Historic Georgetown Architecture Tour

Established more than 50 years before Washington became the capital, Georgetown began as a gritty port town on the banks of the Potomac, once described by Abigail Adams as a “dirty little hole.” Today, it’s one of DC’s most picturesque and exclusive neighborhoods, filled with cobblestone streets, historic rowhouses, elegant churches, and grand mansions.

This walking tour traces Georgetown’s journey from working-class waterfront to elite enclave. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of scandal, transformation, and resilience while exploring architectural gems, tucked-away alleys, and famous landmarks. Whether you’re interested in design, politics, pop culture—or just want to see what’s behind the gates—we’ll show you a side of Georgetown few visitors get to experience.

Beginning near the (now) scenic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, once nicknamed the “Grand Ol' Ditch,” we’ll discuss the gritty beginnings of Georgetown as a port city. We’ll stop at the unassuming Old Stone House, the oldest surviving building in DC, before leaving bustling M Street behind.

As we wind through the neighborhood’s quiet residential core, we’ll encounter a striking mix of Federal, Victorian, Second Empire, and Queen Anne architecture, alongside stately churches, tucked-away alleys, and remnants of the city's early streetcar system. Highlights include the Newton D. Baker House, once home to Jacqueline Kennedy; Alexander Graham Bell’s laboratory; the Gothic revival campus of Georgetown University, and a descent down the iconic Exorcist Steps, where film history meets urban folklore. The tour concludes along the Georgetown Waterfront, a once-industrial shoreline and now vibrant public park, in a fitting conclusion to the rags to riches transformation of Georgetown.

Meet your guide outside a beloved local coffee shop, Baked & Wired at 1052 Thomas Jefferson St NW. The tour is about 2.5 hours and covers approximately 2.5 miles, ending at Georgetown Waterfront Park near 33rd St and Water Street. Visit www.dcdesigntours.com to learn more and sign up.