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Petworth Washington DC A funky, friendly neighborhood with plenty of entertainment and unique shopping.

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History and Flavor

Updated 2-23-2023

Located in Northwest DC and bounded by Rock Creek Church Yard and Arkansas Avenue, Petworth is, like many in-town neighborhoods, experiencing something of a renaissance. But it hasn’t forgotten its roots and its artistic sensibilities. 

Petworth has become one of the most desirable neighborhoods in DC, even being named the most flippable neighborhood in the US in 2015. Petworth’s artistic sensibility is displayed in the many murals throughout the neighborhood. From Kansas Avenue’s “Senhora dos Tempos” to the doors of Rock Creek Market to the Upshur Street Petworth sign, street art is celebrated in the community.

A haven for porch-sitters, strollers, and friendly folks of all ages, Petworth encourages community through events like Petworth Community Market, Petworth Jazz Festival, and other neighborhood events. Petworth Park hosts Petworth Dance and The Petworth Jazz Project, bringing free outdoor performances to the area.

For reasonable prices on already finished spaces, check out the many condo conversions in the neighborhood. You can own a spacious, updated (but small) condo in one of the area’s historic areas for around $300. One of the classic Wardman Row Houses will cost you $700,000.

Entertainment

Parks/Music/Sites

  • Fort Totten Park – A Civil War fort constructed in 1861, was an auxiliary battery connected by earthworks covering the space along the front of the main fort. Open to the public.
  • Wangari Gardens – A 2.7-acre garden park bursting with creative potential. The community garden has a 50-fruit tree forest garden, public vegetable garden, herb garden, medicinal garden, berry garden, strawberry patch, outdoor classroom, and DC’s first public hammock!
  • Petworth Recreation Center – Home to one of the best kids’ spray parks in the city, a small green space for kite flying, and the annual summer jazz concerts on the lawn.
  • Looking Glass Lounge – Easygoing bar with stained-glass windows & other old-time flourishes, plus open-mike & quiz nights.
  • President Lincoln’s Cottage – A historic site and museum on a 250-acre campus in Northwest Washington, D.C. Abraham Lincoln made some of his most nation-changing decisions and developed the Emancipation Proclamation.

Shopping/Restaurants 

Popular Shopping and Eats

  • Loyalty Bookstore – A neighborhood spot for wonderful books and unique stationery, gifts, and programming. Their staff and selection highlight the diverse voices and creatives that make our communities great.
  • The Popular Store – Stylish and comfortable describes the clothing you’ll find at The Popular Store. From sweats to t-shirts and hoodies, you’ll stand out with this edgy attire.
  • Qualia Coffee – A small-batch roaster located in Washington, DC, focusing on carefully sourced single-origin estate and micro-lot beans. Roasting frequently and in small batches allows us to emphasize the natural variety of coffees from around the globe. 
  • Red Derby – A neighborhood staple serving an extensive list of all-canned beer, full bar, dinner, and late-night food. The Derby is a place for neighbors and friends.
  • Timber Pizza Company – Serving Neopolitan-ish wood-fired pizza using only the freshest local ingredients and incorporating new twists on traditional favorites. An offshoot of roving flea market pie purveyor with pizza & Argentinean bites like empanadas.
  • Taqueria Habanero – Taqueria Habanero has established itself as one of DC’s favorite spots for the best tacos and Mexican food. They bring you authentic Mexican cuisine with ingredients from the streets of Puebla, Mexico.

Schools

Best Public High Schools

Best Public Elementary Schools

Public Transportation

Buses/Trains

Georgia Ave & Upshur St. – Bus stop

14th St & Upshur St. – Bus Stop

New Hampshire Ave NW & Upshur St NW – Bus Stop

Georgia Ave-Petworth Metrorail Station – Subway

Median Home Price

$757,000 as of 2023

Renters: 30%

Owners: 70%

Demographics

Population 25,620

Median household income –  $129,053

Median age: 36

Families with children – 27%

High school diploma or equivalent – 15%

College Degree: 73%

43% African American

26% White

25% Hispanic

3% Asian

3% Other

Guides