Located northwest of Washington D.C., the Georgetown district has developed as a distinct city even before America’s independence, thriving in trades such as tobacco.
After the American Revolution in 1831, a canal was constructed along the Potomac River to transport goods from the Chesapeake Bay to the upstream regions, connecting the Georgetown district to Cumberland, Maryland. This canal played a crucial role in supporting Washington D.C.’s economy.
Though the canal is no longer used for cargo transportation, it now hosts cruise tours during the summer for tourists, providing an additional source of income.
The area is rich in colonial-era buildings, creating a different atmosphere from the larger buildings in downtown Washington, D.C.
Today, we introduce The Georgetown House Boutique Inn, a charming property nestled in the historic Georgetown district.
A building steeped in the history of the canal
The Georgetown House is located on 31st Street along the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, originally built as a warehouse. It later served as a tavern and then transformed into a stable for horses and mules, with the upper floor converted into living quarters for the manager.
Nowadays, this historic building has been renovated mainly as a boutique inn catering to backpackers, providing a fascinating place to stay and experience the local life.
Unique layouts and balconies overlooking the canal
The three-story boutique inn along the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal has been renovated with the preservation of its original layout, offering distinctive room arrangements not commonly found in traditional hotels.
The inn comprises 11 rooms: 4 on the ground floor, 3 in the basement, and 4 on the second floor, each with its own unique layout.
All rooms are equipped with showers and toilets, towels, cable TV, dressers, free Wi-Fi, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, power outlets, hairdryers, and trash cans. The ground floor and second-floor rooms also have desks.
Furthermore, the second-floor rooms offer views of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, and some rooms feature wooden balconies facing the canal.
Points to consider before booking
While The Georgetown House Boutique Inn provides an opportunity to relish the ambiance of the colonial era, there are some points to keep in mind before making a reservation.
The inn’s location close to the bustling city center means that the area can be lively day and night. Weekends and holidays, in particular, attract many people, leading to heavy traffic. Additionally, since the building itself has relatively thin walls, it may not be the best choice for those who are sensitive to noise.
It is essential to note that this is not a full-service hotel. Therefore, there are no room service, spa facilities, or 24-hour reception. However, guests staying for three nights or more can request towel replacements.
Although it lacks full-service amenities, the inn offers a shared kitchen in the basement, complete with a refrigerator where guests can store their groceries.
Check-in and check-out processes are done using a keyless entry code sent via email before arrival, making guests feel at home and allowing for a relaxed stay.
Furthermore, as the property is mostly self-service, guests will not need to worry about tipping, which can be a relief for travelers in the United States.
A gourmet haven in the city
The Georgetown district is not only a tourist destination with historic buildings but also a popular spot among Washingtonians for its stylish cafes and restaurants housed in these historical structures.
While The Georgetown House Boutique Inn does not have an on-site restaurant, an Italian restaurant is located nearby, with both establishments sharing a common wall.
It may be unusual for this to happen in Japan, but it is quite common for historical buildings abroad to have shared walls with neighboring structures. During the colonial era, constructing buildings with shared walls allowed owners to minimize the taxable area facing the road, resulting in cost savings.
Experience history at The Georgetown House Boutique Inn
For those who have already explored the classic tourist attractions in Washington D.C., a visit to Georgetown is highly recommended.
The area offers numerous charming spots, such as the historic canal that once played a crucial economic role in Washington D.C., and the city’s oldest surviving buildings.
While The Georgetown House Boutique Inn may be slightly distant from the nearest subway station, this results in fewer Japanese tourists, making it an ideal area for those seeking a leisurely and less crowded stay.
For those who wish to immerse themselves in the local lifestyle during their travels, The Georgetown House can provide a unique experience akin to returning home after a day of exploration, making the trip even more enjoyable.