Uncovering Hidden Gems in Georgetown DC: Your 4-Day Guide.

Discover and explore the hidden gems of Georgetown DC, with our comprehensive 4-day itinerary guide. From historical landmarks to gourmet dining and unique shopping experiences, we unveil the best-kept secrets of Georgetown in Washington, DC!

Let’s Go: After Landing at The Washington National Airport

Welcome to Washington D.C., the political and cultural heart of the United States, teeming with historic landmarks, gourmet food spots, and enchanting neighborhoods.

Throughout your 4-day itinerary uncovering the hidden gems of Georgetown DC, you’ll journey through the nation’s capital, exploring its popular and less popular (or unknown) history, destinations, and neighborhood.

Upon landing at Washington National Airport (DCA), the excitement of your hidden gems of Georgetown DC, the adventure begins. After gathering your bags, pick up the premium car rental service located right at the airport, and pick up your stylish ride for the next few days.

Your destination? Georgetown, the historic heart of Washington D.C., is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be unveiled. Get ready for a treat with this 4-day Georgetown itinerary as we guide you through this charming district’s top attractions and best-kept secrets.

Your rental will be the best mode of traveling where you want to go when you want to go, and there are a lot of hidden gems in Georgetown DC, which we are sure you have not experienced!

Day 1: Welcome to Georgetown in Washington, DC

Now that you have your luxury car drive it to your hotel and check-in. We’ve got a list of hotels within the DC area for you to consider so you can figure out who to make your reservation with.

Remember, these are all close to your hidden gems of Georgetown DC destinations; the faster you book, the faster you can start your DC 4-Day itinerary adventure trip.

Hotels To Consider To Journey To The Hidden Gems of Georgetown DC

Straight from the airport, you’ll be heading to the Georgetown area. Here are three excellent hotel options:

1. The Four Seasons Hotel Washington D.C. is a luxurious choice. It offers an urban-chic vibe, multiple dining options, and, yes – it has a pool. Pack your swimsuit!
2. The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, D.C., offers modern style and historic charm. It also boasts a spa and fitness center but no pool.
3. The Georgetown Inn is a classic option with traditional décor. It offers a more intimate experience with its boutique feel and top-notch service. However, it doesn’t have a pool.

Each hotel has a distinct charm and set of amenities, so your choice depends on your preference. No matter where you stay, the heart of Georgetown will be just a few steps away! Enjoy your adventure!

Georgetown’s Triple Threat: Food, Shopping, and History

Your adventure of seeking out the hidden gems of Georgetown DC begins with food and ends with food and then lots in between on Day 1 of your 4-day itinerary. Are you ready?

Time for Shopping: A Stroll through Georgetown’s Best Boutiques

Georgetown’s shopping district is a vibrant mix of high-end stores, charming boutiques, and unique vintage shops. This area, primarily located on M Street and Wisconsin Avenue, is entirely walkable, and you should plan to spend around 2-3 hours here.

We suggest the following parking scenario since you are driving with your rental car from your hotel.

Pro Tip: Parking in Georgetown can be tricky due to its popularity. Your best bet is to park in one of the public garages, like the Georgetown Park Mall garage on Wisconsin Avenue. It’s centrally located, making it a convenient choice.

Following your shopping spree, you will be famished, so lunch at Clyde’s of Georgetown is just a 10-minute walk away. No need to move your car!

HINT: some of the hidden gems of GEORGETOWN DC are right in the boutique stores, so shop till you drop!

Post-lunch, you’re perfectly poised for a visit to Georgetown University. It’s only a 15-minute walk from Clyde’s (walk off your lunch) and offers a beautiful campus to explore. Spend 1-2 hours there, and don’t miss the iconic Healy Hall, Dahlgren Quadrangle, and the Georgetown University Art Galleries.

Then it is time for your sweet treat at Georgetown Cupcake, just a 5-minute walk from the university, making it an easy and delightful next stop.

Walk and explore more, and then you’ll want to head to dinner. We suggest the 1789 Restaurant. The 1789 Restaurant is conveniently located in the heart of Georgetown, making it easily accessible from the shopping district. This historic and elegant eatery is nestled on a charming street, making the stroll from your shopping excursion delightful.

