Georgetown

Where: Wisconsin Ave. and M St. NW, bordered by the Potomac River to the south

What's in a name: Georgetown might be named for King George II of England, or it might be named for town founders George Beall and George Gordon. One thing's for sure: it's not named for George Washington.

Thumbnail: Founded in 1751, historic Georgetown is known for its designer and mainstream boutiques, beautiful architecture and its seemingly endless list of cafes, restaurants and bars. History buffs, serious shoppers and garden lovers are instantly smitten with attractions like Georgetown University, the C&O Canal, the Kreeger Museum and Tudor Place.

Calling cards: Shop your way down M Street and head north on Wisconsin Ave. to discover locally-owned boutiques. Ease into the booth where JFK proposed to Jackie at Billy Martin's Tavern or watch for celebrities at Cafe Milano. Sit waterside and sip cocktails at Sequoia or grab a beer on the set of "St. Elmo's Fire" at Third Edition. Take a jog on the 180-mile C&O Canal Towpath or a romantic stroll through the breathtaking gardens at Dumbarton Oaks.

Getting there: Take the Circulator's East-West Route into the heart of Georgetown; or take Metro to Foggy Bottom and walk.