Overview
Georgetown is a historic neighborhood in Washington, D.C., known for its charming streets, upscale shopping, and vibrant dining scene. It's also home to the prestigious Georgetown University and offers scenic views of the Potomac River.
Georgetown is one of the oldest neighborhoods in D.C., and it played a significant role in the city's early development. It's also known for its beautiful architecture and historic waterfront.
Location
Address
Washington DC
Neighborhood: Downtown
Coordinates
38.895100, -77.036900
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Late morning or early afternoon
Best for shopping and dining, with fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Cherry blossoms
- • Outdoor cafes
summer
Hot and humid
- • Outdoor concerts
- • Rooftop bars
autumn
Cool and crisp
- • Fall foliage
- • Harvest festivals
winter
Cold
- • Holiday lights
- • Ice skating
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking
- Check opening hours for shops and restaurants
- Be aware of traffic and parking limitations
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low to moderate (depending on activities)
- • Stay hydrated in summer heat
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
Medical facilities: Hospitals and clinics nearby
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards, Mobile pay
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual to smart casual, Comfortable shoes for walking, Walking shoes, comfortable sandals (summer), Inappropriate clothing for dining establishments
Booking Tips
- • Not typically required, but recommended for popular restaurants
- • OpenTable, Yelp, or individual restaurant websites
- • Varies by establishment, typically 24 hours in advance
- • Not typically applicable, but some shops may have lines during peak season
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Georgetown DC
Size: 25 MB
Features: Interactive map, Event calendar, Restaurant and shop guides, Parking information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Georgetown Waterfront Park, Cafes and restaurants
Charging Stations: Cafes and restaurants, some shops
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
Distance: 10 miles
Travel Time: 20-30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2-3 miles
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Georgetown offers a unique blend of history, culture, and charm, with its cobblestone streets, upscale shopping, and vibrant dining scene. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the scenic views of the Potomac River.
Historical Significance: Georgetown is one of the oldest neighborhoods in D.C., and it played a significant role in the city's early development. It was originally a port town and later became a popular destination for its historic waterfront and unique architecture.
Insider Tips
- Visit the historic C&O Canal for a peaceful walk along the water
- Explore the unique shops and boutiques on M Street for one-of-a-kind finds
- Try the famous Georgetown Cupcake for a sweet treat
- Stroll along the Georgetown Waterfront Park for stunning views of the Potomac River
Local Recommendations
- • Try the famous Georgetown Cupcake
- • Visit the historic C&O Canal
- • Explore the Georgetown University campus
- • Stroll along the Georgetown Waterfront Park
- • Discover the unique shops and boutiques on M Street
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Georgetown Waterfront Park
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Capture the Potomac River and the iconic Georgetown University in the background
Result: Breathtaking views of the water and historic architecture
M Street
Best Time: Daytime
Tips: Focus on the unique storefronts and cobblestone streets
Result: Charming and picturesque shots of the historic shopping district
Georgetown University
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Highlight the Gothic architecture and the historic Healy Hall
Result: Stunning images of one of the most iconic university campuses in the U.S.
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
National Mall
Distance: 2 miles
Walking: 40 minutes
Type: Historic Site/Museum
Arlington National Cemetery
Distance: 3 miles
Walking: 1 hour
Type: Historic Site/ Memorial
The Wharf
Distance: 1.5 miles
Walking: 30 minutes
Type: Waterfront District/Dining & Entertainment
Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Distance: 2.5 miles
Walking: 50 minutes
Type: Museum
Dumbarton Oaks
Distance: 2 miles
Walking: 40 minutes
Type: Historic Estate/Gardens
Reviews
Based on 12,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit the Georgetown Waterfront Park for stunning views"
- "Try the famous Georgetown Cupcake"
- "Explore the historic C&O Canal"
- "Stroll along M Street for unique shopping"
- "Discover the vibrant dining scene"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (7)
Washington: Potomac River Cruise & Guided Georgetown Walking Tour
Tastes of Georgetown Food & History Small Group Walking Tour
Historic Georgetown Architectural Walking Tour
The History of Black Georgetown
Georgetown Neighborhood Spies, Lies, & Politics Walking Tour 8ppl
Socialites and Spies of Georgetown Walking Tour
Groovy Georgetown Scavenger Hunt
Quick Info
Available Tours
30
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
12,000
Adult Entry
Free to explore the neighborhood, individual shops, restaurants, and attractions may have their own admission fees