There is no better place in town than the vibrant Georgetown as night falls over Washington DC. Here are the 17 best things to do in Georgetown DC at night, curated by a local insider!
When visiting Washington DC, you will certainly go to the Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, White House… Those are landmarks you cannot go past, just like the DUMBO Manhattan Bridge View in New York, or the Empire State Building and Summit One Vanderbilt.
But when it comes to nightlife, you have to head to Georgetown. It’s a lively part of Washington, with a cool, urban vibe. Residents have developed a real sense of community, which is reflected in the many cool bars, restaurants, concert halls and clubs.
⭐ We asked a local, Liam from Travels around Spain, his 17 favorite things to do in Georgetown DC at night!
17 Best Things to Do in Georgetown DC at Night
Washington DC’s nightlife is as dynamic and diverse as its population. The city comes alive after dark, offering a wide range of options for every type of night owl.
Whether you’re looking for the city’s best restaurant, want to dance the night away with good live music or enjoy a quiet drink with friends, Washington DC nightlife won’t disappoint.
Things to Do in Georgetown DC at Night: Best Sunset or Night Walks
Spot #1 – Washington Harbour
As the name suggests, Washington Harbour is located on Georgetown’s waterfront and today is a hive of activity. It becomes a cool place to relax and hang out as the sun sets.
Located along the Potomac River, the harbor offers some great views of the river, ferris wheel and city lights. It is the perfect place to relax after a busy day of sightseeing.
You will often see families and groups of friends relaxing here in the warm DC evenings in summer. There are lots of restaurants in the area, but you can absolutely bring a picnic if you wish.
During the day, in the summer months, visitors can go kayaking and paddleboarding on the river and it is a great place to go for a walk, bike ride or a run throughout the year.
⭐ TOP TIP: Go to Washington Harbour around sunset for great views over the Potomac River and Kennedy Center.
How to get to Washington Harbour?
From the corner of Wisconsin Avenue and M Street, near the golden dome, walk down the hill. The Port of Washington is less than a five-minute walk away.
- Address: 3000-3050 K St NW
- Price: Free
- Opening hours: All day and night
- Best time of the day to visit: In summer, the best time to visit is around sunset. You’ll get some great colors and photos across the river.
Spot #2 – The Exorcist Steps
Film lovers and horror fans will not want to miss these iconic steps located on the corner of 36th St and Prospect St NW…
The Exorcist steps connect the neighborhood to a small parking lot at the bottom of M Street. The atmosphere around the Exorcist Steps can be quite eerie due to their link to the horror genre and Georgetown’s status as DC’s oldest neighborhood.
At the top of the stairs is the house used as the exterior in the movie. Sadly, you cannot see a lot of the house now due to fences but you will often encounter movie enthusiasts in the area, looking to experience their piece of cinematic history.
⭐ TOP TIP: To discover Georgetown’s spooky past, consider taking a night-time walking tour that includes The Exorcist Steps and other stories from Georgetown’s darker past.
How to get to The Exorcist Steps?
From the golden dome of the PNC Bank at the corner of M Street and Wisconsin Avenue, walk up the hill one block to Prospect St NW. Walk 5 blocks and the stairs are halfway along the block.
- Address: Corner of 36th St and Prospect St NW.
- Price: Free.
- Opening hours: 24 hours a day.
- Best time of the day to visit: Depends on your scare factor. Horror lovers may prefer to come at night for the full creepiness value.
Spot #3 – Explore the streets of Georgetown historic district
One of the best things to do in Georgetown at night is to simply explore! The neighborhood is known for being one of the oldest and prettiest in the city with cute streets and independent stores.
Georgetown in DC has a very cool Old Town vibe, that you would find in cities such as Barcelona and Valencia in Europe. Each street tells its own story with the rowhouses all being unique and colorful.
Part of the fun is just deciding which street takes your liking and getting lost as you explore. At night, this district is very lively and you can really feel its atmosphere like at no other time of the day.
🎃 If you are traveling to Georgetown in October, you’ll find the residents have gone all out for Halloween. Pumpkins and Halloween decorations adorn most of the houses which alongside Georgetown’s architecture and history make it one of the best spots to get those Halloween vibes!
