How to Tour the George Washington Masonic Temple in Alexandria, VA
- 1). Take the Public Guided Tour. The Temple offers a free, guided tour daily except major holidays. The tours depart at 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Highlights of the tour include the library, the Washington Museum and the Knights Templar Chapel.
- 2). Admire the Murals. The Temple is filled with murals depicting scenes of ancient Egypt and the life of George Washington. All were painted by Allyn Cox, better known for his works in the United States Capitol Building. Of particular note is the mural in Memorial Hall that depicts Washington, in full regalia, laying the cornerstone of the Capitol Building.
- 3). Savor the view from the observation deck. The ninth level of the Temple houses a wrap-around observation deck. From there, you can see all of Alexandria to the south and east, the monuments of Washington DC to the west and parts of Maryland to the north.
- 4). Explore the gift shop. The Temple gift shop features an array of books about the life of George Washington and about Freemasonry, as well as gifts, art, apparel and jewelry.
