In & around Old Town
I debated adding Old Town to the “daytrips” category, since many of my friends who live in DC proper would consider it a place for a weekend afternoon when you have a few hours to spend. But, since I do adore Old Town’s residential architecture and do work with real estate clients here…I personally think of it more as a city neighborhood. I have a few friends that live here and commute in throughout the week – some might argue this slice of the DMV is just as, if not more, charming than the Hill and Georgetown. & I might not disagree!
Old Town’s strengths are great boutique retail and restaurants that aren’t trying too hard, adjacency to the waterfront, and historic bones that have stood the test of time. Walking around Old Town feels like walking into a picture from a lifetime ago; homes with grand proportions flank petite Federal homes, and the shutters all have an adorable lean to them. If I had to move to Virginia, I’d likely move here.
If you are interested in buying or selling in Old Town, email me.
Favorite memories
Weaving in and out of all of the neighborhood streets; Old Town is gorgeous, just let yourself wander east & west on the streets north and south of King Street, and you won’t be disappointed.
Reading in Carlyle House Historic Park
Walking by the Spite House
An annual visit to see the Halloween decor on Captains Row
Attending an event at the Athenaeum
Walking along the waterfront
The Spite House
Recommendations:
for shopping & antiquing
In my opinion, Old Town is the best place for boutique retail in DC. Yes, Georgetown technically has plenty more options, but many are national chains and at times it can feel more like a very chic outdoor mall. Parts of King Street in Old Town can certainly start to feel similar, but there are a few pockets where small, local retailers seem to truly be treasured.
Lowery’s Dial, for darling finds
Eries Interiors, a cute homewares store
Penny Post, where I go for stationery
Red Barn Mercantile, a fabulous place for gifts
Nothing in Between Nail Salon, my guilty pleasure & they have a small gift shop
Old Town Books, the happiest place for a new book
J. Brown & Co, who always has such sharp window displays
Monday’s Child, recommended by my friend Erica for special occasion kids items!
Lowery's Dial
Lowery's Dial
Penny Post
The Hour (sadly closed now!)
Creme de la Creme
Eries Interiors
Recommendations:
for little bites & coffee
I don’t have as much of a grasp on Old Town dining as I do the shopping, but am slowing ticking things off of my list when the opportunity presents itself. One of the perks of Old Town is being right on the water, so if you have a chance to choose a seat with a view, don’t say no!
La Pluma Coffee & Wine, a casual spot for a chic, sunny lunch
Josephine, for a French lunch or dinner (I like the conservatory space along the side)
Pitango Coffee & Gelato
Barca Pier & Wine Bar, so fun when the weather is nice
BRUT Champagne & Wine Bar
Goodies Frozen Custard, an essential summertime destination
Mudhouse, a new coffeeshop on my wishlist