American University (AU) Park
For a close-knit neighborhood with tree-lined streets and easy accessibility to all of Washington, D.C.’s offerings, look no further than American University (AU) Park.
About
This tight-knit community may sit on the border of Maryland, but the residents strongly identify as Washingtonians. AU Park is known as a thriving and walkable neighborhood with a small-town feel and all the conveniences of urban living. AU Park gets its name from the acclaimed American University, which was established by Congress in 1893. Rated by Niche as the #2 neighborhood in DC to raise a family, AU Park offers residents a warm, welcoming community to call home.
AU Park was first developed into a residential area in the 1920s. Today, the majority of the neighborhood is composed of single-family homes. The rate of homeownership is high. Charming brick bungalows and two-story Colonials are trademarks of the area; many have been updated since their establishment. The lots are closely situated, and numerous homes include front porches or stoops. Residents find the shared outdoor spaces of front yards and back alleys to strengthen the sense of community. The community has been described as a collective playground for neighborhood children.
Amenities
While AU Park is primarily residential, the nearby options for dining, shopping, and entertainment are numerous. Massachusetts and Wisconsin Avenues border the neighborhood, providing metropolitan amenities. Tenleytown and Spring Valley serve as the perfect spots for grabbing a coffee, doing some shopping, or enjoying a bite to eat. Since 1925, Wagshal’s market and deli have been a go-to place for locals—but the establishments are also known for drawing in celebrities and even presidents. Residents don’t have to go far for every day shopping needs thanks to Whole Foods, Target, Ace Hardware, and the public library, which are all within comfortable walking distance to the neighborhood. For the arts, the American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center is always offering new experiences. The outdoor center of the community is Turtle Park, where visitors can play tennis or basketball. Kids enjoy the large playground year round—and everyone loves the turtle statues found throughout the grounds. During warmer months there is even a spray ground/splash park that kids love.
Transportation
Quick access to the amenities of DC is one reason why residents love AU Park’s location. Living in a peaceful, shaded neighborhood makes for a friendly atmosphere tucked away from the city’s hubbub. However, downtown DC is still less than a thirty-minute drive away. A Capital Bikeshare Station and Zipcars ensure transportation is easy without a vehicle. There are also two Metro stations nearby; Tenleytown-AU station is located to the east, while Friendship Heights station is to the north.
About
The suburban community may sit on the border of Maryland, but the neighborhood is still within DC’s Northwest quadrant. AU Park gets its name from the acclaimed American University, which was established by Congress in 1893. Rated by Niche as the #2 neighborhood in DC to raise a family, AU Park offers residents a warm, welcoming community to call home.
AU Park was first developed into a residential area in the 1920s. Today, the majority of the neighborhood is composed of single-family homes. The rate of homeownership is high. Charming brick bungalows and two-story Colonials are trademarks of the area; many have been updated since their establishment. The lots are closely situated, and numerous homes include front porches or stoops. Residents find the shared outdoor spaces of front yards and back alleys to strengthen the sense of community. The quiet suburb has been described as a collective playground for neighborhood children.
Amenities
While AU Park is primarily residential, the nearby options for dining, shopping, and entertainment are numerous. Massachusetts Avenue borders the neighborhood, providing metropolitan amenities. The Spring Valley Shopping Center serves as the perfect spot for grabbing a coffee or enjoying an ice cream. Since 1925, Wagshal’s market and deli have been a go-to place for locals—but the establishments are also known for drawing in celebrities and even presidents. Residents can meet their everyday shopping needs thanks to a Whole Foods in comfortable walking distance to the neighborhood. For the arts, the American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center is always offering new experiences. The outdoor center of the community is Turtle Park, where visitors can play tennis or basketball. Kids can enjoy the large playground—and everyone loves the turtle statues found throughout the grounds.
Transportation
Quick access to the amenities of DC is one reason why residents love AU Park’s location. Living in a peaceful, shaded neighborhood makes for a friendly atmosphere tucked away from the city’s hubbub. However, downtown DC is still less than a thirty-minute drive away. A Capital Bikeshare Station and Zipcars ensure transportation is easy without a vehicle. There are also two Metro stations nearby; Tenleytown-AU station is located to the east, while Friendship Heights station is to the north.
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