Pop’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream

Pop's Old Fashioned Ice Cream is a delightful throwback ice cream parlor right on historic King Street that serves up hand-scooped ice cream in a charming, nostalgic setting. With classic flavors, fun sundaes, and treats that'll appeal to both kids and grandparents, it's the perfect sweet stop after exploring Old Town Alexandria's waterfront and cobblestone streets.

• ✓Hand-scooped ice cream with generous portions and classic flavors kids love
• ✓Nostalgic 1950s-style decor that makes for great family photos
• ✓Prime location on King Street perfect for combining with a waterfront walk
• ✓Fun sundaes and ice cream treats including floats and banana splits
• ✓Friendly staff who are patient with indecisive little ones

1. 1.Visit on a weekday afternoon to avoid the weekend crowds that flock to King Street, especially during tourist season
2. 2.Park in the nearby city garage on North Pitt Street (free for first hour) rather than hunting for street parking with cranky kids
3. 3.Grab napkins generously,those hand-scooped portions are generous and can get messy fast with little ones
4. 4.Stroll down to the waterfront park just two blocks away to let kids run around while eating their ice cream
5. 5.Ask about their seasonal flavors which rotate and often feature fun, kid-friendly options beyond the classics

Weekday afternoons between 2-4pm offer the shortest lines, or visit on a Friday evening to combine it with Old Town's relaxed weekend vibe. Summer evenings are magical but expect crowds, while fall and spring offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists.

Expect to spend around $5-8 per person for scoops or sundaes. The shop is small with limited seating, so plan to eat outside on benches or take your treats to go for a King Street stroll.

Open year-round, though summer is peak season with the longest lines. Fall brings smaller crowds but still pleasant outdoor eating weather. Holiday-themed treats sometimes appear around Christmas and Valentine's Day.

Pork Barrel BBQ (two blocks away) offers kid-friendly barbecue with mac and cheese favorites, or head to Misha's Coffee for breakfast pastries and casual family dining just down King Street.