Georgetown Small-Group Historic Walking Tour, Washington DC
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Stroll through historic Georgetown and learn about the preservation of the neighborhood while your guide snaps some photos of you along the way. You'll find yourself immersed in a blend of Federal, Georgian, and Victorian architecture, where every step unveils efforts to safeguard the neighborhood's architectural and cultural heritage. The tour begins in the heart of Georgetown’s shopping district with stops at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Georgetown University, the Volta Bureau, and more. Photos will be emailed to guests after the tour.
https://www.preservetours.com/
Available options
Georgetown Small-Group Historic Walking Tour, Washington DC
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Local Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Historic Georgetown, originally a port city separate from Washington, D.C., was founded in 1751 and incorporated as a city with an elected government in 1789. In terms of architecture, we'll see Gothic, federal style, Greek revival, and a lot of Victorian and Queen Anne Style as well as classic brick and frame row houses. We'll learn how these styles have been preserved and protected over the years while getting some great photos along the way.
2
Stop 2
Original plans for the church date back to the mid 1700s, but was completed in 1804. It was built by the architect of the capital, William Thorton. After years of growth followed by years of financial problems, St. John’s was closed in 1831, sold and rented as a studio to a German sculptor Ferdinand Pettrich. In 1838, a group of young ladies from the parish raised a sum of money to purchase the church building and return it to sacred use. It’s been a church ever since.
3
Stop for the perfect photo op in front of classic luxury Georgetown row homes while learning about the Georgetown Historic District and the local preservationists who have worked to protect it.
4
Holy Trinity Church, established in 1787, is the oldest Roman Catholic church in not only Georgetown, but also all of Washington, DC. Holy Trinity Church was founded by Archbishop John Carroll, the first Catholic bishop in America and a cousin of Charles Carroll, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
5
Stop 5
Georgetown University is a private Jesuit research university in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C., United States. The main building was articulated in the Northern European Romanesque style, containing arches and towers typical of this stylistic revival. Healy Hall is one of the last large-scale High Victorian Gothic buildings in America. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971.
6
Learn about the local laws that have shaped Georgetown. Hear about a little local zoning and preservation drama regarding a much beloved bagel shop just across the street.
7
The Georgetown Visitation Monastery was founded by Alice Lalor from County Kilkenny, Ireland in the late 1700s. A school was opened on June 24, 1799. Its still an active monastery with an all girls catholic prep school right next door.
8
In 1887, Alexander Graham Bell, inventor and deaf educator, founded the Volta Bureau to serve as a library for deaf people and those researching deafness. It is listed as a National Historic Landmark.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
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
Meeting point
Meet in front of Maman and look for your guide with a small Preserve sign and/or bouquet of flowers.
About Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States and a vibrant city filled with iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and rich history. It offers a unique blend of political significance, cultural diversity, and architectural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.
Top Attractions
National Mall
The National Mall is a large, open park in downtown Washington, D.C., featuring numerous iconic landmarks, monuments, and museums. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the city.
Historical/Park
Half day to full day
Free
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
This museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution and features a vast collection of natural history specimens and exhibits, including dinosaurs, gems, and cultural artifacts.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free
United States Capitol
The United States Capitol is the meeting place of the United States Congress and a symbol of the American democratic government. Visitors can take guided tours of the Capitol building and its grounds.
Historical/Government
1-2 hours
Free
International Spy Museum
The International Spy Museum is a unique and interactive museum dedicated to the history of espionage and the world of intelligence. It features an extensive collection of spy artifacts and exhibits.
Museum
2-3 hours
$24.95 for adults, $14.95 for children (7-12)
Georgetown
Georgetown is a historic neighborhood known for its charming streets, upscale shopping, and renowned dining scene. It is also home to the historic Georgetown University and the C&O Canal.
Historical/Shopping/Dining
Half day to full day
Varies by activity
Must-Try Local Dishes
Half-Smoke
A half-smoke is a type of sausage that is smoked and then grilled, typically served with chili, cheese, and onions. It is a D.C. classic and can be found at various local eateries, including Ben's Chili Bowl.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork and beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Crab Cakes
Maryland-style crab cakes are a local favorite, made with lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. They are typically served with a side of remoulade sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains shellfish, not suitable for those with seafood allergies
Eggs Benedict
A classic American breakfast dish consisting of poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise sauce, typically served on an English muffin. The Founding Farmers restaurant is known for its delicious eggs Benedict.
Breakfast/Brunch
Contains eggs, dairy, and meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Sweet Potato Fries
A popular side dish in D.C., sweet potato fries are often served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as aioli or ketchup. They can be found at many restaurants and food trucks throughout the city.
Snack/Side Dish
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly (ensure no butter or animal products are used in preparation)
Popular Activities
Hiking and biking in Great Falls Park
Rock climbing and rappelling in Theodore Roosevelt Island
Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Potomac River
Picnicking in the National Mall
Strolling along the Georgetown Waterfront
Visiting the United States Botanic Garden
Exploring the Smithsonian Museums
Attending a performance at the Kennedy Center
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms, while fall features beautiful foliage.
10-25°C
50-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, French, Chinese, Amharic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) (UTC-5:00, UTC-4:00 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Washington, D.C. is generally a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and always confirm the fare before starting your journey
- • Be cautious when approaching strangers or signing petitions or surveys
Getting there
By air
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport • 5 km from city center
- Washington Dulles International Airport • 42 km from city center
By train
Union Station
By bus
Union Station, Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Metro system is efficient and reliable, with six color-coded lines serving major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Adams Morgan
U Street Corridor
Capitol Hill
The Wharf
Day trips
Mount Vernon
24 km (15 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Mount Vernon is the historic estate of George Washington, the first President of the United States. The site features a museum, a mansion, and beautiful gardens, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of one of America's founding fathers.
Old Town Alexandria
10 km (6 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Old Town Alexandria is a charming historic district featuring cobblestone streets, colonial-era architecture, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums. It is a popular destination for shoppers, foodies, and history enthusiasts alike.
Great Falls Park
24 km (15 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Great Falls Park is a scenic park featuring breathtaking waterfalls, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Potomac River. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
Festivals
National Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April
Independence Day Celebration • July 4
Washington, D.C. Jazz Festival • Late June
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions, such as the National Mall and Smithsonian museums, early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
- Use public transportation, walking, or biking to get around the city, as traffic and parking can be challenging
- Purchase a multi-day pass for public transportation, such as the Metro or bus, to save money and time
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, such as spring (cherry blossom season) and summer (Independence Day)
- Research and compare prices for activities and attractions, and consider purchasing tickets in advance to save time and money
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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