D.C.’s Woodley Park – an Affluent Neighborhood, Perfect for Hiking Enthusiasts

Woodley Park is an affluent, mostly residential, neighborhood in Northwest Washington D. C., which is home to the National Zoo, located within Rock Creek Park. It’s the perfect area for hiking and bike trails, on one end, and great restaurants and shops on Connecticut Avenue.

It’s home to the Omni Shoreham Hotel which has hosted many presidential inaugural balls and has long been popular with tourists since the Beatles arrived there in the ‘60s.

Where is Woodley Park?

Between Connecticut Avenue to the South of the National Zoo, Woodley Park, with its turn of the century row houses, is bordered by Rock Creek Park. Mt. Saint Albans, which has the Washington National Cathedral, is to the West.

The upscale houses are surrounded by beautiful parks and quiet residential streets as well as some of the best trails of Rock Creek Park.

History

Woodley Park got its name from the Woodley House, built by Philip Barton Key who was the uncle of Francis Scott Key in the early 1800s. The neighborhood has been home to many ambassadors, and politicians including former President Grover Cleveland.

It has long been an affluent suburb since the late 1800s, but much more construction took place in the early 1900s with the building of urban townhouses and row houses surrounded by lovely parks.

Lifestyle

What to Do

An absolute must see in Woodley Park is the National Zoo, which is maintained by the Smithsonian. From the pandas which were gifted from China, to giraffes, elephants, lions, tigers, as well as exotic birds, reptiles and other wildlife – it’s a great place to spend your time at, especially when the weather is nice.

 

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If you are into the cinema, the neighborhood has a great Art Deco style theater from the 1930s which features many great movies on its large screen. The balconies in the theater are interesting and provide a great view and add to the retro environment.

On a warm day, nothing could be better than following the bike trails using Capital Bikeshare bike rentals or hiking or jogging through Rock Creek Park. There’s plenty of space for picnics and other activities like tennis or volleyball.

Where to Eat and Drink

Baked by Yael, on Connecticut Avenue, just outside of the zoo features cake on a stick, in addition to other kosher treats such as bagels and gluten-free breads.

 

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Woodley Park has a wide range of restaurants like the Lebanese Taverna, which has been a favorite of locals for its great Mediterranean cuisine.

 

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Petit Monde Bistro & Cafe is also a must-visit, offering pastries, breakfast pizza & sandwiches, as well as gelato, and a nice assortment of wine. Stop by Open City’s patio as well – it’s a great place for a Sunday brunch.

 

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Duke’s Counter has authentic British cuisine. Mayahuel Cocina Mexicana offers upscale tacos and enchiladas, and for typical American fare try District Kitchen.

 

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Moving to Woodley Park

Real Estate Snapshot

The Woodley Park is an affluent neighborhood featuring classical flat-fronted houses which were built in the early 1900s. Many were influenced by architect Clarke Waggaman who preferred classical structures inspired by French and British classism. Many commercial and mid-rise modern apartment buildings of about 8 stories each line Connecticut Avenue as well.

 

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The average rental costs range from about $1,600 to $2,000 for studios to more than $6,000 for two- or three-bedroom apartments in Woodley Park.

Transportation

Woodley Park is served by the Woodley Park / Adams Morgan metro stop on the Red Line of the Metro, in addition to being on many bus lines. It contains the National Zoo and Rock Creek Park runs through it. It’s a short distance to Adams Morgan, Dupont Circle and not too far from the heart of the city.

Lots of residents prefer to use bicycles which can be rented in the neighborhood and the Rock Creek Park trails are great to follow, but not so safe after dark.

Schools & Employment

The neighborhood boasts the Oyster Adams Bilingual School for K-8, as well as the Aidan Montessori school. The National Cathedral School and Maret School, as well as the public-school option, Eaton Elementary, offer great education to locals.

Most of the locals are employed in not-for-profit or government organizations which are found all over the city.

Browse through all the available apartments in Woodley Park on RentCafe if you’re in search of your next home.