An afternoon in Georgetown, DC, is a perfect addition to your Washington, DC itinerary. My brother lives in Rosslyn, just across the Key Bridge, so I really enjoyed walking over to this area to explore everything the historic neighborhood has to offer.
Georgetown, DC, is an excellent way to spend your afternoon. It offers a little something for every type of traveler, with its historic architecture, unique shops, and beautiful waterfront. If you need additional help with your DC travel itinerary, I recommend checking out my Washington DC 3-Day Itinerary.
The Georgetown Basics
Is Georgetown worth visiting?
In my opinion, yes! Every traveler is different, but this neighborhood is rich in history and iconic to the Washington, DC area. If, after reading this, you feel that Georgetown doesn’t quite appeal to you, feel free to choose another attraction that better fits your interests. My list of things to do in DC is endless, so you’ll always have plenty of options to explore!
Getting To Georgetown
Georgetown is a little bit trickier to get to since there aren’t any metro stops, but there are still several ways to get to this neighborhood.
Drive
- Yes, Georgetown is driveable, but with any metropolitan area, there are some quirks. The parking situation can be rough and prepare for peak traffic.
Bike
- Depending on where you are coming from in DC, you can utilize the Capital Bikeshare to get to Georgetown. This will take a level of physical activity, but it will be more convenient for you in the long run.
Water Taxi
- This is a unique option when visiting Georgetown and other waterfront locations. The water taxi takes you along major attractions along the Potomac including Alexandria, National Harbour, the Wharf, and Georgetown.
Getting Around Georgetown
Is Georgetown DC walkable?
Yes, Georgetown is a very walkable city. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is so much to see!
Parking
Parking in Georgetown can be elusive during busy times so be prepared to drive around searching for an open spot. Georgetown’s visitor website provides a good description of all the parking areas.
NOTE: If you can, try to find street parking as it is much cheaper than the parking garages in Georgetown.
How to spend the afternoon in Georgetown, DC
National Cathedral
I would start your afternoon in Georgetown by exploring the National Cathedral. The National Cathedral is absolutely beautiful. While walking through the church, I felt like I was in a European city as the architecture is breathtaking.
There are different levels of the cathedral to explore, some costing extra in admission. While visiting, we were able to explore the crypt, main level, and the observatory deck all under the same ticket
- Self-Guided Sightseeing: $15 for adults, $10 for youth
- Guided Spotlight Tour: $20 for Adults, $15 for youth
Other Tour Options
- Behind the Scenes Tour
- Tower Climb
- Thematic Tours
National Cathedral Main Attractions
- Helen Keller’s Grave
- Woodrow Wilson’s Grave
- Space Rock Stained Glass
- Observatory deck to get 360 views of Georgetown and the surrounding DC area
Shopping
There is no better way to spend an afternoon in Georgetown than by strolling along the popular shopping districts in the area. Below are the main streets where you will find the majority of the shops.
M Street
M Street is the main shopping area located within Georgetown. While walking along this street, you find hundreds of shops and restaurants.
Book Hill Shopping
Located along the upper section of Wisconsin Ave., Book Hill is known for its independent and unique shops and galleries.
Wander the Streets of Georgetown, DC
Get Lost!
As cliche as it may sound, getting lost is the best way to explore a new destination. The colonial architecture in Georgetown is especially magnificent. I love walking around and seeing how the residents put their twist on these iconic houses and townhomes.
While you are wandering around the streets, look out for the following houses as they are iconic to the Georgetown area:
- Dumbarton House: 2715 Q St NW
- Tudor Place: 1644 31st St NW
- Dumbarton Oaks Research Library & Gardens: 1703 32nd St NW
- Old Stone House: 3051 M St NW
- Halcyon House: 3400 Prospect St NW
More Stops to Fill Your Afternoon in Georgetown, DC
Grab a Sweet Treat!
What better way to stroll around downtown than with a sweet treat? Stop by Thomas Sweet, a popular ice cream shop in Georgetown. This ice cream shop is popular among tourists and notable presidents like Obama!
Kennedy Walking Tour
John F. Kennedy and his family were continuous residents in Georgetown and left their mark. Georgetown’s Visitor Center has published a great Kennedy Walking Tour that highlights notable destinations of the Kennedys within Georgetown.
The C&O Canal
Located parallel to M Street, I would move past the busy district and take a walk along the canal. You will feel transported back in time with the narrow street and the historic houses.
Georgetown Waterfront Things to Do
Water Activity on the Potomac
- Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals
- You can purchase rentals by the Key Bridge Boathouse. Visit Boating in DC Rentals for more information.
- Go Boat Rentals
- Even though you will have to rent the boat from either The Wharf or Navy Yard, you will be able to cruise along the Potomac to Georgetown.
End Your Afternoon in Georgetown, DC by Watching the Sunset
Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park is a nice green space where you can have a picnic and enjoy the sunset of the Potomac.
Cocktails Along the Waterfront
There are several bars lined along the waterfront where you can enjoy an alcoholic beverage and watch the sunset.
Additional Georgetown, DC Afternoon Attractions
Georgetown University
You may be wondering if you can visit Georgetown University. The answer is yes! Due to lack of time, I wasn’t able to explore the university, but it would be a fun activity to add to your list. The architecture of the university is worth seeing.
Let’s Connect!
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THANK YOU
Thank you for taking the time to read my post. I would appreciate hearing your thoughts about Georgetown DC and how this blog post helped you plan your trip.
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