Viator Rating : 5 (318 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 4.3/10 (Poor Experience)
Washington DC
Georgetown History Tour: See Kennedy Homes & Hidden Gems
120
Overview
Historic Georgetown: History, Gossip, & Architecture Walking Tour invites guests to step back in time and explore a neighborhood brimming with stories older than Washington D.C. itself. Led by expert guides, including Canden Schwantes, author of books on Georgetown, this walking tour uncovers the area's colonial charm, from its cobblestone streets and historic homes to its intriguing history.
Participants will discover the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, a vital waterway in Georgetown's industrial past, and visit the Old Stone House, the oldest standing residential building in D.C. The tour also includes glimpses of the former homes of Jackie and John F. Kennedy, with tales of their lives in Georgetown before and after the presidency. Plus, the tour explores 18th- and 19th-century homes, highlighting their diverse architecture and the stories of the people who lived there, including the Black Georgetown community and women who defied social norms.
The walking tour also goes to Georgetown University, exploring its famous campus and the neighborhood's influence on the institution. A professional, licensed guide leads the tour. Gratuities are not included. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (10 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Mobility (5 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Instagram Factor (7 - Scenic) : Some good photo moments
Highlights
Explore Historic Homes: See beautiful 18th- and 19th-century houses and hear their fascinating stories.
Walk the C&O Canal: Discover the history of this important waterway.
Visit Kennedy Homes: Learn about Jackie and JFK's time in Georgetown.
See Georgetown University: Explore the famous campus and its connection to the neighborhood.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved learning about the history of Georgetown.
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Many enjoyed seeing the homes of the Kennedy family.
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Reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable and engaging guides.
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Customers found the tour to be a great way to explore the neighborhood.
Some reviewers mentioned the tour involves a good amount of walking.
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A few people felt the tour could have covered more ground.
The Journey
Georgetown Historic District
Step back in time as you wander through Georgetown's historic district. Cobblestone streets lead you past meticulously preserved historic homes, lush gardens, and a vibrant mix of shops and restaurants. This picturesque neighborhood offers a park-like atmosphere, perfect for leisurely exploration and soaking in the ambiance of a bygone era. Georgetown is a shopping and dining district where history is found on every corner and the best way to explore is by foot.
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park (Georgetown)
Discover the industrial past of Georgetown along the historic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal. Witness a working 'lock' system, a marvel of engineering that allowed canal boats to navigate the waterway. Learn about the canal's vital role in transporting goods and connecting communities, and imagine the bustling activity that once filled this now-peaceful stretch of water. The park offers various canal boat rides and educational tours and is the perfect place for the whole family.
Old Stone House
Visit the Old Stone House, one of the oldest surviving buildings in Washington D.C., dating back to 1766. Maintained by the National Park Service, this quaint landmark offers a glimpse into 18th-century life. Explore its charming garden, a tranquil oasis amidst the urban landscape. Once a car dealership, this preserved relic now is open for our enjoyment, where you can picture simpler times when tobacco and tall tales were traded nearby at the port. A perfect place to rest and imagine colonial America.
Kennedy Homes of Georgetown
Embark on a Kennedy family home tour through Georgetown, where John F. Kennedy and his family resided in multiple homes. While many residences are private, learn about the significance of Georgetown in the life of the Kennedy family and discover the neighborhood where they spent formative years. It's a glimpse into the personal life of one of America's most iconic families, set against the backdrop of historic Georgetown.
Georgetown University
Explore Georgetown University, founded in 1789, one of the nation's most prestigious Jesuit institutions. Admire the towering spires of Healy Hall, a masterpiece of collegiate gothic architecture, and discover the statue of founder John Carroll. Observe the vibrant student life on campus, where students gather to relax, socialize, and engage in leisurely activities. Georgetown University has a great legal and medical program and is widely known across the nation.
The Exorcist Steps
Brave the 'Exorcist Steps,' a steep staircase immortalized in the 1973 horror film 'The Exorcist.' Though daunting, these steps are a cinematic landmark and offer a unique photo opportunity. Experience a thrill as you ascend (or descend) this iconic location, connecting film history with the real-world charm of Georgetown.
Martin's Tavern
Step into Martin's Tavern, a Georgetown institution since 1933. With its dark wood paneling, black-and-white photos, and a loyal local clientele, this restaurant exudes a sense of nostalgia and old-world charm. Indulge in classic American fare, served both indoors and outdoors, and experience a taste of Georgetown's enduring culinary heritage. The Tavern is a Georgetown staple and is a great place to grab a classic American meal.
Know Before You Go
This walking tour includes a professional and licensed guide who will provide historical insights and lead the way through Georgetown. Gratuities are not included, so participants may want to consider this when planning their budget. Please meet your guide at the designated meeting point to begin your exploration of Georgetown's rich history and architecture.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking! Also, bring water, especially on a warm day. Pay attention to the architectural details pointed out by the guide, as they often reveal fascinating stories about the homes and the people who lived there.
Review Summary
People usually say this Georgetown walking tour is an excellent introduction to the neighborhood's rich history and architecture, with guides who are knowledgeable and engaging in sharing stories about colonial-era homes, famous residents like the Kennedys, and the diverse communities that shaped Georgetown[2]. Travelers appreciate the small group size (no more than 15 people), the leisurely pace that allows for photos, and the convenient meeting location at the C&O Canal[2]. The 2-hour duration is frequently praised as the perfect length to cover key highlights without feeling rushed, though some note that more time would be welcome given the neighborhood's depth of history.
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
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