best places to visit in georgetown dc

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Things to Do in Georgetown, D.C.

What to do, where to eat & shop, and guided tours.

Georgetown is officially just a neighborhood in DC, but it's older than the federal city and has a unique charm - and a LOT to do.

It's on the top of our list of places to see in DC - the oldest family-run restaurant, the homes of celebrities and historical figures past and present.

What to do in Georgetown can depend a lot on YOU - traveling with kids, really into the Kennedys, on a budget, a foodie?

I'll try to include something for everyone (I can be any of these depending on the day, to be honest)

This post will explain our top things to do in Georgetown right now (autumn and winter) but most things can be done year-round.

There will be advice on getting to Georgetown - don't let the lack of Metro worry you! - where to eat, shopping, and of course more about our tours.

• Top Things to See
• Plan Your Visit
• Guided Tours
• Restaurants
• Shopping in Georgetown

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN GEORGETOWN

What should you see in Georgetown? Everything!

But with so many history, architecture, and pop culture references in this neighborhood, you might not have time to see it all.

Most of these sites are visited or talked about on our Historic Georgetown and Ghosts of Georgetown Walking Tours !

We've put together our Top Ten List of Must-See places in Georgetown:

1. Georgetown Waterfront Park

The original waterfront was lined with sailing vessels and industrial buildings.

Today it has been reclaimed as a relaxing park and boardwalk lined with restaurants and the occasional yacht.

Watch the kayaks and rowing teams along the river.

For younger visitors, there is a splash park in the summer and a meditation walk (which my kids treat as a maze but hey!)

In summer months, the Washington Harbor Fountain lights up with music and a show and in winter it becomes an outdoor skating rink.

Opened in 2011, it has very little historic feel left to it but it's a great place for people watching.

It also offers good food with views of the Kennedy Center, Watergate, Teddy Roosevelt Island, and sunset over the Potomac River.

• Location: Along K St NW between 31st and 34th St NW
• Cost : Open to the public, no cost.
• Hours: Always!
• Fun Fact: You can get a great view of the Kennedy Center from the waterfront! 

2. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal

Used for over a century, the C&O Canal was a lifeline for this port city once the river silted up.

Coal, agriculture, and other raw products traveled down this waterway and canal boatmen and their families created a distinctive community here.

The best place to start is at 1057 Thomas Jefferson Street, NW Washington, DC 20007 - technically the canal extends for 185 miles into Cumberland, MD.

The Georgetown Visitor's Center (closed through renovations) has the most picturesque views of the Georgetown portion of the canal. 

• Location: South of M Street, the entire width of Georgetown. But our favorite block is between Thomas Jefferson St NW and 31 St NW
• Cost : It's a public park!
• Hours: 24/7 to visit the Canal.
• Fun Fact: If you hop on the towpath you can walk or bike all the way to Cumberland, MD!

3. Georgetown University 

This historic school began in 1789 as the first Catholic/Jesuit school in the United States.

The oldest campus building still standing, Old North, is where George Washington, and many subsequent presidents, stood to address the collegiate body.

The most iconic building, Healy Hall, towers at the main gate.

Take our self-guided tour of Georgetown University.

• Location: 3700 O St NW Washington, DC 20007
• Cost : To wander? Free. To attend school? A lot more.
• Hours: Campus grounds are generally open.

Fun Fact: Georgetown's school colors are Blue for Union uniforms and Grey for the Confederate uniforms, adopted by the rowing team in solidarity with all the student and faculty veterans returning after the Civil War.

4. House Hunting

It's like window shopping for reality!

The cobblestone streets with historic row houses of all shapes and sizes with stunning gardens tucked away, this is a great neighborhood just to wander.

You can walk a few blocks and see a variety of architecture.

If you're looking for the cobblestone streets, those can be found on O and P Streets NW on the west side of Wisconsin Avenue.

Technically, they aren't cobblestones, they are setts but still very photogenic.

Some of our favorite places to look at are the historic alleys - Pomander Walk and Cecil Court are often considered the most beautiful spots in Georgetown.

The history of DC alleys is marred with racism and displacement of poorer, Black, and immigrant families.

We suggest knowing more about that as you visit and find these resources helpful:

• https://www.aag.org/stories-of-change-hidden-in-washington-d-c-s-alleys/
• https://mbestebr.wordpress.com/2010/11/10/washington-dc-alley-houses/

5. Exorcist Steps

If you've seen the 1973 film, The Exorcist, then this staircase may look familiar.

They've always been an eerie part of town and were known as the Hitchcock Steps before the movie was filmed here in Georgetown.

The Exorcist House, where the young possessed girl lived, is just to the right of the stairs.

It was movie magic that put the two immediately next to each other.

In reality, there is a small yard and a driveway.

• Location: 3600 Prospect St NW, Washington, DC 20007
• Cost : Just your soul...
• Hours: Whenever you dare.
• Fun Fact: It's not actually haunted. But it is creepy - especially knowing that the movie was based on a true story.

6. Old Stone House

This is the oldest residence in DC still standing, built in 1765, by a German immigrant, Christopher Laymen.

Through the years it has been a clockmaker's shop, a tavern, and a used car sale lot!

Owned today by the National Park Service, the Old Stone House has been restored to its nineteenth-century state.

There is a bookstore and a Park Ranger available during business hours to answer your questions.

Outside of business hours, you can still wander the English-style gardens in the back of the house.

• Location: 3051 M St NW, Washington DC 20007
• Hours: 11 am - 6 pm (various days, depending on the season)
• Fun Fact: This was never George Washington's headquarters, but for many years that was the myth, and a sign-out front advertised visits for a nickel to those who wanted to see where the General slept! 

7. Dumbarton Oaks

This estate sprawls through the north of Georgetown with its magnificent architecture and garden.

Once the home to the Calhoun family amongst other early owners, it was last privately owned by Robert and Mildred Bliss.

They donated both the property and their large pre-Columbian and Byzantine art collection to Harvard University, which runs it today as a research center.

The Bliss' art collection and museum are open to the public, as is its renowned garden (ranked 6th in the world by National Geographic ).

The Washington Conversations were held here in 1944 when the United Kingdom, Soviet Union, China, and the United States all joined together to discuss international peacekeeping and security forces.

It's also known as the Dumbarton Oaks Conference, which would lead to the signing of the United Nations Charter.

• Location: 3120 R Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20007
• Cost : Museum: Free, Garden: $5-8 (March 15 through October 31)/ Free (November 1 through March 14)
• Hours: Museum: 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Closed on Mondays and most Federal Holidays, Garden: 2 pm - 6 pm (March 15 through October 31)/ 2 pm - 5 pm (November 1 through March 14)

8. Tudor Place

Another Federal-style mansion, the residents of this house have always been interested in preserving the history of the house and family. 

Descendants of Martha Washington and relatives of Robert E. Lee, the Peter family that lived here documented family heirlooms and architectural details of the house.

Inside you can see George Washington's Revolutionary War camp stool, the family office from the 1920s with added electricity in a unique place to protect the historic floorboards, and a closet full of clothes from the 1960s.

• Location: 1644 31st Street NW Washington, DC 20007
• Cost : $3-$10 Garden Tours: $3
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10 am - 4 pm / Sunday 12 pm - 4 pm. Closed on Mondays, Federal Holidays, and the entire month of January!
• Fun Fact: Tudor Place has only been owned by one family - the Peter Family, from 1806-1983.

9. Oak Hill Cemetery

This rural movement cemetery dates back to 1848 when it was founded by W. W. Corcoran.

Interred here are many well-known DC names: Edwin Station, Lincoln's Secretary of War; Ben Bradlee and the Grahams of the Washington Post; John Howard Payne, composer of Home! Sweet Home!

Listen to more about Oak Hill Cemetery on our podcast (Tour Guide Tell All) episode all about it:

All rest among beautifully maintained walkways, forested areas, and gardens.

Join us on guided tours of Oak Hill Cemetery to learn all about its history and landscapes.

• Location: 3001 R Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20007
• Cost : Free. If you'd like a self-guided walking tour map, you can purchase one at the Gatehouse.
• Hours: 9 am - 4:30 pm Monday-Friday / 11 am - 4 pm Sat / Sun 1 pm - 4 pm. Closed during funerals and federal holidays.
• Fun Fact: The 1850 Renwick Chapel, one of the few Gothic pieces in DC, was designed by James Renwick, architect of St. Patrick's Cathedral in NYC.

10. Take a Walking Tour

Of course, you'll get far more out of a visit to Georgetown if you travel around with an expert guide. 

We offer three tours of Georgetown, from a daytime historic tour to a family-friendly humorous but still historical ghost tour or an Adults-Only true crime of Wicked Georgetown.

You could go directly to our booking calendar to see what we offer and when, or you could click on the tours below for more details.

• Historic Georgetown
• Ghosts of Georgetown
• True Crimes of Georgetown (Adults Only)

If our scheduled times don't fit, check out our self-guided tours .

Dumbarton House

A federal-style house was built in 1800 and is preserved today as the headquarters of The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America.

Through the historical interpretation of the architecture, furnishings, and interior design, you can learn about the earliest time of our Nation and the Nourse family who lived here.

• Location: 2715 Q St NW, Washington, DC 20007
• Hours: 11 am -3 pm. Closed on Mondays and most Federal Holidays

Have a bit more time or specific interests? There are some great off-the-beaten-path sites in the neighborhood.

Georgetown Cupcakes

This popular dessert stop is the home to the cream cheese icing deliciousness on TLC's DC Cupcakes.

It is not the only (and some argue not the best) cupcakery in Georgetown, but you'll often find a line outside attesting to its popularity.

• Location: 3301 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007
• Cost : Depends on how many cupcakes you get!
• Hours: 10 am - 9 pm
• Fun Fact: Special flavors of the day are free for the first 100 people who order them by name - follow them on social media to find out!

The Escape Game

This is a fun addition to Georgetown's nightlife. You can choose from 5 different themed rooms.

• Location: 3345 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007
• Cost : $34.99 per person
• Hours: 1230pm-830pm
• Fun Fact: Escape Game rooms are built from scratch so they aren't like escape rooms you've seen before.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Georgetown should be on your itinerary for a visit to Washington DC.

There is a lot to do here, great restaurants, and DC by Foot has four tours of the neighborhood!

How long to spend in Georgetown?

You could easily spend a full day here and if you have ample time during your stay in DC, you really should plan on it.

Of course, we think you should take a walking tour, which is about 2 hours.

If you want to explore one of the historic houses like Tudor Place, Dumbarton Oaks, or Dumbarton House, plan on at least an hour there.

Save time for a leisurely meal and a stroll along the waterfront after dessert.

Georgetown is very popular on the weekends and if you'd like to avoid the crowds, traffic, and lines, your best bet is to visit on a weekday or morning before the Brunch rush.

• Georgetown Walking Tours
• How to get to Georgetown
• Brief History
• Accommodations

TOURS OF GEORGETOWN

Guided Walking Tours

We are quite partial to our Historic Georgetown Tour for a highlight walk through the neighborhood.

Our tour covers some of the well-known residents and sites, but also some of those you may not know.

For a darker side of the neighborhood, our nighttime Ghosts of Georgetown tour covers eerie coincidences and curses, as well as a few documented haunted houses!

And join our newest tour, the foodie side of Georgetown: Georgetown Cupcakes & Desserts Tour . 

Self-Guided Tours

If you can't take advantage of our guided tour, then consider one of our themed self-guided tours of Georgetown

We also offer Audio Tours of Georgetown as an addition to our Historic Georgetown Walking tour.

• Book an Audio Tour on our Booking Page
• Receive a confirmation email with a .mp3, .pdf, and embeddable Google Map
• Enjoy the tour(s)!

If you like the Georgetown neighborhood, you may also want to take our Self-Guided Tour of Old Town Alexandria.

Trolley/Hop-On-Off Bus Tours

Many of the city's trolley and bus tours drive through Georgetown, with a few select locations to hop on/off.

Click here to compare the different options.

WHERE IS GEORGETOWN? The district of Georgetown is located in the northwest quadrant of Washington, DC, with its easternmost border approximately 1 mile northwest of the White House.

Georgetown has a reputation for being difficult to get to, but with a little know-how - it is very accessible!

Many of the city's trolley and bus tours drive through Georgetown, with a few select locations to hop on/off.  Click here to compare the different options.

By Metro (subway):

Technically, there is no Metro station in Georgetown, but that doesn't mean it isn't Metro accessible. How long and what route you will take really depends on where you're going in Georgetown.

The maps below show the biggest intersection and center of the shopping district at Wisconsin and M Street NW.

• If you're headed towards the Waterfront, Foggy Bottom will be closer and a shorter walk.
• Making your way to Georgetown University, then Rosslyn is a better option.

The main strip of Georgetown, M Street NW, is about a 20-minute walk from Foggy Bottom/GWU stop on the Blue/Orange/Silver lines.

As you exit the Metro, turn left and walk one block up the hill to Washington Circle, follow the Circle left to Penn Ave NW and that will eventually become M Street NW after you cross over Rock Creek Parkway.

If you're trying to get to the western side of Georgetown, you can also walk from the Metro's  Rosslyn station on the Blue/ Orange/ Silver lines.

When you exit the station, head north (right if you're exiting onto Fort Myer Drive and left if you're on Moore St) to cross the Key Bridge.

The bridge dead-ends on the far western part of M St NW.

There are many bus routes that service Georgetown, both down M St NW and northern areas of the neighborhood.

Visit the Trip Planner at WMATA to get specific directions from your location.

The Circulator is only a $1 ride or accepts SmarTrip cards.

The Dupont-Georgetown-Rosslyn line runs from the Dupont Circle to the Rosslyn metro station, with stops along M Street.

The Union Station-Georgetown line runs from Union Station to Georgetown via K Street and back to Union Station with stops on M Street traveling eastbound.

These buses are distinctive red and black buses with similar-looking signs at the bus stops.

Parking in Georgetown

Like many busy parts of the cities, parking in Georgetown can be difficult!

There is street parking throughout the neighborhood.

Street parking is $2/hr Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays and holidays do not have parking enforcement.

When parking, look for rush hour restrictions - parking on Monday through Friday along M Street and on the 1100-1600 blocks of Wisconsin Avenue, NW from 7 to 9:30 a.m. and 4 to 6:30 p.m. will result in a towed car! 

Parking on neighborhood non-metered streets is limited to 2 hours - legally, that is applicable to the whole of Zone 2.

So, moving your car from one spot to another in the same neighborhood may still result in a ticket.

Another easy way to park in Georgetown is through a service called SpotHero.

This website enables drivers to search for, compare, and purchase guaranteed parking spaces ahead of time in garages. They have a bunch of cheap options in Georgetown.  

BRIEF HISTORY OF GEORGETOWN

Founded in 1751 in the colony of Maryland, the town of George was founded as a tobacco port city on the Potomac River.

Georgetown, today, is much larger than the original town boundaries.

What is now N St NW (formally Gay Street) was the northern boundary of the city.

The rest was bordered on the south by the river, east by Rock Creek, and west by what is now Georgetown University.

When the founding fathers decided where to put the new federal district, the port of Georgetown was included in its boundaries.

In 1800, it became Georgetown, DC - still, its own city.

This changed in 1871 when Washington City expanded and Georgetown lost its autonomy.

The streets were renamed and the city council disbanded.

The small town grew with the success of its merchants until the mid-1800s.

With the growth of the federal city, the stress of the Civil War, the silting of the Potomac River, and the failure of the C&O Canal, Georgetown fell into a decline that lasted decades.

After the New Deal-ers moved into the affordable neighborhood, cemented by the presence of the Kennedys, Georgetown became once again a neighborhood of businessmen and politicians.

Diverse is not the word you'd use to describe Georgetown today.

But, throughout its history, it has been the home of leading political figures and simple merchants and enslaved persons, full of Scottish and German immigrants, and a thriving community of freedmen at Herring Hill.

It went from mansions to slums and back again.

A walk through this pre-Revolutionary War neighborhood takes you through 250 years of history, its architecture, and the stories of the people who once and still live there.

If you'd like to learn more, our guide, Canden, has had two books published on Georgetown!

Wicked Georgetown: Scoundrels, Sinners and Spies, and Images of America: Georgetown . Both are available on her Amazon author page !

ACCOMMODATIONS IN GEORGETOWN

As the oldest and one of the most affluent neighborhoods in DC, Georgetown is home to some of the most beautiful and luxurious hotels in the city.

There are many hotels to choose from, but here are some of our favorites.

Rosewood Washington, D.C. Georgetown : 1050 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007 - $$$$

The Melrose Georgetown : 2430 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20037 - $$$$

Georgetown Inn : 1310 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007 - $$$

Georgetown Inn West End : 1121 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20037 - $$

Looking to learn more about accommodation in DC? Check out the following posts:

• Best Hostels in Washington, DC
• Affordable Hotels in Downtown Washington, DC
• Bed and Breakfasts in Washington, DC

RESTAURANTS IN GEORGETOWN

If you've ever been on Canden's Georgetown tours, you'll hear her talk about one and only one restaurant.

By far all of our favorite places to eat in Georgetown, Martin's Tavern is Canden's only recommendation.

It has great food (their grandmother's recipe for crab cakes is amazing), but what we love most is its history.

Martin's Tavern was opened in 1933 by an Irish immigrant, Billy Martin, and is still run by his great-grandson, also Billy Martin, who can sometimes be found behind the bar, and fifth-generation, Lauren Martin.

If you go there and tell them DC By Foot sent you... nothing will happen, they have no idea who we are but we highly recommend it!

Martin’s Tavern : 1264 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC - American Tavern $$

Shanghai Lounge : 1734 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007 - Dumplings/Chinese $

Sequoia : 3000 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007 - American $$$

Filomena: 1063 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007 - Italian $$$

Moby Dick House of Kebab : 1070 31st St NW - Mediterranean $

Il Canale : 1065 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007 - Italian $$

Chez Billy Sud : 1039 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007 -French $$

Chaia : 3207 Grace St NW. Washington, DC 20007 - Taco (Vegan & Vegetarian Options) $

Fiola Mare: 3100 K St NW, Washington DC 20007 - Seafood $$$$  

DESSERTS IN GEORGETOWN:

Join our newest tour, the foodie side of Georgetown: Georgetown Cupcakes & Desserts Tour.

If you have any interest in desserts, you've likely heard of TLC's "DC Cupcake" television show. It is based on the shop, Georgetown Cupcakes on M St NW.

Fan of the show? By all means, go visit the shop. There will be a line - they even have a bouncer!

If you follow them on Twitter/Facebook, the first 100 guests to order the cupcake of the day by name get it for free!

But Georgetown Cupcakes is not the only place dessert place in Georgetown.

Thomas Sweet's Ice Cream & Chocolate : 3214 P St NW, Washington, DC 20007 - Homemade ice cream and fudge

Sprinkles : 3015 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007 - Also known due to a TV show - Cupcakes

Baked & Wired:  1052 Thomas Jefferson St NW, Washington, DC 20007 - our favorite - delicious desserts of all kinds!

Levain Bakery : 3131 M st NW, Washington DC 20007 - This famous cookie bakery from NYC is noticeable by its VERY long line!

Olivia Macron (one of our FAVS!): 3270 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007 - homemade macrons with a variety of flavors.

SHOPPING IN GEORGETOWN

Georgetown is the go-to shopping area inside the District.

While walking along the two main streets of Georgetown - M Street NW and Wisconsin Ave NW you'll find everything from staples such as Urban Outfitters and Nike to secondhand stores to vintage shops that carry designer brands.

• 14 Stylish Georgetown Shops
• 10 Best Vintage and Consignment Shops in Georgetown (technically, only the first 3 are in Georgetown but the rest aren't far!)
• The 9 Best Places to Shop in Georgetown

The northern section of Wisconsin Ave NW (by the Georgetown Library) will have you feeling as if you are wandering the streets of Paris. Book Hill, as this area is known, offers more than the standard retail outlets.

Here you'll find Antiques Row, bespoke jewelry, and curious treasures to take home with you.

Meanwhile, M Street NW offers more of the shopping mall experience without the mall itself.

Off M Street are places like Cady's Alley, historic alleys turned into shopping and dining.

Large chain stores can be found along this main road. Banana Republic, Anthropologie, J. Crew, and more can all be found along M Street.

If you're looking for a few unique finds or you just need to replace a lost suitcase, Georgetown shopping offers a varied experience to add to your visit to DC.

For a complete list of all the stores you can find in Georgetown, check out: http://www.georgetowndc.com/explore/fashion

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About The Author

Canden Arciniega

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18 Best Things To Do In Georgetown, DC

Here is a list of the 17 best things to do in Georgetown D.C.!

October 3, 2023 //  by  Southern Trippers

Planning a trip and need to find all the best things to do in Georgetown? You have come to the right place!

The historic district of Georgetown is one of the best things to do in Washington D.C. It is full of hidden gems to explore.

Personally, I love Georgetown! It is one of the cutest neighborhoods in Washington DC and is super photogenic!

You can plan a visit any time of the year, and Christmas in Washington D.C. is one of the most magical.

Georgetown was originally built as a port town and was an important part of the shipbuilding history in America.

Over the years Georgetown has evolved from its roots. It is now one of the most popular and trendy neighborhoods in town while still keeping its historic charm.

There are so many fashionable shops, tasty restaurants, beautiful parks, historic homes to discover, and trendy boutique hotels .

Planning your trip to Washington DC last minute?

Hotels and tours sell out fast! Make sure to book in advance to ensure availability. Here are our top picks for Washington DC:

Top Experiences And Tours To Book In Advance:

• Monuments By Moonlight Tour (Our pick!)
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour (Easy to get around)
• Gourmet Dining Cruise (Can choose brunch or dinner)
• Capital Wheel Entry Ticket (Save time in line)

Best Places To Stay In Washington DC:

• The Architec t (Our choice for location)
• Citizen M Washington DC Capito l (Hip and modern)
• Glover Park Hotel Georgetown (four stars)
• Hotel Washington (Panoramic views!)

