Virginia is home to all kinds of unique tunnels: the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, Natural Tunnel, and the East River Mountain Tunnel, to name a few. Yet none of these is quite as unique as the fascinating tunnel you’ll discover in Old Town Alexandria. Named the Wilkes Tunnel, this former railroad passage once connected Richmond to Washington, D.C. in the nineteenth century. Today, all that remains is a pedestrian tunnel that goes underground, and downhill, despite the fact that the road above it goes uphill. The Wilkes Street Tunnel in Alexandria is one that needs to be seen to be believed.

One of the best parts about exploring Old Town Alexandria is the opportunity to admire the city’s historic landmarks. Perhaps one of the most fascinating and undiscovered is the Wilkes Street Tunnel.

Renee Ethier / Google

Located at the corner of Wilkes Street and Royal Street, you’ll find an intriguing entrance to the former Orange & Alexandria Railroad Tunnel.

Andy Park / Google

The railroad was constructed in 1856 and was used during both the Civil War and World War I as a strategic link between Richmond and Washington D.C.

Joseph Kristoffer / Google

By 1975, the former tracks were removed from the railroad tunnel and a major restoration project went underway.

Akshay Dixit / Google

Today, visitors enjoy biking and walking through the tunnel, which is famous for its unique visual effect: the walkway slopes downward as the road above it continues uphill.

Austin Graff / Google

As you can imagine, this fascinating tunnel is often the backdrop for many a photo shoot. So when you visit, don’t forget to bring your camera with you!

Danyon Barrett / Google If you continue through the tunnel and follow the route through Windmill Hill Park, you’ll eventually reach Shipyard Park and its incredible views of the Potomac River.

Have you ever experienced the Wilkes Street Tunnel in Virginia? If so, what did you think? Be sure to share your experiences with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!

Renee Ethier / Google

Andy Park / Google

Joseph Kristoffer / Google

Akshay Dixit / Google

Austin Graff / Google

Danyon Barrett / Google

If you continue through the tunnel and follow the route through Windmill Hill Park, you’ll eventually reach Shipyard Park and its incredible views of the Potomac River.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Wilkes Street, Wilkes St, Alexandria, VA 22314, USA