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Excellent American food. The elegant townhouse is divided into five themed rooms, and was popular with President Clinton.

Begin at Washington Harbor for its views of the Potomac right on the waterfront. Take a pleasant stroll along the river before heading up Thomas Jefferson Street, NW to the National Park Service Visitor Center for the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal . In summer, mule-drawn barge rides are offered, with expert guides painting the historic background of the scenes before you.

Turn right and continue up Thomas Jefferson Street a short block and cross M Street, NW. In front of you is the Old Stone House, which has been lovingly preserved. National Park Service interpreters recreate some of the daily activities that might have taken place in the house in the 18th century.

Reverse direction and return down Thomas Jefferson Street to the canal. Turn right onto the towpath and stroll for two blocks until you reach an opening in the embankment. Follow the steps to the right to Wisconsin Avenue, NW. Cross the street to Grace Church. Enjoy the view of the lovely little church built for the spiritual needs of workers on the canal. The grounds, with their mature trees, make a relaxing rest spot. Recross Wisconsin Avenue and the canal to the shops at Georgetown Park (see The Shops at Georgetown Park).

Before an afternoon of retail therapy, enjoy lunch at Clyde’s of Georgetown on level 3 or snack from the food court on level 1.

This shop might as well be an informal museum, considering the quality of many of the hand-made crafts for sale. The quilts, carved wood, pottery, and fabrics would grace any setting.

Unpretentious French dishes such as lamb steak with herb butter.

Billed as “the nation’s finest jazz and supper club.” The food includes steak, shrimp, and pasta. Reservations essential.

Georgetown has few dedicated bookstores – this one is fertile ground for anyone with a serious interest in literature, history, film, politics, or poetry.

Like so many features of the area, the C&O Canal grew from a dream of George Washington’s as a gateway to commerce with the US lands to the west (“west” meaning Ohio at the time). Coal, flour, fur, timber, whiskey, iron ore, and other goods traveled on barges, towed by mules walking along canalside paths. The canal’s commercial days are over, but its entire length from Georgetown to Maryland has been turned into one of the most beloved national parks. Visitors can experience the beauty and serenity of the canal by walking about a block south from M Street, NW and turning west onto the towpath. The National Park Service Visitor Center for the C&O has terrific guidance for enjoying the canal. Guided tours and seasonal mule-powered barge rides on the canal are offered.

Chef Michel Richard is famous for his innovative dishes. Described as French/Californian, the menu includes such items as scallops with fruit and tomato saffron emulsion.

This long-time Georgetown favorite trucks in local produce and incorporates it into special menu items.

More extreme fashions for young people – Goths especially. Also serious boots and shoes, and see-through backpacks.