Georgetown

The Basics

The historic district of Georgetown technically predates the nation’s capital: It was founded in 1751, some 50 years before the District of Columbia. The heart of the neighborhood is the intersection of M Street and Wisconsin Avenue NW, now packed with glamorous storefronts and chef-driven restaurants. All around are multimillion-dollar townhomes, marked by 18th- and 19th-century architecture and tales of famous owners (such as the Kennedys). Then there’s the popular Georgetown Waterfront, home to buzzing outdoor cafés and a scenic Potomac River promenade.

Georgetown’s historic roots and bespoke charms offer the perfect afternoon excursion for DC visitors. For an in-depth experience of the area and its storied roots, book a guided walking tour; typically these include such sites as the C&O Canal, a bucolic waterway that was once an active center of commerce and transportation, and Georgetown University, which counts Bill Clinton and Bradley Cooper among its illustrious alumni. If you’re limited on time, many private and small-group DC tours stop in the neighborhood as well, as do hop-on hop-off buses.

Things to Know Before You Go

• History buffs and families alike will appreciate a leisurely afternoon in Georgetown.

• Many of the sidewalks are made of (sometimes uneven) cobblestones; come prepared with comfy walking shoes.

• Many cafés, bakeries, and other comfy local establishments offer free Wi-Fi.

How to Get There

Georgetown is accessible by car (there are more than 20 parking garages) and bikeshare service (Capital Bikeshare has eight stations). Public transportation is also available via the DC Metrobus and the DC Circulator bus, which connects tourist destinations within the city. The nearest metro stations are Foggy Bottom-GWU, a 15-minute walk away, and Rosslyn, located just across the Key Bridge from Georgetown; both are on the blue and orange lines.

When to Get There

Temperatures and humidity typically soar during summer in Washington DC, while winter can be cold and damp. Late spring and early fall offer the most pleasant weather. This is also when Georgetown University co-eds are back in school, allowing visitors to experience the neighborhood’s collegiate charms.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

A tour of Georgetown isn’t complete without stopping for a delicious treat from Georgetown Cupcake. The original outpost of the nationwide dessert shop, made famous on TLC network’s DC Cupcakes, sells its signature red velvet cupcake—with a vanilla cream cheese frosting topped with a red fondant heart)—and countless other finger-licking flavors at its store on the corner of M and 33rd streets.

What are the must-see attractions in Georgetown, Washington DC?

Washington DC’s Georgetown neighborhood's claim to fame may be its historic cobblestone streets, but the must-see attractions include Georgetown Waterfront Park with its Potomac River views, Georgetown University's historic campus, the scenic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Old Stone House showcasing colonial history, and Dumbarton Oaks Gardens.

What is the history behind Georgetown's cobblestone streets in Washington DC?

Georgetown is famous for its federalist architecture, historic row houses made of brick and frame, grand estates, and cobblestone streets—all of which date back to the mid-1700s. The neighborhood was founded as a tobacco port in 1751, about four decades before the founding of DC, the nation's capital.

How can I reach Georgetown from downtown Washington DC?

The drive from downtown Washington DC to Georgetown takes about 15 minutes without traffic along mostly M Street across Rock Creek. On public transit, you can take the No. 33 Friendship Heights bus from Farragut Park—the ride should take about 20 minutes. It’s a bit too far to walk.

What are the top annual events or festivals in Georgetown?

Georgetown in Washington DC isn’t much of a festival town, but it puts on a good number of annual events, among them are the Georgetown French Market in April, outdoor dancing along the Potomac in summer, and Georgetown Glow, Christmas holiday celebrations with public light art installations.

What is the best way to explore Georgetown in Washington DC on foot?

Georgetown in Washington DC is very walkable—start at the intersection of M Street and Wisconsin Avenue, the heart of the district, and follow the shop-lined streets fanning in all directions. Closer to the Potomac River, you can walk along Georgetown Waterfront Park and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail.

Is Georgetown in Washington DC good for visiting with kids?

Yes, Georgetown in Washington DC is a kid-friendly destination. Visitors with children can take guided historical boat tours along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, visit tea houses and old-timey ice cream shops, bike along the waterfront or paddle the Potomac, and join family-friendly tours of historical attractions like Tudor Place.