Like most of Washington D.C., Georgetown is very walkable and easy to navigate. As well as being great exercise, walking will help you to see more of the cobblestone streets and really experience it like a local.

If you are not able to walk or do not have time, you can utilize the public transport system. Bus fare is cheap and there are plenty of stops around Georgetown.

Another option is to rent a bicycle or grab a scooter off the street!

This is truly one of the best places to stay in Washington DC!

Now let’s look at some of the best attractions in Georgetown D.C. in more detail!

Go on a Spooky Walking Tour

Like any other deeply historic place in America, Georgetown has its fair share of ghostly activities.

From haunted houses, churches, cemeteries, and railroad tracks, it is hard to avoid a chill going down your spine.

If you looking for what to do in Georgetown and are interested in paranormal activities or a cool spin on historic stories, you have to try a s pooky walk ing tour of Georgetown.

You will gain a whole new perspective on the historic streets as an informative guide leads you to many of the district’s most haunted places.

This really is one of the best things to do at night in Georgetown!

Book Here: Georgetown: Ghost Story Walking Tour

Take a Tasty Food Tour

Foodies will want to take a food tour while in Georgetown because there are so many yummy restaurants and cafes in Georgetown to taste test.

This walking food tour is a great way to see the city as you learn about the history and food scene all while enjoying delicious food.

This tour hits up some of the most iconic eateries in lively neighborhoods. Including the James Beard nominee’s tarts near the canals and the delicious VPN-style pizza is always a crowd favorite.

Make sure you bring an appetite and a camera to capture the scenic streets. This is truly one of the best things to do in Washington DC at night !

Book Here: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour

Visit the Dumbarton Oaks Museum

The Dumbarton Oaks Museum is one of the best places to visit in Georgetown for anyone interested in history, art, or architecture.

This Georgetown library is open to any researchers who wish to expand their knowledge or if you want to just pop in to see the architecture.

The museum holds a world-class collection of art that includes Byzantine and Pre-Columbian art. There is also a Renaissance-inspired music room and a rare book gallery.

While you are there you can enjoy a tour of the museum and gardens. The gardens are filled with over fifty acres of landscaped beauty.

This is a wonderful place for a photoshoot among flowering trees or admiring contemporary art installations mixed among the plants.

Be sure to add the Dumbarton house as a quick stop on your list of what to see in Georgetown DC.

This is one of the best museums in Washington DC .

Marvel at the Tudor Place Historic House

Another of the best Georgetown things to do for architecture lovers is a visit to Tudor Place . This pretty, neoclassical mansion is a beautiful sight on a five-and-a-half-acre estate.

The historic property was built in 1816 and was the home of Martha Washington’s granddaughter. The descendants of Martha Washington lived here for six generations.

The inside holds over eighteen thousand decorative objects and furnishings. This is where you will find the second-largest Washington collection, the first being at Mount Vernon.

The garden is a beautiful place to walk as well, especially in spring when there are flowers blooming around every corner. The most common flowers are different color roses, peonies, and big blooming hydrangeas.

Tudor Place is such a peaceful area that will make you forget you are in the middle of Georgetown DC.

Walk Around Georgetown Campus

You can’t go to Georgetown without visiting the campus of the famous university. As well as being one of the oldest colleges in the U.S., Georgetown is also regarded as one of the best.

It dates back to 1789 and is a staple in Washington D.C.

The campus is beautiful and the architecture is amazing. The school overlooks the Potomac River so get ready for some awesome views.

Healy Hall is one of the most popular places to visit on campus. This building sticks out because of its distinctive Flemish Romanesque style and the inside is just as beautiful as the outside.

Interestingly, it was designed by the same architects who designed the Library of Congress. It is named after the college’s first president of African-American descent, Patrick Francis Healy.

Touring here would be one of the best things to do in Georgetown for anyone who is getting ready for college!

See the Exorcist Steps

Film buffs will want to see the famous Exorcist Steps in historic Georgetown.

This innocent-looking staircase was a filming location for the 1973 horror classic The Exorcist in the dramatic chase scene. If you dare to climb the stairs, you will see the epic house in the movie as well.

The steps were iconic before the filming because they connect two important areas, Prospect Street and Canal Road.

The views from the top give you a unique view of the city. Be sure to take a few minutes to take it all in!

There are 97 steps in total and they are pretty steep so be careful if you are visiting at night. Just be sure not to trespass, since it is a private residence.

Many people climb the stairs on their daily exercise route, so you will be okay, just be respectful.

Stroll Along the Georgetown Waterfront Park

The Georgetown Waterfront Park on the Potomac River offers amazing views of Roosevelt Island and picturesque bridges. This ten-acre park is a great place for a romantic stroll or an adventure with your kids.

Speaking of kids, they will have a blast splashing in the refreshing fountain or twisting their way through the labyrinth path. The path creates a scenic nature walk and there are beautiful, native plants and rain gardens.

Pack yourself a picnic on the popular river steps to watch ducks swim in the water or boats cruise by. You might even be able to watch rowers practice for the Olympics.

This is one of the most fun things to do with kids in Georgetown!

After walking around, grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants at the Washington Harbour.

If you are spending a weekend in Washington DC , you need to stop by here!

Stroll the Cute Streets and Canal

It is hard to say what the best street in Georgetown is, but almost everyone can agree that the best street in Georgetown to start at is N Street.

This is because N Street is known for its historic townhouses. Most were built back in the late 18th century and they are always the most sought-after real estate in the city.

There are also many homes of famous people found here. Along with many politicians, these buildings have also belonged to A-listers like Julia Child, Elizabeth Taylor, and Alexander Graham Bell.

The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, or C & O Canal, is also one of the best streets in Georgetown. Construction of the canal began in 1828. While it was once important for transportation, it is now a scenic place to walk, bike, or boat.

Walking around the city may seem like a waste of time, but it is actually one of the best activities in Georgetown.

Take a Photo in Front of Call Your Mother

Call Your Mother is a super cute deli that specializes in tasty bagel sandwiches. This eatery is one of the best Instagram spots in Georgetown, and you simply must come to take a photo here.

Found on the corner of O and 35th Street, this shop stands out among the other cute buildings because of its bright pink color and light, green trimming. The doorway is covered in flowers, only adding to the beauty.

Snap a few photos and grab a bagel to go. It is just a few blocks from Georgetown University so you can eat as you walk to the campus.

Visit the Francis Scott Key Memorial

The Francis Scott Key Memorial is near the Francis Scott Key Bridge and the C & O Canal.

Scott Key is most famous for writing the U.S. national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner”. He was also the fourth United States Attorney for the District of Columbia.

The bust of Key sits in a small park next to a pergola covered in wisteria. The park also features an American flag that is a replica of the one that flew over Fort McHenry during the War of 1812.

If you want to see the actual, preserved flag, you can head to the National Mall and visit the Smithsonian Museum of American History where they have the Star-Spangled Banner on display.

This is a simple stop along your tour of the best things to do in Georgetown, but definitely still worth a visit.

Eat at Fiola Mare

If you are looking for one of the best restaurants in Georgetown , you should reserve a table at Fiola Mare.

This classic restaurant is found on the riverfront. It is near the ferry terminal, so grab a table on the patio to watch the boats and people roll by. You will love the waterfront dining!

As an Italian restaurant specializing in seafood, you are in for a delicious meal. Fiola Mare is open every day of the week, starting at 11:30 for lunch. Except for Mondays when they open at 4 for dinner service.

Some of the most popular meals include delicacies such as caviar, oysters, and prawns. For pasta try their ravioli dish or the homemade red sauce.

There is also a wine list inspired by the Italian coast, ask your server to help pair it with your meal! Don’t forget to save room for dessert, too the chocolate cake is to die for!

Step Back in History at Old Stone House

The Old Stone House on M Street is the oldest building in Washington D.C. that is still on its original foundation. You can’t really get more historic than that!

The home was built in 1765, so this unassuming stone building is even older than the United States.

If you want to step back in time, you can do a self-guided tour of the property. Each room is furnished accurately to represent the colonial era.

This is one of the best free things to do in Georgetown for all ages.

Also noteworthy there has been a shop in this spot since the 1800s, and today you can purchase souvenirs at the gift shop just as they did way back in the day.

Buy Locally in Historic Shopping Districts

There are many historic places for Georgetown shopping. Whether you buy anything or simply window shop, you will have a great time soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Most of the buildings have exposed brick, lofted ceilings, and cool design elements. The shops are just as beautiful to see as the clothing they sell.

Keep your eyes peeled for Cady’s Alley. This super trendy fashionable store will have a little something for everyone’s style. When you need a break there is a courtyard and alleys where shoppers can take a load off.

Another popular spot to shop is The Book Hill shopping district. Which is named after the nearby Book Hill Park. This area has many independent stores that sell things like clothes, home goods, antiques, and art.

Even celebrities have been spotted shopping here, so you know it is one of the best things to do in Georgetown!

Walk in JFK’s Footsteps

If you are a fan of the Kennedys, then you will be happy to learn that John and Jackie have quite a history in Georgetown.

You can tour places in the area where this beloved couple lived and worked on a self-guided walking tour.

A quick Google search will bring up all the addresses you need to see. Make sure to only admire the homes from the sidewalk and respect the owners.

Along with places where they lived or JFK worked on his presidential campaign, you can also see more personal locations.

They attended services at the Holy Trinity Church. JFK proposed to Jackie at Martin’s Tavern. If you eat there, you can dine in the “Proposal Booth.” How cool is that?!

Hear Some Jazz at Blues Alley

Music lovers will find that listening to jazz at Blues Alley is one of the fun things to do in Georgetown at night. This iconic, jazz club was founded in 1965 and has hosted many famous musicians.

Eat a delicious Southern meal like blackened catfish or jambalaya as you enjoy live jazz music. The club is hidden down a little alley right around the corner from the C & O Canal.

This is one of the best things to do for adults in Georgetown as well since you get dinner and a show.

After supporting the historic business, go for a moonlit stroll along the canal to end your romantic night in Georgetown right?

Watch a Performance at the Gaston Hall

One of the best Georgetown DC activities is found on the GU campus at Gaston Hall.

This beautiful auditorium was originally built by Francis Healy and was molded after the 16th century Gesu in Rome with gothic features.

The hall is multi-purpose and regularly hosts concerts, lectures, and theatrical performances.

Be sure to check out their local website to see what is going on when you are visiting DC! If nothing interesting is happening, you can do a self-guided tour to check out this beautiful and historic music hall.

Take a Boat Tour of the Potomac River

One of the best ways to see the best attractions in Georgetown DC is from the water. You can take your pick between paddle boats, electric boats, or the traditional river boat. These tours are available all season long but peak season is during the warmer months of the year.

The most common boat tour will take you to see famous landmarks like the Kennedy Center, Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument.

Some seasonal options available are a cruise to see the blooming Washington DC cherry blossoms , a sunset cruise, or a booze brunch cruise.

Another option to get out on the water is renting a kayak, canoe, or paddleboat from the Key Bridge Boathouse.

With so many options this is one of the best things to do in Georgetown Washington DC any time of the year!

Get Dessert at Georgetown Cupcake

If you are looking for a tasty treat, you need to check out Georgetown Cupcake ! You might have to wait in line since this place is so popular, but it will be worth it!

This bakery was opened in 2008 by sisters Katherine Kallinis Berman and Sophie Kallinis LaMontagne. They’ve been featured in many magazines and even had a TV show on TLC called DC Cupcakes from 2010 to 2013.

With over 100 cupcake flavors, you can try something new every time you visit. They also have seasonal choices each month.

Some flavors include red velvet, peanut butter fudge, lemon blossom, key lime, and toffee crunch. There are a couple of gluten-free and vegan options too.

Even if you are not able to drop by when you visit Georgetown Washington DC, the bakery ships nationwide. You could also learn to make your own treats by using one of their cookbooks.

If you are looking for things to do in Atlanta, Georgia , there is also a location there!

There is no excuse not to enjoy some of the best things to do in Georgetown DC, most are simple to navigate and won’t break the bank.

There are so many things to do in Georgetown for adults and kids alike. This can be a romantic getaway in the South or a fun family vacation. No matter what, you will make great memories!

With so many historic buildings, informative museums, pretty parks, Georgetown shops, and restaurants, you could easily spend a few days here exploring. Do not forget to add Georgetown to your Washington D.C. itinerary.

Next, check out more of the best things to do in Northern Virginia !

25 Great Things To Do In Georgetown

One of D.C.'s oldest neighborhoods, Georgetown is a great place to get a glimpse of the city's past and present!

Table Of Contents

Brunch/Breakfast

Coffeeshops/cafés, restaurants, unique experiences.

Founded in 1751, an entire 40 years before Washington, D.C., itself was established, Georgetown makes for a great glimpse into the District’s past and present! From the old homes and cobblestone streets of historic Georgetown to the newer shops and restaurants with waterfront views, there’s truly something in this beloved D.C. neighborhood for everyone to enjoy. To help you sort through the numerous possibilities Georgetown has to offer, Secret D.C. has rounded up some of the best places it has to offer:

1. Martin’s Tavern

Visitors and locals alike flock to Martin’s Tavern for its rich history—JFK proposed to Jackie here; baseball greats Mickey Mantle, Ty Cobb, and Yogi Berra dined here; and other incredible stories!—and stay for brunch deals like the Early Riser and Martin’s Chesapeake Benedict!

Where: 1264 Wisconsin Ave. NW

2. Kafe Leopold

Serving modern Austrian cuisine, including mouthwatering strussel, with the option to be seated in the courtyard garden, it’s easy to see why people love to gather here for brunch!

Where: 3315 Cady’s Alley NW

3. Cafe Georgetown

Named for the neighborhood it inhabits, with a menu featuring any cafe beverage you could dream of and an assortment of pastries—banana Nutella strudel, lemon poppy loaf, and more—brunch just got better!

Where: 3141 N St. NW

4. The Sovereign

Looking to indulge in Belgian fare for brunch? Order the delectable Brussels Waffles and a Belgian Mary (jonge genever, house bloody mix, pickled veg), and enjoy!

Where: 1206 Wisconsin Ave. NW

With gorgeous waterfront views and modern takes on brunch classics—including a variety of seafood—Sequoia is a prime brunch spot that keeps people coming back!

Where: 3000 K St. NW

6. Cafe Georgetown

A repeat on our list, even if you don’t have time for a sit-down brunch, Cafe Georgetown and its assorted lattes, teas, and seasonal offerings (peep that Day Dream Latte above) is still the perfect cafe for grabbing a drink when you’re on the go!

7. Boulangerie Christophe

If you’re looking for French cafe vibes, then Boulangerie Christophe is the place to go. Quaint yet sleek and serving an array of pastries, crepes, cappuccinos, and classic French fare, you’ll forget you’re in Georgetown!

Where: 1422 Wisconsin Ave. NW

8. Call Your Mother

A local favorite with multiple locations across the DMV, the Georgetown flagship of Call Your Mother stands out for its bright pink and turquoise exterior and gorgeous flowers, with people frequently stopping just to take a picture. Add in the “Jew-ish deli’s” delectable bagel sandwiches, “schmearz,” and coffee, and it just can’t be beat!

Where: 3428 O St. NW

9. Pattiserie Poupon

Another quaint French delight, Pâtisserie Poupon boasts an assortment of delicious croissants, seasonal tarts, and cappuccinos and espressos galore!

Where:  1645 Wisconsin Ave. NW

10. Baked and Wired

Serving coffee and espressos sourced from around the world and paired with their own homemade treats—cupcakes, layer bars, and more—this Georgetown institution is great for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Where:  1052 Thomas Jefferson St. NW

11. Grace Street Coffee

With multiple locations, this Georgetown window service is down a side street and partnered with High Road Cycling, making it the perfect spot to grab a delicious caffeine boost of your choice—cold brew, espresso, lattes, and more—and be on the go!

Where:  3210 Grace St. NW Suite 100

12. Fiola Mare

We admit, Fiola Mare is on the pricier side, but with its waterfront views, fresh seafood, and indulgent cocktails and wine, it’s the perfect spot for a date night or a special occasion!

Where:  3050 K St. NW Suite 101

13. Martin’s Tavern

A restaurant so nice we have it on our list twice! Indulge in savory fare at the neighborhood’s oldest family-run business, with some classic American favorites like the Martin’s Delight (oven-roasted turkey over toast, smothered in housemade rarebit sauce) or the Tavern Burger.

Where: 1264 Wisconsin Ave NW

14. Filomena

Filomena is known for two things: delectable, classic Italian food and its sensation decorations. If you really want a treat, stop by near any major holiday and take in the festive decor alongside a mouthwatering meal!

Where: 1063 Wisconsin Ave NW

Whether you’re a vegetarian or looking to try something unique and new, Chaia Tacos is the spot! This Georgetown institution serves delicious plant-based tacos (also available as vegan options) and beverages on tap, including kombucha, beer, tea, and rosé!

Where:  3207 Grace St. NW

16. The Tombs

The Tombs is an institution for Georgetown University students, and it’s easy to see why: it’s happy hour deal (Monday-Friday from 3 p.m-5 p.m) of $10 Busch Lite pitchers and $6 rail drinks is hard to one-up!

Where:  1226 36th St. NW

17. El Centro

The El Centro happy hour makes every day feel like a Taco Tuesday. From 4 p.m.-7 p.m Monday-Friday and 4 p.m.-5 p.m on weekends, the discounts on small bites, tacos, and beverages is a win! Head here for $6 nachos and a $7 margarita to wash it down!

Where:  1218 Wisconsin Ave. NW

18. Pinstripes

If you’re looking for drinks and entertainment, Pinstripes is the way to go. With happy hour discounts on beverages and food, as well as the chance to play bocce and bowling, you’re in for a blast!

Where:  1064 Wisconsin Ave. NW

19. Blues Alley

Billed as “the nation’s oldest continuing jazz supper club,” Blues Alley has hosted performances for a list of the greats and still offers an incredible mix of live music and drinks!

Where:  1073 Wisconsin Ave. NW

20. Clubhouse: Coffee & Cocktails

With a mix of traditional bar seating, high tops, and beer hall tables, Clubhouse will fit any mood, and specialty cocktails like Hemingways Vacation just seal the deal!

Where:  1070 Wisconsin Ave. NW

21. Dumbarton Oaks

This historic estate and garden is beloved for more than just its gorgeous views and architecture—wandering the grounds you’ll find a museum, research, a music room, a renowned garden and greenhouse featuring the oldest houseplant in North America!

Where: 1703 32nd St. NW

22. Kayak or Paddleboard

What could be better than sight-seeing in this historic neighborhood via the water? Georgetown boasts a number of rental services that allow you to kayak or paddleboard along the Potomac River or the C&O Canal!

• Thompson Boat Center: 2900 Virginia Ave. NW
• Fletchers Boathouse: 4940 Canal Rd. NW
• Key Bridge Boathouse: 3500 Water St. NW

23. “The Exorcist” Stairs

These scary-steep 97 steps have been terrifying Washingtonians and visitors alike since they made their horrifying appearance in cult-classic horror movie, “The Exorcist.” Whether you’re a horror-lover looking for a photoshoot or a workout fanatic trying to get a sweat in, these stairs are the perfect spot!

Where: Between M Street NW and Prospect Street NW

24. Old Stone House

This inconspicuous stone house in Georgetown is actually the oldest building in the District. But don’t be fooled by its common and innocent appearance—Old Stone House is believed to be inhabited by at least 11 spirits! While a majority of the spirits are relatively benign presences, a rather nasty ghost known as George, who isn’t too fond of visitors—especially women, who he has often choked, shoved, and poked in their visits to the house. Yikes! Check out all 11 documented spirits  below:

• A 1700s woman who frequents the fireplace.
• A younger woman with ringlet curls who repeatedly runs up and down the staircase.
• An antebellum woman in the kitchen.
• A man who dons short pants with long stockings, also in the kitchen.
• A long, blond haired man by the front window.
• A boy named Joey who hangs out in the third-floor hallway.
• A young African American boy who also hangs out in the third-floor hallway.
• A carpenter people believe to be Christopher Leyhman/Layman.
• A colonial-era man in the master bedroom.
• A colonial-era man on the second floor.
• George, the angry and nasty ghost who haunts the third-floor bedroom.

Where:  3051 M St. NW

25. Tudor Place

Any history buffs out there? This one is for you! Tudor Place is a historic home and garden that contains two centuries worth of history, including that of Martha Washington and six generations of her descendants, as well as both the enslaved and free peoples who worked and called this place home. It’s open Wednesday through Sunday for self-guided and worker guided tours.

Where: 1644 31st St. NW

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Georgetown, Washington DC

Top things to do in georgetown.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Upper Northwest
• Dupont Circle
• National Mall
• Capitol Hill
• Federal Triangle
• Southwest Waterfront
• Adams Morgan
• Mount Vernon Square
• Columbia Heights
• Foggy Bottom - GWU - West End
• Connecticut Ave/ K Street
• Logan Circle/ Shaw
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Georgetown

2. Dumbarton Oaks

3. Georgetown University

4. Tudor Place

5. "The Exorcist" Steps

6. Washington Harbour

7. Georgetown Waterfront Park

8. Old Stone House

9. The Escape Game DC (Georgetown)

10. Potomac Park

11. DC By Foot

12. Dumbarton House

13. Oak Hill Cemetery

14. Georgetown Flea Market

15. Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection Museum

16. Blues Alley

17. Holy Trinity Catholic Church

18. Francis Scott Key Memorial Park

19. Montrose Park

20. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park (in Georgetown)

21. Crumbs & Whiskers

22. Francis Scott Key Memorial Bridge

23. Thompson Boat Center

24. Unwind Wellness - Georgetown

25. Mount Zion United Methodist Church

26. Volta Park

27. The Spa at the Four Seasons

28. Georgetown Synagogue

29. House of Sweden

30. DC Environmental Film Fest

What travelers are saying.

