Exploring Georgetown: 18 Must-Do Activities for Your Washington, DC Trip

A journey to Washington, D.C. can be brimming with iconic monuments and renowned museums. However, you can also choose to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the charming neighborhood of Georgetown. Founded in 1751, Georgetown proudly boasts the title of D.C.’s oldest neighborhood.

While it may be recognized today as the original location of Georgetown Cupcake, the home of the Exorcist Stairs, and the residence of gothic-style university buildings where Hoyas pursue their education, Georgetown offers a wealth of experiences beyond these highlights. Amidst its historic brick and frame row houses, cobblestone streets, and grand estates, you’ll discover Georgetown Suites—an ideal accommodation choice that provides a fresh perspective on our Nation’s Capital.

Having lived in the Washington, D.C. area, my husband and I frequently ventured to Georgetown for delightful dinners, leisurely afternoons of shopping, and people-watching with our children. In reality, Georgetown presents itself as a captivating segment of Washington, D.C. that seems far removed from the touristy atmosphere and political bustle, thanks to its thriving business district, active residential community, and picturesque waterfront offering stunning vistas.

Until recently, Georgetown had never crossed our minds as a weekend getaway or family staycation destination. However, a recent weekend spent as guests of Georgetown Suites altered our perception and illuminated the reasons why Georgetown serves as an ideal spot for families seeking an alternative to downtown D.C. during their trip, or for couples in search of a relaxing long weekend escape, especially following a hectic work-related excursion.

18 RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES FOR YOUR GEORGETOWN SOJOURN

Georgetown is not just a destination but also a playground, where you can indulge in shopping, dining, historical exploration, fitness, and family-friendly entertainment. These activities will tempt you to disconnect from your devices and embark on new adventures while savoring this charming neighborhood. Here’s a glimpse of how you can make the most of your time in Georgetown.

EXPLORE THE UNFAMILIAR
Georgetown offers an array of exciting activities, so why not step out of your comfort zone during your vacation? After all, you’re here to enjoy yourself! Here are just a few of the numerous exciting possibilities in Georgetown:

1. Go ice skating: From mid-November to March, The Washington Harbour converts its fountain into an ice rink, providing a spectacular view of the Kennedy Center and Potomac River.
2. Rent a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard: During the warm months, Key Bridge Boathouse and Georgetown Paddle Company can equip you with the necessary gear to explore Georgetown and D.C. from the serene waters of the Potomac River.
3. Attend a cooking class to enhance your culinary repertoire: Whether you’re an avid cook seeking inspiration or simply wish to acquire new skills, head to Via Umbria for a Pasta & Dessert Cooking Class. During my stay in Georgetown, I had the pleasure of participating in a fresh pasta-making session at Via Umbria. Despite my love for cooking, I had never ventured into the realm of fresh pasta preparation. To my surprise, it was a breeze! The best part was relishing the delicious results of our culinary efforts!
4. Fancy a game of bocce? Give it a try at Pinstripes: Tucked away in the heart of Georgetown, Pinstripes is a bistro that offers delectable food and entertainment for the entire family. Pinstripes elevates the typical bowling alley fare with its delectable made-from-scratch Italian cuisine. With an extensive menu catering to all tastes, generous portions, and dishes large enough for two adults to share, Pinstripes stands out from the crowd.
5. Explore fitness studios in the neighborhood: Whether you’ve always wanted to experience an Orange Theory Fitness class (I’m a fan!) or try a Barre3 class, Georgetown offers boutique fitness studios to help you maintain your fitness regimen while away from home, or even try something entirely new. During my stay at Georgetown Suites, I ventured into a Barre class, which was outside my comfort zone. Surprisingly, I fell in love with it because it offered a refreshing change from my usual workouts. Many fitness studios offer complimentary trial classes, so don’t hesitate to call ahead and inform them of your visit if you wish to participate in a class.

UNPLUG AND EMBRACE THE OUTDOORS
If you’re searching for a compelling reason to disconnect from your devices, you’ll find it easy to resist the allure of your smartphone when you discover Georgetown’s enchanting waterfront, just a stone’s throw away from Georgetown Suites. With its scenic pathways, breathtaking vistas, and the tranquil river itself, Georgetown’s waterfront invites you to unplug and savor the great outdoors during your visit.

1. Rent a bike from Capital Bike Share: Embark on a cycling adventure around the monumental landmarks or explore a section of the Capital Crescent Trail, a cherished biking trail.
2. Soak up the sunshine and people-watch at parks like Book Hill or the Georgetown Waterfront.
3. Stroll through the C&O Canal National Historical Park: Situated right in the heart of Georgetown, the C&O Canal offers an educational opportunity for children to learn about history, science, and engineering.
4. In need of workout attire? Visit the Athleta and North Face stores on M Street, or seek their recommendations for more local experiences.

