Washington DC Neighborhood Guide: Cleveland Park

The Cleveland Park Historic District Neighborhood

Welcome to Cleveland Park, Washington DC

Cleveland Park is a historic neighborhood in DC’s Northwest Quadrant popular among families, working professionals, and senior citizens. Cleveland Park is something of an anomaly in DC. It’s right on the metro, but it’s a quiet enclave that feels less city like and more like a private, sun-dappled neighborhood brimming with Americana and charm.

The neighborhood’s beautiful historic homes, tree-lined streets and sidewalks, parks, and plenty of recreational businesses and amenities give it broad appeal among Washington DC’s diverse residents.

Like many of the Northwest Quadrant communities, Cleveland Park is a hub of growth and activity where the residents play an active role in the development and preservation of this charming, one-of-a-kind neighborhood. In fact, many of its most desirable amenities were the result of community effort.

Featured Apartments in Cleveland Park

If you are looking for an apartment in DC and want to be a part of a cherished neighborhood with plenty of dining, social events, and shopping, consider making a Cleveland Park apartment your home.

The Parkway

Cleveland Park

This renovated Cleveland Park vintage apartment building gives residents access to all the convenience of downtown and urban living while being quietly nestled away from all the hustle and bustle of the city.

| Check Availability

The Parkway lounge area in Washington, DC

Sedgwick Gardens

Cleveland Park

This Cleveland Park apartment features beautiful architecture, expansive floor plans, and remodeled kitchens. With new designer, custom cabinetry work and built in bookcases, new windows and more, you’re sure to have a place you love to call home.

| Check Availability

Lobby area in Sedgwick Gardens complex in Washington, DC

The Rodman

Cleveland Park

The Rodman is a remodeled historic apartment building with modern units and amenities.

| Check Availability

Rooftop balcony of The Rodman in Washington, DC

The Archer

Cleveland Park

The Archer is located on Massachusetts Ave in the Embassy District and offers residents luxurious units with unparalleled views.

| Check Availability

Outdoor lounging area in The Archer apartment complex in Washington, DC

An Overview of
Living in Cleveland Park

If you live here you are a hop, skip, and a jump away from U Street, nestled up against Rock Creek Park, and within close proximity of the Zoo and the Ballet.

Cleveland Park has Walkscore of 73, meaning you can complete most daily errands without a car. While not as walkable as other NW Quadrant neighborhoods, many will say that it’s a welcome trade-off for the community’s quiet and peaceful character.

For those looking to spend quality time with their friends and loved ones outdoors, Cleveland Park might be the best place in DC to call home. Nearby to several parks and playgrounds, there’s no shortage of spots to play ball, have a picnic, ride a bike, or just enjoy the weather. Are you moving to DC and wondering what life in a Cleveland Park apartment might look like? Want to take advantage of all that this special spot has to offer? Let’s explore! Here are some of our favorite things about the neighborhood.

Cherry Blossoms in Washington, D.C.

Take in the History of DC

Did you know that Former President Grover Cleveland once bought a summer retreat home here in Cleveland Park, DC?

Or that in the 1700’s, the land was actually a large estate where the first house in Washington DC was built? And that it was the property of Revolutionary War General Uriah Forrest?

If you’re interested in learning more about Cleveland Parks history, check out the Cleveland Park Historical Society website (and sign up for their annual house tour of the neighborhood)!

Make Use of the Library

Everybody knows that the Washington DC public libraries are first-rate community service centers that offer an endless variety of classes and activities. The Cleveland Park Public Library is no different.

For adults, they offer zumba, yoga, and “wise aging” classes! But that’s not all, there’s also a history book club, mystery book club, and technology information sessions for the elderly. For kids they have homework time, craft time, chess clubs, toddler activities and more!

Take a Walk Through Cleveland Park

Cleveland Park is an incredibly pet-friendly neighborhood. With safe, walkable streets and sidewalks, multiple parks and a dog park, Cleveland Park is a highly desirable neighborhood for pet-owners.

Plus, it’s snuggled right up into Rock Creek Park, the extensive and beautiful park that runs through the middle of the city of DC.

The miles of trails that start in Cleveland Park lead to the larger park; the Melvin C. Hazen Trail, which is a highly rated walk that takes you by small waterfalls and beautiful outdoor scenery. It’s so nice to have havens like this in such a busy city!

Catch a Movie

No matter who you are, having a movie theatre in your neighborhood is always such a nice option to have. The AMC Uptown 1 theatre offers discounts on Tuesdays and offers some movies in 3D. Unfortunately, it’s recently been closed as of mid-2020. But there’s one around the corner that is planning on soon re-opening! See the website for updates here: https://www.amctheatres.com/movie-theatres/washington-d-c/amc-georgetown-14

Tour a Leader in Ecological Architecture

Another landmark of note here, just two blocks away from the Washington Ballet, is the Sidwell Friends School — the private Quaker institution that the Obama daughters attended, among others.

You can actually schedule a tour of the school and learn all the ins and outs of the institution.

Pick Up Some Healthy Food

Yes! Organic Market is one of Washington DC’s most beloved restaurant chains.

According to their website, the Cleveland Park location offers “cut fruit, fresh juice made to order, hot soup, rotisserie chickens, coffee, fresh flowers, craft beer, and domestic and imported wine. You can also purchase locally brewed MTO Kombucha at the growler station located by the juice bar.”

It might be easy to just pass this little gem by, but it’s definitely worth poking your head in there to find products similar to what you would find at Whole Foods, but with more locally sourced goods!

Who Doesn't Love Shopping?

Cleveland Park is home to DC’s largest shopping center. Nearby residents enjoy it for being “non-touristy” while offering retail, dining, and nightlife typically reserved for trendier neighborhoods.

