Takoma Playground

Takoma Playground at Van Buren Street NW is one of Washington DC's best neighborhood playgrounds — and the community around it is a big part of why. Nestled in the eclectic, tree-lined Takoma neighborhood in upper Northwest DC, this DC Parks and Recreation playground has become a social hub for local families, with a friendly, inclusive atmosphere that visiting families immediately notice.

The playground features age-appropriate equipment for toddlers through early elementary kids, with separate zones that keep the youngest players safe. An adjacent open grass area gives kids space to run, kick a soccer ball, or just burn energy in the way only open green space allows. The combination of structured play equipment and open unstructured space makes for a well-rounded visit.

Location is a major selling point. Takoma Metro station on the Red Line is less than a five-minute walk from the playground, making this one of the most transit-accessible playgrounds in DC. Families visiting without a car can reach it easily from downtown or Maryland suburbs.

The Takoma neighborhood's walkable commercial strip — home to indie coffee shops, Busboys and Poets, and casual restaurants — makes this a natural full-morning destination: playground first, lunch second.

The Takoma neighborhood itself has a welcoming, progressive, community-focused character that pervades the playground atmosphere. Parents report feeling comfortable and welcome here, with regular neighborhood regulars happy to share the space with visiting families. It's the kind of place where you might end up chatting with locals and getting neighborhood restaurant recommendations.

For DC visitors staying in upper Northwest or looking to explore beyond the Mall, Takoma Playground and neighborhood offers an authentic slice of DC family life that feels nothing like a tourist attraction.