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN HISTORY
Established 40 years before Washington, Georgetown served as a tobacco port town in Maryland. This historical neighborhood proudly houses two of Washington’s oldest structures: the City Tavern Club and the Old Stone House, constructed in 1765. The Old Stone House, fashioned from locally available materials, underwent renovations by the National Park Service in the 1950s. If you possess a National Parks Passport, don’t forget to bring it along for another stamp!

Renowned for its charming cobblestone streets and 18th and 19th century architectural marvels, Georgetown has been home to an illustrious list of residents, including former U.S. presidents Thomas Jefferson and John F. Kennedy.

INDULGE IN DELECTABLE BAKED GOODS
Georgetown is home to a variety of bakeries that offer mouthwatering treats guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. A few favorites include:

1. Baked & Wired: This delightful bakery offers scrumptious small-batch baked goods, complemented by an array of coffee options. Skip the chain coffee shop down the street in favor of these delectable treats during your Georgetown visit. You won’t be disappointed.
2. Ladurée: Ladurée invites you to embrace the “Ladurée life,” described as a world of dreams, small pleasures, fantasies

, rainbows, and macarons. Step inside their shop, and you’ll experience precisely what it promises.

3. Georgetown Cupcake: You might think you’ve struck gold if you visit the original Georgetown Cupcake location at a time when there isn’t a line. However, glance around the corner, and you’ll likely find a queue forming! This cupcakery is renowned for its classic flavors, customer favorites, and seasonal varieties. Here’s a pro tip: Every day, Georgetown Cupcake offers 100 cupcakes of a secret flavor at each of its locations. While waiting in line, visit their Facebook page to unveil the flavor of the day. If you’re among the first 100 customers to request it, you’ll receive a sweet treat free of charge!

APPRECIATE ARCHITECTURAL SPLENDOR
From the Gothic-style structures at Georgetown University to opulent estates scattered throughout the neighborhood and the charming row houses lining streets that descend toward the waterfront, Georgetown offers architectural beauty in abundance. Georgetown is particularly renowned for its federalist architecture, historic brick and frame row houses, cobblestone streets, and grand estates that trace their origins as far back as the mid-1700s. While the neighborhood presents numerous Instagram-worthy backdrops for photos, you can also explore historic sites, estates, and gardens. These four locations are not to be missed:

1. Dumbarton House: This Georgetown landmark is a Federal period house with a history spanning two centuries. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to admire household furnishings, art, and décor dating back to the early years of the republic.
2. Tudor Place: Built by Martha Washington’s granddaughter, Martha Custis Peter, this National Historic Landmark estate, dating back to 1816, houses the extensive Mt. Vernon collection and a historic 5½-acre garden where you can delve into 180 years of American history.
3. Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection: Dumbarton Oaks is a former residence of John C. Calhoun, the U.S. vice president, and it served as the location where the United Nations charter was outlined in 1944. The Federal-style house, constructed in 1801, showcases the former owners’ collections of Byzantine and Pre-Columbian art. The site also boasts 10 acres of trees, including Washington’s iconic cherry blossoms, as well as an array of flowers, garden furniture, and other decorative garden elements that transport you to a world far removed from Washington, D.C.
4. INDULGE IN SHOPPING SPREES
   M Street is renowned for its world-class shopping, but don’t forget to explore the side streets where a wealth of boutiques awaits.

WHERE TO STAY: GEORGETOWN SUITES
To fully embrace the Georgetown experience, consider booking your stay at Georgetown Suites. Their apartment-style suites offer spacious accommodations suitable for both families and couples. In a separate post, I delve into the six compelling reasons to choose Georgetown Suites when visiting Washington, D.C.

GETTING AROUND
Navigating Georgetown is convenient thanks to various transportation options:

1. Metro: The Foggy Bottom/GWU Metro station is just a short 15-minute walk from Georgetown, or you can use the Rosslyn, Virginia station, which is a brief walk across the Key Bridge to Georgetown. Both Foggy Bottom/GWU and Rosslyn are served by the blue and orange Metro lines. Metro fares vary depending on the distance traveled, with higher fares during rush hours.
2. DC Circulator Bus: Keep an eye out for the red and yellow-striped DC Circulator bus, which connects cultural, entertainment, and business destinations across the city. In Georgetown, the Circulator offers two lines: one running east-west from Georgetown to Union Station via downtown, and another from Rosslyn, VA through Georgetown to the Dupont Circle metro. What makes the DC Circulator Bus especially appealing is that a single fare costs only $1!
3. Capital Bikeshare: Exploring D.C. by bike can be a fantastic way to cover significant ground that might be tiring on foot. Capital Bikeshare offers a fun and affordable option for getting around. Single trip rides are priced at $2 each, or you can purchase a 24-hour pass for $8 per person, allowing unlimited rides in a day.
4. Potomac Riverboat Company: For a unique and scenic mode of transportation, consider taking the Wharf Water Taxi. This service connects The Wharf with Georgetown and offers six daily departures from Georgetown’s Washington Harbour (31st & K St). The 25-minute ride provides a distinctive perspective of D.C.’s waterfront destinations.