American University Park is a neighborhood in NW DC. AU Park consists almost entirely of single-family homes and therefore has a community feel with hidden gems throughout the family-friendly neighborhood perfect for bringing the little ones. The area connects to Tenleytown which has some perfect places that warrant their own neighborhood guide {coming soon}.
Perfect playgrounds–
Friendship Recreation Center at Turtle Park and St. Columba’s School playground
Turtle Park is a newly renovated playground that has 2 sections; 1 for the younger kids that is fenced in with a large sand area and age appropriate structures and another that is open with higher climbing structures. A sprinkler that comes on in the summer, indoor facilities, basketball and tennis courts as well as 4 baseball fields. There are picnic benches and shaded areas to cool off at.
St. Columba’s School playground is connected to the Nursery School but they allow visitors to play when school is not in session. The playground has wood chips and many wood play structures. Lots of room to run around, tire swings and regular swings are sure to keep your kids smiling.
Sled and play at Fort Bayard playground.
Wagshals is a “family of fine foods since 1925” shop offering made-to-order sandwiches and makes for a perfect place to fill up a picnic basket at.
Coffee and a pastry anyone?
Le Pain Quotidien and Compass Coffee
LPQ as we call it at our house because we can’t pronounce it properly, is a great place to grab a breakfast treat, coffee or stay for brunch.
Compass Coffee has opened yet another awesome location with a children’s nook and happens to be nestled in between LPQ & Starbucks, so there is no shortage of caffeine in Spring Valley!
Best places to eat {outside}–
Millie’s & Pizzeria Paradiso
Millie’s is brought to you by the owners of Surfside & Jetties. After dinner (or skip dinner) walk up to the outdoor ice-cream stand (attached to the take-out hut) and grab delicious scoops and toppings.
Pizzeria Paradiso will satisfy everyone. Head to the back of the restaurant and test your luck at some video games while you wait for your food. Sit outside when it’s nice and your kiddos can play on the colorful rocking chairs and chalk.
Workout-
Barre 3 offers Play Lounge which welcomes Bambinos 18 years and under. It’s easy to fit exercise into your life when you can bring the kids!
Technically not AU Park but close enough-
Sullivan’s Toy Store
Sullivan’s Toy Store is D.C.’s oldest operating toy store; it has been around since 1954, owned by the Sullivan family. It’s the favorite local place to get birthday gifts or to just browse the shelves for the newest craze.
Theatre–
Support AU and checkout the schedule for the Katzen Arts Center
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