Georgetown is one of the most western neighborhoods in downtown Washington, located in the Northwest quadrant of DC. It is bound by Rock Creek Parkway to the east, Whitehaven and Reservoir Roads to the north, Foundry Branch Park to the west, and the Potomac River to the south. The Foggy Bottom-GWU metro station, serviced by the Blue and Orange lines, is within walking distance. Metro and Circulator buses frequent the community. Georgetown real estate is just a short walk to the Rosslyn section of Arlington, Virginia.

Georgetown History

Georgetown, founded in 1751, predates Washington, DC itself. It was established 40 years before the District as a Maryland port town. Georgetown also housed a lumber yard, cement works, and the Washington Flour Mill. The C&O Canal was vital for connecting Georgetown to goods and materials that supported the local economy. The Herring Hill section of Georgetown is well-known as a welcoming area for families that flocked to DC after the Civil War. Herring Hill thrived through the era of slavery, Jim Crow laws, and economic inequity, and developed a strong identity.

Georgetown is famous for its quaint, narrow streets as well as its famous residents. It has been home to a long list of famous residents including actress Elizabeth Taylor, author Herman Wouk, countless politicos and two US presidents: Thomas Jefferson and John F. Kennedy. Georgetown has been featured in many movies, including the 1980s classic St. Elmo’s Fire and The Exorcist (the famed stone steps in the latter are located at the corner of Prospect and 36th Streets, NW).

Georgetown Real Estate

Georgetown, DC real estate is best known for its classic 18th and 19th-century architecture, mostly Federalist in style. Historic brick and frame row homes and stately federal, colonial and contemporary homes line Georgetown’s quiet, cobblestone streets. Several upscale condos in Georgetown can be found here as well, though single-family and townhomes make up the majority of the Georgetown real estate. Georgetown is one of the priciest neighborhoods in Washington.

Georgetown Community

Georgetown offers a bustling community vibe, a happening waterfront, first-class shopping, and plentiful fine dining options. Its Business Improvement District offers outdoor fitness classes and movies. Georgetown shoppers will find a mix of trendy, high-end boutiques as well as national chain stores. The Georgetown French Market features 40 locally-owned merchants selling discounted items and unique finds. The popular Taste of Georgetown event takes place every October, with more than 30 participating restaurants. 

Georgetown Entertainment

Georgetown’s famed Blues Alley is the oldest, continuously-operated jazz club in the country and draws internally recognized musicians. Georgetown University offers plenty of cultural events and sports action. The Georgetown Piano Bar showcases two of the area’s most well-known pianists, Hunter Lang and Spencer Bates, and other live entertainers.

Georgetown Favorites

Start with a glass of Italian wine at Via Umbria, a combination market, cafe, and restaurant, housed in a rustic farmhouse. History lovers will enjoy a visit to 1789, a Federal-style, antique-filled restaurant serving new American cuisine, as well as Martin’s Tavern – where JFK is rumored to have gotten engaged to Jackie O. For amazing seafood, try Fiola Mare along the bustling Georgetown waterfront. End your night at Eno’s Wine Bar, which celebrates wine, cheese, and chocolate! We also love The Rye Bar at Rosewood Washington DC hotel, the rooftop bar at The Graham Hotel, and the Living Room at the Ritz Georgetown. If you’re looking for a fantastic Sunday Brunch, don’t miss the spread at The Four Seasons.

 

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