Top 10 Things to Do in Washington, D.C.'s Georgetown

TripSavvy / Victoria Chamberlain

There are a variety of things to see and do in Georgetown, Washington, D.C.'s most historic neighborhood. Lined with cobblestone streets and 18th and 19th-century architecture, the waterfront town was first established in 1751 and remains as one of the city’s most treasured neighborhoods blending the old and new. Throughout history, Georgetown has served as home to a long list of famous residents including Thomas Jefferson, Francis Scott Key, John F. Kennedy, Herman Wouk, and Elizabeth Taylor. Today, it is a popular area to visit for both locals and tourists.

Take a Sightseeing Tour of the Historic District

Georgetown is most known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife. But the area has a fascinating history. Take a tour of Georgetown, learn about the neighborhood's history and see 18th and 19th-century homes, the C & O Canal, the prestigious Georgetown University, and more.

For a basic tour, Washington Walks offers a two-hour walking tour of Georgetown. The  Gastronomic Georgetown Food Tour  is a three-and-a-half hour food tour that highlights the cuisine of locally owned and operated restaurants and shops in historic Georgetown. Try some favorite presidential dishes, handcrafted European beverages, high-end Turkish inspired cuisine, desserts from Georgetown's favorite family-run bakery and much more.

Explore the Historic Canal

As you take a walk along the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, stop by the Georgetown Visitor Center and learn about the history of commerce and transportation in Washington, D.C. Park rangers will transport you back in time to the 1870s and tell you about the lock system and life during the early years of the capital city.

The C & O Canal is a national historic park that runs 184.5 miles along the north bank of the Potomac River, starting in Georgetown and ending in Cumberland, Maryland. 

Eat and Drink

Georgetown is known as one of D.C.’s best destinations for dining and nightlife. Restaurants range from fine dining to casual eateries serving cuisine from all over the world. 

For a romantic meal in an exceptional setting, try  1789 Restaurant , a historic restaurant on a quiet Georgetown street, or try Farmers, Fishers, Bakers, a waterfront restaurant with a focus on sustainability. During the warmer months of the year, restaurants on the Georgetown Waterfront are trendy and offer outdoor seating with great views of the Potomac River. You’ll find everything from singles hotspots to romantic wine bars to lively collegiate gathering places.

Go Shopping

Georgetown is a popular D.C. neighborhood for shopping, dining, and nightlife. This shopping mecca appeals to the younger crowd but also has plenty of boutiques and antique stores for all ages. Most of the shops in Georgetown are centered along M Street and Wisconsin Avenue and range from upscale clothing boutiques like Ann Mashburn to fun and trendy home and garden shops American/holiday. If you're in town on a Sunday, don't miss the acclaimed flea market . 

Tour Historic House Museums and Gardens

Georgetown is one of the oldest neighborhoods in DC and has many interesting historic homes. A few of them are museums open to the public for tours, including the  Old Stone House , built in 1765 and the oldest known private residence in Washington, D.C.,  Dumbarton House , owned by The National Society of the Colonial Dames of America, and  Tudor Place Historic House and Garden , a National Historic Landmark that was originally owned by Martha Custis Peter, the granddaughter of Martha Washington.

Explore the Waterfront

Georgetown waterfront area has been recently redeveloped with the addition of Georgetown Waterfront Park, a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the shade, flowering trees, and a view of the Potomac River. The walking paths are a beautiful place to take a stroll, while many of the restaurants on the Georgetown waterfront are favorite places to enjoy dining outdoors during the summer months.

Take a Sightseeing Cruise

Capitol River Cruises offers a 45-minute historical narrative sightseeing tour of Washington, D.C., aboard their two small riverboats, the Nightingale and Nightingale II . This is a fun and family-friendly way to see the spectacular views of Washington, DC from the Potomac River. On your quick trip, you'll see the Kennedy Center, the Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, the U.S. Capitol, and the Lincoln Memorial.

Kayak on the Potomac River

Local sports outfitters and paddling organizations offer kayaking lessons and rentals. Georgetown is a great destination to enjoy a few hours on the river. In recent years, standup paddleboarding has become popular as well. (If you go slightly farther afield, you'll find ​countless more lakes, rivers, and streams perfect for paddling.)​

Cycle the Capital Crescent Trail

The Capital Crescent Trail is a beautiful 13-mile bike trail that begins in Georgetown and extends to Silver Spring, Maryland. Bike rentals are available through several vendors around the Washington, D.C., area. With 40 miles of bike lanes and more than 800 miles of biking trails in the region, it's not surprising that cycling has grown more and more popular in D.C. recently. 

Ice Skate at Washington Harbour

The Ice Rink at Washington Harbour , located on the Georgetown waterfront, is 11,800 square feet and is the largest outdoor rink in the D.C. area. The skating season is November through February. Skating lessons are available, and the rink can accommodate parties and special events.

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Why D.C.’s Oldest Neighborhood Is a Go-To for History and Shopping

Brimming with charming boutiques, architecture, and more, the historic georgetown area is a visual treat for every type of traveler..

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Georgetown is one of D.C.’s most lively destinations for dining, shopping, and entertainment–all by the water.

For many, traveling to a place that delights all the senses is a must—especially when it comes to design—and the flourishing historic neighborhood of Georgetown, with its well-preserved colonial and Federal architecture, has style in spades. Whether you’re searching for a statement fashion piece or simply want to walk along the historic, cobblestone streets, Washington D.C.’s oldest neighborhood is a treat for your eyes, offering plenty of other delights too. Here’s how to immerse yourself in this National Historic Landmark.

Experience the blending of old and new

Cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques showcasing the height of contemporary fashion. Historic sites serve as jumping-off points for outdoor adventure. Federalist architecture provides a backdrop for modern life. These Georgetown scenes all set it apart as a destination that delightfully integrates the past with the present.

Blues Alley , the country’s oldest, continuously operating jazz supper club, epitomizes this marriage. Set in an 18th-century brick carriage house, music lovers of all ages can dine on authentic Creole cuisine while enjoying live music. And art and history fans should check out Dumbarton Oaks , the sprawling Federal-style home of former U.S. Vice President John C. Calhoun. Featuring permanent and rotating exhibits within its rooms, the estate also has tranquil landscaped gardens to roam.

Shop independent stores and more

Old streets juxtapose modern trends right in the heart of Georgetown, which houses some of the best places for retail therapy in the city. Find colorful, wearable art pieces at LiLi the First ; AFAR favorite Buck Mason’s updated American classics, made using a very Georgetown approach of innovation-meets-craft ; and Billy Reid . which focuses on menswear while providing timeless selections for women. You may even spot a mural or two when traversing from shop to shop.

Find vibrant murals and independent boutiques along D.C.’s cobblestone streets.

Photo courtesy of washington.org

A stop by Cady’s Alley , an award-winning example of urban design in the Georgetown Design District, includes walking down cobblestone streets while browsing jewelry shops and curated labels at boutiques like Relish , along with some 30 other stores. Interior design lovers can browse home-centric shops, such as Thos. Moser and Design Within Reach, for decor inspiration. And District Doughnut and Kafe Leopold offer places for a snack or meal.

Enjoy harborside activities

Outdoor water activities like kayaks and paddleboarding are one of the best ways to explore DC’s waterfronts.

Whether you want to dine, soak up the history, or experience outdoor adventure, the Washington Harbour is the place to be. Visit iconic landmarks, such as Key Bridge —D.C.’s oldest standing bridge—and the accompanying Key Bridge Boathouse. Not only is it one of the city’s most photographed and recognizable boathouses, but it’s where to go to adventure on the waterway. Explore the harbor via kayak, spend the day in a canoe, or test your skills on a stand-up paddleboard, all of which you can rent at the boathouse.

Another excellent way to enjoy the water is to book a boat tour on the C+O Canal . Boarding one of the long, stately canal boats affords intimate views of the scenery and includes a one-hour guided excursion, highlighting the technology, culture, and two-century-old history of the canal and the people who lived, played, and worked nearby. In the evenings, the docked canal boats are available to rent for private events, and land-lovers can also explore the waterway via a footpath along the canal.

Take a stroll along the C&O Canal in Georgetown.

After exploring, satiate your appetite by dining along the Potomac River, where the menu selections are as spectacular as the waterside views. For freshly caught seafood, stop by Tony & Joe’s Seafood Place and savor classics like Chesapeake-style crab cakes or tempt yourself with the fresh catch of the day. To further immerse yourself in the full Georgetown experience, head to 1789 Restaurant & Bar for fine dining in a Federal-era house filled with antiques. Fiola Mare is known for their lavish Sunday brunch, although its carefully curated menus offer other creative selections all week long. Stop at Filomena Ristorante , which specializes in Italian fare, for homemade bread, delectable desserts, and house-made pasta.

Hay-roasted oysters from 1789 Restaurant & Bar’s seasonal menu.

Anchor your stay with neighborhood accommodations

Experience a deeper sense of place in Georgetown by resting your head there too. From boutique hotels to trusted international brands, there’s something for everyone when it comes to staying overnight. For a more intimate place to rest, book The Georgetown House Inn , an 1830s dwelling with 11 bedrooms, many of which overlook the canal. For classic accommodations, the Four Seasons Hotel, Washington DC has more than 200 rooms in its two wings, which connect through a glass-enclosed walkway. Another worthy option is The Graham Georgetown , within walking distance of many restaurants, shops, and historic sites—for a laidback way to spend your days in Georgetown, plus easy access to nightlife.

Local Strolls: A self-guided walking tour of Georgetown, Washington, DC

Apr 27, 2024 • 4 min read

Follow this writer's favorite walking route through Georgetown, Washington, DC © DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images

Delve into Local Strolls, a series where writers reveal their favorite walks in their hometowns. Each route offers a snapshot of urban life, guiding you to lesser-known attractions and cherished local spots. Here, Alexa Moore takes us on a two-mile-long amble through the historic streets of Georgetown, Washington, DC.

Washington, DC , is not simply cherry blossoms and politics. It's a city with complex and diverse stories, expertly dissected into four quadrants: Northwest, Northeast, Southwest and Southeast, and at the center of it all lies the US Capitol . DC's oldest stories hide amongst the historic streets of Georgetown, in DC's Northwest. US presidents and Hollywood stars like Elizabeth Taylor once called this place home. It was also home to an African-American community. Resident numbers have dwindled, but remnants like the First Baptist Church of Georgetown , founded by a former enslaved man, still stand firm. 

So, let's begin our walk.

Distance: Approx 2 miles Total walk time: 45 minutes at a leisurely pace

Any good stroll in DC must start with coffee. I'm the kind of gal who needs a little motivation to get my steps in, so I stop into Baked and Wired . The pink window panes beckon me into the split bakery and coffee shop. A dirty chai with house-made horchata is what I order – it's only 9am and I can't justify my usual red velvet cupcake this early in the day.

With long and slow strides, I stroll down picturesque Canal Street briefly. It's adjacent to the currently semi-barren C&O Canal , and the loveliest little brick houses juxtapose its dry, muddy banks. I resist the temptation to search for their property value on Zillow. 

I turn right to head up M St, Georgetown's famous shopping promenade. All the buildings are different hues, yet there's a subtle uniformity. The storefront windows are like portals into wild worlds of fashion I cannot afford. I pass the oldest unchanged structure in the city, the tan-colored relic aptly named the Old Stone House , built in 1765.

Approaching the intersection of M St and Wisconsin Ave, I meet my favorite golden-domed Neoclassical building. I adore how the dome's reflective golden hue brightens up Georgetown's streets. Built in the 1920s, it now operates as a PNC bank branch. My mind can't help but wonder how it shined in its heyday, so to Google I go. Turns out, even a century ago, it was still a bank , a reassuring reminder that while things evolve in the rest of DC and the wider world, things tend to stay the same in Georgetown.

I do a quick heel stretch before turning right and starting my ascent up Wisconsin Ave. If you continue this path, you'll eventually pass green areas like Book Hill Park and the Dumbarton Oaks Museum and Garden . However, on this particularly chilly (and lazy) spring day, I ditch my usual hike and swing left onto N St, gazing at the manicured gardens of homes and the ruby-red-brick sidewalks that lay below.

I find myself at 3260 N St, uncovering a slice of presidential (and very romantic) history. President John F Kennedy rented this home while running for Senate and met Jackie Onassis, the future First Lady, at a nearby Georgetown dinner party in 1952 .

Turning down 35th St, I arrive at Georgetown University's campus. I spot the controversial Transformers -decorated house and can't help but giggle. The burly machines juxtapose the manicured brick facade, and the "Robots in Disguise" are the stars of an ongoing legal battle between the homeowner and the city on whether the statues can stay.

I'm searching for something I haven't seen before – the infamous steps used in the climactic ending of the 1973 film The Exorcist . They're steep. There's something a bit eerie about this tucked-away staircase, so I use the handrails and focus carefully as I descend.

I continue this journey down through the Francis Scott Key Memorial Park , cross the Alexandria Aqueduct Bridge , and eventually find my way back to the C&O Canal Towpath . What a difference a few blocks make, as this side boasts mossy-green grass and pools of water reflecting the fluffy clouds above.

Finally, I head towards the river and my favorite sitting spot at the Georgetown Waterfront Park . I end my nearly two-mile saunter on a bench near the twisting path of the park's Labyrinth , a bit regretful that I didn't buy that red velvet cupcake after all.

Keep planning your trip to Washington, DC:

Explore  these top neighborhoods  after your stroll through Georgetown These experiences  should be on your DC itinerary  Find the  best times to visit Getting around DC is easier than you think –  here's how  

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• Last Updated On
• June 24, 2023

17 Best Things to Do in Georgetown, DC — Top Activities & Places to Go!

Georgetown – the most historic neighborhood in Washington DC – overflows with fun diversions.

Lined with 19th-century architecture and cobblestone streets, this community beckons with its upscale shops and historic charm.

What’s more, it’s home to the world renowned Georgetown University.

So, start planning your trip here by checking out our roundup of the best things to do in Georgetown, DC.

1. Georgetown Running Company

3401 M St NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 337-8626

Nestled at the chic and popular M Street, this shoe store is staffed by dedicated and enthusiastic runners.

Why You Should Go

A shoe store isn’t usually the first place that comes to mind when you think of the top things to do in Georgetown with kids.

But, guess what?

There’s more to Georgetown Running Company than its shoes and sports apparel.

With its savvy staff, this store provides expert advice on how to kick-start your kid’s journey into running and fitness.

Plus, the store also hosts kid-friendly running events and local monthly runs.

Stop by the store, and grab some exceptional running gear and shoes.

And, even if you don’t plan on purchasing a pair, this store will still give you tons of recommendations and tips.

2. Tuckernuck

1053 Wisconsin Ave NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 856-7260

Open since 2016, this brick-and-mortar store lures shoppers with its unique and classic gifts and apparel.

In the mood for a little shopping spree?

Then, don’t forget to include Tuckernuck to your list of places to go today in Georgetown.

Not only does it feature a welcoming staff, but it also offers a well curated selection of trendy preppy aesthetic clothes.

And, did we mention that their prices are fairly reasonable?

Satisfy your shopping cravings without breaking the bank at this shop.

If you’re not sure what to buy, the store has a friendly staff willing to share suggestions.

3. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal

1057 Thomas Jefferson Street, NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 653-5190

In 1961, this 19,586-acre area was designated by President D. Eisenhower as a National Monument.

For over 80 years, this waterway channel was a lifeline for Potomac River communities.

Today, it serves as a pathway for uncovering the region’s recreational, natural and historical treasures.

Take a break from the non-stop shopping, and enjoy a leisurely stroll or picnic at Georgetown’s 1-mile section of the canal.

On weekends, retired and current park rangers also provide free walking tours of the area.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Melrose Georgetown Hotel

Related: Best Restaurants in Georgetown

4. Luigi Parasmo Salon

1510 Wisconsin Ave NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 333-2244

Established in 2012, this ultra-chic salon on Wisconsin Avenue is famous for its sophisticated therapies and services.

Luigi Parasmo Salon is one of the nice places to visit in Georgetown for those who need a little pampering.

From massage therapies to haircuts, this salon has a variety of first-rate services that will make you feel more confident and relaxed.

Indulge in a unique pedicure service in a cozy leather chair fitted with a built-in iPad.

You can also enjoy a body scrub or a Swedish Massage here.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection

5. Georgetown Waterfront

3303 Water St NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 895-6000

Completed in 2011, this 10-acre waterfront oasis is packed with cheap activities to do near you.

If you’re on the hunt for free things to do in Georgetown, look no further than this waterfront park.

With its gorgeous landscapes, fountain, overlooks and pathways, you can spend a day in this park without spending a dime.

Head to the park’s overlooks, and savor stunning vistas of the city.

You may also roller blade, run or walk down the park’s paved and multi-purpose trails.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Watergate Hotel Georgetown

6. Fiola Mare

3100 K St NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 525-1402

Located at the Washington Harbour, this award-winning restaurant lures visitors with its mouth-watering seafood.

Foodies will find their bliss at Fiola Mare. Known for its cocktails, wines and delectable seafood, this sophisticated restaurant will also amaze patrons with its contemporary setting.

Not to mention, the restaurant stuns with wondrous views of the river.

As a bonus, it sits near a bundle of captivating downtown spots to visit, making it an ideal spot for lunch.

Sample the restaurant’s sumptuous seafood specialties, including tuna tartar, lobster roll and grilled calamari.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: JW Marriott Washington, DC

7. Key Bridge Boathouse

3500 Water St NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 337-9642

Founded originally in 2005, this boating outfitter offers paddleboard and kayak rentals on the Potomac River.

Searching for incredibly fun things to do in Georgetown?

Why not rent a kayak or paddle at Key Bridge Boathouse, and explore the Potomac River?

Besides its rentals, Key Bridge Boathouse also provides paddling lessons and tours on the river.

For an extra dose of fun on the water, try their fitness classes or stand-up paddleboard yoga.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sofitel Lafayette Square Washington DC

8. Dumbarton Oaks

1703 32nd St NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 339-6401

Dumbarton Oaks – the former residence of Robert Wood Bliss – became a Harvard University property in 1940.

Dumbarton Oaks is perfect for those looking for fantastic indoor stuff to do when it’s raining or cold.

Open as a museum to the public, this historic estate entices visitors with its world-class collection of art.

Visit the museum, and check out the Renaissance-like Music Room as well as the Byzantine gallery.

Likewise, you may partake in a concert or a lecture hosted at the Music Room.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Dupont Circle Hotel

9. Martin’s Tavern

1264 Wisconsin Ave NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 333-7370

Founded in 1933, this popular tavern is a Georgetown landmark and the oldest family-operated restaurant in Washington.

Dining at this tavern is, no doubt, one of our favorite things to do in Georgetown at night.

With its inviting ambiance, attentive service and excellent food, you’re sure to have a swell time at this tavern.

As a bonus, the tavern is steeped in history, and is even a favorite for several former presidents.

You can come to this tavern late at night for desserts and drinks.

Also, we recommend dining at their outdoor seating area.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The LINE Hotel DC

10. Book Hill

Wisconsin Avenue from O Street to Reservoir Road Washington, DC 20007

Named after Book Hill Park, this historic district enthralls visitors with its irresistible European charm.

You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Paris or London, as you wander around this district.

Famed for its art galleries and buttery croissants, this district also features the most romantic things to do in Georgetown for couples.

Pay a visit to the district’s finest art galleries, like the Washington Printmakers Gallery.

Then, appease your sweet tooth at Thomas Sweet, or enjoy a bottle of vino at Bacchus Wine Cellar.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Yours Truly DC

11. Cady’s Alley

3318 M St NW #3316 Washington, DC 20007 (202) 688-3994

Home to more than 30 stores and design showrooms, this alley anchors the Design District of Georgetown.

Cady’s Alley is an absolute treat for fashionistas.

Billed as the trendiest area in Georgetown, this alley has specialty shops and exclusive brands that focus on design and fashion.

Moreover, it has eye-catching exteriors featuring exposed brick as well as steel and glass elements.

Do a little window shopping or grab modern design jewelry pieces at JewelersWerk.

Afterward, make your way to Kafe Leopold Konditorei, and indulge in a cup of well-brewed coffee.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Conrad Washington DC

12. Capital Crescent Trail

1400 16th Street NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 234-4874

Stretching 7.04 miles, this dual-purpose trail runs to Bethesda, Maryland from Washington, DC.

Part of the C&O Canal National Historic Park, this trail is filled with fascinating sights to see this weekend.

Along this pathway, you’ll see 2 tunnels, 7 bridges and tons of green spaces.

Hike or bike the trail, and soak up the soothing scenery.

You can also make stops, and enjoy amenities, like kiosks, benches and water fountains.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Glover Park Hotel Georgetown

13. Dumbarton House

2715 Q St NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 337-2288

In 1991, this Federal-style home earned a spot on the US National Register of Historic Places.

History buffs should make a beeline to the historic Dumbarton House. Rich in history, this house gives a glimpse of Washington in the 1800’s through its furnishings and paintings.

Even better, the house rests on 1.5 acres of landscaped terraces and gardens.

Tour the house, and learn more about the city’s past.

Likewise, check out the Herb Garden and see the 40 plants that tell the story of America in its early days.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: W Washington D.C.

14. Georgetown University

3700 O Street NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 687-0100

Established in 1789 by John Carroll, this private research university is the country’s first ever Catholic college.

Home to the renowned Hoyas, this university is one of the remarkable cool attractions in Georgetown.

In fact, this university has plenty of notable and iconic alumni, including Bill Clinton.

Even better, this university dazzles with its Instagrammable Romanesque Revival architecture.

Take a tour of the campus, and be mesmerized by its lush grounds and exquisite architecture.

Tours of the campus normally start at Georgetown College Dean’s Office and caps off at Georgetown University McDonough School of Business.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Riggs Washington DC

15. Tudor Place

1644 31st St NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 965-0400

Built in 1815, this National Historic Landmark was originally the residence of Thomas Peter.

The Tudor Place is a beautiful piece of American history, and one of the unique things to see in Georgetown.

