Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
George Washington University
For the last 50 years, GWU has been a major presence in Foggy Bottom, con-
tributing to its diversity and filling its streets with the energy of young students.
Founded as Columbian College in 1821, the school adopted its current name in
1904 to honor the wishes expressed by George Washington for the establish-
ment of a major university in the city.
A Day Exploring 17th Street NW
Morning
Begin your day with a tour of
Decatur House
,
a gorgeous Neo-Classical man-
sion. After the tour, turn left and walk to the end of the block; turn left onto
17th St, NW, and continue one block to Pennsylvania Ave. Although currently
closed, the
Renwick Gallery
on the corner has a magnificent exterior.
Continuing east on Pennsylvania, you can view the renowned north portico of
The White House
on your right. Reverse direction, return to 17th St, and turn
left to take in the ornate
Eisenhower Executive Office Building
.
A block south is
Corcoran Gallery of Art
,
with its superb American and
European art. Lunch at the
Todd Gray's Muse
(closed Mon & Tue), in its
Beaux Arts atrium.
Afternoon
After leaving the Corcoran, turn right and continue down 17th Street one block,
to D Street. Turn right, and almost at the end of the block is the entrance of
the
Daughters of the American Revolution
. In addition to the fascinat-
ing period rooms, the gift shop is a treat for anyone with an interest in quilting,
samplers, or porcelain.
End your day by hailing a taxi on 17th Street to the
Kennedy Center
and enjoy
dinner at the
Roof Terrace Restaurant
, with its stunning river views.
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