Langdon
Enjoy recreational activities and attend concerts by big-name international acts in Langdon. This green, quiet corner of the city is far removed from the tourist-heavy neighborhoods of Capitol Hill and Downtown Washington D.C. Many couples and young families have moved to this suburb for the relaxed, peaceful atmosphere and have made their homes in the pretty Queen Anne-style or colonial houses common here.
At the heart of Langdon is Langdon Park. This large recreational area has a children’s playground, a dog park and skate park. There’s basketball and tennis courts, too, plus a community center with indoor sporting activities. An outdoor public swimming pool opens during the summer months.
Don’t miss the area of the park called the Chuck Brown Memorial Park. It celebrates the late American musician Charles Louis Brown, who was otherwise known as the Godfather of Go-Go. Visit the park on August 22 for the annual Chuck Brown Day. Listen to free live music performances by bands paying homage to the music of the legendary singer-songwriter.
For more music, go to the southern corner of the neighborhood and the Echostage arena. It hosts up-and-coming bands in addition to world-famous acts such as Armin van Buuren and James Bay.
Combine your time in Langdon with a visit to the nearby United States National Arboretum. Walk amid the 446 acres (180 hectares) of themed gardens and woodland or take a guided tram tour. Check out the National Capitol Columns, a collection of Corinthian-style columns that reflect elegantly in a pool. Marvel at the displays of bonsai trees at the National Bonsai and Penjing Museum.
The most convenient way to reach Langdon is to take the metro to Rhode Island Avenue Metro Station. From the station, it’s about a 15-minute bus ride or a 30-minute walk to the quaint houses and leafy streets of Langdon.