- Address: Georgetown
- Price: Free
- Opening hours: 24 hours
- Best time of the day to visit: Any time of the day.
⭐ TOP TIP: Head to the corner of O Street and 35th Street for some great photo opportunities.
Call Your Mother, the pink building on the corner, is a popular spot for tourists to take photos and during the day serves some fantastic bagels.
Best Restaurants in Georgetown DC
Spot #4 – Martin’s Tavern
Martin’s Tavern is a Georgetown institution and a must-visit location in Georgetown DC. What better to start a night out than eating at a good, unique restaurant?
The restaurant has been serving upscale American cuisine since 1933 and continues to be popular to this day. What sets Martin’s Tavern apart from its competitors is the sense of history.
Walking through the doors, you can immediately imagine all the different political deals and momentous occasions that have happened within these four walls.
Many of its tables and booths hold special significance and if you’re lucky to sit in one, you too might be part of DC’s history. Ask to sit in Booth #3. Now known as The Proposal Booth, this was the place where JFK proposed to Jackie.
⭐ TOP TIP: Martin’s Tavern can get very busy. To avoid disappointment and secure one of those coveted booths, book well in advance.
How to get to Martin’s Tavern?
Located on the corner of N Street and Wisconsin Avenue, Martin’s Tavern is just a couple of minutes’ walk from Georgetown’s main street. M Street.
Head towards Wisconsin Avenue, identifiable by the building with the golden dome and walk up the hill. Martin’s is on the left.
- Address: 1264 Wisconsin Avenue NW
- Price: ££ – Starters range from around $11 to $18 whilst entrées start around $19 and can get as high as $50 for a high-end steak or lobster.
- Opening hours: Open from 11 AM during the week and from 9 AM on a weekend, Martin’s Tavern closes its doors around midnight on a weeknight, 1:30 AM on Thursdays and 2:30 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.
- Best time of the day to visit: Great to visit at any time of day. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, all of which are of a great standard.
Spot #5 – Filomena Ristorante
One of Georgetown’s oldest and most famous restaurants, Filomena Ristorante is a must-go-to place if you’re in Georgetown and want some Italian food.
The restaurant opened in 1983 and is one of the most highly rated restaurants in the city. The food is fantastic, and the portions are generous.
One of the most charming things about Filomena is the ‘Pasta Mamas’ that sit in the restaurant window making fresh pasta.
They often draw crowds of tourists and locals watching the women make some incredible pasta. The pasta is then used in the restaurant’s dishes creating a truly authentic Italian experience at one of the best Italian restaurants in the city.
⭐ TOP TIP: If you’re lucky to be in the city during one of Washington DC’s two restaurant weeks throughout the year, check to see if Filomena is participating. All restaurants participating offer a set course at a much cheaper price than the regular prices.
How to get to Filomena Ristorante?
Walk down Wisconsin Avenue towards Washington Harbour and Filomena’s is on the left.
- Address: 1063 Wisconsin Avenue NW
- Price: $$$. Expect to pay around $40-$60 for a main course at dinner.
- Opening hours: 11:30 am-11 pm every day.
- Best time of the day to visit: Either lunch or dinner.
Spot #6 – El Centro
Another great Georgetown restaurant choice is El Centro. Located in the heart of Georgetown on Wisconsin Avenue, this lively and energetic Mexican offers great drinks and even better food.
Expect all the usual Mexican fare with options for vegetarians and vegans as well. El Centro also has a great happy hour with some staples from the menu and their signature margaritas.
⭐ TOP TIP: The upstairs restaurant converts to a dance floor on a Friday and Saturday night where you can dance the night away to all your favorite reggaeton and Latin music.
How to get to El Centro?
Head up Wisconsin Avenue and El Centro is on the left close to the crossing with M Street.
- Address: 1218 Wisconsin Avenue NW
- Price: $$
- Opening hours: 4 pm to 10 pm during the week and open until 3 am on weekends.
- Best time of the day to visit: Friday and Saturday nights
Spot #7 – Grab a cupcake!