Set right in the heart of Georgetown, this mansion wows visitors with its impressive architecture and decorative objects.

Enjoy a guided tour and listen to the guides as they share personal stories and fun tidbits about this landmark.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Mandarin Oriental Washington DC

16. Old Stone House

3051 M St NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 426-6851

Founded in 1765, this vernacular building is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.

The Old Stone House is the city’s oldest standing and unchanged structure.

Managed by the National Park Service, it’s also the only pre-Revolutionary Colonial home in Washington, DC.

Enjoy a free self-guided tour of this house, and admire its extraordinary features and period furnishings.

Additionally, there’s a gift shop where you can grab souvenirs and gifts to commemorate your visit.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC, an IHG Hotel

17. Francis Scott Key Memorial Park

1198 34th and, M St NW Washington, DC 20007

Managed by the National Park Service, this 0.77-acre haven was built to honor the composer of the country’s national anthem.

Don’t let its size deceive you.

Although it’s small, the park is still one of the best things to do in Georgetown, DC, especially if you have a penchant for history.

Here, you’ll find a statue and plaques that explain the historical contributions of Francis Scott Key.

Check out the statue and the plaques to learn more about Francis Scott Key.

Also, you can unwind at a bench, and relish the stunning surroundings.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Hay – Adams

Georgetown Things to Do: The 17 Best Activities for 2024

• Georgetown Running Company
• Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
• Luigi Parasmo Salon
• Georgetown Waterfront
• Key Bridge Boathouse
• Dumbarton Oaks
• Martin’s Tavern
• Cady’s Alley
• Capital Crescent Trail
• Dumbarton House
• Georgetown University
• Tudor Place
• Old Stone House
• Francis Scott Key Memorial Park

22 Best & Fun Things To Do In Georgetown DC

By: Author Travel Around

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2022

Home to the prestigious Georgetown University, Georgetown was founded in 1751 and has had a colorful history.

Magnificent architecture, old brick and frame row buildings, cobblestone streets, and stately estates going back to the mid-1700s are all well represented in Georgetown. These historical sites are worth seeing.

Aside from the architecture, Georgetown is rich in entertainment and many other good things, like having a nice meal at the Martin’s Tavern, cupcake tours, and picnics on the beach.

With so many histories, architecture, and pop culture references in this neighborhood, you might be overwhelmed.

We have done the homework and listed the best places you can visit in Georgetown to get the most satisfaction.

1. The Old Stone House, Georgetown

Volcano Hazards / Old Stone House

How do you imagine the oldest structure in Georgetown would look?

The old stone house is a neat attraction in Georgetown and the oldest surviving structure which remains in its original foundation list.

This stone house was built in 1765 when the area formed part of the British colony of Maryland.

Here you can see a prime example of early colonial and pre-revolutionary architecture, using blue granite material quarried nearby.

Similarly, on the inside, you will see several rooms with 18th-century furnishing and a small bookstore section.

Exhibits are set up in what used to be the house’s kitchen.

These exhibits provide details on a timeline of significant events in the home and the United States’ history.

In addition, the exhibits also discuss the house’s history, why it was saved, and who lived in and owned it.

There is also a little garden space in the back, which makes for a good place to rest your head after visiting the Old Stone House.

A photo album shows how the house looked when it was last furnished and open to the public.

Even though the building itself is small, its historical significance is excellent. If you need to grab something, there’s a small gift shop in the front to browse.

This house can be found on M St. NW and is open daily for visitations from 11 am to 6 pm.

Overall, if you’re in Georgetown, this is a fun and free attraction to check out. Just remember to leave a $1 or two in their contribution bucket.

Address:  3051 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

2. Georgetown Waterfront

Georgetown Waterfront

If you’re looking for a chill night out by the water, you want to hang out with friends, or even f you’re feeling romantic, this is an excellent place to visit in Georgetown.

The waterfront is such a nice place to walk around and go sightseeing, with amazing eateries and bars all around.

The Georgetown Waterfront Park was finished in the fall of 2011.

The labyrinth, stunning fountain, and exquisite rain gardens are among the park’s outstanding design aspects.

Visitors come to the park to enjoy calm contemplation or exercise and recreate on the vast, accessible trails.

Moreso, a number of good restaurants to choose from if you get hungry are also available.

If you are up for a picnic, you can bring your sheets and relax on the grass for as long as you like.

In addition, individual boaters, kayakers, and competitive crews, as well as Theodore Roosevelt Island, Key Bridge, and the Potomac River, can be seen from a dedicated (car-free) pathway for cyclists, skaters, and pedestrians.

The sunset and restaurants with a generous portion of people make this place so enjoyable.

In short, this is one of the best places in Georgetown town to go for a morning walk and take some cool pictures

While parking can be a pain sometimes on busy nights, it is worth it.

Address:  3303 Water St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

3. Capital Crescent Trail

Capital Crescent Trail

If you enjoy discovering new places, admiring the wildlife, and seeing the sights from different vantage points, the Capital Crescent Trail here in Georgetown is for you.

The Capital Crescent Trail runs 11 miles from Georgetown in the District of Columbia to Silver Spring in Montgomery County, following an abandoned railroad right of way.

This fantastic biking trail can be reached easily from Bethesda or Georgetown.

You’ll be biking uphill if you start from Georgetown, so get an excellent exercise first.

The Capital Crescent Trail begins at Fletcher Boathouse on the Potomac River and splits off the C&O Canal towpath in the direction of Bethesda.

The route surface is well-kept and excellent for pedestrians, hikers, bikers, and skaters.

Further, the route is rather popular on weekends, but it is tranquil on weekdays.

Before reaching downtown Silver Spring, the path passes through the Montgomery County communities of Bethesda.

Similarly, the trail near Bethesda has more pedestrians; however, as you go further away, you’ll notice that it’s largely bikers.

While the path largely passes through parks and ravines, it does pass through downtown Bethesda, where you’ll find your favorite coffee shops and bookstores.

In short, whether you are coming or going through Georgetown or Bethsaida, this is a terrific place for a bike or walking trip.

Address: Washington, DC 20007, United States

4. Tuckernuck, Georgetown

Tuckernuck – Washingtonian

Do you want to go on a shopping spree in Georgetown? Tuckernuck will fulfill your shopping needs without breaking a sweat.

In October 2016, Tuckernuck established its first brick-and-mortar outlet in Georgetown and enticed customers with its unusual and classic gifts and apparel.

Tuckernuck is a store that takes classic American style and gives it a modern twist.

To honor and update the traditional style, Tuckernuck showcases hand-picked products from both established and up-and-coming brands.

In addition, they have friendly staff, and all these come at a reasonable price.

The best part? If you’re unsure what to buy, the store’s pleasant staff is happy to offer advice.

Don’t forget to add Tuckernuck to your things to do in Georgetown today.

Address: 1053 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

5. Martin’s Tavern

Martin’s Tavern, Washington DC

Georgetown has a handful of old structures and establishments, and Martin’s Tavern is one of such.

For nearly a century, Martin’s Tavern has been a Georgetown favorite and has been a beloved restaurant for four generations.

In addition, the tavern is the oldest family-run restaurant in Georgetown.

Because it’s a restaurant of choice for Presidents and the powerful, you never know who is sitting by you.

They offer a typical American fair, but it’s tasty.

The restaurant has a cool old-style atmosphere with table cloths, making it feel fancy but also keeping the pub feel to it.

From comfort food to prime rib, whatever you choose will be delicious.

The cocktail menu is quite unique, and drinks are made skillfully. Of course, there are tons of wines and beers to choose from as well.

Finally, make sure to book a reservation as this place gets packed quickly.

With its rich history and good food, this is a must-visit for every tourist.

There’s no guarantee you will get the historic table you are eyeing. With a reservation, you just might.

This tavern might be pricey, but it’s worth a look.

Address:  1264 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

6. Georgetown Running Company

Georgetown Running Company

What could you do other than wine and dine in Georgetown? Get fit.

The Georgetown running company is a shoe store, but not just anyhow shoe store.

This shoe store is operated by committed and enthusiastic runners and is on the stylish and popular M Street.

Georgetown Running Company is about more than just shoes and athletic wear but also gives advice on fitness.

This store’s knowledgeable staff can offer expert advice on getting you and your family started in running and fitness.

In addition, the business sponsors family-friendly running events as well as local monthly runs.

Come in and pick up some top-notch running gear and sneakers. Even if you don’t intend to buy a pair, this store will provide you with plenty of advice and recommendations.

Address:  3401 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

7. Tudor Place

Liam Hornsby / Tudor Place

If you like history, gardens, and architecture, this is the place for you to go in Georgetown.

Tudor Place Historic House & Garden tells the story of six generations of Martha Washington’s ancestors.

The house so tells about the slaves and free people who lived and worked for nearly two centuries at this Georgetown landmark.

The house itself comes with a great amount of history, and the people who work here really care about the story and try to provide you with as much information as they can.

It comes with two floors, a gorgeous garden, a garage, and a few other spaces on the property.

The rooms are fascinating, especially seeing how they evolved as time went by. The guided tour will point these out throughout the main space.

Historical homes that have been continuously occupied since they were built are reasonably rare, and this home is one of the rare ones

If you love history and architecture, the small price to pay for a tour is definitely worth it.

It is indeed a gem here in Georgetown.

Address:  1644 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

8. Dumbarton Oaks

Doaks / Dumbarton Oaks

Dumbarton Oaks is an institute of Harvard University dedicated to supporting scholarship internationally in Byzantine, Garden and Landscape, and Pre-Columbian studies through fellowships, meetings, exhibitions, and publications.

It welcomes the public to explore its historic building, museum, which houses world-class art collections, and Music Room, which hosts talks and concerts.

This place is like a hidden gem. It is tucked away from the city center and all the monuments and memorials within the estate.

The gardens are pretty big, with so many aspects to it, from mossy stairs to breathing greenhouses.

There are also vibrant flowers with rabbits scurrying away and fruit growing from the trees.

There’s so much to see in this museum, including the Byzantine collection and Renaissance-style music room.

Similarly, there is also the Pre-Columbian collection, which is also a sight to behold.

The setting is just magnificent and enhances the enjoyment of the objects on display.

The museum is free, although there is a charge to tour the gardens.

Address: 1703 32nd Street, NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

9. Georgetown University

Healy Hall, Georgetown University, Washington DC

This historic school was founded in 1789 as the United States’ first Catholic/Jesuit school and is located on the Potomac River’s banks.

Old North, the oldest building on campus still intact, is where George Washington and many succeeding presidents stood to address the student body.

Healy Hall, the most recognizable structure, stands at the main gate.

Take a tour of the campus and be fascinated by the beautiful gardens and architecture. Tours of the campus usually begin in the Dean’s Office at Georgetown College and end at the Georgetown University McDonogh School of Business.

You will also see the hostels where freshmen, sophomores, and juniors are required to live on campus, and there are multiple classic residence halls.

Address:  3700 O St NW, Washington, DC 20057, United States

10. Francis Scott Key Memorial Park

Roger Foley / Francis Scott Key Memorial Park

In Georgetown, you will learn some of America’s history, and this park is a notable part of United States history.

This modest Park is dedicated to Francis Scott Key, the author and composer of the United States National Anthem.

This individual is commemorated by a tiny statue and various inscriptions that detail his historical contributions.

Two split colonnades with vines and greenery create a good bit of shade here.

A small amount of public land was also designated as a city park in 1993. You can stroll through everything in about 2-3 minutes.

One block away is the well-known Georgetown (D.C.) Cupcakes. This could be a fantastic place to put your feet up and eat a cupcake.

The park is full of pink rose bushes which bloom, not every day, so you might want to time your coming.

Finally, there are several benches where you can relax and take in the scenery.

Address:  1198 34th and, M St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

Are you in Georgetown and looking for a restaurant to eat at? Check out the list of our best restaurants in Georgetown !

11. Dog Tag Bakery

Sebastian Marin / Dog Tag Bakery

Dog tag bakery is a wonderful place to grab a cup of coffee and enjoy a delicious dessert or sandwich in Georgetown.

What’s unique about this bakery is that it’s also a nonprofit that supports and helps disabled veterans to get their MBAs and start their own small businesses

Dog Tag is named after the identification tag worn by all military members.

The bakery gives veterans, military spouses, and caregivers the tools they need to rediscover their purpose after serving the country and reintegrate back smoothly into their communities.

They not only provide amazing coffee and pastries, but they also have one of the tastiest cheese and ham sandwiches in town.

Asides from the great coffee, the bread and cakes are also super yummy.

In addition, their decor is lovely, and the place has a bright and cheerful vibe and is perfect for studying or reading.

They even have signs for laptop-free tables. What a hidden gem near the Georgetown waterfront!

12. The Exorcist Steps, Georgetown

The Exorcist Steps

If you are a fan of horror movies or cinema, this is one place you should miss in Georgetown.

This seemingly innocuous staircase served as a filming site for the 1973 horror thriller The Exorcist.

This is where everything happened, and it’s right here in Georgetown.

The steps connect Prospect Street and Canal Road.

For the best impact, go late at night during a light rain. At 3600 Prospect, the Exorcist’s house is immediately next door.

Note that the stairwell is tiny, and the steps are steep.

They’re a lot more serious than they appear in the movie.

Take precautions and keep a close eye on your surroundings.

You don’t want to wind yourself at the bottom.

Address:  Washington, DC 20007, United States

13. Down Dog Yoga Georgetown

Down Dog Yoga

Do you know what’s better than running? Have a hot Yoga.

You feel right at home the moment you step in, whether you’re new to yoga or just to the studio.

The spacious studio (2,700 square feet) boasts magnificent wood floors, wide windows, and exposed brick.

There are 8 curtained changing spaces and two restrooms for a quick change of clothes.

You are in for great, hot, sweaty flow and amazing instruction at Down dog yoga in Georgetown.

The classes are fast-paced, and the room is humid and heated.

Baptiste Power Yoga, which they teach at Down Dog Yoga, is a dynamic practice that combines sweat, power, and spirituality in a transforming way.

It will push you to a healthy limit, and you will feel more powerful and alive as a result.

Each instructor is well trained and brings great energy to the classes and the community.

Sign up for classes online to make sure you get a spot. Get ready for a great workout and to leave feeling spectacular.

Even while you wine and dine here in Georgetown, you can still be healthy and in great shape.

Address:  1229 34th St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

14. Cady’s Alley

Cady’s Alley

This is a great spot to socialize in the DC area and the alley is a fashionista’s dream come true.

This short alley is lined with nice stores on both sides, which makes for a fun shopping experience.

30+ design shops and boutiques, ranging from contemporary to traditional home furnishings and décor, are located in DC’s first design destination.

Cady’s Alley, a collection of historic industrial buildings, anchors the Georgetown Design District, with more than 20 home furnishing businesses, fashion and specialty retailers.

There is an especially lovely eatery with both indoor and outdoor seating.

Billed as Georgetown’s trendiest section, with specialist stores and premium companies focusing on design and fashion, you will love it here.

As a tip, parking is expensive here so you can utilize bus service or just get an Uber.

Address:  3318 M St NW #3316, Washington, DC 20007, United States

15. Book Hill

The Book Hill, Georgetown

Book Hill Park is the location of the original Georgetown Reservoir and the Georgetown Public Library.

This historic district focused on Wisconsin Avenue from O Street to Reservoir Road and is known for its antique stores, art galleries, independent boutiques, and buttery croissants.

It has a beautiful European flair that attracts residents and visitors alike to shop and stroll around.

It’s also where the Georgetown BID’s annual meeting takes place.

Visit some of the best art galleries in the district and grab a sandwich at the Simply Bahn-Mi’s. You can even visit an old-school ice cream for some ice cream or soft frozen yogurt.

16. Calloway Fine Art & Consulting

Josh Hamstrong / Calloway Fine Art & Consulting

If you love contemporary arts. Then this place is for you, and it’s located in Book Hill here in Georgetown.

Calloway Fine Art & Consulting, established in 1993, specializes in contemporary art by local, regional, and international artists.

In fact, this is one of the true gems of Georgetown and Washington, DC.

A great gallery with an ever-changing selection of prints, older paintings, and contemporary paintings.

It also includes representational and abstract paintings and prints, as well as photography and sculpture.

In addition, the gallery offers broad art consultancy services for both residential and business clients, including on-site visits.

From antique botanical prints to abstract painting and sculpture, there’s always something to see and love.

Address:  1643 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

17. Fiola Mare

Sophia Young / Fiola Mare

If you love seafood and luxury, then this is a place you will adore. It’s a beautiful venue in Georgetown, and each dish is a work of art.

Fiola Mare is nothing short of great fine dining.

It is an upscale seafood restaurant on a trendy Georgetown waterfront that’s perfect for celebrating special occasions and also for a lunch date.

Inside is a trendy marble bar and elegant table seating. Outside, there are plenty of tables on two levels overlooking the waterfront.

While expensive, Fiola Mare has consistently shown excellent service in its staff.

Furthermore, the foods are amazing, though you will find some dishes to be better than other.

The soups, salads, burrata, and bread are just really delectable.

Weekend brunches are a terrific time to visit! Their brunch menu is also delicious, and the price is great for bottomless mimosas/champagne.

They serve you several courses of delicious food and all the bubbles you desire!!

Overall, this is a nice departure from the more casual and rowdy Harbour in Georgetown.

With great dining spots where you have a great meal or date in a good ambiance, this is a go-to place if you are Georgetown.

Address:  3100 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

18. Georgetown Cupcake

Silas / Georgetown Cupcake

Nothing stops you from satisfying your sweet tooth even while in Georgetown.

Opened by two sisters in 2008, Georgetown cupcake is a cupcakery in Georgetown, with branches in six other areas in the nation.

Georgetown cupcakes always have fun-themed cupcakes and great decoration.

The delivery and gifting ordering is very easy, and the presentation is great.

The caramel cheesecake and red velvet are something to die for. Both cakes are true to the flavor but not overpowering and sweet.

The sea salt caramel and chocolate lava are also great.

Vegan cupcakes and gluten-free cupcakes are also available if that’s what you like.

As a tip, before you go to Georgetown Cupcakes, order online in advance as the queues here are much and those that ordered in advance can walk right in and bypass the line.

Address:  3301 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

19. Chaia Georgetown

Chaia Georgetown

If you are a vegan in Georgetown, then Chaia should be one place you should miss.

Chaia is a unique taco business that serves incredibly tasty cuisine made almost completely of veggies.

With all-vegetarian tacos, there are different great choices to choose from. Must-tries include the mushroom taco as well as the kale potatoes taco.

The Creamy Kale & Potato Taco is one of the best tacos you will taste; the creama and salsa verde go perfectly with the kale and potato.

You can also try the Brussels Sprouts Quesadilla and chips w/Tahini Black Bean Dip, they taste good.

The line can sometimes be long and finding a table might be harder, but there is an upstairs and an outdoor patio to eat your tacos as well.

All the tacos are amazing. In addition, you can get eggs on the weekend.

This is truly a vegan palace in Georgetown.

Address:  3207 Grace St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

20. Oak Hill Cemetery

The Oak Hill Cemetery

Sometimes, unusual places are great places to do some internal reflection and mediation, and this place in Georgetown is one of such.

Oak Hill Cemetery is a lovely little world on its own.

History, architecture, gardens, statues, all the markers with their stories, and, most importantly, beauty are all embedded here.

The cemetery is located on R Street, on Georgetown’s northern outskirts, and contains burials and crypts dating back to the founding of the United States.

In fact, many renowned DC figures are buried here, including Katharine Graham, former publisher of The Washington Post.

The place still accepts burials. However, you can visit to roam among the stones and monuments, ponder the lengthy and often tragically brief lives of those buried there, and find a peaceful area.

There are a few larger burial sites on the premise and benches to sit and enjoy the scenery.

Furthermore, there’s a little garden as well as benches under a stone bridge.

Stop when you come upon a bench, listen to the birds, smell the flowers, and take it all in.

Though there are more strict rules at the cemetery and you can’t take professional photos, bring in pets, bikes, etc; a visit here is worth it.

Address:  3001 R St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

21. Sid Mashburn and Ann Mashburn

Ann Mashburn and Sid Mashburn

If you need to go shopping for some clothes in Georgetown, these stores are one of the best ones you can go to.

Sid Mashburn is the brother store to Ann Mashburn , and they are just beside each other.

Sid sells men’s wear while Ann sells women’s wear.

Even though Mashburn isn’t a name, you’ll immediately connect with Georgetown’s most famous places, like Ralph Lauren and Clyde’s. It shouldn’t stop you from exploring these stores.

Get some cool clothes for yourself and even your spouse.

Ann and Sid Mashburn deliver well with great customer service.

Whether it’s making sure your clothes fit precisely, recommending a record, or making a dinner reservation, they got you.

22. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, Georgetown

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal

The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal is part of the historic canal system constructed in early America to move coal from the Allegheny Mountains.

The C&O Canal, which has been in use for nearly a century, provided a lifeline for this port city.

The part in Georgetown is the locks that carried goods into the Potomac River.

This river carried coal, agriculture, and other raw materials, and canal boatmen and their families established a distinct community.

Furthermore, the length of the canal from Washington D.C is about 1.5miles.

However, the Canal in Georgetown is a show of how the canal was operated in the old days.

Although no horse-drawn boat is on show, visitors can still see how the water lock is operated.

Indeed, it’s a nice attraction in the heart of Georgetown and a great place to stroll around for fun and for exercise.

Georgetown should be on your D.C. bucket list if you enjoy learning about American history, strolling down charming streets, eating delectable cuisine, or experiencing new things.

Happy Travels!

20 amazing local things to do in Georgetown DC

What are the best things to do in Georgetown’s historic neighborhood? Read on to discover the best shopping, dining, art, and more in one of the most beautiful parts of our nation’s capital.

I grew up in a small town in New Jersey. My earliest hometown memories include Pizza Hut, Friday night high school football games, and hanging out at Dairy Queen. I never gave much thought to my hometown as a destination; it was just where I happened to grow up.

