Wish you could skip the stress of parking in Georgetown without giving up freedom of movement? You can. Even with service changes, you still have plenty of easy ways to get around for work, errands, and nights out. In this guide, you’ll learn what replaced the Circulator, how to use buses, bikes, scooters, and carshare, and how visitor permits and garages work when you do need a car. Let’s dive in.
What changed in 2024 and 2025
DC Circulator ended
The District phased out the DC Circulator, with service ending on December 31, 2024. You should not plan trips around the Circulator anymore. For details, see the District’s announcement on the phased elimination of the DC Circulator.
Metrobus replaces key links
WMATA rolled out Better Bus network updates to cover important east–west and north–south connections that Georgetown riders rely on. Routes that serve Wisconsin Avenue and M Street were reorganized, and some lines extend to major hubs like Union Station and Rosslyn. For current patterns and route names, check the WMATA Trip Planner and local summaries such as the Metrobus routes in Washington, D.C. overview.
University shuttles and private options
Georgetown University’s GUTS shuttles connect campus to nearby Metro stations and Arlington, which helps with rail access. Riders can now track buses with the university’s GUTS mobile app update. Always review eligibility and schedules on university pages if you plan to use these routes.
Everyday getting around without a car
Metrobus basics from Georgetown
Buses remain the backbone for longer trips. Expect frequent service along Wisconsin Avenue and M Street, plus redesigned routes that bridge to regional rail. Because routing and headways change, verify your stop, timing, and any transfers using the WMATA Trip Planner or the university’s transportation and commute page.
Quick first and last mile: bikes and scooters
Capital Bikeshare is the region’s docked system, with stations and a growing e‑bike fleet throughout the city. If you are new to CaBi, skim the Capital Bikeshare overview to compare single trips and memberships, then test the nearest docks during your commute hours. Dockless e‑scooters and e‑bikes also operate under local permits. In nearby Arlington, the shared mobility program outlines rules, parking corrals, and reporting tools; review the shared scooters and dockless bikeshare guidance for safe, legal use and to see how corrals work.
When you need four wheels
For errands or weekend trips, carshare and peer‑to‑peer rentals fill the gap. Zipcar has a long presence in D.C., with vehicles in marked spaces and per‑hour or day pricing that includes fuel and insurance; see Zipcar’s update on expanding car sharing in the Washington, D.C. area. For more vehicle types or longer trips, browse the Washington listings on Turo’s marketplace. Always confirm pickup locations, included mileage, and return rules before you book.
Smart parking and permits
Residential and visitor permits
If you keep a car or host guests, factor in permits. D.C.’s ParkDC system uses digital license plate verification for visitor permits, and residents manage RPP and visitor scheduling online. Start with ParkDC’s help and permit overview to see what applies to your block.
Garage options for guests
On‑street visitor space can be tight near residential blocks. The Georgetown commercial district lists around 20 parking garages and lots, which is helpful for guests or contractors. See the Georgetown BID’s FAQ and Getting Here resources for general guidance and garage options.
Your car‑light game plan
- Confirm your most used rides. Check the current Metrobus routes and headways that serve your block and your top destinations.
- Add micromobility. Install the Capital Bikeshare app and note your nearest docks; keep a helmet handy for e‑bikes and scooters.
- Line up a car on demand. Join Zipcar or price out a Turo trip so you are ready for bulk shopping or weekend travel.
- Set up ParkDC. Create your account if you expect frequent visitors or contractor vehicles.
- If you are eligible, review GUTS. Check schedules, stops, and access rules on Georgetown University transit pages.
Safety and etiquette in Georgetown
- Park shared scooters and bikes in a way that keeps sidewalks clear. Use corrals where provided, and never block curb ramps.
- Ride with care. Use bike lanes when available, follow traffic laws, and slow down around pedestrians.
- Know your coverage. Zipcar trips include insurance within membership terms, and peer‑to‑peer platforms offer protection options. Review your selection before you drive.
- Plan loads wisely. CaBi baskets and scooters handle small items, but use carshare for bulk runs.
Is car‑light living right for you?
Living car‑light works well in Georgetown if most of your trips are along Wisconsin Avenue, M Street, or to nearby rail hubs. Your toolkit looks like walking for close errands, Metrobus for cross‑town trips, CaBi or scooters for quick hops, and Zipcar or peer‑to‑peer rentals for occasional longer needs. Families, caregivers, and frequent off‑peak travelers can still make it work by planning ahead for carshare and visitor permits.
Ready to match your lifestyle with the right home in the DMV? Reach out to Treasury Homes for neighborhood guidance and a smooth, step‑by‑step plan.
FAQs
Is the DC Circulator still running in Georgetown?
- No. The District ended Circulator service at the end of 2024, as confirmed in the DDOT phase‑out announcement.
What replaced the Circulator for east–west trips?
- WMATA’s Better Bus updates reworked several routes that serve Wisconsin Avenue and M Street; check the Trip Planner and the Metrobus routes overview for current one‑seat options and transfer points.
Can I use Georgetown’s GUTS shuttles if I am not a student?
- GUTS primarily serves university students and staff; review eligibility and live tracking via the GUTS mobile app update and university transit pages before you rely on it.
How do I find a Zipcar or park it in Georgetown?
- Use the Zipcar app to locate vehicles and see their designated spaces; Zipcar outlines its D.C. presence in this service expansion update, and you should always follow posted garage or curbside rules for pickup and return.
Are e‑scooters allowed, and where should I park them?
- Yes. Shared devices operate under local permits; follow local parking rules and use corrals where available. Arlington’s program offers clear guidance on scooters and dockless bikeshare that is useful across the area.
How do visitor parking permits work in D.C. now?
- D.C. uses digital license plate verification for visitor permits through ParkDC; review steps and eligibility in the ParkDC help center.