After strolling the streets to soak up the energy of this neighborhood, one of the best things to do in Georgetown at night is to eat a cupcake! Eating a little something sweet after a good restaurant is always very pleasant.
Georgetown’s association with cupcakes came to life when TLC premiered DC Cupcakes back in 2010.
The series ran for three seasons, made stars of its co-owners, and put Georgetown Cupcake on the map as an unmissable stop on the tourist trail.
The queues now go around the block as people clamor for Georgetown’s most famous cupcake. DC residents all have their opinions on where the best cupcake is but two of your best options are in Georgetown.
It is a couple of blocks west of the golden dome whilst one of its biggest competitors, Baked & Wired can be found on Thomas Jefferson Street in the other direction.
Don’t choose just one, try both and decide for yourself who deserves the title of Georgetown’s best cupcake!
⭐ TOP TIP: If you plan and are in a group, order for pick up. This way you can skip the queue and go straight to the front of the line. Make sure you order before 5 pm the day before pickup.
How to get to Georgetown Cupcake and Baked & Wired?
For Georgetown Cupcake, head west from the golden dome at the M St and Wisconsin Ave crossing. Georgetown Cupcake will be on the right (and identifiable by the queues outside).
For Baked & Wired, head in the opposite direction for two blocks and then head downhill towards the harbor.
- Address: 3301 M St NW & 1052 Thomas Jefferson St NW
- Price: $3.95 per cupcake. $22 for 6. $42 for 12.
- Opening hours: 10 am – 9 pm every day, except Sunday when it closes at 8 PM
- Best time of the day to visit: When there is no queue outside!
Best concert venues in Georgetown DC
Spot #8 – Georgetown Piano Bar
Looking for live music in Georgetown? Look no further than Georgetown Piano Bar. This bar offers live music every night, a great happy hour, and a diverse crowd.
Whilst any night at Georgetown Piano Bar is fun, head there on a Friday or Saturday night. Both these nights are ‘dueling’ nights, where you get two pianists battling it out.
The performers also boast a fantastic repertoire of songs and also take requests, playing anything the audience asks them without hesitation.
Georgetown Piano Bar is without doubt one of the best places to watch live music in the neighborhood and a fantastic experience for locals and visitors alike.
⭐ TOP TIP: Get there early and bag a seat around the pianos to get close to the action.
The bar can get very busy so make a reservation in advance if you want to attend.
How to get to Georgetown Piano Bar?
Located on M Street in the center of Georgetown, the piano bar is easy to access. From the central crossing of Wisconsin Ave and M Street, head west towards Key Bridge (the big bridge connecting DC with Virginia) and away from downtown DC.
Georgetown Piano Bar is on the right. Be aware that this venue is underground and there are steps to enter the venue.
- Address: 3287 M St NW
- Price: $$ – Drinks and food are average prices for DC. Cocktails are $15.
- Opening hours: The bar opens at 5 pm every Wednesday to Sunday and closes at 2 am on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 3 am on Fridays and Saturdays and 1 am on Sundays.
- Best time of the day to visit: Head to the bar around 8 pm to grab a seat ready for the action.
Spot #9 – 9:30 Club
This club is an institution of the Washington music scene. Founded in 1980, it has seen some of the biggest names on the rock and punk scene, including the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
It is not exactly located in Georgetown DC, but very worth the detour. The 9:30 Club changed names and locations several times, but its atmosphere remains the same.
The vibes there are immaculate, and the line up is always incredible! Modern hot acts such as Luke Hemmings, Holly Humberstone, G Flip or Sophie Ellis-Bextor are performing there.
The hall has a capacity of around 1,200 people. You can greatly see the show from everywhere, the sound quality is excellent and there are several bars throughout the hall.
How to get to the 9:30 Club?
From Georgetown, you can take the G2 bus at Dumbarton St NW & Wisconsin Ave NW for half an hour and exit at 4 St NW & V St NW. By car, it’s a 15-minute drive.
- Address: 815 V St NW
- Price and opening hours: depends on the concert
- Best time to arrive: one hour before the start of the show
Spot #10 – Blues Alley Club
Blues Alley Club is a jazz club in a charming brownstone building located in Georgetown DC. Founded in 1965, it is one of the last traditional jazz clubs in DC, and in the United-States.
