Summary:
Sleeps up to 10 across four spacious suites, Downham House is built for families and groups who want room to spread out.
Walk score of 97, with two rare off-street parking spaces. Experience the magic of the holiday season when you visit between Thanksgiving and New Years. The home will be fully decorated for the holidays and ready to make your stay merry and bright!
The Space:
Step back in time, without sacrificing a single modern luxury, at Downham House, a grand Italianate Victorian home lovingly restored to honor its 19th-century roots.
Built in 1872 by E.E. Downham, a whiskey distiller, entrepreneur, and former mayor of Alexandria, this 4-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom residence is one of the few remaining examples of high-style Victorian architecture in the city. Today, it welcomes up to 10 guests with an inspired blend of historic richness, bold design, and refined, present-day comfort.
Located just steps away from Lee-Fendall House, where the Downham family once picnicked in the garden, this home places you at the heart of Old Town’s vibrant story—and with a walk score of 97, you can explore it all effortlessly by foot or by bike. From the waterfront to King Street’s boutiques, coffee shops, and fine dining, every corner of Alexandria is just steps away.
Inside, Downham House is a masterclass in thoughtful, timeless restoration. Original heart-pine floors, with their timeworn character, plaster moldings, ornate doors, custom parlor shutters, and twin Italian marble mantels speak to the home’s historic grandeur. William Morris wallpapers, brass hardware, and a lavish, Victorian-inspired color palette breathe fresh energy into every room. Each space dares to be bold and imaginative, creating an experience that is as visually stunning as it is deeply comfortable.
Though lovingly preserved, the home is also fully updated for modern living—with a gourmet kitchen (complete with a Lacanche range), spa-like bathrooms, high-speed internet, and richly layered living spaces designed to delight today’s most discerning travelers.
Why Choose This Alexandria Vacation Home
• Unbeatable location just four blocks from Old Town’s King Street and six blocks to the waterfront
• Steps away from the historic Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden (with connections to Downham House!)
• Two dedicated off-street parking spaces, a rarity in Old Town!
• Close to a wide array of restaurants, shops, parks, landmarks, and museums
• Historic abode with modern comforts
• Brand-new washer and dryer
• Impressive amenities, luxe touches, and high-tech features
• Walkability score of 97
• Poshabodes' clean care promise
Luxurious Features & Amenities
Sleeps 15 Comfortably
With four spacious bedroom suites, additional sleeper sofas on each floor, kitchenettes and a dedicated washer/dryer on each upper floor -- Downham House is configurable in a variety of ways to meet the needs of families, friend groups, or multi-generational travelers. Each space is styled to reflect the home's history while offering the comfort of luxury bedding and thoughtful amenities.
Bold, Beautiful Historic Details
Admire original architectural features including hand-carved trim, ceiling medallions, plaster walls, wavy-glass windows, and decorative hardware that reflects the ornate elegance of the era.
Designer Kitchen with French Range
The heart of the home features a fully modern kitchen, complete with a French Lacanche range, soapstone countertops, and high-end appliances. Whether you’re preparing a full meal or gathering for morning coffee, this space is both beautiful and functional.
Elegant, Period-Inspired Bathrooms
All bathrooms have been updated with vintage-inspired fixtures, intricate tilework, and spa touches that pair perfectly with the home’s historic charm.
Thoughtful Gathering Spaces
Enjoy twin parlors with Italian marble fireplaces, cozy nooks for conversation, a comfortable lounging room with large screen TV, and a formal dining room for memorable meals. Every corner of the home has been curated for comfort, connection, and storytelling.
Restoration Inspired by the Past
Fragments of hand-painted wallpaper discovered during renovation inspired the home’s bold palette and layered design, bringing new life to the vision the Downhams once had over a century ago.
Downham House is more than a home—it’s a living legacy. A rare gem in the heart of Old Town, it offers a deeply immersive stay rooted in history, surrounded by beauty, and elevated by luxurious details at every turn.
Book now to ensure your place in this extraordinary home!
Guest Access:
Guests will have access to the entire home.
The Neighborhood:
*Neighborhood Highlights*
Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Old Town, where you’ll find unique boutiques, renowned restaurants, and centuries-old architecture at every turn. A leisurely 15-minute stroll leads you to the scenic Potomac waterfront, ideal for riverside walks with breathtaking views. With a Walk Score of 97, Downham House places you in the heart of Alexandria’s vibrant yet historic Old Town, making exploration effortless. When you’re ready to expand your horizons, hop on the metro for a short ride to Washington, D.C., where world-famous museums, monuments, and nightlife await.
With over 250 years of history, Old Town Alexandria is like stepping into a living time capsule. Stroll along narrow streets lined with historic row homes and European-inspired storefronts, and feel transported back in time as you explore local museums and landmarks. King Street, Old Town’s main thoroughfare, is home to independent shops and locally owned eateries that embody Alexandria’s unique charm. For an extra special experience, visit during the holidays when the town sparkles with lights and seasonal décor, showcasing its magic.
*Washington, D.C.*
As the nation's capital, Washington, D.C., is the cultural and historical epicenter of the U.S., home to approximately 70 museums and countless landmarks. Explore iconic monuments like the Lincoln Memorial, then dive into D.C.’s lively neighborhoods such as Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, and the H Street Corridor, where locals gather at celebrated bars and eateries. You’ll also find an array of theaters and galleries showcasing American arts and culture. Enjoy a quiet retreat at Rock Creek Park, Glover Archbold Park, or the Georgetown Waterfront overlooking the Potomac—a perfect escape from the bustling city.
Getting Around:
*Recommended Spots Nearby*
Landini Brothers Restaurant – 12-minute walk
Majestic Café – 9-minute walk
Oak Steakhouse Alexandria –9-minute walk
Vermilion – 13-minute walk
Misha’s Coffeehouse and Roaster – 10-minute walk
Dolci Gelati – 11-minute walk
Hank’s Oyster Bar – 9-minute walk
Founders Park – 9-minute walk
Old Town Farmers Market – 10-minute walk
Old Town Alexandria Waterfront – 15-minute walk
Oronoco Bay Park – 11-minute walk
Carlyle House Historic Park – 10-minute walk
Mt Vernon Trail – 8-minute drive/7-minute bike ride
Washington Monument – 14-minute drive
Lincoln Memorial – 11-minute drive
National Gallery of Art – 14-minute drive
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History – 12-minute drive
Arlington National Cemetery – 11-minute drive
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport – 8-min drive
Other Things to Note:
Included with every Poshabodes property:
• Pristinely clean home
• Well-appointed kitchen
• Dedicated Poshconcierge to help curate your perfect trip
• Upscale living amenities, including luxury bedding, robes, slippers, towels and toiletries
• 24x7 access to Poshabodes Customer Care Team
• Virtual home guidebook with details about the home and the surrounding area
Optional Features (contact your Poshconcierge for more information)
• Early check-in / late check-out
• Daily housekeeping
• Chef recommendations
• Airport transfers*
*available at an additional cost
