Historic Georgetown Walking Tour

Overview

Take a guided walking tour of a historic neighborhood older than DC itself. One of our guides (Canden Schwantes) wrote the book(s) on Georgetown. See the colonial charm of canals, cobblestoned streets, historic homes, & intriguing history.

You will see and hear stories of:

- Chesapeake & Ohio Canal - a waterway through the industrial part of the neighborhood.

- Old Stone House - oldest residential building in the district, now a National Park site.

- Homes of Jackie & John F. Kennedy - hear about their time in Georgetown before and after his assassination

- 18th and 19th Century Homes - learn about the diverse, historic architecture of the houses and the stories of those who have lived here. Look for original firemarks, coal chutes, ironworks, and gas lanterns.

- Hear stories of the Black Georgetown community, immigrants who shaped the neighborhood, and women who bucked social norms.

- Georgetown University - see the famous campus and learn how the neighborhood influenced it.

City: Washington DC

Thu 12 Jun

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $49.00

Make a reservation

Thu 12 Jun

Starting at $49.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Professional, Licensed Guide

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What To Expect

Georgetown

The port Georgetown goes back centuries and is today know for its cobblestone streets, historic homes and gardens, and is seen as a shopping and dining district. Exploring the area on foot is the best way to go back in time and enjoy the park like atmosphere with all of its old brick and greenery.

C & O Canal

The historic canal through the industrial section of Georgetown, guests will learn about the canal boats and see a working "lock" (gate) the helped the boats travel to and from along the canal.

Old Stone House

Certainly one of the oldest buildings in the entire city, this quaint spot is run by the National Parks Service and has a lovely garden to sit and take a rest in. Built in 1766, it was a car dealership by 1953 when it was taken over for historic preservation. Now it is ours to enjoy and remember a simpler time when tobacco and tall tales traded at the nearby port.

Georgetown University

Founded in 1789, this prestigious Jesuit University is know far and wide for its medical, legal, and undergraduate programs. See the towering spires of the Patrick Healy building and the statue of founder John Carrol. On a warm day students will lounge in the grass out front throwing frisbees, reading, and socializing.

"The Exorcist" Steps

We end the tour near the Exorcist Steps, a historic stairway that became famous thanks to the 1970s film of the same name.

Show 2 more stops

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (223)

Meagan_G

Dec 2024

Our guide, Katherine, was fantastic and this tour was a highlight of our trip. She knows everything there is to know about the past and present in Georgetown and presents information in a way that is engaging - even for our teens!

Response from Host

Jan 2025

Thank you for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that Katherine made the Georgetown tour such a memorable experience for you and your teens!

Stacey_R

Dec 2024

Guide reached out to ensure group was prepared for the activity Ensured biological needs could be met Walking pace set appropriate for group Support of iPad to add visuals of the people referenced from history connected

Response from Host

Dec 2024

Thank you for your thoughtful feedback! We're glad the guide was able to support the group's needs and enhance the experience with visuals from history.

AnaMaria_S

Dec 2024

Entire tour was very nice experience . Good way to spend few hours in charming old town of Georgetown.

Response from Host

Dec 2024

Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled you had a great time exploring the charming old town of Georgetown with us.