So you can leave your car parked where it is and enjoy a leisurely walk to your dinner destination. Remember to take in the sights of Georgetown as you go – this neighborhood is full of character and beauty. You’ll find many more hidden gems of Georgetown DC, by walking and looking!

After dinner, it’s time to retreat to your hotel, so load your rental car up with all your shopping spree purchases and retreat for a great night of slumber at your hotel as you have conquered Day 1 of your 4-Day itinerary.

Day 2: Diving Deeper into History and Culture: The Hidden Gems of Georgetown DC

Day 2 of the 4-day hidden gems of Georgetown DC is all about delving deep into history. Explore D.C.’s lesser-known monuments but historical ones!

Discovering the Lesser-Known Monuments of Georgetown

Start the second day of your 4-day itinerary of seeking out the hidden gems of Georgetown DC; you’ll want a breakfast to remember at Blue Bottle Coffee. This renowned cafe is located at The Wharf, a lively neighborhood known for its waterfront and entertainment.

Indulge in one of their meticulously crafted coffees paired with a fresh pastry – we recommend their toast with almond butter and jam or the Belgian waffles if you’re in a sweet mood.

Plan to spend around an hour here, soaking in the morning sun and enjoying the lively ambiance.

PRO TIP: The Wharf has ample parking, so it’s a great spot to park when you spend time here today.

Morning: A Lesson in History

With your caffeine fix taken care of, head to your car, take an easy and scenic 10-minute drive from the Blue Bottle Coffee Shop, and head to the Albert Einstein Memorial, an intriguing monument in the National Academy of Sciences. Without our 4-day itinerary of the hidden gems of Georgetown DC would you have known this was here?

Spend around 30 minutes here, pondering the quotes engraved on the bench surrounding the statue and maybe snapping a photo with the iconic scientist.

Then, go to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and the FDR Memorial, both around a 10-minute walk (why we field up with breakfast) from the Einstein Memorial. These stunning landmarks pay tribute to two monumental figures in American history and are a must-visit for any history buffs.

Lunch and a Sweet Treat

By lunchtime, you’ll likely have built up quite an appetite from your hidden gems of Georgetown DC exploration, so let’s cure the hangry pains.

Head to &pizza on E St SW, a 15-minute walk from the FDR Memorial. Their unique, customizable pies are sure to hit the spot.

Pro Foodie Tip for & pizza: We highly recommend trying the Maverick pizza, a mouth-watering combination of salami, pepperoni, and Italian sausage. Keep leftovers because we are headed to get dessert!

Let’s walk off the pizza a little bit and get GELATO. Located just a 7-minute walk from &pizza, this spot is renowned for its artisanal gelato and refreshing sorbets. It’s time for a sweet treat at the Dolcezza Gelato Factory. The Black Sesame gelato is a standout; either/or is the perfect choice.  

Now that you have fueled up again consider these activities at The Wharf, so retrieve your parked car and let’s go!

Expanding Your Journey: Discover More around The Wharf

The Wharf district is a thriving area bustling with activities and attractions so you can spend the entire day here or even longer (maybe we should make our 4-day itinerary a 5-day itinerary? )

Pro Tip: Remember, the district is pedestrian-friendly, and parking can be found throughout the Wharf in public parking garages. However, as with any bustling city district, checking parking availability and rules before your visit is a good idea.

The Wharf: Waterfront Fun and Shopping

1. Take a Boat Tour – Consider booking a boat tour for an adventure on the water. Companies like Potomac Riverboat Company and DC Harbor Cruises offer sightseeing tours that give you a unique city perspective.
2. Kayak on the Potomac River – The Wharf Boathouse rents kayaks and paddleboards if you’re up for some physical activity. Paddling on the river offers stunning views of the city skyline.
3. Visit the Municipal Fish Market – It is the USA’s oldest and only continuously functioning open-air market for fish. Pick up fresh seafood or grab a bite.

Evening: Unwind by the Water: Hidden Gems of Georgetown DC

As a finale to the perfect outdoor day, dine at Sequoia, located right at The Wharf. Known for its upscale dining and stunning views of the Potomac River. It’s a great way to end the day after all of your sightseeing.

