and historic sites scattered throughout Old Town Alexandria. Visit Gadsby's Tavern where George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and John Adams once dined. Or visit the George Washington Masonic Memorial and take in the view of Alexandria from the top of the monument.
Insider tip for visitors to the Torpedo Factory Art Center
Skip the car or Metro and take the water taxi from Georgetown to Old Town Alexandria for a great view of the monuments on the National Mall and direct access to the Torpedo Factory, which faces the Potomac River.
Jennifer E. Cooper is a writer and sometimes artist who has lived in Washington, D.C. for more than a decade. She is currently writing a book about her 3,000-mile walk across the United States.