Bordering the suburbs of Washington, DC, sits Takoma Park– the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
This weekend, hop on the metro and make your way to this community oasis and small hub for the arts.
Stay at a charming bed and breakfast. Treat yourself to a spa day at the tucked away Still Point Spa. Or visit their historic sites with a picnic lunch in hand. Here’s our edit of your perfect weekend in Takoma Park.
Shop at Takoma Park Farmers Market
Every Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm Takoma Park hosts their year-round farmer’s market in the middle of the town’s historical business district. Finding the freshest produce from meats and cheese to eggs and homemade baked goods has never been more easy and appealing.
Finding fresh produce, from meats and cheese to eggs and homemade baked goods has never been more appealing.
You can walk from vendor to vendor and watch street performers while simultaneously eating barbecue pulled pork sandwiches from Cabin Creek Heritage Farm. Or try a bison meatball sub from Breezy Meadows Farm. Local brewing companies and wineries are also on hand selling growlers and bottles of their latest brews.
Visit: Laurel Ave, Takoma Park, MD 20912 | 301-891-6789 | Website
Visit Fort Stevens and Battlefield National Cemetery
Once you’ve finished visiting the market, take a picnic lunch on a long walk to Fort Stevens, a partially restored Civil War Fort. Many of the defenses are still visible, along with several cannons, and guides are happy to regale visitors with the history of the battle that took place over 150 years ago.
On top of the parapet is a commemorative stone for President Abraham Lincoln, who had been present during the battle, as it was the only military event in which he came under direct fire from the enemy.
Visit: 13th St NW & Quackenbos Street NW, Washington, DC 20011 | Website
Take Time to Reflect at Battlefield National Cemetery
A short half mile walk away, is the Battlefield National Cemetery, where many of the casualties from the battle are buried. The one-acre cemetery features four monuments commemorating the units that fought and the scenery and solitude of this place make it ideal for a picnic and time spent in quiet meditation; an excellent reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Visit: 6625 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20012 | Website
Browse Handmade Goods at Art Spring
Looking for something handmade? ArtSpring is the place to go. This shop has one of a kind items from jewelry, knitwear and silk scarves to furniture, paintings, and woven rugs. It is run completely by volunteers to fully support the artists and their work, and it is guaranteed that you will find something new on every visit.
Visit: 7002 Carroll Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912 | 301-495-3425 | Website
Escape to Covered Market
Covered Market features Turkish home decor, jewelry, clothing, and accessories. The windows are full of colorful stain glass lanterns reflecting the sunlight throughout the store, while intricate plates, bowls, and figures line the shelves and walls.
Visit: 7000 Carroll Ave D, Takoma Park, MD 20912 | (301) 270-1219 | Website
Indulge at The Still Point Spa
The Still Point Spa is the perfect out-of-city getaway. The quaint spa offers a wide range of holistic treatments that are largely organic.
Enjoy a massage or try their acupuncture treatment. The spa also offers private yoga sessions personalized towards your body and a wide range of all-natural skin products to try.
Visit: 6 Grant Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912 | 301.920.0801 | Website
Dine at Takoma Station Tavern
For a sit-down meal head to Takoma Station Tavern, where the music is live and the dishes are hearty. Each night a new act features soul or jazz. The restaurant boasts an open ceiling design, warm brick walls, and plenty of tables and stools.
Visit: 6914 4th St NW, Washington, District of Columbia | (202) 829-1999 | Website
Stay at Eden Park Guest House
If you’re planning on staying overnight, make a reservation at the Eden Park Guest House— a Victorian Bed & Breakfast complete with antique furniture and decor.
Located in the heart of the historic district of Takoma Park and surrounded by oak trees, the B&B exudes tranquility.
Each of their 9 rooms has its own theme. You can choose from the Ambassador Room with a king size bed and private bath (complete with jacuzzi) to the simpler Liberty Room featuring a full bed and a shared bathroom.
After enjoying your complimentary continental breakfast, it’s just a short walk into town.
Visit: 7063 Carroll Ave, Takoma Park, MD 20912 | (301) 270-8210 | Website
Feature photo by Rachel James