Might we be so bold as to suggest trying the Seafood Paella? 

Visit the District Wharf – Just a few steps from Sequoia is the vibrant District Wharf, the bustling waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and beautiful views of the Potomac River that you have spent time in today. We suggest a stroll along the promenade, popping into boutiques and galleries, or relaxing and watching the boats pass.

Your Day 2 hidden gems of Georgetown DC, filled with history, gastronomy, and leisurely walks in beautiful surroundings, is ending, and you are not ready to head back to your comfy hotel of choice and sleep so that you can enjoy Day 3 of your 4-day itinerary tomorrow uncovering more hidden gems of Georgetown DC!

Day 3: Off the Beaten Path Seeking The Hidden Gems of Georgetown DC

We love eluding the chaos and seeking out the most exciting spots others miss, and today is day 3 of our 4-day itinerary, so enjoy it. Let’s go!

Unveiling Georgetown’s Best-Kept Secrets

Begin your third day with breakfast at Ladurée, a charming French bakery in Georgetown’s heart at 3060 M St NW. Try their signature macarons or the buttery croissant with a menu boasting delicious pastries and coffee. Street parking is available in the area but fills up quickly, so arriving early is a good idea.

Once you’re fueled up, take a 10-minute drive to Dumbarton Oaks at 1703 32nd St NW. This historic estate is known for its impressive Byzantine and Pre-Columbian art collection, stunning gardens, and music room where concerts are regularly held. You’ll find paid street parking available around this area.

After immersing yourself in history and culture at Dumbarton Oaks, it’s time for lunch. Make your way to Sweetgreen at 3333 M St NW, just a 10-minute drive away. This popular salad joint serves up fresh, locally sourced dishes. Try the Harvest Bowl or create your salad for a healthy and satisfying meal.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll to Book Hill Park, a 15-minute walk from Sweetgreen. Along the way, you’ll discover a myriad of unique boutiques and antique shops. The park offers splendid city views, making it a fantastic spot for a quick rest or an impromptu photo session. Don’t you agree this is part of the hidden gems of Georgetown DC?

Before leaving Georgetown, treat yourself to a blend-in ice cream from Thomas Sweet at 3214 P St NW. The cookies and cream blend-in is a customer favorite, but with an array of toppings, feel free to get creative!

As the sun sets on your third day, it’s time for dinner at Chez Billy Sud, an enchanting French restaurant at 1039 31st St NW. This spot is famous for its impeccable service and delectable dishes. The Duck Confit or the Truite Amandine are highly recommended. Street parking is available but limited, so consider a rideshare for a hassle-free evening.

Day 3 is about exploring and savoring Georgetown’s best-kept secrets. Get ready to be wowed by the unexpected finds this charming district has in store!

Day-4 Itinerary: Farewell To The Hidden Gems of Georgetown DC

Your 4-day itinerary finale is here. Your final day starts with breakfast at A Baked Joint but quickly moves forward beyond the hidden gems of Georgetown DC.

Beyond The Hidden Gems of Georgetown DC To Washington D.C.’s Popular Attractions

While Georgetown offers a wealth of attractions, only one trip to Washington D.C. would be complete with visiting some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Here’s a list of alternate and famous sights, along with some handy tips, and since we don’t know your total interests, we are sharing the entire list for you to decide on.

Squeeze in what you can, and pay attention to restrictions and access to each before carefully planning Day 4 of the 4-day itinerary with your interests.

Lincoln Memorial & The Washington Monument

Just a 10-minute drive from Georgetown, the Lincoln Memorial is open 24 hours a day and is FREE to visit. However, it gets pretty crowded during the afternoon. Early morning visits provide a quieter experience.

The Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial are located in the National Mall area of Washington, DC, and are pretty close. The Washington Monument is roughly in the middle of the National Mall, while the Lincoln Memorial is towards the western end: Walkable, yet about 1 mile between both.

There’s a lovely reflection pool located between the two monuments, which makes for a scenic stroll.

