Located just south of Washington, D.C. on the western bank of the Potomac River, Alexandria is nationally recognized for its rich history, beautiful 18^th– and 19^th-century architecture, and welcoming, walkable lifestyle. Many of the city’s residents are professionals employed in the federal civil service system, in the U.S. military, or by private contractors working for the federal government. The U.S. Department of Defense, Institute for Defense Analyses, United States Patent and Trademark Office, and National Science Foundation all have offices in Alexandria. The historic center of Old Town, with its plethora of boutiques, restaurants, antique shops, and theaters along King Street, draws visitors from across the nation. Named a Top 5 Best Small City in the U.S. 2018 by the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards and one of the South’s Prettiest Cities 2018 by Southern Living, Alexandria is a true “Mayberry by the Potomac.”