Washington DC Neighborhood Guide:
Woodley Park

Welcome to The Woodley Park Neighborhood of Washington, DC

Nestled strategically in the North-West quadrant of Washington, DC, Woodley Park is one of the most serene residential neighborhoods in the District. It offers the experience of living in the suburbs despite being located smack in the center of the city. It features all the amenities of a modern suburb and has a distinct history and culture that makes up part of the American story.

Surrounded by Rock Creek Park, this peaceful community provides a refuge from the bustling city. Featuring plenty of trees and other greenery, local amenities including the National Zoo, and convenient metro access, it’s the perfect community for those who want to enjoy every facet of urban living without feeling overwhelmed by it.

Connecticut Avenue, the main strip, is a hub of retail and recreational services that give residents seamless access to all their daily needs. Just about everything you need is only footsteps away. The unique character and convenient location of this community make it a haven for young professionals and residents alike.

Woodley Park is one of the best places to live in DC. Don’t take our word for it — here is a comprehensive overview of what it’s like living in the neighborhood.

The Parkwest Apartments — Join the Community

Are you sold on the conveniences and luxuries of living in Woodley Park? Contact us if you are considering moving, you should check out one of The Parkwest apartments.

These apartments are just as elegant as the serene neighborhood. They are spacious and feature elegant archways, exotic wooden floors, dramatic 9′ ceilings, and more! Options, features, and amenities range from unit to unit, and you are guaranteed to find one that suits you perfectly.

The Parkwest is located along Connecticut Avenue between Woodley Park and Cleveland Park. Its strategic location means that you will have easy access to all amenities in the city, including the city’s transport hub.

An Overview of Living in Woodley Park

Woodley Park is am amazing Washington DC neighborhood with all kinds of parks to explore, historical thrills for lore, and strange activities that your friends and family will adore! So grab a friend, your dog, your partner and go for a hike to Woodley Park if you’d like. We are betting that you will!

Woodley Park’s proximity to Rock Creek Park and the zoo make it an incredibly desirable spot for residents with children and pets. The community is full of activities and events suitable to all ages and interests.

Sporting a Walkscore of 72, you can complete almost all daily errands without a vehicle. The peaceful character and abundant greenery also make walking an immensely enjoyable activity whether you are picking up groceries or just getting some fresh air.

Like many of the NW Quadrant neighborhoods, Woodley Park has rich historical ties to DC. Many historic homes line the residential streets, including the former summer homes of US Presidents Martin Van Buren and Grover Cleveland.

Serene Parks & Diverse Wildlife

Serene nature is one of this neighborhood’s best attributes. It features two notable parks and one of the most popular zoos in the District, all of which are within close proximity from the neighborhood.

Rock Creek Park

Rock Creek Park has it all: plants, animals, and more! The 1,754 acres of pristine land is covered by lush greenery, including exotic trees and beautiful flowers. It is also home to a wide range of species, including gentle turtles and beautiful birds. There are lots of things to do at Rock Creek Park. The beautiful nature makes for serene hiking trails, and you can even bring your horse if you wish. Hiking at the park will bring you closer to nature and make you forget about the hassle of DC for a while. It also makes for healthy walks and running exercises. You can also hire a canoe, kayak, or sailboat and hit the water. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate the 18-hole golf course set out on pristine grounds.

Meridian Hill Park

Meridian Hill Park is another nature stop that will lure you in! It has large old trees, statues and a view of the city you won’t want to miss! Walk through to view statues of the famous Joan of Arc, Dante, a James Buchanan Memorial, and longest cascading fountain in North America.

The park also comes to life every Sunday as it holds on to a 40-year tradition: the Rhythm in the Park Drum Circle. This tradition involves a concert and people from all parts of the District coming together to dance, juggle, and just connect.

Smithsonian's National Zoo

Away from the elephants and donkeys occupying Capitol Hill, the Smithsonian’s National Zoogives you a chance to explore more than 300 different species of animals sourced from all over the world. There are more than 1,500 animals at the zoo. Some of these species are endangered; for example, the zoo is home to some of the most adorable Pandas in North America.

Rich History & Culture

Woodley Park Is dotted with remarkable reminders of America’s history. Residents can go back in time at The Anderson House. The villa was constructed in 1905 and has survived the century in remarkable condition. It was designed according to the architecture of the time; it mostly features Italian and English styles, including carved wood walls, iron staircases, and marble floors. The Woodley Park neighborhood is a close-knit community featuring about 6,000 residents. The community is defined by acceptance, inclusiveness, kindness, and friendliness. Residents here also love pets. In fact, many households in the neighborhood own a dog. The community also reflects DC’s distinct culture, which is partly marked by excellence. This community’s tight-knit network also makes it a safe living space for families. To this end, Woodley Park has one of the lowest crime rates in DC.

Classic Architecture

Have you been to those old European cities with medieval-like architecture? Woodley Park has its own classic architecture, and it includes some majestic and menacing gargoyles. The Washington National Cathedral is one of the grandest houses of worship in the country, and its classic architecture is part of what sets it apart; the highlight of this building is the series of gargoyles perched on the rooftop.

Step Back In Time At The Anderson House

Take a fashionable approach to history by diving into The Anderson House this spring. This “Florentine villa in the midst of American independence,” was completed in 1905 and has survived with a vibrant walled garden, tennis court, and three-story stable. The mansion holds 50 rooms that are lined with English and Italian influences, carved wood walls, marble floors, and an iron staircase. Let’s just say It is the “creme de la creme” of historical architecture.

