Getting Around: Georgetown

Public Transportation

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA): WMATA operates the Metrorail (subway) and Metrobus systems. These services extend across Washington D.C., suburban Maryland, and Northern Virginia.

Metrorail: An extensive subway system with six color-coded lines. Georgetown itself has no Metrorail station due to historical preservation efforts. Nearby stations do serve the neighborhood.

Public Transit Info

Closest Metro Stations: Foggy Bottom-GWU (Orange, Blue, Silver) and Rosslyn (Orange, Blue, Silver).
Major Bus Routes in Georgetown: 31, 33, D2, D6, G2, G8. Circulator Bus (Georgetown-Union Station).
Ticketing: SmarTrip Card (Wmata.com/fares/smartrip/) is good for Metrorail and Metrobus.
Fares: Metrorail fares are distance-based and vary by time (peak/off-peak). Metrobus fares are flat.

Hours of Operation

Metrorail generally operates until midnight (Sun-Thurs) and 1 AM (Fri-Sat). Frequencies vary. Metrobus operates extensively, some 24-hour.

Accessibility

All Metrorail stations have elevators. All Metrobus vehicles are wheelchair accessible. WMATA holds detailed accessibility info online.

Efficiency Tips

Purchase a SmarTrip card. Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Citymapper. Avoid peak Metro hours (weekday 6-9:30 AM, 3-6:30 PM).

Ticketing & Passes

SmarTrip Card & Fares

Reusable, reloadable fare card for Metrorail and Metrobus.
Purchase at Metrorail stations, CVS, Walgreens, or online.
Metrorail fares are distance-based; Metrobus fares are flat.

Daily/Weekly Passes

WMATA includes options for unlimited travel on Metrorail and Metrobus.
1-Day, 3-Day, and 7-Day Unlimited Passes are available.
These passes can lead to savings for frequent users.

Local Transit Hubs

Metro Center

Major transfer point.

Gallery Place-Chinatown

downtown hub.

L'Enfant Plaza

Multiple line connections.

Union Station

Rail & bus hub.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services are convenient alternatives for getting around Georgetown and Washington D.C., especially for direct routes or when carrying luggage.

Taxis in D.C.

Licensed D.C. Taxis are typically yellow with a "TAXI" sign.
Hail taxis on the street (M Street, Wisconsin Avenue) or find at hotel stands.
Most taxis accept credit cards; carrying some cash is good.
Fares are metered; $15-$25 for Georgetown to downtown. Tipping 15-20% is customary.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular in Georgetown and D.C.
Often present a convenient and sometimes more economical option than traditional taxis.
Download apps and set up accounts before arrival.
Verify driver/car matches app info before entering. Share trip status.

Safety Considerations for Transport

Ensure licensed taxi and meter is on.
Verify ride-share driver, license plate, and car model.
Share your trip status with a trusted contact.

In case of emergency, contact 911.
Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
Be aware of surroundings, especially late at night.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Not considered for downtown/Georgetown due to traffic and parking. Good for day trips outside D.C. Major companies available (Hertz, Avis, Enterprise).

Motorcycle/Scooter

Limited availability for tourist use. Electric scooter sharing (Lime, Bird) available, but strict regulations on use apply.

Bicycle Sharing

Capital Bikeshare network throughout D.C. And Georgetown. Day passes available. Local bike shops also present traditional rentals.

Driving & Parking

While public transport and walking are popular, rental options have flexibility, especially for exploring beyond Georgetown.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Standard U.S. Driving laws: drive on right, seatbelt use, hands-free cell phone.
Roads generally well-maintained, but severe traffic congestion during peak hours.
Pedestrians and cyclists should remain aware of traffic.
Snow and ice can make winter driving hazardous.

Parking Information

Parking in Georgetown is very difficult and expensive.
Street parking is mostly metered and often has strict time limits.
Parking garages exist but are costly.
Consider apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz for pre-booking if driving is necessary.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Georgetown is extremely pedestrian-friendly. Enjoy wide sidewalks, charming residential streets, and lively M Street/Wisconsin Avenue.

C&O Canal Towpath is ideal for leisurely walks/runs.

Walking Tour Options

Various companies present guided historical, architectural, and culinary walking tours. Numerous self-guided routes are online.

Tours hold in-depth information.

Bicycle Infrastructure

D.C. Features an expanding network of bike lanes. Cyclists wear helmets and remain aware of traffic.

C&O Canal Towpath and Capital Crescent Trail offer safer cycling.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Water Taxis

Hop-on-hop-off services (Old Town Trolley, Big Bus Tours) include Georgetown stops.
Potomac Riverboat Company operates seasonal water taxis from Georgetown Waterfront Park.
Water taxis connect to destinations like The Wharf, Old Town Alexandria, National Harbor.

Accessibility Services

WMATA's Metrorail and Metrobus systems are largely accessible.
Many historic attractions might have limited accessibility; check websites for details.
Newer establishments and public spaces comply with ADA standards.

Unique Local Transport Not Present

Georgetown has no cable cars, funiculars, or other highly unique local transport.
Focus on standard urban transport options.
Walking and public transit are the best ways to explore the neighborhood.
Consider ride-shares for direct routes or late-night travel.

Guided tours offer comprehensive sightseeing without personal transport.
Electric scooter sharing services have specific local regulations.
Always prioritize safety on shared roads.
Georgetown's charm is best experienced on foot.

Best Ways to Explore Georgetown

Walking and utilizing public transportation (Metro and Metrobus) are the most effective ways to experience Georgetown and Washington D.C.

For destinations outside regular transit lines, ride-sharing services are a good option.

Getting Around