Washington D.C. Georgetown History & Architecture Walking Tour - Georgetown University Included

Start at the C&O Canal and
walk through 300 years of Georgetown history

The tour begins at the historic park near Lock 3 of the Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Canal. With a certified professional guide, you will spend about 2 hours walking the Georgetown Historic District and hear the history of this neighborhood, which predates Washington D.C. as the capital. The canal once ran through the industrial part of the area, making it the perfect starting point to understand how Georgetown grew.

Discover the Old Stone House and historic homes on cobblestone streets

Stop by the Old Stone House, the oldest residential building in the district and now a national park site, and walk along M Street. Pass shady alleys and cobblestone lanes lined with 18th- and 19th-century houses, Victorian buildings and historic churches. Look out for original architectural details such as fire marks, coal chutes, ironwork and gas lanterns.

Hear the stories of Georgetown residents
from the Kennedys to immigrants

Hear about the time Jackie and John F. Kennedy spent in Georgetown before and after the assassination, homes where presidents lived as congressmen, and how the founders planned the city above a tavern. Passing the Newton D. Baker House and Martins Tavern, learn about the Black Georgetown community, the immigrants who shaped the area and women who defied social norms. You will also find out how the Kennedy family and Taylor Swift are connected to Georgetown, and hear stories about President Lincoln and the Lincoln Memorial.

Finish the tour on the Georgetown University campus

Finally, explore the Georgetown University campus and learn how the neighborhood influenced the university. After some free time on campus, the tour ends at Georgetown University.

※ The itinerary and order of visits may change depending on local conditions.