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An Afternoon Fit for King Street
 
Alexandria’s King Street starts at the Potomac River and passes the Torpedo Factory Art Center and city hall as it heads west. Starting at the waterfront, it’s the perfect place to spend a day hunting for holiday gifts. Stop for a seafood dinner or massage when the going gets tough.

By Samantha Cleaver



Arts Afire Sugar House Day Spa & Salon Fish Market Decorium Gift and Home
see do dine shop
     
“People go bonkers when they’re in here,” said Joseph Egerton, owner of Arts Afire (1117 King St.; 703-838-9785). This glass jewelry gallery, the largest in the country, features pieces from more than 400 artists. A bit further down the road, a former children’s librarian sells children’s book art in her “very magical” second-floor 2. Elizabeth Stone Gallery (1127 King St.; 703-706-0025). Relax in Sugar House Day Spa & Salon’s (111 N. Alfred St.; 703-549-9940) restored 1700s mansion. Owner Mary Steidl recommended the sugar scrub that exfoliates the skin and dissolves without leaving a residue. Or take one of their free blow-drying lessons, because, said Steidl, “a lot of people don’t know how to finish their hair like a stylist.” By the waterfront, the Fish Market’s (105 and 107 King St.; 703-836-5676) 200-year-old building was originally used to house ships. Now it’s used to eat ships’ cargo. A favorite is the Broiled Admiral’s Platter, loaded with shrimp, scallops, petite crab imperial and filet of fish. Or try the Captain’s Platter, a fried version. The Silver Parrot jewelry boutique (113 King St.; 703-549-8530) holds an eclectic mix of a variety of styles and origins of jewelry. In December, sterling silver with mother-of-pearl and gemstones is a best-seller. Across the street, Decorium Gift and Home (116 King St.; 703-739-4662) is packed with whimsical, seasonal home decorations, said assistant office manager Damon Mock.

(December 2007)

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