Our family · Since 1973

A family of opticians, three generations deep.

Albert Voorthuis opened a small optical shop on Eye Street in 1973 with a simple idea: carry high-end, quality frames and treat patients right. His daughters and grandson run the practice on the same principle today.

Voorthuis optometrists
From our patients
Dr. Rebecca Voorthuis was prompt and thorough in her examination and clearly explained my vision status. Anna-marie Voorthuis provided attentive and precise lens and frame fitting, augmented by a delightful conversation.
Anne D.Foxhall Square
Best of Bethesda award
Best place to buy eyeglassesEvery year since 2018!
8Neighborhood locations
53Years serving the DMV
35+High-end designs
Voorthuis Opticians, family-run since 1973
A tradition of quality

A small shop, on Eye Street.

When Albert Voorthuis opened the original location on Eye Street in downtown Washington, "optician" still meant a craftsperson who built glasses to fit a face. He sourced frames from European makers few in town had heard of. He measured by hand, never sacrificing quality.

The family today

Run by the family that started it.

A high standard passed down from generation to generation.

Voorthuis Family 3 Generations

Albert Voorthuis started the practice on a simple idea: better frames, careful measurements, and the time to do both right. Today his daughters run it the same way. Dr. Rebecca Voorthuis, chief of optometry and a graduate of the New England College of Optometry, keeps the practice at the forefront of modern eye care technology. It is a major reason Voorthuis is known for solving patients' toughest vision problems.

Anna-marie Voorthuis selects the frames, as she has for more than 25 years. She chooses each one by hand, building the curated collection of designer frames you'll find in every store. She's also why fittings never feel rushed, why someone walks you through the wall of frames, and why you leave with glasses that actually feel like yours. Albert's grandson Jack grew up around the shops and now helps run the daily operations. Decades on, the founding idea is still quality customer service that keeps bringing people back.

What we believe

The standards that haven't changed.

Voorthuis Opticians' Best of Bethesda 2025 'Best Place to Buy Glasses' award plaque with sunglasses in front
i.

Treat patients right

Doctors who listen, look for what others miss, and don't hurry patients through the exam. Patients come first, always.

ii.

Frames worth carrying

30+ designer brands · hundreds of frames. Each one earns its spot - the way Lindberg balances on the bridge, the warmth of Oliver Peoples acetate, the precision of a Lunor hinge.

iii.

The relationship over the transaction

Free lifetime adjustments. Friendly staff. Family owned and operated. Patients who came in as kids and now bring their own.

Doctor-led, start to finish. Walk into any of our shops and you'll find unhurried exams, expert fitting, and lenses cut by hand - the kind of visit you come back for.
Dr. Voorthuis gave me in-depth advice and options regarding my contact lenses. I have a very difficult prescription, and Voorthuis has always gotten it right over the many years I’ve been going there.
Karen M. · Foxhall Square
DC · MD · VA

Find your Voorthuis.

Call for an appointment.