Fast-forward thirty years to Washington, D.C. My new hometown is a pretty impressive destination, worthy of many posts about history, culture, arts, and restaurants. There are endless things to do. Where to start? Georgetown is likely my most indispensable locale. Keep count as I outline 22 of my favorite haunts in one of DC’s prettiest and most historic neighborhoods.

Things to do in Georgetown: Feed Your Soul

Georgetown is a college, pedestrian, shopping, eating, and drinking neighborhood. The streets teem with life at all hours. Late morning, post- Soul Cycle (#1) , students line up at South Block (#2) for an Açai Bowl. Kids run amok around Georgetown Waterfront Park along the Potomac River. Tourists snake out the door and up the street at Georgetown Cupcakes (#3) . Politicians hold court at Cafe Milano (#4) late into the night.

There’s much history to be discovered while weaving around the narrow streets. Most of Georgetown is laid out in an easy-to-navigate grid, and many Federal-style historic homes have bronze plaques that display the names and dates of former historical residents.

Things to do in Georgetown: Get historic

Being a historical neighborhood, it’s understandable that the building codes are restrictive. There are strict rules about what can and can’t be done to the architecture. Some of the streets have the original cable car tracks and cobbled pavement. While pretty, they make for bumpy driving and a downright nightmare for stilettos. Women, be warned.

The two main thoroughfares of the neighborhood are Wisconsin Avenue and M Street. Lined with lamp posts of overgrown baskets of flowers, they make the streets even lovelier to roam.

Lately, more chain stores have descended upon the area. Apple, Vuori, and Lulu Lemon are a few heavy hitters. But the inherent charm is still preserved. For every chain store, there’s still at least one independently owned boutique to complement it.

One store with a long family history is The Phoenix (#5) , located on upper Wisconsin Avenue. Samantha Hays Gushner is the third-generation owner, and the boutique has been in her family since 1955. Ms. Gushner says, “The Phoenix is a thoughtfully curated, sustainable lifestyle brand in a space that inspires creativity and wanderlust.” I couldn’t have said it better, Samantha.

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Things to do in Georgetown: Get baked

Along the C&O Canal, just south of M Street, lies the best-kept caffeinated secret in town. Baked & Wired (#6) (don’t be fooled, there’s no Wi-Fi) draws a local crowd due to its small-batched baked goods and decadent roasts. Lattes, Americanos, espressos, and cappuccinos are all made with loving care by baristas devoted to their craft.

The homemade ‘Hippie Crack’ granola is as addictive as its name implies. The same goes for the oversized cupcakes that compete with nearby Sprinkles and Georgetown Cupcakes. Size-wise, and with creative varieties like Pretty Bitchin’, Uniporn, Dirty Chai, and Texas Sheet Cake, they certainly know their demographics’ tastebuds.

Latte in hand, I often walk down the canal path or along the waterfront of the Potomac River. There’s always something different to see as homeowners tirelessly care for their window boxes and gardens. Climbing roses, hydrangeas, and clematis grip the walls for dear life. The brickwork alone would make most builders swoon. A heavy hit of a high-gloss black shutter contrasts sharply against the rich red or charcoal walls.

Things to do in Georgetown: Take a Culture Break

Blues Alley Jazz Club (#7) lies in a back alley between Wisconsin Street and K Street. It was founded in 1985 by none other than the larger-than-life jazz trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie. Decades later, this supper club is going strong. A friend and jazz talent, Eric Felten and his 14-piece band (#8 ) often perform there. We make sure to catch his show each December. It’s the ultimate festive kick-off to the holidays and within striking distance of one of our favorite bistros, Chez Billy Sud.

A few doors down, Hinckley Pottery (#9) is a DC fixture started by owner and uber-talented ceramicist Jill Hinckley. Her Blues Alley location is a former stable dating back to the early 1900s. It’s an artist’s paradise, with high ceilings, natural sunlight, and space to get lost on the wheel for a few hours.

The front of the studio acts as a showroom where you can peruse ceramics created by Jill. Jill is often at the wheel, demonstrating to her lovingly called ‘weirdos.’ I’m proud to be one of those weirdos at her weekly workshop.

Things to do in Georgetown: Lunch at the Waterfront

For many years, the Georgetown Waterfront (#10) had been an underutilized space and a culinary wasteland for anyone other than a college student on a beer budget. Recently, it added some notable gems. Arguably the best is the high-end seafood restaurant Fiola Mare (#11).  

The customer service at Fiola Mare is superlative. The seafood, (lobster ravioli being a must-eat), is worthy of a special occasion dinner. My husband often indulges with the decadent Bomboloni, ricotta donuts accompanied by a gooey maple dipping sauce, and vanilla chantilly.

Golden-lit Key Bridge in the distance punctuates the Potomac River view. Often we see Marine One swoop overhead. A long, leisurely, rosé-infused lunch would be my ideal way to start the weekend, given the choice.

Most diners would walk into Fiola Mare and choose a stool at the pretty, airy front bar. However, fewer know about the smaller back bar tucked away towards the end of the dining room. It’s our favorite cocktail spot, with Memorial Bridge and The Kennedy Center lit up nearby—a quintessential DC view to go with a Mint Julep.

Things to do in Georgetown: Walk it out

Many homes display American flags that sway in the breeze. Others have window boxes overflowing with lush red and pink roses. In May, the lollipop-lookalike allium tower over the gardens like sentries. Many historic homes boast old-fashioned, yet modernized, period lantern lighting, flames flickering as they may have done 100 years ago.

I’ve lived here for over ten years, yet there is something new to see each day. Churches of every denomination find peace in the side streets. Colorful doors, each making a statement. Ancient, ivy-covered walls, and stonework in all colors and levels of distress, catch the eye. Walk the backstreets of Georgetown and stumble upon Dumbarton Oaks (#12) along the way.

Things to do in Georgetown: Head To Wisconsin

Starting at Wisconsin and K Streets NW, I often grab a Kale Caesar at   SweetGreen (#13). Then, I work my way up the street for an oat milk cappuccino at Compass Coffee (#14). I continue north and head toward the art galleries at the top of Georgetown.

Avant-garde galleries and home decor studios line Wisconsin Avenue, with windowfronts filled with paintings, sculptures, and multi-media art. Window shopping is one of my favorite Georgetown pastimes.

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Things to do in Georgetown: See stars (and politicians)

Georgetown caters to a college and post-college crowd, which means many loud jam-packed bars. That said, there are a few spots to enjoy a civilized cocktail and dinner. Michael Mina, the celebrity chef, has a fantastic steakhouse in the Four Seasons Hotel on M Street called Bourbon Steak (#15).

While most hotel bars don’t draw locals, we often find ourselves there with friends. The drinks are inspired, and the service is what you would expect from a hotel of that caliber. Bourbon Steak also has a fabulous, if pricey, menu. 

Cafe Milano, a DC institution on Prospect Street NW, has attracted the DC elite and politicians for decades. The established sentiment is deeply ingrained. Any night, you could see Former Treasury Secretary Mnuchin, Former US Senator Al Franken, or a Saudi Prince. The old-world and old-school maitre d’ knows exactly how to run the show, a ballet of political precision.

Dining, au français

Off of the canal is Chez Billy Sud (#16) , another taste of Europe in America. The convivial dining room draws a local crowd. Chez Billy Sud’s outdoor patio adjacent to the restaurant is idyllic in the summer, with warm lighting and intimate tables.

Brendan L’Etolie’s southern French menu is steeped in traditional fare, like escargots, paté, and mussels. The wine list compliments the food, Bordeaux, Cahors, and Burgandy, just waiting to be decanted. Inside, the long dining room is lined on one side by a tall, cushioned banquette, while small tables fill in the remainder of the space. Stepping inside Chez Billy Sud feels like getting out of the city for a few hours.

Georgetown can’t have enough French restaurants. My current go-to for lunch or brunch is Lutèce (#17), a bistro on Wisconsin Avenue. With its simple, modern cuisine in a simple, intimate setting, Michelin-starred chef Matt Conroy and his wife and Pastry Chef Isabel Coss create a place worthy of starting or finishing a day in Georgetown. My favorite dish is the traditional French Omelette with mushroom fricassée, Boursin, and sabayon, but the entire menu is equally tempting.

Things to do in Georgetown: Beyond M and Wisconsin

Another back alley behind M Street has an impressive grouping of design boutiques and eateries. Cady’s Alley (#18) is accessed down a set of steps discreetly hidden between 33rd and 34th streets on M Street. A few of my faves include Contemporaria, a high-end, modern furniture shop, and Kafé Leopold (#19) , an Austrian brunch/lunch spot and bakery where we have a glass of wine or pilsner on the sun-drenched patio.

Georgetown has more to do than eat, drink, and shop. The Old Stone House (#20) dates back to 1765. It’s known to be the oldest unchanged historic home in Washington, D.C. Currently, it’s a house museum with a pretty, if tiny, garden and a magnificent magnolia tree that blooms every April.

The Key Bridge Boat House lies along K Street and the Potomac River and is a place to rent stand-up paddle boards or kayaks. One of the most unique nights in the nation’s capital was renting kayaks on July 4th to watch the fireworks launched over the Kennedy Center. Every motorboat, canoe, and kayak laid claim to the ‘best seat in the house, ‘ all sharing the Potomac River for a festive, pyrotechnic night.

Hometown High

As I think back to my Jersey hometown and how it shaped me as a kid, I can’t help but wonder how DC will shape mine. Growing up in a large city versus a small, ‘everyone-knows-your-story’ town are two ends of a spectrum. I guess we’re all a product of our hometown. While I’m sure my kids will be running for the door as I did, I hope they take a moment at some point to appreciate where they grew up.

Somehow, I doubt it.

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A Quick Guide to Georgetown: What to Do, See, & Eat in DC’s Oldest Neighborhood

Created On: February 23, 2020   |   Updated: May 12, 2022   |   Leave a comment

Georgetown is Washington DC’s oldest (and prettiest!) neighborhood. Here are the best things to do in Georgetown, including where to eat and where to shop.

I’m a sucker for historic homes. I love touring them, looking at them, and choosing which one I’d buy if I suddenly inherited a million dollars. Every time I take a trip to Washington DC, I tell myself I’m not going to revisit Georgetown because “I’ve seen it all” and “I don’t need any more photos of it.”

And every single time I somehow wind up back in Georgetown, snapping away at all the gorgeous homes. At this point, I think it’s time I just accept that I love Georgetown and there’s no point in trying to keep myself away from this charming neighborhood.

After having visited DC’s oldest neighborhood an embarrassing number of times, I figured it was about time I share some of favorite things to do in Georgetown, plus a few of my go-to restaurants. This list is just the tip of the iceberg, but if I told you every single thing to do and see, there’d be no surprises left to discover during your own adventures!

Getting to Georgetown 

Using the metro .

To get to Georgetown using the metro, you’ll need to take the blue / orange / silver lines to the Foggy Bottom-GWU station . From there, it’s a 15-minute walk to the main Georgetown shopping area.

You can also take the blue / orange / silver lines to the Rosslyn, Virginia station . From there, you’ll need to walk across the Key Bridge (pictured above) to get to Georgetown. This is what my friend Grace and I did every time I visited DC, and I loved it because the Key Bridge is so beautiful!

Using the Bus

You can also take the bus to Georgetown. The DC Circulator bus has two free lines that take you to Georgetown. For information on the exact routes, check out the DC Circulator webpage . Ten DC bus lines also pass through Georgetown.

For more information on bus lines and driving to Georgetown, check out the Georgetown “Getting Here” page .  

A Brief History of Georgetown

Before diving into what to do in Georgetown, I wanted to quickly chat about its fascinating history with you. After all, the history of a place is what makes it so special!

Georgetown was established in 1751 — that’s right, it hasn’t always been part of Washington DC! It was named in honor of King George II and quickly became a successful shipping hub for both East and West Indian trade routes. During the Revolutionary War, Georgetown was a depot for the shipping of military supplies. It was officially incorporated into the city of Washington DC in 1871, and it was known to be one of the more fashionable neighborhoods around town.

Following the flooding of the C&O Canal in the 1890s, Georgetown’s economy took a nose dive. Then, it became one of the city’s worst slums after World War I . Things started to turn around with the passing of Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal, and the neighborhood became posh and popular once more while Senator John F. Kennedy lived there in the ’50s.

Now, Georgetown is known for its stately homes, shopping streets, and high-end restaurants. It’s a beautiful area to walk around! Now, here are the best things to see in Georgetown!

The Best Things to Do in Georgetown

1. go kayaking on the potomac.

The Key Bridge Boathouse has kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards for rent. My friend and I kayaked on the Potomac on the 4th of July and had an amazing time. Remember to bring a water bottle with you, because kayaking is hard work! I also recommend storing your valuables inside a zip-top bag, just in case you fall in the water (or are an extremely messy paddler, like yours truly).

2. Relax in the Georgetown Waterfront Park

This park is packed during the warmer months. Walk along the river or take a seat near the water and soak up your daily dose of Vitamin D. This is the perfect place to rest your feet after exploring Georgetown. Or, get there early(ish) in the morning to have the place to yourself. The park is dotted with lush gardens and is incredibly peaceful in the mornings.

3. Walk the Key Bridge

Key Bridge connects Arlington and Georgetown. There’s not much to see on the other side of the river, but the walk across the bridge has some beautiful views of the Potomac and Georgetown University. You can also bike across the bridge, but be mindful of the pedestrians!

4. Walk the C&O Canal 

Georgetown used to be a major trade hub, and the C&O canal was a 184.5-mile trade route that was used until the 1920s. Obviously, you can only see a small stretch of the canal in Georgetown, but it’s definitely worth exploring as it’s quite lovely!

5. Visit Tudor Place Historic House & Gardens

From 1805 to 1983, Tudor Place was home to the descendants of Martha Washington. The Federal-style mansion sits on 5 1/2 acres of land in the middle of Georgetown, and visitors can now take a guided tour of the home to learn more about the family and the history of Washington DC. The garden, although on the smaller side, is also worth exploring as much of the landscaping is the same as it was when the house was built!

6. Explore Georgetown University

Georgetown University ’s campus is absolutely stunning. The university was founded in 1789, and is next to the main shopping area in Georgetown. Take half an hour or so to explore the main area of campus. Note that you can’t go into any of the buildings, but they’re still worth admiring from afar.

7. Visit Dumbarton Oaks

The Dumbarton Oaks museum is known for its Byzantine and Pre-Columbian art collections. If art isn’t your thing, check out the sprawling gardens for some beautiful photo ops. Dumbarton Oaks also offers a variety of docent-led tours, including an architecture tour, a garden tour, and a museum highlights tour. Be sure to check the times of each tour online, because some are only offered on certain days each week.

8. Go house hunting

Just because I can’t afford to live in Georgetown doesn’t mean I can’t dream! There’s no single street I recommend exploring in the residential area; literally every street I’ve walked down has been beautiful. I recommend starting in the main shopping district and winding your way outwards from there. Just be mindful when taking photos of the historic homes — people still live in them!

9. Take a walking tour

I’m normally not a fan of group tours, but walking tours are the major exception. And it just so happens that my favorite walking tour company, Free Tours by Foot, offers a two-hour tour that takes you to all of the historic spots in Georgetown. The guide who leads this tour has actually published two books all about Georgetown, so he knows his stuff!

read more:  10 Things You Have to Do Your First Time in Washington DC

Where to Shop in Georgetown

If you want to squeeze in some retail therapy while in Washington DC, Georgetown is the place to do it. Much of Georgetown is comprised of shops and restaurants, and it’s incredibly easy to get around on foot. The shopping streets are jam-packed on the weekend (especially during the warmer months), so if you’re looking for specific pieces or want to browse certain shops you may want to get your shopping done during the workweek so you can spend the weekend doing something more relaxing.

As for where to shop in Georgetown, M Street and Wisconsin Ave are where you’ll do the majority of your shopping in this area . Here you’ll find everything from local boutiques to better known chains like Anthropologie. In general, shopping in Georgetown tends to be on the pricier side, despite being next to a college campus. However, even if you don’t plan on buying anything this is still a gorgeous neighborhood to explore!

The Best Places to Eat in Georgetown

As I mentioned before, there are so many good places to eat in Georgetown! I’ve only sampled a fraction of the restaurants since I don’t eat out much in DC. Over the last few years, I’ve only visited DC to see my friend Grace and we prefer cooking up a storm at her apartment to save money and have more relaxed evenings. However, the places I’ve eaten in Georgetown have been amazing and I’ve popped my few recommendations below.

Here are just some of the best restaurants in Georgetown, DC (in no particular order): 

Thomas Sweet — Would it be a Tall Girl guide without at least one ice cream shop on the list? Thomas Sweet has lots of flavors, and their scoops are big. The line is usually out the door in the summer, so know what you want to order when you finally reach the counter.

Georgetown Cupcake — This bakery is an obligatory stop on your Georgetown food tour. The cupcakes are a tad on the smaller side, but they’re pretty good. They’re not my all-time fave, but you should try them at least once to see what the hype’s about. Just know that the line is insane during the day, so get there early and take your cupcake to go.

Baked & Wired —  Personally, this is my choice for the best cupcake in DC (controversial, I know). Their cupcakes are on the larger side, and every part of the cupcake is flavorful. Again, the line here can get a bit crazy, so choose your visiting time wisely.

Luke’s Lobster — Luke’s Lobster is hugely popular in NYC, so I was pleasantly surprised to see it in Georgetown. Their lobster rolls are expensive, but all their seafood is sustainably caught so the price is worth it for me.

Farmers Fishers Bakers — An offshoot of DC’s beloved Founding Farmers restaurant, Farmers Fishers Bakers serves up regionally-inspired American fare that is freakishly good. Some of the entrees are a bit pricy, but if you go for a pizza, sandwich, or salad their food will fit any budget.

1789   — A  very  nice restaurant situated in one of Georgetown’s Federal-style row houses. The menu is American fare and will cost you a pretty penny.

The Sovereign   — Belgian-inspired food in a cozy atmosphere. There are 50 beers on draft and more than 350 bottled varieties.

Excited to Visit Georgetown?! 

Georgetown looks quite small on the map, but you can easily spend most of your day here window shopping and oogling all the houses. Definitely bring a water bottle with you to stay hydrated, and wear comfy shoes because you’re going to be walking a lot. My biggest piece of advice for getting the most out of your trip to Georgetown is to peel away from the crowds and choose your own adventure. There are so many things to do in Georgetown, so don’t be afraid to explore new areas!

Tell me: Can you go an entire day of window shopping without buying something? Or do you always come away with a few things?

More posts you’ll love: 

• A Quick Guide to Alexandria: The Best Washington DC Day Trip
• How to Have an Active Vacation in Washington DC
• Here’s Where You Can Take the Prettiest Photos in Washington DC
• 10 Easy Ways I Save Money While Traveling
• How to Plan a Trip with Friends: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How I Practice Self-Care While Traveling (& Why You Should Too!)

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This post was updated December 29, 2020. 

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Where to Eat and Drink in D.C.’s Historic Georgetown Neighborhood

Find everything from vegetarian tacos to fancy Italian seafood

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Most D.C. tourists find their way to Georgetown eventually. This historic neighborhood is a draw for its beautiful architecture and cobblestone streets, with plentiful shopping options.

Georgetown’s food scene is having a renaissance too, with recent neighborhood arrivals from sultry sushi cave Kyojin , chef Michael Rafidi’s Levantine cafe Yellow , which plans to add dinner in September, and NYC’s dreamy cafe Maman .

Restaurant magnate Stephen Starr will debut a “mega Italian” outpost on M Street this year with LA chef Nancy Silverton (Osteria Mozza). For now, Officina’s Georgetown market is the place to grab packaged pastas and other imported essentials. On the baked goods front, consider delightfully gooey cookies from NYC’s Levain , Parisian pastries from Boulangerie Christophe , and Call Your Mother’s beloved, President Joe Biden-approved bagels . For a luxe hotel meal, Georgetown is home to Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak in the Four Seasons and Wolfgang Puck’s Cut in the Rosewood. Georgetown’s sole Michelin-rated restaurant Reverie remains closed after suffering fire damage this summer .

Here’s where to order pastrami sandwiches, fancy cupcakes, brick-oven pizza, and more in Georgetown. And to map out an ultimate Georgetown staycation, go here .

The Fountain Inn DC

A Georgetown landmark where Thomas Jefferson once drank is now the home of a bar reviving forgotten cocktails from the late 18th century. Try the 500-year-old Syllabub (a mix of German wheat ale with Cognac) at the Fountain Inn’s atmospheric, dimly-lit bar, or order from over 250 unique spirits. Local spirits vet Morgan Kirchner, the former whiskey advisor at  Jack Rose  and wine director at  Imperial , oversees the intimate, two-level space that doubles as a daytime cafe.

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Parisian gnocchi and grilled octopus are among the seasonally rotating, “neo-bistro” dishes available at this hip reboot of Georgetown classic Cafe Bonaparte. Go a la carte or opt for chef Matt Conroy’s tasting menu ($95 per person, with wine pairings for $65 more), which includes four courses and a view of the kitchen. Highlights include bluefin tuna with gooseberries, tomato dashi, and spring onion.

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Stachowski’s Market

The too-tall sandwiches (from grinders to pastrami) and sausages at this local butcher shop are legendary. Dinner special options range from paella to burgers to stuffed quail.

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Apéro serves pastries and espresso drinks by day and bubbles and French fare by night. Designed for celebrations, this Champagne and caviar bar is located in a historic Georgetown townhouse. Caviar hour pairings start at $35 for two (Tuesday to Thursday, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. to 10 p.m.).

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1310 Kitchen & Bar

Chef Jenn Crovato’s welcoming Georgetown restaurant splashed with inspirational quotes serves every meal of the day. A catch-all comfort foods menu includes buttermilk pancakes, vegan lasagna, dry-aged burgers and fries, chicken pot pies, and a large number of salads and gluten-free options. Stock up the freezer with heat-and-eat versions of its dishes.

