Beltway Bambinos

Nestled in the heart of Northwest Washington, D.C., American University Park (AU Park) is a charming neighborhood that offers plenty of family-friendly spots. AU Park has plenty of places to keep kids entertained and parents happy.

1. Playgrounds

• Friendship “Turtle” Park: A favorite among local families, this playground is located at 45th and Van Ness Street NW. The large turtle sculptures that give the park its nickname are a hit with kids, making for perfect photo ops. The park offers two separate playground areas, one for toddlers and one for older kids, with slides, swings, and climbing structures. There’s also a splash pad during the warmer months, plus plenty of benches and shaded areas for parents to relax. In the summer and fall you are sure to be able to catch a baseball game too.
• Fort Bayard Park: For a more laid-back playground experience, head over to Fort Bayard Park at River Road NW and Western Avenue. This smaller, quieter park has swings, a slide, and open green spaces where kids can run around or play ball. It’s also a peaceful spot for a family picnic.
• St. Columba’s Playground: Tucked behind St. Columba’s Episcopal Church, this lesser-known gem offers a small but well-maintained playground that’s great for younger kids. It has a shaded area, swings, and climbing structures, providing a quieter space for play compared to larger parks. Families often stop by after attending one of the church’s community events or preschool programs.

2. Family-Friendly Restaurants

• Millie’s: Located just across the street from Turtle Park, Millie’s is perfect for family dining. With a relaxed atmosphere and a menu featuring tacos, burgers, salads, and seafood, there’s something for everyone. Their outdoor seating area is great for kids, who can enjoy ice cream from Millie’s own ice cream stand while parents savor a margarita.
• Pizzeria Paradiso: Just a short drive away in nearby Spring Valley, this beloved pizzeria is great for grabbing a quick bite. The wood-fired pizzas are a big hit with kids, and they also offer sandwiches, salads, and small plates. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a great choice for a casual family meal.
• Playa Bowls: A popular chain known for its healthy, tropical-inspired bowls and smoothies. Playa Bowls focuses on offering nutritious options with fresh ingredients like acai, pitaya (dragon fruit), coconut, chia pudding, and oatmeal as the base. These bowls are then topped with a variety of fresh fruits, granola, nuts, seeds, honey, and other delicious add-ons, creating colorful and refreshing meals.
• Compass Coffee: A popular Washington, D.C. based coffee roaster and café known for its commitment to simplicity, quality, and community. Compass Coffee was created with the goal of providing high-quality coffee that’s easy to enjoy without any pretension.

3. Things to Do with Kids

• American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center: For families with older kids or those looking to introduce their little ones to art and culture, the Katzen Arts Center offers rotating exhibitions of contemporary art. The museum is free and is just a short walk from the heart of AU Park.
• Tenley-Friendship Library: Just a few blocks away from AU Park, the Tenley-Friendship Library is a great spot for a rainy day. They offer storytime sessions for toddlers and kids, as well as various children’s programs throughout the week.
• The National Zoo: Although not directly in AU Park, the National Zoo is just a short drive away and makes for an excellent family outing. Kids will love seeing the animals, and the zoo’s educational exhibits make it both fun and informative.

4. Seasonal Events

• Halloween and Holiday Celebrations at Turtle Park: Around Halloween and the winter holidays, Turtle Park hosts community gatherings that often include costume parades, games, and treats for kids. It’s a great way to meet other families in the neighborhood and join in the festive spirit.