Grab a Drink at one of Cleveland Parks Hidden Gems!

Want to meet your friends in the city but don’t want to elbow your way through an overcrowded pub in Dupont Circle, Georgetown, or Adam’s Morgan?

Cleveland Park offers it’s residents a few off-the-beaten-path places that don’t lack for anything their heavily trafficked neighbors have to offer!

Here are the top rated bars in the community to check out!

Nanny O'Briens

This cool Irish Pub in Cleveland Park is known for its burgers, easygoing staff, and the extensive beer options. They are either always playing Gaelic music or hosting a cool local music act.

Get Directions

St. Arnold's Mussel Bar

20 types of mussels, 60 types of Belgian beers. That is St. Arnold’s claim to fame. They host a delicious brunch of Saturday and Sunday (the last Sunday of the month is always a Drag Brunch!)

Get Directions

st. arnolds mussel bar in Washington, DC

Atomic Billiards

Looking for a place to relax, play darts, pool, or board games? Want a full bar to go with it? Check this one out. It’s a neighborhood favorite and has a crowd of regulars you just might fall in love with.

Get Directions

More Information on the Neighborhood of Cleveland Park:

Cleveland Park Schools

Cleveland Park’s community has many options for reputable schools in the DC public school system.

John Eaton Elementary School

A public elementary school for grades K-5 serving Cleveland Park.

Alice Deal Middle School

A diverse public middle school serving Cleveland Park residents.

Without Walls High School

A public high school with excellent academics, programs, and clubs.

Woodrow Wilson High School

A public high school with excellent academics, programs, and clubs.

Culture & Community

Cleveland Park’s community is incredibly active and genuinely invested in the growth and development of the neighborhood. Many call it their “village in the city” and have been influential in creating, maintaining, and improving the neighborhood’s many cherished amenities.

Those seeking community involvement can become a part of the Cleveland Park Citizens Association, which frequently holds community meetings to discuss neighborhood matters.

Residents that want to get out and meet the neighbors have access to the Cleveland Park Club, a family-friendly social club that hosts events, summer camp, and a pool.

There is even an annual festival,Cleveland Park Day, to celebrate the community.

Transportation

Cleveland Park is a favored community for those working in the city but seeking a more quiet and suburban lifestyle at home. This is made possible in large part due to the neighborhoods easy access to the city via the Connecticut Ave Metro Station.

Just minutes away on foot, the metro gives commuters the ability to work anywhere in the city without hassle.

There are many bus stops located on Connecticut Ave providing service to many of the city’s districts. Whether you work at George Washington University, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, Farragut Square, Georgetown, or virtually anywhere else, you will enjoy shorter commuting times than most DC residents.

Check Out The Cleveland Park Commuters Guide!

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

See Cleveland Park Transportation Info

Groceries

Yes! Organic Market Cleveland Park — Grocery specializing in premium and health-focused groceries.

Retail

Transcendence-Perfection-Bliss Of The Beyond – Greeting card, toy, and gift shop.

Propper Topper – Women’s clothing, jewelry, and accessories.

Urban Dwell – Home décor, kitchen and bath, and fashion shop.

Enzo Custom – Men’s clothing, formal wear, and bespoke clothing retailer.

Arts & Education

Morton Fine Art – Art gallery on Florida Ave

International Visions – Art gallery located on Connecticut Ave.

Cleveland Park Library – Public library on Connecticut Ave.

These are just a few of the attractions and amenities in the Cleveland Park neighborhood. The area has so much to see and do, we couldn’t possibly fit them all on this list.

Nightlife

Cleveland Park Bar and Grill – Sports bar and pub on Connecticut Ave.

Nanny O’Brien’s – Irish pub featuring live music events.

Atomic Billiards – Pool hall and bar.

Health & Fitness

Children’s National Medical Center – Pediatric hospital located on Michigan Ave.

DC Immediate and Primary Care – Primary care clinic located on Porter Street.

Georgetown University Hospital – Hospital located on Reservoir Road.

George Washington University Hospital – Hospital and emergency room on 23rd street.

Walgreens Pharmacy – Pharmacy and drug store on Connecticut Ave.

CVS Pharmacy – Pharmacy and drug store on Connecticut Ave.

Foundation Fitness of Cleveland Park – Gym nearby the Cleveland Park metro.

GNC – Supplement and vitamin shop on Connecticut Ave.

Outdoors

The Rosedale Conservatory – A pet-friendly private park that hosts community events.

Cleveland Park Club – Membership based club with a pool and community events.

Newark Street Dog Park – Dog park located on Macomb Street.

Newark Playground – Playground for children of all ages, tennis courts, and community garden conveniently located near the dog park.

Smithsonian National Zoo – Free family-friendly zoo.

Dining

Medium Rare – A favorite local steakhouse on Connecticut Ave.

Byblos Deli – Casual Mediterranean dining on Connecticut Ave.

St. Arnold’s Mussel Bar – Belgian cuisine and beer on Connecticut Ave.

Dolan Uyghur Restaurant – Restaurant specializing in Uyghur cuisine, a Central Asian people with Middle Eastern and Asian influence in their dishes.

Indique – Indian cuisine on Connecticut Ave.

Fat Pete’s Barbecue – The first location for this popular barbecue chain on Connecticut Ave.

Gas & Convenience

Exxon– Gas and convenience on Connecticut Ave.

BP – Gas and convenience on Connecticut Ave.

Sunoco – Gas and convenience on Wisconsin Ave.

Washington DC Neighborhood Guide: Cleveland Park

Welcome to Cleveland Park, Washington DC