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Cafe Milano

Hidden off Prospect Street’s alley sits timeless and stylish  Cafe Milano . This white table-clothed Italian mainstay that just turned 30 is known for its lengthy wine list, reliable pastas, espresso martinis, and local celebrity clientele ranging from sports stars to politicos. Look up to see a sprawling Italian metro map, joined by a big Missoni print and framed ode to D.C.-area native Dave Chappelle on the walls. For another spot to see and be seen, head up Wisconsin Avenue NW to chug bubbles in a “chambong” at Donahue lounge.

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Peacock Café

Brothers chef Maziar Farivar and Shahab Farivar own this more than 30-year-old staple that servers a range of salads, sandwiches, pastas, and vegetarian chili nachos. Chef Maziar draws from his Persian roots with specials like mahi torsh-o shirin, a pistachio-crusted cod with a sweet and sour sauce of dried apricot, figs, sour cherries, and almond. Dine inside or on the patio.

Lined with stones and collegiate sports memorabilia, Clyde’s Restaurant Group’s long-running underground bar and Georgetown student hangout is the spot for well-executed American fare (try the turkey BLT). Clyde’s also runs fancier neighborhood sibling Fitzgerald’s , serving up cocktails and Peking duck burgers in a very preppy lounge. The same row home’s fine-dining fixture 1789 offers seasonal dishes like brioche-crusted halibut and roasted duck breast with wild ramps and pickled kumquats.

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This library-like lair serves cocktails to Georgetown’s stylish set at a zinc-topped bar, with vats of colorful, glowing infusions showcased in the back.   Acclaimed French chef Gilles Epié mans the kitchen at its new next-door sibling L’Avant-Garde.

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Pizzeria Paradiso (Multiple locations)

Pizzeria Paradiso ’s brick-oven pies please all kinds of crowds, and the menu boasts an impressive selection of bottled and draft beers. Relax in the dining room, or order directly through the website for pickup or delivery (with pizza kits to build your own pie at home too).

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Kafè Leopold

This hidden-away restaurant serves European-style salads, savory tarts, and entrees like schnitzel and grilled salmon. The patio with fountain just off M Street is also a draw during nice weather. Call to place an order for pickup or use Postmates for delivery.

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Reren Lamen n Bar (Georgetown)

This Chinese standby serves hand-pulled noodle bowls, smashed cucumbers, Hong Kong-style sausage with fried rice, and steamed pork dumplings. Order online for takeout and delivery.

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Filomena Ristorante

This decades-old underground gem is known for its homemade pastas, hearty entrees, and over-the-top decor for each holiday. Other prime Italian picks nearby include Neapolitan pies at Il Canale and ricotta gnocchi at Flavio .

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Farmers market favorite-turned-storefront Chaia sells hearty vegetarian tacos. Options include the mushroom, feta and red sauce, or the creamy kale and potato with cheese, crema and green sauce. Carryout and delivery is available.

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Baked & Wired

Georgetown Cupcake may have the diehard reality TV fans, but Baked & Wired serves some of the best and biggest cupcakes around. There’s also a counter full of other baked goods as well as espresso, tea, and coffee. Pickup and delivery is available through online ordering .

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Green almond pantry.

Shaw’s hit Mediterranean lunch counter run by Cagla Onal-Urel made the jump to Georgetown in 2021, bringing along excellent focaccia, salads, eggplant confit sandwiches, and heat-at-home dinners like beef bolognese or stuffed peppers. Online ordering is available .

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Chez Billy Sud

Exposed brick, a cobblestone patio, and cushy fireplace elicits the feeling of walking into a neighborhood favorite in the French countryside that recently resurfaced after a months-long makeover. Indulge on steak tartare, potato-crusted salmon and croque-madame. Wash it down with beer, mocktails, wine and specialty gin, rum and scotch-based cocktails.

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Restaurateur Fabio Trabocchi’s waterfront restaurant and longtime favorite of the Bidens focuses on seafood, with some of the most expensive Italian cooking in the city (think: caviar and Dover sole) — but the quality and execution are top-notch. Pickup is available in addition to in-person dining.

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Tony and Joe's Seafood Place

Georgetown’s decades-old waterfront stalwart sources from Profish, D.C.’s largest fresh seafood wholesaler. Highlights include Rhode Island calamari, Boston clam chowder, whole fried branzino, oyster shooters, and whole steamed New England lobsters with huge helpings of roasted potatoes, broccoli, and carrots. Specials include one-pound lobster Mondays (with a beer) for $30 and $69 prix fixe dinners for two. It’s easy to make friends at its no-frills outdoor bar next to Washington Harbor’s fountain, with ample indoor seating too.

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15 Best Things To Do in Georgetown DC You Can’t Miss!

September 5, 2023 //  by  Follow Me Away //   Leave a Comment

Are you on the hunt for the best things to do in Georgetown, DC? We have got you covered!

As one of the beautiful districts of Washington, DC, Georgetown is filled with historic spots to spend an afternoon, beautiful museums to venture through, and plenty of drinks and good food to fill you up!

You will never be wanting for things to do in Georgetown and I have created a list of the can’t skip options! It’s also so close to all the exciting things in central Washington, making it a great stop while checking off the things to do in the USA !

If you’re taking a road trip across the USA to catch all the fall colors, ending or starting your vacation in the Georgetown area is approved by me! I especially love the European feel. Sometimes I just need to explore a European town to make myself feel human again, and roaming around Georgetown is a lovely cheat code to take advantage of!

Whether you’re traveling on a summer vacation or a winter getaway in the USA , there are plenty of places to explore and when visiting Georgetown DC you can never go wrong!

So sit back, and get some fall drinks ready while I show you the top things to do in Georgetown!

Stroll Along the Georgetown Waterfront Park

The Georgetown Waterfront Park links 225 miles of park along the Potomac River! It is definitely one of the free things to do in Georgetown DC!

It is complete with some phenomenal designs like a labyrinth, a beautiful fountain, and rain gardens, the Georgetown Waterfront Park is like an oasis for people who want to have a relaxing stroll through nature with a good cup of coffee and fantastic company!

There are designated pathways to protect cyclists, skaters, and pedestrians! It’s also the most popular spot in the city for those wanting to enjoy one of the free things to do in Georgetown DC with a picnic basket!

I can’t tell you enough how much I love this part of town! It is one of my top suggestions on my Washington DC Itinerary!

Francis Scott Key Memorial

Another great option for what to do in Georgetown DC, is to visit the Francis Scott Key Memorial!

The Francis Scott Key Memorial is a small park memorializing the composer of the American National Anthem! It includes a small bronze bust of Francis Scott Key and has exhibits surrounding it explaining his impact on America, the influence behind his famous composition as well as some background information on Key’s life!

It is also one of the spots on the list of destinations commemorating the USA’s historic path of national-changing moments and character accomplishments of the high-playing individuals behind what we now recognize as the USA! This is the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail, if you like this memorial and want to explore similar destinations, I would definitely recommend you check out the other stops!

It’s never too late to learn some history and this is definitely one of the cute free things to do in Georgetown DC!

Go Eat At Martin’s Tavern

When it comes to places to visit in Georgetown, grabbing a meal at the historic Martin’s Tavern is one of the best options for anyone to consider!

It’s been a traditional Georgetown destination since 1933, and after operating for 90 years, I think they’ve definitely got the hang of amazing food and a lovely atmosphere! When it comes to things to do in Georgetown DC at night, there are plenty of options on how to spend your evening, but truthfully, with such history, I think you cannot go wrong with some locally sourced ingredients and upscale American cuisine!

With comfort foods and hand-crafted cocktails, the unparalleled service at Martin’s Tavern makes it a great option for dinner! It has an outdoor area with an awning and resembles a French outdoor Cafe! Don’t miss out on this awesome option for the best things to do in Georgetown!

Walk around the Georgetown Campus

Another fabulous option for free things to do in Georgetown DC, is to visit the esteemed Georgetown University campus and explore the school!

Please be mindful during the school year as classes will be going on, but Georgetown Campus in the fall or any other time of year is a perfect item on our top things in Georgetown to explore!

The University is the oldest Roman Catholic education institution in the US, and while not being an Ivy School, is still an extremely high caliber and prestigious university to explore! Don’t miss out on this option for places to visit in Georgetown!

Get Coffee at Dog Tag Bakery

If you’re looking for a great place for baked goods or a phenomenal cup of coffee that makes a big impact on the community then Dog Tag Bakery is a great option for what to do in Georgetown DC for you!

Dog Tag Bakery is an establishment that hires wounded veterans and their spouses! They provide a program congruent with the curriculum of the School of Continuing Studies at Georgetown University so that employees can gain work experience as well as sales, commerce, business management, and baking knowledge! The goal of Dog Tag Bakery is once their employees finish their program they can go off and begin their own ventures with first-hand knowledge!

This is such an amazing option for the best activities in Georgetown!

Spooky Walking Tour

The Georgetown: Ghost Story Walking Tour is a classic way to explore Georgetown through a different lens!

Walking through historic streets, perfectly maintained gardens and Victorian houses, this tour is the perfect pairing to any crisp fall evening! Your tour can either be shared or private and allows you to get a special glimpse at the spooky and haunted goings-on of Georgetown’s district!

Despite the spooks and the haunts along the hallowed streets of Georgetown, the tour is family-friendly! All spooks but no scares so if your kids love creepy stories and a good campfire tale, the lore of Georgetown is the perfect way to spend an afternoon with them! Maybe they’ll even see a ghost!

To learn more information go to the Georgetown: Ghost Story Walking Tour profile!

Take a Food Tour

If you’re hungry and you can’t decide between the many options available to you, what better choice is for you to get a ticket to Washington D.C. Taste of Georgetown Food Tour and to get a taste of a bit of everything!

When it comes to fun things to do in Georgetown, you can never go wrong with a food tour. Complete with a guided experience full of fun and historic facts as well as delicious food at different restaurants, you can sample and learn while seeing the awesome things the district has to offer!

Things to do in Georgetown can be extensive with plenty to do and see and sometimes, the fun thing is to let someone else tell you what is amazing and delicious about the place you’re in! Food Tours are a delightful way to sample test a whole bunch of different options and locations without limited your choices!

Check out the information for Washington D.C. Taste of Georgetown Food Tour !

See the Exorcist Steps

Another classic option for attractions in Georgetown DC is visiting the Exorcist Steps!

This film location is comprised of 75 steps where (spoiler) the character Father Karras fell to his death! Not only is it the location from one of the most iconic horror films of all time, The Exorcist Steps is one of the best options for free things to do in Georgetown DC!

The concrete stairs provide a shortcut through from Prospect Street NW above and Canal Road NW below! If there’s another option for things to do in Georgetown around this area, then definitely consider using the Exorcist for a spooky shortcut! The site is free to access so please consider its popularity when planning it into your itinerary!

Don’t miss out on this interesting option for the best Georgetown activities!

Tudor Place Historic House

Another fabulous option for historic things to do in Georgetown DC is visiting the Tudor Place Historic House!

This federal-period historic house is full of architectural wonders and rests in the heart of Georgetown! Resting on five and a half acres of land, Tudor Place Historic House was home to six generations of Martha Washington’s family and is currently home to one of the largest collections of artifacts from Washington outside of Mount Vernon. At a tremendous 18,000, the decorative objects collected during Washington’s life and memorializing his time as president are a really interesting destination to check out.

Whether you’re just there to walk around and enjoy the architecture and preservation, or you’re really interested in the life and family of a former president, Tudor Place is a great option for things to do in Georgetown!

Crumbs & Whiskers Cat Cafe

Another great option for things to do in Georgetown with kids is visiting Crumbs & Whiskers Cat Cafe!

Crumbs & Whiskers Cat Cafe is a cat rescue with the perfect additive, coffee! With plenty of lovely, hand-crafted caffeinated drinks, this is a cute little shop to stop in at and see some cute cats! From kittens to cats, all cuddly pets are rescued from kill shelters and are adoptable from the shop!

If you’re looking for a spot where you can enjoy a cup of coffee with your partner and your kids can enjoy some feline time, Crumbs & Whiskers is the spot for you! The goal of the cafe is to lower the usage of euthanasia in the high traffic kill shelters in Washington and get kittens and cats adopted! They’re housed and taken care of by staff at Crumbs & Whiskers!

This is such a cute and unique spot to stop, so if you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary while visiting Georgetown DC, this is a great spot for you!

Dumbarton Oaks Museum

Next on our list for things to do in Georgetown is visiting the beautiful art collection featured at Dumbarton Oaks Museum!

Housing one of the most specialized and amazing collections of Byzantine and Pre-Columbian works of art! Mildred and Robert Woods Bliss are original collectors and founders of the Dumbarton Oaks Museum and spent a good portion of their lives acquiring the pieces!

From exhibits to galleries, to programs, there’s always something happening at Dumbarton Oaks Museum! It also feels like a building straight from Europe and is a unique and fun spot to explore while visiting Georgetown DC!

There’s also nothing more romantic than walking around halls filled with beautiful art work and enjoying quality time with your partner, making this one of the best things to do in Georgetown for couples looking to spend good one-on-one time with each other!

Grab Drinks at Sandlot Georgetown

Sandlot Georgetown is another of the things to do in Georgetown DC at night that is definitely a great option for a group of friends exploring the city or even couples!

This outdoor event space was created, with a nod to the owner’s favorite film, to highlight and appreciate Black-owned businesses and restaurants, Black chefs and caterers who prepare and sell food on site through food trucks! This unique destination is such a cool spot and definitely one of the best things to do in Georgetown for adults!

With delicious food there has to be a good selection of alcohol or hand-crafted beverages and The Sandlot is home to a shipping container converted into a bar! There you can get a unique beverage from the bar and enjoy the lovely outdoor seating available! The Sandlot also has live music and performances to make it an amazing evening spent at this cool location!

Enjoy an Evening at Blues Alley

Built-in 1965, Blues Alley is a classic Georgetown destination full of history, phenomenal music, delicious food and booze!

This is a great option for things to do in Georgetown DC at night where you can get up close and personal with musicians while also enjoying a great menu! With New Orleans-inspired cuisine, they serve great meals for great prices and pride themselves on amazing service!

Dinner starts at 6pm, shows at 8pm and 10pm, and a great time all around! Blues Alley is an intimate jazz club with good food and definitely, a can’t miss while visiting Georgetown DC! It’s on a street named after the club itself, so it’s hard to miss!

Old Stone House

Last, but certainly not least, is Old Stone House which is a classic destination and definitely a top contender on our list of the best things to do in Georgetown!

As the oldest standing unchanged building in Washington, DC, the Old Stone House contains a unique snapshot of a time in history and is a great spot to stop for a bit while visiting Georgetown DC!

This pre-revolutionary colonial building has two floors, one open to the public and consisting of a kitchen and shop, and the top floor which is closed off. The kitchen contains a timeline of US history as well as information regarding the previous owner, the history of the building and it’s preservation! The shop contains similar information!

The exterior is open from sunrise to sunset while the interior is open during strict hours! Don’t miss out on this cool historic option for the best things to do in Georgetown!

I have yet to be disappointed on a trip through Georgetown and personally think it’s a lovely option for a place to explore! Sometimes, the best Georgetown activities strike you when you least expect it, and I personally think that trusting yourself is the best way to know what you’ll like!

If you’re looking for other options for East Coast towns to adventure through , or even want options for East Coast Weekend Getaways for a longer trip across that side of the USA, we always have your back and have some amazing options for you!

Now that you’ve seen our list of the best things to do in Georgetown, what will be your first adventure?

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Sam Kittner / Georgetown BID

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Exciting things to see & do along the georgetown waterfront, dc’s oldest neighborhood offers a wide range of on- or near-the-water fun..

While Georgetown’s cobblestone streets, cupcake stores, historic bars and stylish boutiques account for many of its charms, Washington, DC’s oldest neighborhood also sports a bevy of waterfront recreation that any visitor can thoroughly enjoy. From on-the-water revelry to dining accompanied by spectacular scenery to highly anticipated annual events, the Georgetown waterfront presents an array of activities for you to explore. And while you're there, discover the rest of the  best things to see and do in Georgetown .

Paddle the Potomac

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better afternoon on the water.  Key Bridge Boathouse is the place to go to rent kayaks, canoes or to take a paddling lesson. You’ll enjoy incredible panoramas of the Potomac River and the DC and Virginia skylines while also getting a great workout. For the adventurous fitness fanatics, try the stand-up paddleboard yoga or fitness classes.

Hang out at The Washington Harbour

Sam Kittner / Georgetown BID

Georgetown ’s river waterfront is home to tons of great restaurants – many, including Sequoia , Guapo's ,  Tony and Joe's Seafood Place and Farmers Fishers Bakers , offer patio seating in warm weather – and plenty of outdoor activities. In summer, children (and adults, too) can watch the boats and feed the ducks. Before or after, get your shopping on in the historic neighborhood.

Bike, hike or run next to the river

Georgetown also presents miles of trails for walking, biking or running alongside the Potomac River and the C&O Canal. The gorgeous C&O Canal Towpath  and Capital Crescent Trail are two of the most popular trails in the region, with each presenting eye-popping vistas of water. Cyclists will also especially appreciate the nearly 50 public bike racks located throughout the neighborhood, as well as eight Capital Bikeshare stations and a bike fixit repair station on K/Water Street.

Wander along Georgetown's waterways

The C&O Canal and the Potomac River are located just south of M Street, and in between the two bodies of water are plenty of nooks and crannies to explore. You’ll find an array of bakeries, coffee shops, and boutiques in this waterfront district, as well as architecture marvels and remnants of Georgetown’s industrial past. You can also embark on a boat tour of the C&O Canal during the spring and summer; just make sure to book in advance.

Skate on the largest ice rink in the District

From mid-November through March, Washington Harbour’s dancing fountain turns into  prime ice skating real estate . Nighttime means magic, as dozens of twinkling snowflakes light up the rink right next to the Potomac River.

Get your GLOW on

Virginia Cheng / Georgetown BID

Experience a new season of light during Georgetown GLOW , the region’s only curated outdoor public light art experience. Established in 2014, the innovative (and free!) exhibition has quickly become one of the city’s most anticipated annual events, with walking tours and Meet the Artist programming available for visitors. 

Turn your boat ride into a booze cruise

Potomac Paddle Club

Potomac Paddle Club  is rain-or-shine pedal boat that accommodates up to 16 people and has 10 pedal stations for its hour-and-a-half voyages. Good to know: You can turn your aquatic spin class into a booze cruise with the BYOB policy. There is also a motor on board in case your legs grow too tired as you cruise down the Potomac. Individual seats can only be purchased Monday through Thursday, and group trips can be purchased on Fridays through Sundays.

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Ever wish you could be in two (or four) places at once? The next few weeks are full of FOMO, the fear of missing out. On Saturday alone, you’ve got hundreds of bands playing outdoors at Petworth PorchFest, seven D.C. museums offering special activities during Do the Loop day, DJs spinning dance music during Project Glow, the D.C. Cocktail Festival, a screening of “The Lord of the Rings” inside the National Building Museum, and cultural festivals from Purcellville to Suitland. On the same day, families can celebrate the reopening of the Glen Echo carousel with an afternoon of activities, or visit the D.C. Public Library’s book festival for young readers. Speaking of books, it’s also Independent Bookstore Day. Tough choices will have to be made, but at least you know some of your options.

Thursday, April 25

It’s Your Mug 30th Anniversary at the Kennedy Center

In the mid-1990s, a Georgetown coffeehouse called It’s Your Mug was the epicenter of Washington’s poetry scene: It was, according to a 1997 Washington Post story , “the hallmark for New Age Black poetry in Washington and the place where [poet and host Toni Asante] Lightfoot single-handedly popularized the open mic.” Diverse groups of writers read everything from works in progress to erotica. When the two-level coffee shop closed, Lightfoot and poets dispersed back to bars and cafes on U Street, such as Mango’s, but It’s Your Mug’s influence hasn’t diminished. To mark its 30th anniversary, Lightfoot and a number of the open mic’s regulars are gathering at the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage, including performance artist Holly Bass, rapper and educator Toni Blackman, and Words Beats and Life’s Director of Poetry Patrick Washington, for an evening of lyricism accompanied by live jazz. 6 p.m. Free .

Spirit Week at Other Half

Dressing up in themed outfits, chalking up sidewalks, decorating hallways: Spirit week is a staple of high school life — and now a brewery in Ivy City. Other Half is hosting Spirit Week at all seven of its locations, including D.C., with new beers and different discounts for participating each day. Start Thursday with Decade Day, which offers 10 percent off for those dressed in outfits from a different decade. Friday’s Twin Day means buy one, get one free pints for two people in matching outfits. Throw on an old Other Half T-shirt for $4 off flights on Saturday’s OHB Spirit Day, and get a $5 pint of hazy Varsity Greens IPA for wearing any sports jersey on Sunday. Through Sunday. Free admission .

Taylor Swift Trivia at Honor Brewing

Honor’s Sterling taproom and production facility hosts a monthly themed trivia night, and this month is all about Taylor Swift. Prizes are awarded for the top three teams. Arrive early for happy hour, which includes $10 flights, $5 wines and $1 off pints. 7 p.m. Free .

Friday, April 26

Georgetown French Market

If a trip to Paris isn’t in the cards this spring, the Georgetown French Market should be on any Francophile’s calendar. This annual sidewalk sale happens on Wisconsin Avenue NW between O Street and Reservoir Road, and up and down the surrounding streets, with more than 40 local businesses participating in the fun. Browse pop-up outdoor book sales, take 10 percent off French wine at Bacchus Wine Cellar, get a grilled merguez sausage from Patisserie Poupon, and listen to live music or watch street performers, including a mime and a unicyclist. Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Free .

