Georgetown

 

Georgetown is one of D.C.’s oldest (and most vibrant) neighborhoods. Historic federal architecture lines the cobblestone streets of a community that offers upscale dining, eclectic nightlife, and water-based activities on the Potomac River. Georgetown is bounded by parks and open space in almost every direction, buffering this neighborhood from the encroaching development of adjacent communities. The real estate in Georgetown is simultaneously hip, historic, and surrounded by greenery.

 

Georgetown is best known architecturally for its many pristine historic properties, including elegant Victorians and grand Georgians. There are also luxurious modern condominiums along the banks of the Potomac, where lavish penthouse suites offer spectacular views of some of the nation’s most iconic landmarks. With a great persity of high-quality housing and a similar wealth of things to see and do, Georgetown has long been considered one of the best places to live in D.C. This eclectic community is home to some of D.C.’s wealthiest and most powerful people, including powerful political figures such as Nancy Pelosi and Madeline Albright and noted journalists including Bob Woodward.

 

George Washington and Georgetown Universities are among the oldest and most prestigious educational institutions in the United States, and their students give the neighborhood youthful energy. Many homes for sale in Georgetown are found on the busiest streets, while there are quieter residential sections from which many residents can commute on foot. Georgetown has been a great place to eat and drink since the 1700s, when George Washington frequented its taverns. Fine dining highlights include 1789 and the chef-driven menus at hotel restaurants Bourbon Steak and The Alex. Filomena Ristorante has served first-class Italian fare to several presidents and countless celebrities over its decades of operation, and Michelle Obama is said to be a big fan of Chez Billy Sud’s sublime French cooking. Barack Obama shared a meal with Joe Biden at Fiola Mare, one of several exceptional seafood restaurants combining delicious meals with exquisite views along the waterfront. Cafe Milano has also been a power center for politicians and entertainers alike since owner Franco Nuschese first brought his Italian cuisine to the area in 1992.

 

There are also hip lunch spots and more casual eateries that are favorites among the area’s many students. For dessert, Thomas Sweet serves up ice cream, chocolate, and coffee that’s sure to delight. Head to Georgetown Cupcake for gourmet classics like Valrhona chocolate and key lime, as well as seasonal flavors such as gingerbread and butterscotch waffle cone. Baked & Wired can also satisfy any sweet tooth, offering pies, biscotti, brownies, espresso, and more. For shopping, Georgetown’s stylish fashion boutiques include Relish, Rag & Bone, Karen Millen, Cady’s Alley, Billy Reid, and Alice + Olivia. Book Hill has an enticing mix of independent stores, art galleries, and restaurants, along with fantastic views over the neighborhood.

 

Georgetown is also an excellent place for antiquing. Stores like Jean Pierre, L’Enfant Gallery, David Bell, Oliver Dunn, Pillar & Post, Frank Milwee, and Cherub Antiques all offer rare items to add unique character and flair to your space. For more modern home goods, DWR, Waterworks, Bose Concept, Janus et Cie, and Boffi have plenty of premier furniture and decor in stock. Many Georgetown visitors take walking tours of its many historic homes, as this is a fantastic place to go for a stroll. Tudor Place is one of the most impressive historic properties, with five acres of gardens and fascinating exhibits on the descendants of Martha Washington. Dumbarton Oaks, which was once home to Robert Woods Bliss, now serves as a research library and has an adjacent park, making it the perfect place to browse rare books, manuscripts, and art, as well as take a stroll through a streamside garden.

 

The path of the C&O Canal provides a great space to cycle, jog, stroll, or sit and relax. There are also water-based activities, with kayaks, canoes, and other equipment available to rent from Thompson Boat Center and Key Bridge Boat House. Other exhilarating water-based activities include kayaking on the Potomac River or ice skating at Washington Harbor in the winter.