Tudor Place sits at the north end of Georgetown and was home to six generations of Martha Washington’s descendants and hundreds of enslaved people, from 1804-1983. It was designed by William Thornton, the architect of the Capitol, and is preserved just as the last owners left it.
The Garden:
Surrounding the home are five acres of manicured gardens and lawns that are open to the public. If you are looking for a free and uncongested version of Dumbarton Oaks, this is it. Walk down to the Dell for a shaded woodland oasis or check out the boxwood mazes that surround the home.
The House:
To see the inside of the estate, take a guided, hour-long tour (suggested donation of $10). It guides you through the stories and scandals of the estate's owners as well as the enslaved people and servants who worked there.
The office of Armistead Peter, the last generation to live in the home. (Kaela Cote-Stemmermann/City Cast DC)
Devil Is The Details:
The grounds are open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. every day, except Sunday when it opens at noon. If you want to take a tour, reserve your tickets online ahead of time. They also host events each week.
Make a Day of It:
The estate sits a block away from Wisconsin Ave NW, with cafés like YELLOW and Pâtisserie Poupon perfect for an iced coffee and lil’ treat. For something more substantial, Lutèce has upscale French cuisine and cocktails in a country bistro setting.
Don’t Miss This:
From now until April 21, they have an Ancestral Spaces Tour that highlights the legacy of the individuals and families of African descent who lived and worked there. The tour was developed alongside the descendants of enslaved people and a ticket gives access to the entire estate.