You can tour the Anderson Home Museum Tue-Sun with free admission, and you can even explore the archives of its library Monday-Friday from 10 am – 4 pm. What are you waiting for? Dive into your nation’s history galore.

Go On a Gargoyle Hunt

The Washington National Cathedral is a must-see building in Washington DC, its high ceilings are comprised of 14th-century gothic architecture that will light up eyes from around the city! Take a date and go for a gargoyle hunt over the weekend as you explore this amazing historical sight.

While you are there see who can find Darth Vader first! This fierce gargoyle head was sculpted after a competition in the 1980s that spread nationwide in Nation Geographic World Magazine. The design was submitted by the young Christopher Radar and sculpted/carved by Jay Hall Carpenter and Patrick J. Plunkett. You can find it somewhere high upon the northwest tower, but that’s the only clue we’ll give you!- Happy hunting.

Amenities & City-Life Access

Woodley Park strikes a perfect balance between suburb and city life. The main strip, Connecticut Avenue, features a wide range of urban amenities, including chic restaurants, bars, shops, and more. Some notable restaurants include Duke’s Counter, District Kitchen, Hot N Juicy Crawfish, Medaterra, and Umi Japanese Cuisine. The neighborhood also features plenty of schools and hospitals. Top public schools in the area include Woodrow Wilson High School and Benjamin Banneker Academic High School, while notable private schools include Maret School.

Escape The City For a Night

If you are looking for an exhilarating date, grab a group of friends and head to Escape the Room – the #1 escape room experience in America! There, you and your group can choose from, three different mysteries rooms to solve.

Head back in time for Jurassic Escape, step into the Agency and become a secret agent ready to complete your escape mission, or harrow deep into the depths of the earth in the Dig room. You have 60- minutes to escape your fate! You can book tickets any day of the week, with prices ranging from $28-$34. It is a great activity to build friendships and teams, be sure to encounter a lot of screams!

Listen to The Blues

End the night right with some karaoke and bizarre ambiance at Madam’s Organ Blues Bar, this strange bar has cheap booze, 4 floors full of surprises and live music almost every night of the week!

Their menu is filled with soul food options to fill your stomach and jump your heart as you take a walk on the wild side of Woodley Park.

Robust Transport Network

Check Out The Woodley Park Commuters Guide!

Check out our in-depth guide for commuting in and around Woodley Park.

See Woodley Park Transportation Info

It takes a short drive to get out of Woodley Park and right into the midst of DC. The neighborhood is located strategically within the city and enjoys easy and quick access to a robust transportation network that will get you anywhere you want to go. Woodley Park is conveniently located between Woodley Park Metro and Cleveland Park Metro stations. Any of these stations will get you to any part of the city. The road network is also robust and reliable, thanks to the low traffic. The neighborhood is also close to the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, which is convenient for frequent flyers. To this end, Woodley Park is one of the best residential areas for professionals working in DC. The transportation network enables quick access to many key neighborhoods, including Downtown DC, DuPont, Circle, U Street Corridor, and Cleveland Park, among others.

Discover More About Woodley Park:

Woodley Park Schools

Residents with children will enjoy the fact that Woodley Park is zoned for some of the area’s most desirable public schools.

Grocery Stores

Manhattan Market – Small convenience grocery serving alcohol until 11 pm.

Safeway – Large Supermarket located on Wisconsin Ave.

Retail Shops

Via Gypset – Consignment store featuring used and vintage items.

India Art & Craft – Small Indian Boutique featuring women’s clothing and accessories.

Woodley Park Ace Hardware – Hardware store specializing in tools and home improvement supplies.

Arts & Education

International Visions – Art Gallery located on Connecticut Ave.

Hillwood Estate – Museum and gardens.

The Kreeger Museum – Museum featuring Impressionist and American art.

National Geographic Museum – An enormous museum with frequently rotating exhibits.

Woodley Park Nightlife

Macintyre’s – Sports Bar and pub with pub-style dining.

Gin Joint/Babinga Bar – Bar and restaurant with specialty gin cocktails.

Atomic Billiards – Pool hall and bar located on Connecticut Ave.

Health & Fitness

Metro Immediate and Primary Care – Clinic located on Porter St. NW, accessible from Connecticut Ave.

CityPaws Animal Hospital – Veterinary clinic located on Connecticut Ave.

CVS Pharmacy – Pharmacy and drug store located near the Woodley Park Metro.

Woodley Park Yoga-Ashtanga Studio – Yoga studio on Connecticut Ave.

Wardman Park Fitness and Swim Club – 24-hour gym with pool and sauna.

GNC – Vitamin and nutritional supplement retailer on Connecticut Ave.

Sports & Outdoors

Tregaron Conservatory – Nature preserve and park.

Rock Creek Park – National park featuring a planetarium, hiking trails, historic civil war landmarks, horseback riding, and much more.

Rock Creek Park Tennis Center – Tennis courts located in Rock Creek Park.

Smithsonian National Zoo – One of DC’s most popular attractions hosting events and exhibits throughout the year.

Dining Options

District Kitchen – Self-described rustic-chic dining with American cuisine.

Duke’s Counter – Sandwich, burgers, snacks, and drinks.

Medaterra – Restaurant and bar specializing in Middle Eastern cuisine.

Hot N Juicy Crawfish – Seafood and Cajun/Creole dining.

Umi Japanese Cuisine – Sushi and Japanese food specialty dining on Connecticut Ave.

Gas Stations

Exxon – Gas and convenience store on Connecticut Ave.

Sunoco – Gas and convenience shop on Connecticut Ave.

Washington DC Neighborhood Guide:
Woodley Park

Welcome to The Woodley Park Neighborhood of Washington, DC