PRO TIP: If you’d rather not walk, a Circulator bus can take you from near the Washington Monument to the Lincoln Memorial.

LUNCH After Walking

As for lunch, how about trying out the Pavilion Café? It’s conveniently located in the Sculpture Garden of the National Gallery of Art, less than a mile walk from the Washington Monument.

This Café offers a seasonally changing menu of soups, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, and pastries. A bonus is the beautiful ambiance of the surrounding garden and the grand sculptures.

Another option would be food trucks that line up along Constitution Ave NW and Independence Ave SW. You will find many different meal options and can cob a squat in a nearby park.  

Parking pro tip: Parking is tricky in this area as street parking is limited. However, there are several parking garages available nearby. Try the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, as it has an oversized parking garage, but it will necessitate about a 15-minute walk to the Washington Monument. Remember to check the opening times and parking rates.

The White House

About a 15-minute drive from Georgetown, it’s recommended to reserve this attraction well in advance, and the tour availability is always subject to change, so check for updates. Mornings and late afternoons are typically less crowded. Hidden gems of Georgetown DC extend out of the area and are not always hidden, but always gems.

U.S. Capitol

Around 20 minutes by car from Georgetown, the U.S. Capitol offers guided tours but requires reservations, which can be made online. The early morning tours are often less crowded.

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Around 20 minutes from Georgetown, entry to the museum is free, but timed entry passes are required and can be reserved online. The museum is busiest from late morning to mid-afternoon.

National Gallery of Art

About a 20-minute drive from Georgetown, the National Gallery of Art is free to enter and does not require reservations. Weekday afternoons and weekends can get crowded.

Library of Congress

A 25-minute drive from Georgetown, the Library of Congress offers free, self-guided tours and does not require reservations. Afternoons are usually the busiest time.

Remember, while these sights are famous and popular and can be busy, visiting them offers a unique opportunity to knock these off your iconic landmarks bucket list. We suggest heading to the more popular attractions to end with the most hustle and bustle.

Dinner At The End Of Your 4-Day Itinerary

End your 4-Day Itinerary sweetly with a stop at Olivia Macaron and wrap up your trip with dinner at Ristorante Piccolo. Both Olivia Macaron and Ristorante Piccolo are located in the heart of Georgetown, making them a perfect duo to wrap up your visit.

Olivia Macaron is at 3222 M St NW, Washington, DC, just a short walk from Georgetown University. This petite French-inspired pastry shop serves an array of colorful macarons made fresh daily. 

Try the popular rose and lychee or go for the season’s special. With their cute packaging, these macarons also make great souvenirs or gifts to return home.

Just a 5-minute walk down the street at 1068 31st St NW, you’ll find Ristorante Piccolo, an intimate Italian restaurant offering a cozy, romantic setting with balcony seating and warm interiors. 

If it’s a bit chilly, no worries; they’ve got outdoor heaters to keep you comfortable. Regarding the menu, you can’t go wrong with the classic lasagna or the lobster ravioli if you’re in the mood for seafood. Their tiramisu is also a delightful way to end your meal.

Pro Parking Tip: As for parking, there are metered street parking spaces available in Georgetown, but they are often already taken. Use the garages in the area, and walk if you have to. 

The closest one to Olivia Macaron and Ristorante Piccolo is the Georgetown Park Mall garage at 1080 Wisconsin Ave NW. Remember to check the rates and hours of operation.

This sweet treat at Olivia Macaron, followed by a hearty Italian meal at Ristorante Piccolo, will surely end your 4-day itinerary of hidden gems in Georgetown DC, adventure on a high note.

Wrapping Up Your 4-Day Itinerary of Hidden Gems of Georgetown DC Adventure

Your 4-day itinerary to uncover the best-hidden gems in Georgetown DC! Do you think a 4-day itinerary is enough, or should we make it 5? Do you want different hidden gems in Georgetown DC, or maybe just all the foodie spots we did not include? Tell me in the comment section below.

Now, all that’s left is for you to embark on your adventure. We hope this guide helps you explore and enjoy Georgetown’s hidden gems. Safe travels, and remember to leave us a comment below to share other gems you discovered or any questions you might have! ~Dana XO