Beltway Bambinos

JoAnn Hill, local author of Secret Washington, DC: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure, recently released her second book, DC Scavenger, which goes beyond the typical guidebook; it’s an interactive treasure map spanning across 17 distinct neighborhoods throughout Washington, DC. Here you’ll explore nearly three hundred and fifty of DC’s most cherished wonders by deciphering clever clues and examining ambiguous photos across the city’s four quadrants. Throughout your pursuit you’ll encounter world-renowned monuments and their lesser-known counterparts, innovative artworks promoting activism and celebrating diversity, overlooked historical markers, convivial markets and eateries, and architectural oddities.

JoAnn’s first DC Scavenger blog post takes us to Georgetown. Situated along the Potomac River, the historically quaint neighborhood of Georgetown is one of the city’s most prestigious and cherished areas. Tree-lined, cobblestoned streets, grand homes, charming eateries, and a bevy of chic boutiques have been drawing individuals for centuries. Throughout the years, Georgetown has managed to preserve its historic authenticity, while simultaneously establishing itself as an entertainment and dining destination in and of itself. This neighborhood spree commences along the P Street Bridge and wraps up along the waterfront, one of Georgetown’s premier attractions.

We’ve got a scavenger hunt for you– perfect for the whole family that allows you to explore our city; the exact reason Beltway Bambinos was created. Below are 4 of 23 clues featured in the Georgetown chapter of DC Scavenger. Can you identify the 4 clues? Check out JoAnn’s book DC Scavenger to solve and discover more clues and sites around the Georgetown neighborhood and throughout the entire city.

Georgetown Clue #1
Lovely museum, library, and home,
Its immense grounds so enticing to roam.
Its walls have lots of stories to tell,
Gardens and parks cast a magical spell.

Georgetown Clue #2
Walk over to N, look at the blue wall,
Nosy neighbor and dog are watching us all,
They both look so real, a gal and her pup,
Art’s all around, you just need to look up.

Georgetown Clue #3
How high is the river? Learn by the tide,
A kayaker’s pictured; watch as he glides
Alongside the water at this lovely park,
Is just one of many informational marks.

Georgetown Clue #4
At the center, where people come to meet
Sails and taxis and boats you can greet,
This tower stands right here in the center,
Gathering spot welcomes all to enter!

JoAnn Hill, author of DC Scavenger and Secret Washington, DC: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure, has affectionately called Washington, DC home for over twenty years.  She has written extensively about DC living, its food, and her world travels on her blog dcglobejotters.org and other mediums and publications. Through her writing and research, she shares stories and tips that inspire the insatiably curious traveler. When she’s not writing and exploring, you will find her teaching yoga, barre, and group fitness classes, indulging in DC’s culinary and theater scenes, and spending as much time outside as possible being active. JoAnn is the co-founder of Capitol Teachers, a full-service tutoring company servicing the greater DC area. She lives in Washington, DC with her husband Thalamus and dog Jackson.