Spring Open Doors at Spanish Cultural Center

Explore the latest indoor and outdoor art installations at the Beaux-Arts mansion that used to house the Spanish ambassadors. Inside, you’ll find “SPAINfographics,” which details the relationship between Spain and the United States through the work of infographic artists, and “Not Your Regular Wall,” an returning exhibit that, in this edition, is inspired by Spanish scientist Santiago Ramón y Cajal. Outside, one exhibit re-creates iconic photos of male leaders with images of women, and another explores the idea of “returning to the outside world.” Note that a reservation does not guarantee admission. Friday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Free.

Saturday, April 27

Petworth PorchFest

All the neighborhood is a stage in Petworth this weekend. More than 100 hosts open their porches, stoops and front lawns to almost 300 musical acts between 2 and 6 p.m. Some you might have heard of, such as the jazz-punk fusion of the Messthetics, the lush pop of Ari Voxx or the groovy synth-pop of Wrizzards. Many of them you have not. But that’s missing the point of this massive festival, which stretches almost two miles from north to south but still feels like a block party. The main stage, which hosts music from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Petworth Recreation Center, is a handy starting point, but the best part is meeting up with friends and following your ears through the streets, where you’ll hear jazz, hip-hop duos, bluegrass pickers, mariachis, DJs spinning house and dad bands knocking out classic rock covers. If one address is too crowded or you lose interest, there’s another show around the corner (or sometimes just a few houses away). Bring a hat, because you’ll spend a lot of time standing on the sidewalk, and pack food and drinks. 2 to 8 p.m. Free .

Do the Loop

When most folks talk about museum hopping in D.C., they’re referring to visiting multiple Smithsonians on the Mall, or maybe browsing the galleries and historic houses near Dupont Circle. There’s a much more ambitious schedule at the second Do the Loop day, which brings together seven institutions west of Rock Creek, including the Kreeger Museum in Foxhall, American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center in Tenleytown and Dumbarton Oaks in Georgetown. (The Jackson Art Center, Addison/Ripley Fine Art, Georgetown University Art Galleries and Klagsbrun Studios, which are also participating, are clustered near one another in Georgetown.) Each location offers something different: tours of Dumbarton’s gardens and museum; sculpture garden tours and food trucks at the Kreeger; guided gallery tours with journalist and artist Bob Schieffer at Katzen. Scavenger hunts and hands-on activities for children are offered throughout the day. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., though individual location hours vary. Free .

Carousel Day at Glen Echo Park

Saturday is an exciting day for children of all ages: Glen Echo Park’s 103-year-old Dentzel Carousel opens for yet another season. Riders can claim their favorite animal — a galloping ostrich, bounding hare, majestic lion — while the gorgeously restored carousel spins to the waltzing tunes of a 1926 Wurlitzer band organ. Each trip is $2, making a $5 unlimited day pass a great deal. But there’s more to do than go up and down, around and around: The day’s activities include free music and dance performances, hands-on crafts, dance classes, and open art studios. (Some events in the park that day, such as performances of “Alice in Wonderland” at the Puppet Co., charge a fee.) 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission; carousel rides $2 each or $5 for an all-day pass.

Project Glow at the RFK Festival Grounds

The third annual Project Glow turns the grounds around the abandoned RFK Stadium into an EDM wonderland. Performances from Chicago house legend Derrick Carter, dance-pop hitmaker Zedd, and creative back-to-back pairings like upstart Acraze and genre-hopper Wax Motif should keep the rave going, as will sets by DMV favorites including Baronhawk Poitier, Mathias, Thablackgod and others. Let’s hope the weather prevents DJs from shaking the windows of residents miles away. Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 11 p.m. $109-$279 .

Independent Bookstore Day

The American Booksellers Association is celebrating its 11th Independent Bookstore Day, which means discounts, parties and more for D.C.-area book fans. Kramers in Dupont Circle has two promotions: Find a golden ticket hidden in the store for a 20 percent discount, or get a free “blind date with a book” for every $75 spent ( 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Free ). East City Bookshop on Capitol Hill (which is also celebrating its eighth anniversary) is offering 10, 20 and 30 percent discounts at random throughout the day, plus chances to win a curated tote of advanced reader copies or a year of free audiobooks ( 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free ). If choosing only one store to spend your Independent Bookstore Day perusing is just too much pressure, consider joining the D.C. Bookstore Crawl , where hitting five out of 19 locations will get you a prize — or hit all 19 to enter a raffle for a grand prize. Stops include Big Planet Comics, Lost City Books, Politics and Prose, and the Potter’s House ( 10 a.m. Saturday to 8 p.m. Sunday. Free ).

D.C. Cocktail Festival at Union Market

Bartenders from popular D.C. bars and restaurants like Compass Rose, Bar Chinois, the Doyle and the Wells come together to pour drinks at the D.C. Cocktail Festival, held at Union Market’s event space Dock 5. Tickets offer the chance to taste samples of all 15 cocktails, so pace yourself accordingly. This day-drinking event is divided into two sessions: The first begins at noon for VIP ticket holders and 1 p.m. for general admission, with the party ending at 3 p.m. The second session begins at 3:30 p.m. for VIP and 4 p.m. for general admission, and ends at 6:30. Noon to 6:30 p.m. $39-$59 .

Plant sale at the National Arboretum

Find the perfect perennial or just pick up pots and planters at the annual plant sale hosted by the Friends of the National Arboretum. Because this is the National Arboretum, the selection can be more impressive than at other garden events around town. ( Check out the website for the exact list of flowers, shrubs, succulents, conifers and other plants available for purchase.) But there’s more to do than stock up your yard: Take a class on the role of raised beds in urban gardens; visit the ARTboretum for family activities, such as face painting and games; and browse the vendor village tables, full of garden supplies, fine art, clothing and jewelry from local makers. Food trucks and local companies are on hand with refreshments. The plant sale tent is members-only until 11 a.m., but other activities are open to the public during that time. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free; pay-what-you-can for the gardening class .

Maryland Day at the University of Maryland

Throughout the Free State, March 25 is celebrated as Maryland Day, which commemorates the arrival of English colonists in 1634. But in College Park, Maryland Day is something else: a celebration of the state’s flagship university, when the campus opens its doors to the surrounding community, alumni or not. There are more than 400 activities taking place, from the football team’s spring game to an insect petting zoo. (“Imagine tarantulas, exotic insects, scorpions, bees and millipedes longer than your hand for you to look at and touch.”) Try making 3D art, conduct surgery with robots, listen to musical performances, explore rare books or sample ice cream from the Maryland Dairy. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free .

Reopening of the Metropolitan Beer Trail

The ever-popular bar-and-brewery crawl along the Metropolitan Branch Trail officially reopens for business this weekend. Visit 11 stops, including breweries Lost Generation, Red Bear and Right Proper, or beer gardens, such as Metrobar and Wunder Garten, to earn points that can be redeemed for T-shirts, baseball caps and other prizes. (The person who checks in the most times by the end of December wins a $25 gift card for each of the participating businesses.) The trail is just over two miles long, but you don’t have to complete it in one day. Through Dec. 31. Hours vary. Free to participate .

‘The Lord of the Rings’ at the National Building Museum

The National Building Museum’s “Great Movies in the Great Hall” is like bringing your favorite summer movie series indoors. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, complete with a picnic, to spread out on the carpet in one of the city’s most impressive indoor spaces, among the soaring Corinthian columns. Before “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” screens, J.R.R. Tolkien researcher Joey Wilson-Brooke presents a virtual program about the role of architecture and design in the books and on-screen. Costumes are encouraged. Popcorn and beverages are available for purchase. (No outside alcohol is allowed.) Doors at 6:30 p.m. $5-$15; free for children younger than 12 .

STAR Fest at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library

The STAR Fest — that stands for “ Sing, Talk and Read ” — is an in-person offshoot of D.C.’s Books From Birth program. Bring little ones for a day of story times, soft play activities, musical performances by children’s entertainers and an area that lets children imagine their own stories. This event is designed for children younger than 5. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free .

Cultural Arts Festival at Creative Suitland

Poets, musicians, dance companies and theater are all featured at this afternoon festival, including Prince George’s County Poet Laureate Khadijah Ali-Coleman. A vendor market spotlights local designers of jewelry, soaps and home decor, as well as food trucks. 2 to 7 p.m. Free .

Purcellville Music and Arts Festival

Multiple stages of music, dance and entertainment are featured at the Purcellville Music and Arts Festival, set in the historic downtown area. Attractions include a show with more than 30 artists in the Bush Tabernacle Skating Rink, a market with local makers and food vendors, and family activities such as T-shirt painting and glitter tattoos. Justin Trawick and the Common Good and the Rowdy Ace Band are among the performers in Fireman’s Field Park. Dogs, lawn chairs and tents are welcome. Noon to 7 p.m. Free .

Broadway Rave at 9:30 Club

Move over, Taylor Swift-themed dance nights, because there’s a new and very niche singalong party in town. Broadway Rave advertises itself as a “traveling dance party for adult theater kids,” with musical standards on the playlist and surprise guest appearances from the stars of Broadway shows. The D.C. edition is landing at 9:30 Club, and you’re encouraged to show up dressed as your favorite Broadway character. We’re guessing the costumes will be truly extra. 10 p.m. $20 .

D.C. Chocolate Festival at the French Embassy

Returning for a seventh year, this festival is a celebration of all things chocolate — education, confection and, of course, sampling. Taste and shop in the main exhibit or check out classes and workshops throughout the day on topics like chocolate and beverage pairings and the chocolate economy. There are also non-chocolate foods and beverages in case your sweet tooth falls out. 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. or 2 to 5:30 p.m. $25; free for children under 12.

Sunday, April 28

Make It Mount Pleasant! Spring Arts and Crafts Market

Support local artists at the Make It Mount Pleasant! Spring Arts and Crafts Market, which turns Mount Pleasant Street NW into an open-air gallery for more than 50 artists who live in the neighborhood and across Northwest Washington. The Mount Pleasant Artists Collective and Mount Pleasant Main Street host the Sunday market, where you’ll be able to purchase paintings, jewelry, pottery, photography, fabric arts and other crafts. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free .

Vintage Vineyard at St. Vincent

Check out nine local vendors curated by Vintage Vineyard in a pop-up at St. Vincent Wine’s garden. Shop thrift finds while drinking discounted wine ($10 per glass, or 25 percent off bottles) and listening to live jazz between 3 and 5 p.m. Noon to 6 p.m. Free.

Catalina Wine Mixer at Lulu’s Winegarden

Find your new favorite warm-weather sips at this wine tasting at the U Street wine bar, which features two unlimited samples of more than two dozen West Coast wines — roses, “chillable reds,” sparking whites — paired with breakfast tacos during two 90-minute sessions. Tickets include the option to purchase discounted wines to take home. Noon to 1:30 p.m. and 2 to 3:30 p.m. $55 .

‘Glacier: A Climate Change Ballet’ at the National Portrait Gallery

Dancers mimic the movements of melting polar ice caps, pretending to ripple, crack and plunge as they maneuver through the National Portrait Gallery’s Kogod Courtyard during a free performance of Moveius Contemporary Ballet’s “Glacier: A Climate Change Ballet.” This work is created by Diana Movius, who works as a climate policy expert while also serving as the founder and artistic director of this D.C.-based ballet company. 4 to 4:45 p.m. Free .

Ellington at 125: The D.C. Collective in Concert at Arena Stage

Hosted by the D.C. Jazz Festival, artist-in-residence and bassist Corcoran Holt’s contribution to the months-long celebration of Duke Ellington’s 125th birthday includes a concert in tribute to his mentor, Davey Yarborough, former dean of instrumental music at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts. 4 to 5:30 p.m. $25-$45.

Spring Fest at Calico

The hip Blagden Alley spot is bringing, for the second year, a spring festival to its multilevel 3,000-square-foot yard. Make a paper flower kit or create your own faux-floral bouquets, try new seasonal cocktails and dishes, or grab a bit from popcorn pop-up Zing Pop. 1 to 10 p.m. Free.

Willie’s 91st Birthday Fiesta at Republic Cantina

The incomparable Willie Nelson turns 91 on Monday, and Tex-Mex hot spot Republic Cantina is honoring one of Texas’s favorite sons during an afternoon party. Listen to tribute sets from D.C.’s Human Country Jukebox while snacking on tacos and sipping margaritas and $5 Shiner Bocks. (If you lean toward the latter, there’s a special Willie-themed koozie, too.) 3 to 6 p.m. Free; admission and seating are first-come, first-served .

Youth Invasion at the Atlas Performing Arts Center

GenOUT Youth Chorus, the ensemble of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington D.C. for singers age 13 to 18, teams up with the chorus from Jackson-Reed High School for an afternoon of songs such as “The Rainbow Connection” and “The Times They Are A-Changin’” in the Atlas’s Lang Theatre. 4 p.m. Free; reservation required .

Tuesday, April 30

Slash Run Ninth Anniversary Party

Mark nine years of loud rock shows, creative burgers and whiskey shots in Petworth with a special edition of Slash Run’s Hot Nights Karaoke. Show up early (between 5 and 7 p.m.) for happy hour with $2 off drafts before the singing starts. 8 p.m. Free .

Wednesday, May 1

Jacob Collier at the Anthem

At his live shows, Collier creates his own orchestra of audience members. (His mother, Suzie Collier, is a violinist, conductor and professor at the Royal Academy of Music.) He conducts thousands of fans as a giant instrument, siphoning different melodies from each corner of the venue like a massive human organ. The audience choir became the centerpiece of “Djesse Vol. 4,” released in February, as the last in a quartet of albums that explore diverse soundscapes. Grand, sprawling and entirely genre-less, it’s heralded by an even more diverse list of credits, including Paul Simon, John Mayer, Lizzy McAlpine, Shawn Mendes, Lawrence and Brandi Carlile. Between Morse code, ambient animal sounds and dozens of languages, it also features the 100,000 voices of audience choirs Collier has conducted on his tours. 7:15 p.m. $50-$70.

NMWA Nights tickets on sale

The monthly after-hours parties at the National Museum of Women in the Arts tend to sell out so quickly that we don’t get to write about them. So here’s your reminder to plan ahead: If you want to attend the May 15 event, celebrating the exhibition “New Worlds: Women to Watch 2024” with DJs, a performance by Pretty Boi Drag, a costume contest and art-making activities, tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Wednesday. Prices include two cocktails or mocktails. 5:30 p.m. $22-$25 .

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17 Unexpected Georgetown Experiences

The best moments? The ones you never saw coming.

Visit Georgetown and let yourself get the good kind of lost.

Eating in the Street

Against everything your Mom ever told you, we want you to go in the street. The Georgetown BID has worked with over 30 restaurants and the city to permit outdoor eateries – known as “Streateries” – at nearly 25 locations throughout the commercial district. People-watch at one of the charming Wisconsin Avenue streateries, like Lutece (pictured above) or head to The Berliner for a unique experience underneath the Whitehurst Freeway on K /Water Street, across from Georgetown Waterfront Park and several trails. The industrial beer hall features German brats and beers, and an atmosphere that will make you forget you’re in DC. Prost!

• Georgetown Streateries Guide

Getting Your Mind GLOWn

It’s time to get lit. Georgetown GLOW is the region’s only free curated outdoor public light art experience, and it’s oh-so-Insta-worthy. The 7th edition of GLOW is currently underway as a two-part series featuring artworks by a majority of DC artists. Four artworks are on display through September 26, transforming several Georgetown alleys into modern art adventures – from a neon installation inspired by a Prince song, to a canopy of rainbow lights with a powerful chorus of LGBTQ+ voices filling the space, and a poem formed from diffused light.

• Georgetown GLOW
• Meet our GLOW Curator

Kayaking on the C&O Canal

It’s a heron! It’s a turtle! It’s…kayakers?! The historic C&O Canal and its towpath run 184.5 miles into Cumberland, MD – the first mile of which is through Georgetown. Today, this urban oasis is a popular running and cycling path, but for the truly adventurous, there’s no better way to explore than on the water. Head to Thompson Boat Center at Mile Marker 0 to rent a kayak or canoe, or begin at Fletcher’s Boathouse at Mile Marker 3.1, and enjoy the Canal upstream of Lock 4.

• Future Canal Plans
• Thompson Boat Center

Meeting the Most Surprising Business Owners

From Monica Lewinsky’s former hairdresser to an Exorcist expert, an octogenarian ceramicist, and a former hip hop promoter turned sneakerhead entrepreneur, you never know who you’re going to run into when you’re in a Georgetown business – and the stories they have to share!

• 25 Most Unexpected People in Georgetown

Spacing Out (Literally) on the Georgetown Decks

You said you needed space…

The Georgetown BID recently built 3,400 linear feet of sidewalk deck panels on M Street between 34th Street and 29th Street, and on Wisconsin Avenue between Q Street and the Canal – offering more room to comfortably dine, shop and stroll in Georgetown.

How much space? Enough space to socially distance from your in-laws. Or start a long-distance relationship. Or display a single CVS receipt. Or…well, you get it. The decking extends our narrow sidewalks from an average of 9.5 feet to an average of 15 feet, using removable 4′ x 6.5′ panels that are designed to be accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. This is a pilot program through 2021, so come see the Georgetown Decks while you can!

• Georgetown Decks

Finding Easy Parking

We SWEAR there is parking in Georgetown – and a lot of it. 3,200 garage and lot spaces, to be exact, in addition to on-street parking.

It’s also affordable. Shocking, we know! Jamestown is offering reduced on-site rates at Georgetown Park (3222 M Street, with entrances on Potomac Street and Wisconsin Avenue), including $12 on Thursdays and Fridays after 5 pm, and $15 max on Saturdays and Sundays – now through September 6, 2021.

• Parking & Getting Here

Discovering the Back Patios of Book Hill

Known for its antique stores, art galleries, independent boutiques and buttery croissants, the historic Book Hill neighborhood is home to more than 50 small businesses, the heart of which are along the 1500 and 1600 blocks of Wisconsin Avenue. Lesser known are its hidden backyard patios and gardens, perfect for a quiet and picturesque escape. Enjoy a cappuccino and apricot tart on Patisserie Poupon’s patio, or dinner under the garden lights at City Sliders. If you’re here to shop, Pretty Chic has discounted clothing racks and consignment finds under its backyard garden tent. A few blocks down the hill, Boulangerie Christophe’s back patio features a hidden mural.

• 13 Things to Do in Book Hill

Grabbing a Bite on Grace Street

Time to take the sidewalk less traveled. Some of Georgetown’s best food is off the beaten path on Grace Street, a hidden gem sandwiched between the Canal and the waterfront. Grace Street Collective is home to South Block acai bowls, Grace Street Coffee Roasters, Georgetown Butcher, and the much-anticipated Green Almond Pantry (one word: focaccia). Tucked away off of the neighboring alley on Cherry Hill Lane, Johnny Spero’s Reverie offers a tasting menu of new American fare. Next door, Dog Tag Bakery serves coffee, baked goods and cafe items in support of wounded veterans and their families. If tacos are calling your name, Chaia has the best vegetarian variety in the city (get the kale & potato), while Sweetgreen caters to the health-conscious with a full range of salad options.

Bonus: One of the most Insta-worthy residential blocks in Georgetown is off of Grace Street, on Cecil Place.

• Georgetown Food & Drink Directory
• Get to Know Johnny Spero
• Meet the Women Behind Chaia
• The Story Behind Grace Street Collective
• Georgetown Butcher

Seeing the Oldest House Plant in North America

And you thought keeping that orchid alive was hard?! Inside of the Dumbarton Oaks orangery grows a 150-year-old Ficus Pumila – the oldest house plant in North America. All of the historic estate’s gardens are rooted in the legacy of Dumbarton Oak’s original gardener, Beatrix Jones Farrand. The only female founding member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, Beatrix began designing the garden in 1921 with Mildred Barnes Bliss, who purchased the property with her husband the year prior. The grounds were eventually donated to Harvard University.

In addition to the gardens, don’t miss the Dumbarton House museum for its world-class collections of Byzantine and Pre-Columbian art.

• Dumbarton Oaks
• Meet Dumbarton Oaks' Greenhouse Specialist

Visiting Europe Via Cady's Alley

Tucked away just one block south of bustling M Street, Cady’s Alley feels like you’ve been transported to a quiet European village (without involving TSA). The charming cobblestone alley is home to more than 20 home furnishing showrooms, fashion and specialty boutiques nestled in a cluster of historic industrial buildings. Nestled in between the showrooms, Kafe Leopold serves Austrian fare, from schnitzel to strudel, on its patio. A few doors down, you can also grab some of the best treats in town at District Doughnut. For a real show, order the creme brulee doughnut and watch them torch it to perfection.

Sipping Cocktails Along the Canal

Looking for less kayaking and more Ketel One? Grab dinner and a drink on the terrace at the Rosewood Hotel’s CUT Bar and Lounge for one of the most unique restaurant views in DC. There’s waterfront dining, and then there’s this .

• CUT Bar and Lounge
• Book Your Georgetown Hotel Stay

Exorcising that Burger and Fries

Forget the gym; some of the best exercise in DC is straight out of a cult classic horror film. The Exorcist steps at 3600 Prospect St NW are famous for the iconic scene at the end of the movie, and were designated a Historic Landmark in 2019. Movie buffs may flock here for the commemorative plaque, but locals know the spot for its 75-step workout. Just don’t eat any pea soup before you run them…

• Meet a Local Exorcist Expert

Singing 'Piano Man' With Politicos

In the basement of a non-descript building on M Street, one of the biggest health care reform players in town is playing…the piano. Once the director for the office responsible for crafting the Affordable Care Act’s Patient Bill of Rights under the Obama administration, Jay Angoff is now a class action litigator by day and dueling piano performer by night. At Georgetown Piano Bar, he’s joined in rousing rounds of Sweet Caroline by fellow performer Hunter Lang – former intern for then-Vice President Joe Biden. Only in DC.

• Georgetown Piano Bar
• Jay Angoff's Surprising Story

Meditating Near the Key Bridge

Toward the western end of Georgetown Waterfront Park, you can get your meditation on with a few laps around the labyrinth – funded by an organization that promotes urban green spaces to facilitate community healing. Work your way from the outer edge along a circular path to the center and quiet your mind. One lap for every day since March 2020 should do the trick.

