Historic Georgetown Architecture Tour

Summary

Make your way to a centrally located point in Georgetown, where you’ll meet up with a guide and small group for your 10am walking tour. Set a leisurely pace through the city—plan to do about 2 miles (3.2 km.) of walking during the 2-hour tour. Follow your guide to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, which connected Potomac River communities with markets and goods, and learn about a series of historic destinations as you walk: see the Laird-Dunlop House, the Newton D. Baker House, and the Lydia English Seminary School for Girls, a boarding school that served the upper class. Hear the story of the Grafton Tyler Double House, pass the Christ Episcopal Church, and see the Hyde-Addison School. Take a look at the historic Yellow Tavern, also called the White Horse Tavern, then follow Pomander Walk past tiny, pastel-hued row houses. See where Alexander Graham Bell founded Volta Laboratory, and take in a series of academic destinations: Georgetown Preparatory School, Healy Hall, and the University Library. Get a look at campus nightlife at The Tombs, then visit the Car Barn, a renovated streetcar depot. Continue to the Francis Scott Key Memorial, Cady’s Alley, and the Georgetown Waterfront, where this tour concludes.

Tour info

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Established fifty years before the Capital, Georgetown began as a gritty port city on the banks of the Potomac River, described by Abigail Adams as a "dirty little hole". Despite its modest start, Georgetown is now home to palatial mansions, elegant cemeteries, stately churches, and a world-class University. We'll explore the highlights and secrets of DC's most exclusive neighborhood, discussing architecture, history, scandal, and more. By the end of the tour, we'll see Georgetown's full transformation in this rags to riches tale.

What’s included?

  • Local guide

  • Gratuities

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 2h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

  • Instant confirmation

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

DC Design Tours

About operator:

BOOK DIRECT on our website for the best prices. DC Design Tours offers historic walking and driving tours of Washington DC focused on architecture, urban planning, and design. Our tours explore Washington's most prominent architectural marvels and best kept secrets, while hearing about the conflicts, controversies, and personalities involved in the development of our Capital City. From Neo-Classical to Brutalist, learn the history behind the brick and mortar with DC Design Tours!

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