Georgetown

The former home of George and Martha Washington's granddaughter, Tudor Place Historic House & Garden offer formal gardens and a house full of artifacts from the Washington family. The mansion was designed by Dr. William Thornton who also engineered the U.S. Capitol. For those with an interest in early American history, but without the time to travel to the more-famous Mount Vernon, this museum within the city is ideal. Docents lead the frequent tours for a nominal price while the tours to the gardens are free of cost.

Book Hill is a charming, historic neighborhood that is centered around the stretch of Wisconsin Avenue that lies between P street and Reservoir Road. With its beautiful 19th-century homes and charming boutiques, Book Hill boasts a distinct style that would not be out of place in Paris or London. From antique stores and clothing boutiques, to quaint patisseries and cafes, Book Hill is a haven for discerning local shoppers and tourists alike. You could easily while away hours exploring the many treasures on offer and soaking up the pleasant charm of Book Hill. The neighborhood is also known as the venue of the much-awaited annual French Market and street fair.

This post office warrants special attention due to the rather monumental building in which it is housed. Originally built as a customs house, it is made of sturdy granite and has two sets of shallow steps, also granite, leading up to its over sized doors. The inside is majestic and still functions as a regular post office. A visit here kills two birds with one stone; you can view a historic site, and buy stamps for those postcards you have been meaning to send!

We all like watching hair-raising horror movies. But who would miss a chance to experience the place where the climax scene of the famed movie 'The Exorcist' was shot? Tourists flock here in Georgetown to see the Exorcist Stairs. Many other movies and television series have also been filmed here. The steep steps and the somewhat ancient and dark ruined structure adds to the effect.

One of the most popular rail trails in the country and also the most used, the Capital Crescent Trail is a pleasant 11-mile (17.70 kilometers) stretch covering through Georgetown on Water Street till Silver Spring. Set on the once deserted Georgetown Branch rail line, it is a hotspot for rollerbladers, hikers, skateboarders, walkers, bikers and joggers. Most of the trail is asphalt and is also used for commuting. Winding through parks, wooded areas, water bodies and local attractions, it is indeed a landmark in the locality and the nearby areas. So if you're planning to spend a day outdoors without venturing far away from civilization, then Capital Crescent Trail is your destination.

DC Cruises at Washington Harbour allows its customers to cruise the waters of the Potomac River and see the beautiful sights Washington has to offer. Visitors can choose to take the tour in the morning or take a tour under the moonlight and see the beautiful historical monuments. They also organize many special events and parties on their cruises.

Washington Harbour's scenic setting combines the social pleasures and style of Georgetown with the natural beauty of the Potomac riverfront. The wide promenade is enjoyed by office workers, shoppers, strollers and diners at several restaurants offering outdoor seating. This is a perfect place to stroll at midday, before a sunset dinner, or after dark when the terraces are lit up.

President Wilson lived in this Georgian-Revival house after he left office, creating a comfortable, unpretentious residence with his second wife, Edith. He is the only president to remain in Washington after office. The couple collected items from all over the world, filling their home with eclectic wares. There is a baseball signed by Great Britain's King George V and a silent movie projector given to the Wilsons by the actor Douglas Fairbanks. The bedroom is modeled after the couple's White House sleeping quarters.