Georgetown is such an iconic neighborhood in the DC area and offers an incredible array of opportunities for the people who live in and visit the city. From the beautiful communities to the world-class dining and shopping to the historical sites to the natural beauty—there is so much to see and do here.
But if you think you know Georgetown, you might be surprised to find out that some of its best-known landmarks aren’t exactly what you thought. Here, then, are some of Georgetown’s most famous places along with some new ways to enjoy them.
Georgetown University
What you know:
An elite university that is great as a landmark because you can see it from everywhere.
What you don’t know:
Georgetown offers a variety of programs to reach out to the local community. From non-credit courses to a fall community fair, concerts in the park, and fine arts presentations, Georgetown is all about outreach.
Check out Yates Field House’s programs for children and families, including wellness, fitness, aquatics, swim lessons, and tennis camps. A Friends membership allows members of the community to participate in all of these. And if your kids love sports, the Hoya Kids Club will keep them cheering with free and discounted tickets, meet & greets, and the opportunity to be a ball kid during games.
Tours of Georgetown
What you know:
Get on a bus and listen to a garbled recording of famous sites in the area.
What you don’t know:
There are so many ways to learn about Georgetown, no matter what your style or interest. Love spy novels? Check out Spies of Georgetown, a walking tour that meets at the Georgetown Public Library and features real-life stories of espionage and intrigue.
Love food? How about the Gastronomic Georgetown Food Tour, combining the history of the area with a variety of small meals and tastings.
Want to enjoy a different view? Capital River Cruises has a scenic tour from the Potomac River that offers great photo ops, relaxation, and family fun.
Georgetown Waterfront
What you know:
The area with lots of tourists and lots of mediocre restaurants that cater to tourists.
What you don’t know:
The waterfront is home to some of the best dining in the District. Check out Farmers Fishers Bakers, the uber-green sister to Founding Farmers, for coffee at First Bake, an incredibly varied menu, and desserts to die for. (Like seriously, if you haven’t had Hummingbird Cake before, it’s time.)
Fiola Mare’s Italian-inspired menu and elegant décor make it one of the most romantic places in DC, and their sunset menu is a showstopper.
C&O Canal
What you know:
A nice little walk, perfect for a romantic stroll after dinner, or to find a beautiful, shady spot after shopping.
What you don’t know:
The Canal is 184.5 miles long. No, that is not a misprint. It goes all the way out to Cumberland, Maryland, and the whole thing is a National Historical Park.
So if you are looking for a cool hiking or biking trail, the towpath will allow you to create your epic journey. Along the way, there are visitor centers, boat rides, campsites, and events to help you learn about the region while you get back to nature.
Want to go further? The Great Allegheny Passage Trail goes from Cumberland to Pittsburgh, allowing you to trek 330 total miles straight from the District.
Georgetown Desserts
What you know:
Georgetown Cupcake
What you don’t know:
Okay, no shade for Georgetown Cupcake. We’ve made the pilgrimage and stood in line just like everybody else. But there are other places to take your sweet tooth in Georgetown.
Check out Laduree Georgetown, the iconic Parisian macaron patisserie that finally opened this spring and made all of our dreams come true. Bistro Lepic & Wine Bar for more French delicacies and a Jazz Night Menu that is an experience in itself. And if you can’t stay away from cupcakes, change it up occasionally with the Sprinkles variety.
Georgetown has so much to see and do and is so much a part of what makes DC living great. Know a Georgetown place or happening we missed? Let us know in the comments (I’m especially looking forward to a battle between Sprinkles and GC devotees.)
And if you’re looking for your own little nest in Georgetown, sign in and let one of our Eng Garcia Realtors help. We know this area, and we are here to help whether you prefer a single-family home with a yard or a luxury high rise. Georgetown has it all, and we have all of Georgetown for your home search.