Community

Georgetown, Washington, DC: A Tour of DC’s Historic Waterfront Neighborhood

Cobblestone streets, the C&O Canal towpath and a hidden island memorial just across the river: what makes Georgetown one of DC’s most captivating places to call home.

Georgetown is a historic neighborhood known for its Federal-style architecture, cobblestone streets and fashion and design shops. Founded in 1751, it’s older than the District of Columbia itself.

What sets Georgetown apart is its mix of shops, restaurants and luxury hotels, set along the Potomac. The neighborhood is known around the world for its culture and style, but for the people who live here, it’s simply a captivating place to call home.

Georgetown homes

Along with its cobblestone streets, Georgetown has some of the most exclusive, and oldest, rowhouses and mansions in the District, plus a mix of detached homes and condos. For current homes for sale and market numbers, see our Georgetown neighborhood guide.

The C&O Canal and the waterfront

The C&O Canal, maintained by the National Park Service, begins in Georgetown, and its towpath is perfect for a walk, a run or a bike ride. It’s truly unlike anything else in the city. Down at the Georgetown waterfront, you can kayak on the Potomac, cycle along the river and take in amazing city views.

Local Tip

Theodore Roosevelt Island is a quick walk or bike ride from Georgetown.

Reach it by footbridge from the Virginia side of the river, via the Mount Vernon Trail.

Theodore Roosevelt Island

Just across the river from the Georgetown waterfront is an often-overlooked national memorial: Theodore Roosevelt Island. For more than a century it was Mason’s Island, home to John Mason and one of the finest farming estates in the region. Today it’s a living memorial to Theodore Roosevelt, America’s 26th president and a famous conservationist who was known for dragging diplomats and officials on tough hikes through the area’s wild lands.

The island has three trails, each named for the habitat it passes through:

Swamp Trail: At about 1.5 miles, the island’s longest loop, passing swampy woods and cattail marsh on gravel and boardwalk.
Woods Trail: A short, one-third-mile trail through the heart of the island, including the memorial plaza with its statue and fountains.
Upland Trail: About three-quarters of a mile along the length of the island, looping around the former site of the Mason mansion.

Check the National Park Service website for current conditions before you go.

Thinking about Georgetown?

Whether you’re dreaming of a Federal rowhouse or a condo near the waterfront, our team knows Georgetown and would love to help you find your place here.

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