Brookland

An idyllic arts village with historic homes next to a thriving campus community

Welcome to Brookland

An idyllic arts village with historic homes next to a thriving campus community
 
Walking the tree-lined streets of Brookland feels like entering a small, quaint village tucked just 20 minutes from Washington D.C.’s bustling urban center. The skyline is dominated by the beauty of the Romanesque-Byzantine architecture of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, the nation’s largest Catholic church. The manicured greenspaces and white stone buildings of Catholic University, the lush gardens of the Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America, the presence of smaller churches, chapels, and monasteries—all of this contributes to Brookland’s reputation as “Little Rome.” 
 
Composed of mostly farmland until the arrival of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in the 1870s, which connected the neighborhood to the rest of D.C., Brookland has long been established as a highly desirable place to live. As part of D.C.’s northeastern sector, Brookland offers quick access to nearby parks, museums, attractions, monuments, and entertainment. This means that in Brookland, you don’t have to give up urban convenience for small-town charm. 
 
The neighborhood’s peaceful ambiance and rich history also harbor its own colorful arts community, incredible dining options, unique shops, and a local vitality that blends seamlessly with the amiable charisma emanating from the population. Here, you’ll find a mix of mid-century townhomes renovated for modern luxury, brand-new boutique condominium communities with great amenities, lovely Queen Anne-style houses, and upscale apartments located inside the red-brick facade of historic buildings. 
 

What to Love

 

People & Lifestyle

Many residences in Brookland are within walking distance of the Brookland-CUA Metro, which marries ease of transportation with the neighborhood’s quiet, serene vibe. It’s a primarily residential area, with most of 12th Street zoned for neighborhood shopping and dining. Due to the presence of the Catholic University, Brookland has a high student population. However, the population is well-balanced by families and professionals taking advantage of the historic homes, the employment opportunities of the many medical facilities in the area, and the metro’s presence.
 

Dining, Shopping, & Entertainment

Brookland is a truly eclectic blend of personalities, evidenced by its wide array of cuisines, retail options, and arts scene. Much of the commercial area is centered around 12th Street and around Michigan Avenue, where you can shop vintage clothing at Analog or pick up a one-of-a-kind art piece at any of the locations at Arts Walk
 
If you’re dining in Brookland, you’ll fall in love with the sheer variety of cultures represented. Craving some savory chicken tikka masala, flavorful curry, or the sweet, saffron-honey syrup of gulab jamun? Masala Story is the Brookland go-to for inspiring Indian cuisine that’s certain to hit the spot. Get a bite of French sophistication blended with a laid-back bistro atmosphere at Primrose, where everything from the crave-worthy cheese board to the steak frites and strawberry shortcake will have you singing their praises.
 
Pizza lovers will rejoice at the Neapolitan masterpieces of Menomale. Their ingredients are sourced from Italy’s Campania region and crafted to be as authentic as possible, making each trip to Menomale a European excursion. Lastly, but certainly not least, you can dine in at Brookland’s Finest, a bar and kitchen serving up classic American cuisine with a refreshing twist. Some of the notable menu items include their gourmet sandwiches—ranging from burgers to salmon—and mouth-watering desserts, like the chocolate chip pecan pie.
 

Things to Do

Diversity of activity can be easily found in Brookland, where you can encounter festivals, farmers markets, walking trails (Brookland’s right next to The Metropolitan Branch Trail), art, and plenty of community-focused events. The arts are valued so highly in Brookland that several districts and local businesses have teamed up to create events specifically dedicated to culture and the promotion of the arts. 
 
The renowned Dance Place is one such business. This destination offers a performance series, adult and youth dance programs, educational opportunities, and a diverse range of dance styles. Jazz enthusiasts will want to visit Jazz and Cultural Society, a classic jazz club that’s a bit of a secret to those who aren’t locals. Looking for some fitness and recreation space? The Turkey Thicket Recreation Center boasts a pool, gym, toddler room, outdoor facilities, and plenty of amenities to help you meet your fitness goals.

You won’t have to wonder where to get your fill of organic and locally sourced food—Brookland has not one but two farmers’ markets. The summer Tuesday Farmers Market Under the Bridge and the Monroe Street Farmers Market always have the freshest produce and local goods available for purchase. Another community-centered event, Porch Fest, is held on Rhode Island Avenue every year, where local porches transform into stages for this special live-music happening.
 
 
 

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