Just like the Blue Note in New York City, the Blues Alley Club is a unique venue you must visit if you are a jazz fan, or curious. It is a small venue with dim lights that creates a very intimate atmosphere.
We’ve seen great jazz legends like Sarah Vanghan play at the Blues Alley Club. It’s an institution that hasn’t really changed in 50 years. And it seems to work wonders, as audiences tend to return regularly.
⭐ TOP TIP: you can buy tickets at the box office on the day of the show, but arrive early to be sure of getting a seat in this small venue!
How to get to the Blues Alley Club?
From Georgetown waterfront park, it’s only a 3-minute walk. Take Wisconsin Avenue NW, cross the small bridge and turn right on Blues Alley.
- Address: 1073 Wisconsin Ave NW
- Price: depends on the show
- Opening hours: concerts start at 7 pm and 9 pm
- Best time to arrive: 30 minutes before the show if you already have a ticket, one hour if not
Best bars in Georgetown DC
Spot #11 – The Rooftop at the Graham
What if we told you you can enjoy a fine cocktail at a rooftop overlooking the city at sunset after a long day of exploring DC museums? Yes, please!
The Rooftop at the Graham is a modern bar where people like to go on dates or for a special occasion. They first come for the view, and then come back for the staff.
This special rooftop is obviously famous for its views on Georgetown and Arlington skylines. But what people remember just as much is how professional and nice the bartenders are! They will go above and beyond to make sure you have the best cocktail of your life.
⭐ TOP TIP: If you don’t like cocktails, don’t worry, they also offer beers, wine and softs, as well as appetizers.
How to get to the Rooftop at the Graham?
From Washington Harbour, the rooftop is a 4-minute walk on Thomas Jefferson Street NW.
- Address: 1075 Thomas Jefferson St NW
- Price: cocktails are all around $17 USD, food prices range from $12 to $20 USD.
- Opening hours: 3:30 pm to 10 pm from Monday to Wednesday, 3:30 pm to 12 am from Thursday to Saturday, and 2 pm to 10 pm on Sunday
- Best time of the day to visit: at sunset
Spot #12 – The Sovereign
The Sovereign is THE place to be in Georgetown for beer lovers. This is an amazing belgian pub, whose charm is like no other place.
It has a stunning illuminated alleyway leading to the pub, heralded by a colorful tile sign you can’t miss. The bar has great subdued lighting, and looks very lively.
The Sovereign has an incredible selection of beers, both draught and bottled. The staff are always on hand to help you choose the one that best suits your tastes.
Pub food is also available, as well as waffles for dessert! Yes, it’s still a belgian pub after all. We highly recommend this cool place for a night out. The Sovereign is one of the very cool places in Georgetown.
How to get to the Sovereign bar in DC?
From the waterfront, it’s a 5-minute walk on Wisconsin Avenue NW.
- Address: 1206 Wisconsin Ave NW
- Price: a pint is $8 to $12 USD
- Opening hours: it opens at 5 pm on Monday to Friday, or 11 am on weekends. It closes at 10 pm on Monday and Sunday, 1 am from Tuesday to Thursday, 2 am on Friday and Saturday
Spot #13 – The Tombs Georgetown
Looking for THE place where the youth hang out in Georgetown? Well, look no further than the Tombs, a typical American college bar.
It is located near the famous Georgetown University, that sits atop a hill and can be seen from across Key Bridge. You will probably visit its stunning architecture at some point during the trip.
After exploring Georgetown University, head to The Tombs for a drink. This is a popular bar for Georgetown University students and was used in a scene from The Exorcist.
⭐ TOP TIP: You can also eat sandwiches, starters, brunches and more at the Tombs.
How to get to Georgetown University?
Located not far from the Exorcist Steps, Georgetown University can be found at the west end of O Street. Head up the hill from the golden dome, turn left at O St and keep walking until you reach the university.
