Have you been considering a move to Woodley Park? Do you love its serene streets lined with beautiful row houses? Do you enjoy how it manages to be a quiet haven while still providing a trendy nightlife within close proximity? If the answer is “yes,” you’ll be happy to know that this exclusive neighborhood has even more to offer than its charm and history. We don’t want you to miss out on one bit of this area’s unique appeal. We’ve compiled a list of just a few of Woodley Park’s fun attractions, gorgeous locales, and swinging hot spots to help you decide if this will be your future home.
Top Highlights of Woodley Park, DC
Rich History: Woodley Park was officially developed in the early 20th century and is named after the historic Woodley House, built in 1801 by Philip Barton Key.
Proximity to Nature: The neighborhood is home to beautiful green spaces, such as the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Rock Creek Park, and Bishop’s Garden, offering numerous outdoor activities and stunning scenery.
Unique Activities: Woodley Park offers unique attractions like The Mansion on O Street, a venue that hosts events, concerts, and treasure hunts, and ArtJamz Dupont Studio, where you can enjoy art classes with wine.
Delicious Dining Options: Woodley Park has a variety of excellent restaurants, from Hot ‘N’ Juicy Crawfish for seafood lovers to The Pembroke for fine French cuisine, and Open City for comfort food.
Pet-Friendly Restaurants: Many restaurants in the area welcome pets, offering a great dining experience for both you and your furry friends.
Comedy and Entertainment: The DC Comedy Loft provides laughter-filled evenings, while the National Theatre offers world-class performing arts performances.
Live Music Venues: For those who love outdoor music, Woodley Park and its nearby venues host live performances, making it a great place to enjoy live entertainment in a relaxed atmosphere.
Upscale Living: Woodley Park offers upscale apartment living with thoughtful amenities like pet-friendly policies, environmentally conscious features, and convenient on-site maintenance.
A Little History, a Little Haunting
A relatively new area of town, Woodley Park wasn’t officially built until the early 20th century. As this beautiful area developed, it became clear that it was aptly named. Its residents and newcomers alike can’t resist the classical-style houses surrounded by the park-like atmosphere of abundant greenery and flowers. And as far as the “Woodley” part goes, the neighborhood was not, in fact, named after a gentleman named Woodley, but after a particular house. A beautiful home constructed in Washington DC in 1801 was titled the Woodley House by Philip Barton Key (Francis Scott Key’s uncle), who had the grand home built for his family after the Revolutionary War. And yes, this lovely old building is still standing! You can see it at 2731 Connecticut Ave NW. We’ll leave it up to you to decide whether the house is haunted or not — perhaps it’s only haunted by good memories?
Parks: Green Spaces and Beautiful Places
Naturally, the Smithsonian National Zoological Park is the biggest and most spectacular park around, so we know you’ll adore admiring their 390 different species of animals (2700 animals in all). You can check out mole rats and sand cats in the Small Mammal House, or head over to the Elephant Trail and watch their six resident Asian elephants lounge, eat, or bathe. Maybe you’d like to visit the petting zoo and cuddle a few fuzzy critters. Best of all, the zoo is free!
Rock Creek Park is just the place to retreat for an afternoon getaway. You can take a relaxing (or energizing) walk in this natural oasis nestled right in the heart of civilization. With 32 miles to explore, you’re sure to have a great time. Don’t forget to check out their Nature Center and Planetarium.
Right outside the National Cathedral is the breathtaking Bishop’s Garden. You can stroll through 59 acres of courtyards bursting with flowers of every color, listen to the gentle bubbling of fountains, and walk along meandering stone paths. Or, treat yourself to a guided tour and learn the history and facts behind all the thriving plants, roses, and awe-inspiring architecture. You can stop at the cafe for lunch or grab a cup of coffee as you unwind.
Woodley Park Activities to Keep the Fun Happening
If you’re looking for something zany and different, then you must pop over to The Mansion on O Street. Known as “the epicenter of the next generation,” not only does this eclectic venue host concerts and other fun events, but they also have a museum, treasure hunts you can sign up for, and a variety of tours including food and drink tasting.
Practice your art skills and have a blast at ArtJamz Dupont Studio, and have a glass of delicious wine while you’re at it! Affordable, friendly, and enjoyable, they hold guided classes as well as private and special events. ArtJamz also features “pop-ups,” in which art sessions are conducted at exciting off-site locations.
