Georgetown Reservoir, reservoir in Washington, D.C., United States
Georgetown Reservoir is a large basin of open water in Washington, D.C., built by the Army Corps of Engineers to store and treat water for the city's supply. Water from the Potomac River flows into this holding area where sediment and particles settle before the water moves forward for treatment at downstream plants.
Construction of the reservoir began in the 1850s and was completed around 1864 as part of the Washington Aqueduct project. The gatehouse was built around 1901 and has served as part of the city's water infrastructure since the early days of modern water treatment.
The gatehouse displays a castle-like design that references historical European architecture and marks the importance of water management to the city's past. Local residents and visitors often view the structure as a quiet symbol of the city's long commitment to providing safe drinking water.
The reservoir is visible from MacArthur Boulevard where a sidewalk provides direct access and wheelchair accessibility. The adjacent Palisades Trolley Trail consists of unpaved ground better suited for walking, though parking is available along nearby streets.
The area is a noted birdwatching location with over 180 recorded species, including raptors and migrating songbirds, especially during spring and fall migrations. Waterbirds such as ducks and grebes gather on the reservoir in winter months, making it a year-round destination for nature enthusiasts.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