- Address: 3700 O St NW
- Price: prices vary, there are happy hours (discounts) depending on the day and hour
- Opening hours: 11:30 am to 12 am from Monday to Wednesday, 11:30 am to 2 am on Thursday and Friday, 11 am to 2 am on Saturday and 10 am to 12 am on Sunday
Best clubs in Georgetown DC
Spot #14 – Soundcheck DC
While not exactly in Georgetown, Soundcheck DC is a great nightclub located above the White House. It can be reached in only 10 minutes by car or 20 minutes with public transport from Georgetown.
Locals describe it as an “intimate EDM haven” in DC. While electronic dance music is now very popular, Soundcheck managed to create a safe and cozy space for dance enthusiasts.
The venue itself is well-thought, it has great sound quality and light work. They book great DJs like Morgan Page or Nadia.
How to get to the Soundcheck DC?
From Georgetown, take the bus 33 towards Federal Triangle, at Wisconsin Ave NW & P St NW. You can exit at H St NW & Madison Pl NW and for 5 minutes to reach Soundcheck DC.
- Address: 1420 K St NW
- Price: cocktails are $15 to $20 USD
- Opening days and hours: Wednesday to Saturday, it opens at 10 PM and closes either at 2 AM on Wednesday and Thursday, or 3 AM on Friday and Saturday
Things to Do in Georgetown DC at Night: Best Activities
Spot #15 – The Escape Game DC
For those wanting to test their intelligence, head on down to The Escape Game DC. This is one of the funniest things to do in Georgetown DC at night.
Featuring a range of games including The Depths, The Curse Of The Mummy and Titanic, The Escape Game DC always delivers a great event.
The games are inventive, and the staff are very friendly. There is a bar in the reception where you can hang out before starting your game and a range of props to take some funny group photos.
The games do change so check their website to see if there is one you feel like playing beforehand.
⭐ TOP TIP: Book in advance to ensure you secure the game you want.
How to get to The Escape Game DC?
Walk west along M St towards Key Bridge and The Escape Room DC is on the right. It is located directly in the middle of The Exorcist Steps and Georgetown Piano Bar.
- Address: 3345 M St NW
- Price: $$ – $38.99 per person per game.
- Opening hours: 9:30 am – 10 pm on weeknights and open until midnight on weekends.
- Best time of the day to visit: Anytime but especially when a storm rolls in.
Spot #16 – Go to the Movies at AMC Georgetown 14
Among the fun things to do in Georgetown at night, you can also go to the movies! The neighborhood has a great movie theater, called AMC Georgetown 14.
It is a clean and modern theater that mostly displays blockbusters, such as Mean Girls, Godzilla x Kong, Civil War… Definitely a great night activity to do in the Georgetown area.
How to get to the AMC Georgetown 14?
AMC movie theater is located at the end of Waterfront Park, on the harbor side.
- Address: 3111 K St NW
- Price: prices vary according to seat and film, but adult tickets cost around $15 and children’s tickets $12
- Opening hours: depends on the movie
- Best time to arrive: 20 minutes before the start of the movie
Spot #17 – Billiards with Beers & Cocktails at Clubhouse
Finally, we had to include one of the most fun things to do in Georgetown DC at night: billiards!
The Clubhouse offers a cool atmosphere where beginners and professionals alike can engage in friendly competition over a game of pool.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or taking a cue for the first time, the friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere will ensure you have a great evening.
⭐ TOP TIP: They have a wide selection of beers and cocktails, and also serve delicious pizzas.
How to get to the Clubhouse DC?
From the waterfront, walk a few minutes on Wisconsin Avenue NW to reach the Clubhouse DC.
- Address: 1070 Wisconsin Ave NW
- Price: pints are around $8 USD, a glass of wine is $13 USD and cocktail $14 USD
- Opening hours: 4 pm to 11:30 pm from Monday to Wednesday, 12 am on Thursday, 1:30 am on Friday, 2 am on Saturday and 11 pm on Sunday
Things to do in Georgetown DC at night: final thoughts
From night walks, to trendy restaurants and bars or cool concert and club venues, Georgetown DC nightlife has a lot to offer. This neighborhood is partly shaped by its big university and students that keep the district very alive at night.
After exploring the best places to see in Washington DC, we highly recommend that you visit its big sister, New York City! The Big Apple has the most incredible nightlife and landmarks that you have to see for yourself.
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