Entryways and Encounters

A Georgetown Garden Tour Surprise

Washington, D.C., never fails to charm. The historic architecture, the undeniable allure of Georgetown—this neighborhood seems to exist in a timeless bubble. Having visited Washington and Georgetown before, I was especially excited about the Georgetown Garden Tour my childhood friend invited me to this year. I envisioned grand, over-the-top gardens, the kind that would make any plant enthusiast swoon.

But as it often happens with high expectations, reality didn’t quite measure up. The gardens, while lovely, didn’t offer the meticulous splendor I had hoped for. Still, there was something special about being out in the city, discovering new corners and hidden beauty, particularly in the details of the entryways. (Scroll to the bottom to see a video of the highlights of the tour.)

Trellises of flower-laden vines, the delicate scent of roses, intricate iron staircases leading up to beautifully carved doors—these elements of Georgetown’s charm became the focus of my attention. Each entryway told a story, a glimpse into the life beyond the door.

A glimpse inside Georgetown

The true highlight of the tour, however, wasn’t a garden. It was a chance encounter that left a lasting impression. As we meandered along the streets, admiring the gardens and entryways, I noticed a woman sweeping magnolia leaves in front of her townhouse. As is my nature, I struck up a conversation. She was friendly, with dark hair, striking blue eyes, diamond earrings and an adorable tennis outfit. We chatted it up, and when she learned my friend’s name was Kathleen, she mentioned her daughter’s name was also Kathleen, just like in the Kennedy family.

Before I knew it, she was inviting us into her home. I was thrilled—and curious—to see the inside of a real Georgetown townhouse. But as we stepped into her living room, my initial excitement turned to surprise. The space was a blend of chaos and beauty, an eclectic mix of hoarder-esque clutter, racks of clothes, a brand-new five-foot cat tower, and everywhere in between, beautiful paintings, fine furniture, and Limoges china.

The dining room boasted incredible woodwork, and the furniture was stunning, yet the kitchen seemed untouched since the 1950s. It was a far cry from the polished, magazine-worthy interiors I had imagined, but that didn’t diminish the experience. The woman, a jewelry designer, was proud of her space and eager to share it with us. As she handed me her card, I noticed her last name was Kennedy—a detail that made me pause, considering her earlier comment about my friend Kathleen’s name being like the Kennedys. But what truly struck me wasn’t her name; it was the honor of being invited into her home, a personal space she was so willing to share.

It didn’t matter that her home wasn’t what I had envisioned. What mattered was the connection, the openness, and the fact that she welcomed us into her world without hesitation. The narrow staircase with its old red carpet was the only photo I felt comfortable taking, a quiet reminder of the unexpected moments that make travel memorable.

In the end, it wasn’t the gardens that made this trip special—it was the gem I discovered in a Georgetown townhouse. Sometimes, the best moments come from the places and people you least expect.

Georgetown Garden Tour Video

Be sure to expand the video (click on the icon on the top left-hand side.)