Top Woodley Park Restaurants With Irresistible Cuisine
Hot ‘N’ Juicy Crawfish serves only the best in seafood. You can buy crawfish by the pound or enjoy a feast of catfish, soft shell crab, king crab legs, shrimp, or mussels and clams.
If you’d like to indulge in some fine French cuisine, then The Pembroke is a must-do. It’s no wonder they’ve been featured in The Washington Post and Destination DC, with dishes like Miso Glazed Halibut, Maryland Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, and Octopus à la Plancha. Whether you’re prowling for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’re sure to slip away to food paradise in the stunning atmosphere.
Open City serves American comfort food the way it was intended: in a casual, relaxed setting with good vibes! Open City loves celebrating diversity and the need to take a breather from the hustle and bustle of the metro area. Offering vegetarian and gluten-free options, you can order your burger and eat the bun, too.
If you’d prefer to take your four-legged friend with you, that’s totally an option! We’ve hunted around for some of the coolest pet-friendly restaurants in Woodley Park.
Kick Back and Let the Entertainers Entertain
We’ve all heard that laughter is the best medicine, and while we may not know who said it, we all agree that that guy (or gal) was right! The DC Comedy Loft is sure to keep you laughing. While talented comedians keep the good times rolling, you can grab a mouth-watering bite from the Bier Baron Tavern. Entrees include such offerings as Wagyu burgers, chicken pot pies, and bar tacos. When you’re eating that well, it’s impossible to frown!
Pay a visit to the historic National Theatre where you can soak in a night of the performing arts. This elegant concert hall has featured distinguished acts such as Walt Disney’s Fantasia, Ben Hur, Motown the Musical, Beetlejuice, and Les Misérables.
Maybe your idea of kicking back is better expressed in open spaces and fresh air? If that’s the case, we’ve put together some of our favorite live outdoor music venues near Woodley Park here.
For more fun events, beautiful places, eateries, and helpful tips on making the most of your apartment experience, feel free to explore our blog — Washington DC’s number one local living resource.
Our Apartments: Historic Grandeur Meets Class A Service
If you’re ready for upscale living in Woodley Park, we are prepared to help you make the exciting transition. We’re dedicated to providing a positive environment through thoughtfully designed space plans, ample storage areas, and beautiful flooring. You’ll love our pet-friendly and environmentally conscious amenities. We also provide 24-hour on-site maintenance and even offer fully furnished apartments for your convenience. Contact us today and begin your new life in this amazing corner of Washington DC that you’ll love to call home!
Woodley Park, DC: FAQs on Attractions, Dining, and More
What is the history of Woodley Park?
Woodley Park was officially developed in the early 20th century and is named after the historic Woodley House, which was built in 1801 by Philip Barton Key, the uncle of Francis Scott Key. The neighborhood has since blossomed into a beautiful area with classical-style houses and lush greenery.
What parks and natural spaces are available in Woodley Park?
Woodley Park offers stunning green spaces such as the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Rock Creek Park, and the Bishop’s Garden. These parks provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, scenic walks, and relaxation in nature.
What unique activities can I enjoy in Woodley Park?
Woodley Park is home to unique attractions like The Mansion on O Street, where you can enjoy events, concerts, and treasure hunts. Additionally, ArtJamz Dupont Studio offers fun art classes paired with wine for a creative and social experience.
What dining options are available in Woodley Park?
Woodley Park offers a variety of dining options, including Hot ‘N’ Juicy Crawfish for seafood, The Pembroke for fine French cuisine, and Open City for casual comfort food. There are plenty of choices to suit different tastes and dining preferences.
Are there pet-friendly restaurants in Woodley Park?
Yes, many restaurants in Woodley Park are pet-friendly, allowing you to dine with your furry friends. These spots ensure both you and your pet have an enjoyable experience.
Where can I find entertainment in Woodley Park?
The DC Comedy Loft is a popular spot for laughter and live comedy. Additionally, the National Theatre hosts world-class performances, providing ample entertainment options for those interested in the arts.
Are there live music venues near Woodley Park?
Woodley Park and its nearby areas feature live music venues, offering outdoor performances that allow you to enjoy music in a relaxed and open setting, making it a great spot for music lovers.
What makes living in Woodley Park special?
Woodley Park offers upscale apartment living with thoughtful amenities, such as pet-friendly policies, environmentally conscious features, and convenient on-site maintenance. It’s a great place to call home for those seeking comfort and convenience in Washington DC.