• Georgetown Waterfront Park

Watching Free Performances From Rising Stars

The National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts – DC’s only accredited actor training studio program – has operated out of a basement-level building off of Wisconsin Avenue since 1975. Run by husband-and-wife Ray and Nan Ficca, who met while training at the conservatory, the humble yet prolific program churns out actors who go on to land movie and TV roles in L.A. For an experience most locals don’t even know about, check out one of the free, public student performances out of their black box theater.

• The Story Behind Ray and Nan's Dream

Discovering a Stop on the Underground Railroad

In the corner of Mt. Zion / Female Union Band Society Cemetery – where enslaved residents, freedmen and (mostly) African-American citizens are laid to rest – an outbuilding that once served as a stop on the Underground Railroad sits on the hill above Rock Creek. According to oral histories passed down through Georgetown’s Black community, the eight-foot-by-eight-foot structure was an overnight thoroughfare for those continuing north or west. The building remains unmarked, but Dr. Thornell Page – head of Mt. Zion United Methodist’s building and cemetery committees – is leading a large effort to audit and restore the neglected cemetery.

• Mount Zion Cemetery
• Our Interview with Dr. Page

Hailing a (Water) Taxi

Georgetown’s waterfront is home to tons of great restaurants, including Fiola Mare, Sequoia, Guapo’s, Bangkok Joe’s, Tony and Joe’s Seafood Place and Farmers Fishers Bakers. But why walk, bike, or drive there when you can travel via the Potomac?! Potomac Riverboat Company offers a scenic mode of travel around DC a with a water taxi that connects The Wharf in Southwest DC with Georgetown. With up to four daily departures from Georgetown’s Washington Harbour (31st & K St), the 25-minute ride is a unique way to experience DC’s waterfront destinations.

The Washington by Water Monuments Cruise also connects Alexandria’s historic waterfront to Georgetown’s. Service is offered from Georgetown’s Washington Harbour as well as the Alexandria City Marina.

• Book Your Water Taxi

Your Unexpected Story

We’ve given you a few insider tips to get started, but why spoil all the fun? Plan for the unplanned and make your own unexpected discoveries in Georgetown.

Share your surprising experiences (or things we missed) on Instagram using #UnexpecteDC and #UnexpectedGeorgetown, and you might get featured on this page!

22 Most Unexpected People in Georgetown

From Monica Lewinsky's former hairdresser to an Exorcist expert, an octogenarian ceramicist, and a former hip hop promoter turned sneakerhead entrepreneur, here are the surprising stories behind some of the most unique people in Georgetown.

New Georgetown Restaurants & Retail

From a cocktail tasting room with historic roots to an LA-based menswear boutique, and a coffee shop with a cause, check out these new Georgetown shops and restaurants that have opened over the past year.

The BIDness Newsletter

Get the weekly scoop on sales & events in Georgetown.

The best restaurant for seafood in Washington, D.C., according to diners—plus, see the rest of the top 30

Posted: April 27, 2024 | Last updated: April 27, 2024

Highest-rated seafood restaurants in Washington, D.C., according to Tripadvisor

Seafood, once enjoyed only by Americans living on the coasts, is now available everywhere thanks to greatly improved transportation and storing technology. And Americans love seafood: Red Lobster, the casual dining chain, has hundreds of locations in 44 states and brought in $2.5 billion in sales in 2019 . But Americans who love seafood seek it out in historic establishments and fine-dining restaurants as well as chains. Cooking styles and techniques vary across regions, many of which have their own specialized and beloved takes on seafood preparation, from boils to bakes to bisques.

To celebrate all things that travel from sea to dinner plates, Stacker compiled a list of the highest-rated seafood restaurants in Washington, D.C. on Tripadvisor . Tripadvisor rankings factor in the average rating and number of reviews. Some restaurants on the list may have recently closed.

#30. Luke's Lobster Farragut

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (36 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (3.5/5) - Type of cuisine: Quick Bites, Seafood - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 800 17th St NW Entrance on H St, Washington DC, DC 20006-3962 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#29. Farmers Fishers Bakers

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (1,700 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Sushi - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 3000 K St NW The Washington Harbour - Georgetown Waterfront, Washington DC, DC 20007-5109 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#28. RT's Restaurant

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (330 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.5/5), Atmosphere (3.5/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Seafood - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 3804 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22305-2409 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#27. Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar DC

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (156 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: Peruvian, Latin - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 1823 L Street Northwest, Washington DC, DC 20036 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#26. Truluck's Ocean's Finest Seafood & Crab

- Rating: 5.0 / 5 (12 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (5.0/5), Service (5.0/5), Value (4.5/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Steakhouse - Price: $$$$ - Address: 700 K St NW Suite 70, Washington DC, DC 20001-5690 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#25. Mele Bistro

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (237 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: Italian, Seafood - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 1723 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22209-2503 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#24. The Grilled Oyster Company

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (70 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (3.5/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Bar - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 3701 Newark St NW, Washington DC, DC 20016-3014 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#23. Ivy City Smokehouse

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (102 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (3.5/5), Value (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: Seafood - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 1356 Okie St NE, Washington DC, DC 20002-1732 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#22. Captain White's Seafood

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (134 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (3.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (3.5/5) - Type of cuisine: Seafood, American - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 1100 Maine Ave SW, Washington DC, DC 20024-2423 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#21. Quarterdeck

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (483 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (3.5/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Bar - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 1200 Fort Myer Dr, Arlington, VA 22209-3503 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#20. Rappahannock Oyster Bar

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (94 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (3.5/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: Seafood, American - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 1309 5th St NE, Washington DC, DC 20002-7003 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#19. Ophelia's Fish House

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (48 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Seafood - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 501 8th St SE, Washington DC, DC 20003-2835 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#18. Sequoia DC

- Rating: 3.5 / 5 (870 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (3.5/5), Service (3.5/5), Value (3.0/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Seafood - Price: $$$$ - Address: 3000 K St NW Washington Harbour, Washington DC, DC 20007-5109 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#17. Tony & Joe's Seafood Place

- Rating: 3.5 / 5 (633 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (3.5/5), Service (3.5/5), Value (3.5/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Bar - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 3000 K St NW Washington Harbour Complex, Washington DC, DC 20007-5109 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#16. Old Ebbitt Grill

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (12,919 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Bar - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 675 15th St NW, Washington DC, DC 20005-5702 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#15. Legal Sea Foods

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (249 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (3.5/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Bar - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 2401 Smith Boulevard Reagan National Airport, National Hall, Entrance to Gates 23-34 Concourse, Arlington, VA 22202 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#14. Luke's Lobster Georgetown

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (137 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5) - Type of cuisine: Quick Bites, Seafood - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 1211 Potomac St NW, Washington DC, DC 20007-3212 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#13. The Salt Line DC

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (167 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (3.5/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Bar - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 79 Potomac Ave SE, Washington DC, DC 20003 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#12. Kellari Taverna

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (354 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (3.5/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: Seafood, Mediterranean - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 1700 K St NW Frnt 7, Washington DC, DC 20006-3817 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#11. Hank’s Oyster Bar on the Wharf

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (262 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (3.5/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Seafood - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 701 Wharf Street, Washington DC, DC 20024 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#10. Hot N Juicy crawfish

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (534 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Seafood - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 2651 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington DC, DC 20008-1546 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#9. The Oceanaire Seafood Room

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (816 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (3.5/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Seafood - Price: $$$$ - Address: 1201 F St NW Frnt 1, Washington DC, DC 20004-1217 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#8. Hank's Oyster Bar Dupont Circle

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (824 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Seafood - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 1624 Q St NW Suite 100, Washington DC, DC 20009-6354 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#7. Pearl Dive Oyster Palace

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (402 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Seafood - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 1612 14th St NW, Washington DC, DC 20009-4307 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#6. Fiola Mare DC

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (1,086 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (3.5/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5) - Type of cuisine: Italian, Seafood - Price: $$$$ - Address: 3050 K St NW, Washington DC, DC 20007-5122 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#5. Luke's Lobster Penn Quarter

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (719 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (3.5/5), Atmosphere (3.5/5) - Type of cuisine: Quick Bites, American - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 624 E St NW, Washington DC, DC 20004-2203 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#4. Ocean Prime

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (242 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Steakhouse - Price: $$$$ - Address: 1341 G St NW Colorado Building, Washington DC, DC 20005 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#3. BlackSalt Fish Market & Restaurant

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (672 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Seafood - Price: $$$$ - Address: 4883 MacArthur Blvd NW, Washington DC, DC 20007-1578 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#2. Joe's Seafood Prime Steak & Stone Crab

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (2,402 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5) - Type of cuisine: Steakhouse, American - Price: $$$$ - Address: 750 15th St NW, Washington DC, DC 20005-1018 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#1. Grillfish

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (1,393 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Seafood - Price: $$ - $$$ - Address: 1200 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington DC, DC 20036-6802 - Read more on Tripadvisor

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14 Washington, DC Wedding Venues That Bring the Wow Factor

• Heather contributes wedding, honeymoon, travel and relationship content for The Knot and WeddingWire.
• Heather also writes for publications including Apartment Therapy, StyleBlueprint, MyDomaine, HelloGiggles and The Everygirl.
• She holds a degree in Art History and Architectural History from the University of Virginia.

There's nothing more all-American than saying "I do" in the nation's capital, and the District delivers when it comes to stunning DC wedding venues. From iconic hotels to Washington monument views to historic hidden gardens, DC has everything you could want for a sophisticated urban celebration.

Of course, planning a DC wedding means navigating a city known for higher than average venue costs. But the upside is choosing from gorgeous venues and celebrating your love in a city where guests will be happy to spend a few days exploring the sights. For most guests, DC is an easy place to travel with three airports and a train station to choose from.

There are hip and historic hotels, and the only challenge your guests will face is figuring out how to hit as many museums in a weekend as possible. Add in an eclectic food scene and charming neighborhoods, and you'll have the best time picking places to bring together guests for everything from the welcome reception to the farewell brunch.

Want to make sure you're getting the full picture of your DC wedding venue? Here's a comprehensive checklist of everything you need to know and the questions that you should ask any on-site event staff.

Find More Washington, DC Wedding Venues: Historic | Small

Events at Union Station in Washington, DC

There's something incredible about saying your vows in the halls of a landmark that you've stepped foot in dozens of times before. While you might usually run through Union Station hoping to grab your train on time, now you can twirl beneath the incredible architecture and soaring ceiling of the Main Hall. You can accommodate over 2,000 of your nearest and dearest in this iconic venue.

National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, DC

The National Museum of Women in the Arts is one of the most stunning Washington, DC wedding venues, with sparkling chandeliers, a mezzanine overlooking the Great Hall and two dramatic staircases. This is an elegant space to transform into your wedding day vision before dancing the night away in the most sophisticated of fashion. Over 300 guests can celebrate your big day at this incredible museum.

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC in Washington, DC

For a stunning Downtown DC wedding venue, look at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC . This classic hotel is in the heart of Penn Quarter, its historic 1800s architecture and marble staircases create an absolutely sophisticated city backdrop. You can toast to your new married life in either The Athens Room or The Paris Ballroom, both of which can host up to 220 guests. Any of your friends and family that decide to stay on-site will enjoy luxurious accommodations with updated period decor.

DACOR Bacon House in Washington, DC

DACOR Bacon House is one of the more affordable wedding venues in Washington, DC, but that doesn't mean it's any less elegant. This historic Georgian mansion dates back two hundred years and its history is almost as impressive as its romance. The rooms are filled with details like crystal chandeliers, historic decor and even a baby grand piano, and hiding in the midst of the city is a half-acre garden with a brick patio and impressive magnolia trees. It's rare you can have an outdoor garden wedding in the heart of the city, but you can at DACOR Bacon House.

Find your kind of venue

Tudor place historic house and gardens in washington, dc.

Tudor Place Historic House and Gardens is a tucked away gem and one of the most beautiful Georgetown DC wedding venues. Sprawling over five and half acres, the lush gardens outside this Federal era historic home are an unlikely sight in the city. It's quiet, secluded and absolutely filled with romance in any season. Tudor Place can host up to 70 guests in their immaculate gardens, and the photos will last a lifetime.

Sequoia in Washington, DC

A sleek waterfront venue right in Georgetown, Sequoia is the place to host a modern celebration. You'll look out over the Potomac River while you say "I do," with floor-to-ceiling windows letting the natural light pour in. But it's not just the waterfront that's impressive—the Kennedy Center, Roosevelt Island, Key Bridge and the Virginia skyline are all right there in the distance. There's contemporary art displayed throughout the minimalist space, and you can celebrate with up to 300 of your closest friends and family. Thanks to the restaurant's talented culinary team, you also know the food is going to be as remarkable as the view.

The LINE DC in Washington, DC

You can get married in a church without getting married at a church at The LINE DC . This modern renovation of a 110-year-old church has a modern, moody aesthetic combined with a space that feels rich with history. You can say "I do" on the rooftop overlooking the Adams Morgan neighborhood and the entire city or one of the interior spaces, including the mezzanine with its stained glass details. You can have your guests stay at the hotel, where they'll find some of the coolest rooms in DC.

The Hay-Adams Hotel in Washington, DC

The Hay-Adams Hotel is a 1920s hotel that has become an iconic DC wedding venue. You can kick off your big day with a ceremony at the Top of the Hay rooftop, which has views of the White House. This traditional and light-filled venue makes for elegant pre-wedding photos and a timeless place to gather your friends and family. After the dancing is done, guests can either retire to their rooms within the hotel or head to the Off the Record bar for a post-wedding cocktail.

Eaton DC in Washington, DC

For a hotel wedding with an edgier vibe, the Eaton DC in downtown Washington is a unique and modern choice. Founded as a creative and cultural hub in addition to a hotel, Eaton DC has multiple event spaces, including the colorful Wild Days room, the bright and airy Beverly Snow Room, and other more intimate spaces, like the Salon. You can host up to 400 guests while also giving friends and family an opportunity to stay on site. They'll also be treated to delicious meals throughout the weekend thanks to the Michelin-starred chef and the option to include sustainable, plant-based food.

Hook Hall in Washington, DC

Hook Hall is an effortless and casual venue that can be transformed into your vision of your big day. High ceilings, exposed brick walls and metal beams give the space an industrial look and guests can trickle outside to the outdoor area, which has fire pits for a cozy feel all winter long. At Hook Hall, you can host up to 700 guests for a cocktail reception or go with a more formal approach and 500 guests for a seated wedding.

The Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill in Washington, DC

For a true Capitol wedding, book The Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill , which has floor-to-ceiling windows and incredible views of Washington from The Crown Ballroom. If it's a beautiful evening, you can open up the terrace for cocktail hour and give guests one of the most unique perspectives of the city. Located just minutes from Union Station and with over 250 guest rooms, The Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill is the perfect place for a politico couple to bring in their nearest and dearest from out of town and show them the best of the District.

Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, DC

There are few classic venues in Washington, DC as dramatic as the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center . This landmark building features stunning architecture on its own, but it transforms into an otherworldly space when draped in decor and color. You can choose from rooms including The Pavillion and The Rotunda, both of which have striking architectural details and soaring ceilings. This is where you get married if there's no way you can cut the guest list—the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center can host up to 5,000 guests.

Riggs Washington DC in Washington, DC

The colorful and opulent decor of Riggs Washington DC is the prettiest backdrop for an intimate wedding of up to 120 guests. You can celebrate with your friends and family in the trendy Café Riggs or recite your vows on the rooftop overlooking downtown. This 1891 Richardson Romanesque building has architectural details that will set the stage for stunning wedding photos, and the events staff on-site is skilled at making every event one to remember.

District Winery in Washington, DC

District Winery is unusual among Washington, DC wedding venues because it's new — rarely do you find a building that doesn't have a century of history behind it. But this modern restaurant and wedding venue has quickly become a favorite of Washingtonian couples. With floor-to-ceiling windows and sweeping views of the riverfront, District Winery is designed to host both ceremonies and receptions all in one sleek space. Invite 200 of your closest friends and family, then rely on the expertise of the events team to bring your dreams of your big day to life.

Student protesters camp out on GWU’s campus as Israel-Hamas war protests continue nationwide

Will Vitka | [email protected] Emily Venezky | [email protected]

April 26, 2024, 11:45 PM

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Student protesters camped out on George Washington University’s campus Friday as demonstrations over the Israel-Hamas war continued for a second day after both Georgetown University and GWU saw hundreds rally on their campuses.

Shortly before 4 p.m. Friday, The Hatchet, the GW student newspaper, reported much of the encampment had been abandoned by students and that at least three dozen demonstrators remained.

Most protesters moved onto the street and surrounding area — taking their bags and tents with them — after university workers put up metal fencing around University Yard.

7News’ Tom Roussey told WTOP around 5 p.m. that H Street between 20th and 21st streets had been shut down by police. “I’m seeing folks who are protesting on the street, on the public sidewalk, but then when I look to my left, I see about 15 to 20 tents and people camping” on the yard.

He reported that, while there had been fewer people demonstrating earlier in the day, the number has since grown.

“And of course, we’re headed for the weekend to Friday night. So I wouldn’t be surprised if it continued to grow,” Roussey said.

He said there is a large police presence around the campus, but there’s been very little interaction between police and demonstrators.

The Hatchet put the number of demonstrators on H Street between 200 and 250 people around 11 p.m. Friday night. The paper said some protesters were pitching tents in the street.

GW had wanted the encampment cleared by 7 p.m. Thursday, and requested D.C. police assistance, but according to new reporting Friday by The Washington Post , officials rejected the request.

Police had gathered at the site around 3 a.m. Friday and were ready to go in, according to the Post, but were told to stand down.

WTOP has reached out to D.C. police for comment.

Remaining student protesters suspended

The university announced multiple students have faced disciplinary action. In a statement Friday night, the university said demonstrators “violated several university policies and were trespassing” and several students have been suspended for partaking in the protest.

“The university also said that any student who remains in University Yard may be placed on temporary suspension and administratively barred from campus. Several students have already been notified of their suspensions.”

In an Instagram post, the Student Coalition for Palestine said that seven students “currently face 9 charges of misconduct and are being evicted from their homes.”

“Administrators are actively working to punish students for speaking up against the oppression of Palestinians,” they wrote in the post.

Earlier in the day

WTOP’s Kyle Cooper reported from the site earlier Friday: “I talked to one student who said that some of the students that were inside that area decided to move out of that area instead of risk arrest — they said they had scholarships and things like that so they didn’t want to be arrested. But some students have stayed inside that metal fencing.”

GWU alerted students at 7:39 a.m . that there was restricted access to the yard and that Kogan Plaza, the main campus plaza, was also closed. The Hatchet, reported at 8:26 a.m. that only “protesters who are willing to risk arrest” remained in University Yard.

“There are some that are still inside that barrier, some are outside that barrier, they continue to chant,” Cooper observed Friday morning.

Chants had started up again earlier around 7 a.m. as a large presence of university and D.C. police enclosed the yard. An hour later, those chants started focusing on the police presence as well as the Israel-Hamas war.

“D.C. police is on the perimeter, we’ve seen as many as several dozen officers hanging around here, now just a handful again,” Cooper said. “So we’re not exactly sure if police are intending to move in and ask these students to move out, or move them out by force.”

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George Washington officials said in a statement at 10 a.m. that “individuals who remain on University Yard and any who attempt to join them are trespassing on private property and violating university regulations.”

The university said it is working with D.C. police to secure the area and will “pursue disciplinary actions against the GW students involved in these unauthorized demonstrations that continue to disrupt university operations.”

The protests have disrupted the law school’s finals, which were set to be held in buildings next to the protest encampment and have been moved to another building due to the noise.

In another statement issued Thursday, officials said the institution does “not permit overnight encampments on university property,” and students must clear out by 7 p.m. The university requested police to get involved, but police did not intercede when protesters were still in place after the deadline had passed.

The university released a statement at 7:50 p.m. Thursday saying the encampment “is an unauthorized use of university space and violates several university policies. The university and D.C. police are continuing to work in coordination to determine how to best address the situation and ensure student compliance with those policies.”

The Hatchet reported Friday that the main campus plaza nearby, Kogan Plaza, was fenced off by police overnight, and sirens blared at around 2 a.m. as police warned they were about to start arresting students — but the arrests never came.

The student-run publication also said that the encampments started at 5 a.m. on Thursday with 50 tents being pitched in University Yard, only three blocks away from the White House.

The Associated Press  reported the number of demonstrators grew significantly throughout the morning, with demonstrators waving Palestinian flags, beating drums and chanting slogans.

Later, a group of Georgetown University students and professors staged their own walkout and marched to the George Washington campus to join in with the protesters there.

Students from other local colleges, including American University, George Mason and the University of Maryland also took part in the rally on GW’s campus.

Despite a robust police presence on the edges of the encampment, there were no serious incidents.

The protesters are demanding that the university divest from all relations with Israel and lift a suspension against a prominent pro-Palestinian student group. The Washington Post also reported on a rally earlier this week at American University where students marched to the president’s office building to demand that the administration divest from Israel.

Nationally, administrators and police at university campuses from California to Connecticut are wrestling with how to address pro-Palestinian student protests that have led to scuffles with police and hundreds of arrests.

The protests were mostly inspired by the first encampments at Columbia University, which are still up on their tenth day as officials try to negotiate with students to dismantle the protest by the school’s Friday deadline.

WTOP’s Kyle Cooper and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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William Vitka is a Digital Writer/Editor for WTOP.com. He's been in the news industry for over a decade. Before joining WTOP, he worked for CBS News, Stuff Magazine, The New York Post and wrote a variety of books—about a dozen of them, with more to come.

Emily Venezky is a digital writer/editor at WTOP. Emily grew up listening to and reading local news in Los Angeles, and she’s excited to cover stories in her chosen home of the DMV. She recently graduated from The George Washington University, where she studied political science and journalism.

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