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It took more than five years in D.C. before I made my first trip to Brookland in Washington, DC. After looking at more than 50 condos, I finally convinced my husband to check out a new development close to the Basilica of the National Shrine. As a Catholic, I had heard of the beautiful shrine but never made the trip, so on a Sunday afternoon, we ventured out of our comfort zone and found our new home.
Brookland, also known as “Little Rome,” is home to several Catholic institutions, including Catholic University and Trinity University. Two quiet yet vibrant campuses that provide life and culture for a well-established neighborhood. If you walk or drive around the neighborhood, you will find beautiful architecture and a great mix of row and single-family houses. One can say that Brookland is a little suburb in the city full of history. Only four miles away from the monuments, you can find kids riding bicycles in the streets, small locally owned businesses, a couple of farmer’s markets, public parks, and schools.
What is your favorite thing about raising kids in Brookland?
Convenience is the key. Although you might need a car, especially if you are further from the supermarkets, you can center your activities within a mile radius. In 20 minutes, you are in the center of everything in DC, but there are plenty of things to do and enjoy as a family without having to venture out.
It is also a very family-friendly neighborhood. Kids are welcomed everywhere, and you will find plenty of neighbors with young children.
What makes Brookland family-friendly and unique?
There are a great number of open spaces for children to play. There are several parks in the area, including school parks open to the public on weekends.
You will also find family-centered events for every holiday or special occasion organized by schools, neighbors, and small businesses. There are lots of neighborhood clothing swaps for every season, opportunities to volunteer with local charities, and the very popular Lights Trolley Tour of Brookland.
What community events or local attractions are there?
Catholic University has a great calendar of events, from recitals and plays to sports. Make sure to check out their calendar and support the student body. They also host two great free community events for Easter and Halloween. Rain or shine, you will have a set of activities to celebrate both holidays as a family.
Brookland is also home to Dance Place, a local arts campus that provides neighbors with a great selection of classes for all ages as well as a wide range of special performances.
The neighborhood is a great place for summer. You can cool off at Turkey Thicket’s splash park, head indoors to their pool, or take a little ride to the newly renovated Langdon Park Pool. You can also take a nice walk through the beautiful gardens at the Franciscan Monastery and, if you have time, take one of their guided tours.
Why would you recommend Brookland to families?
Brookland has a very active and engaged community. There are a number of listservs and Facebook groups, such as Brookland Kids, Brookland DC, and Brookland Mom’s Happy Hour. These groups are a very good source of second-hand items, playdates, and just overall parent support.
If you have a child that stays home with you or a nanny, there are plenty of options for entertainment during the day, from story times to dance classes, and it’s always easy to hop on the red line and head to the National Zoo.
What nearby schools or childcare places do kids go to?
Brookland and its vicinity are home to a great number of public, charter, and private schools. The community also organizes a yearly lottery mixer where local parents can connect with each other and learn about the public schools in the area. The list of options is extensive:
- Scrilli School
- Little Workers of Sacred Hearts
- Petit Scholars
- Inspired Teaching PCS
- Lee Montessori PCS
- Shinning Stars Montessori Academy PCS
- Mary McLeod Bethune PCS
- Hope Community School PCS
- DC Prep PCS
- City Arts and Prep PCS
- Perry Street PCS
- Elise Whitlow Stokes PCS
- Mundo Verde 8th Street Campus
- St. Anthony Catholic School
- Noyes Elementary
- Brookland Middle School
- Washington Leadership Academy
Where are your favorite places to shop in Brookland?
Salumeria, if you like fresh, Italian food. Salumeria offers a great selection of Italian products, Italian meals made from scratch, and warm bread, which are the staples of this small shop. A great option when you want to skip cooking.
Annie’s Ace Hardware supplies us with everything needed to keep our home up. Annie’s is our favorite local hardware, with a very friendly staff and a great selection of products. From plumbing to your fresh Christmas tree, they will help you out. Also, a special bonus for children who will get to enjoy fresh popcorn during their visit.
Don’t forget to stop over for coffee at Zeke’s on your way out.
For more items, you might have to take a drive to the nearby neighborhoods, where in a couple of miles, you would find Union Market, Costco, Giant, Whole Foods, Mom’s Organic Market, Target, and other big retailers.
What are some of your favorite places to eat in Brookland?
Family-friendly takes a new meaning when you visit a restaurant in Brookland. My favorite part is that your kids will get real food of great quality and flavors. You will always be welcomed with a smile and, of course, crayons and drawing paper.
Brooklands Finest has the ultimate kid’s menu. Once you try it, it will be hard to go anywhere else. The owners at Finest are committed to bringing the best quality food to your kids. Their adult menu is small but greatly sourced. Local meats and veggies are accompanied by an adult drink from their great bar, which you can enjoy while your kids draw on one of the many coloring books they have available.
Busboys and Poets is the perfect place for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with great outdoor space for the summer. Busboys is the perfect place for allergy or special diet families. My favorite is the Rise and Rhyme every Monday morning. Who doesn’t love a good coffee with storytime?
Brookland Pint has Kids eat Free on Tuesday; shall I say more? Another great kids menu with tons of seasonal events; enjoy it and taste one of their many beers on tap. It’s a great place for family brunch.
Menomale is known to have the best Napoletana pizza in DC. It is a very small but delicious restaurant with lots of character and great owners. The kids will enjoy looking at how the pizza is made and admire the beautiful custom-built oven.
Tastemakers has a small but good selection of vendors and a fun family bar. Enjoy a morning play at Noyes Park and then cross the street for a fast and delicious meal. If you like sweets, get an ice cream cookie from Captain Cookie.
Primerose DC, at first glance, seems like only a fancy and trendy restaurant. This is true, but it is also a very kid-friendly restaurant. The owners are also parents and have made the environment inviting to families. They even adjust portions on some menu items for kids. Enjoy a fancy meal without the need for a babysitter.
What places make Brookland feel kid-friendly?
Nothing says family neighborhood like a good local library. Although our library is technically in Woodridge, it is still within walking distance. This beautifully renovated library has a great area for kids, an outdoor patio, various story times, and other family-centered events.
Brookland is a place where you walk around, meet your neighbors, and where your kids can safely ride their scooters. If you want to head to the mall, you are close to the Metropolitan Branch Trail, and a 20-minute ride will get you there.
What advice would you give to families who are new to Brookland?
Get out and enjoy life outdoors, especially with little kids, since Brookland offers great parks. Head to Catholic University and walk around their beautiful campus, which is also a great source of babysitters. If you need some adult interaction, check out the list serves for events, and don’t be shy to introduce yourself to your neighbors; each block keeps pride of how much of a family they are.
Expert, experienced Realtors for Brookland in Washington, DC:
Abbott Klar Real Estate Group
For over 17 years, the Abbott Klar Real Estate Group has helped clients buy and sell homes throughout the DC Metro area. How? With expertly crafted marketing plans. With trusted agents who know the ins and outs of the region. And with an unwavering commitment to helping everyone realize their dreams of home. Whatever you’re trying to find, consider it found. And whatever you’re trying to sell, consider it sold. At Abbott Klar Real Estate Group, we’re more than just realtors. We’re your neighbors. Learn more at sellingdc.com or call 202-642-9004.