Those looking for a DC zip code without the DC chaos will find their match in Spring Valley, which feels much more like a suburb than part of a bubbling metropolis. The neighborhood’s claim to fame comes from hosting up to three presidents, as well as many other noted politicians in its history. However, despite this highly political history there’s much more going on in Spring Valley, which in recent years has become well known for its proximity to American University and the many successful businesspersons and entrepreneurs who call the area home.

On the Edge of DC

Spring Valley is shaped like a half-circle and is bound by Massachusetts Avenue to the northeast, Dalecarlia Parkway to the west, and Loughboro Road and Nebraska Avenue to the south. Much of the neighborhood’s southeastern corner is taken up by American University’s main campus.

Driving May be Best Bet

Because of its suburban layout, owning a car is the easiest way of getting around the neighborhood. There is no metro stop in the neighborhood, the closest one being the Tenleytown-AU station on the Red Line, about a mile and a half away. However, there are many buses that run straight down Massachusetts Ave to downtown DC. For cyclists, the Capital City Crescent trail has nearby points.

Those looking to commute to work don’t need to be worried, Foggy Bottom & Dupont are only 15 – 20 minutes away, and this small increase in travel outside of the city means a big decrease in major traffic. Additionally, the GW parkway, 66 and 495 are easily reachable so Northern Virginia and Maryland are much more accessible to Spring Field than other locations in the District.

Large Houses with Matching Price Tags

The Spring Valley neighborhood is known for its colonial, brick-front houses that are similar in price to nearby neighborhoods. However, with its oak-lined streets, distinct styles and sprawling square footage, Spring Valley feels much less compact than similarly priced neighborhoods, such as Georgetown. The further south you head in Spring Valley the bigger the houses get, and most of the housing stock here is considered luxury real estate.

An Explosive History and Famous Residents

Prior to World War I, Spring Valley was used as a munitions testing site for chemical weapons such as mustard gas. However, as developers have moved in and The Environmental Protection Agency has done work to clean up soil and grounds in the area and at American University, housing value has remained unaffected and residents have not had to worry.

In addition to its military history, Spring Valley can boast of being the home of many notable figures, including Richard Nixon and Lyndon Johnson before they became president. Also among the political elites who inhabit the area is former Attorney General Eric Holder. The area also hosts many embassy residences such as the ambassadors’ houses of South Korea, Canada, Croatia, Mexico, Bahrain, Qatar, Uganda, Chile, Luxembourg, Algeria and Yemen.

Suburban Feel with a City Zip Code

Spring Valley is a very noncommercial neighborhood, which contributes to its suburban vibe. The Spring Valley Shopping Center, located on Massachusetts Ave, is the neighborhood’s main hub, containing a few banks, Crate and Barrel, Starbucks and an Exxon gas station. Most importantly, though, the strip mall is home to Washgal’s deli, which has served the neighborhood since 1925. Though a bit pricey, as everything is in this area, it is a favorite with local residents.

When it comes to dining out, residents have limited selections. Massachusetts Ave does have Le Pain Quotidien and a Tara Thai, but for other options residents gladly make the short trip to Cleveland Park, Georgetown or Glover for the many bars and restaurant options they have to offer. 

To Sum it all Up

With its quiet streets and easy-going pace, residents here will enjoy the break Spring Valley offers from the busy life of downtown DC. Its limited traffic and low crime rate make it an attractive option for people who can afford the hefty price tag that comes with living here.