Woodley Park

From Andean bears to white-faced gibbons, about 1,800 animals make their homes at the National Zoo. The stars of the show are the giant pandas, but you’ll also find other fascinating critters like komodo dragons and African elephants living in an outsized habitat. A colorful carousel with horses, rhinos and ostriches to ride appeals to kids, as does a small train.

Locals and tourists flock to Rock Creek Park, a tree-filled ribbon defined by its namesake waterway, encompassing 2,100 acres designated by Congress in 1890. It stretches to the Maryland border, but the major entrance (down a steep hill), is here in Woodley. Expect biking and running trails, workout stations and picnic spots by the creek. There’s also access to Pierce Mill, a working 19th-century grist mill, near the lower entrance to the zoo.

Close to the Metro, Connecticut Avenue holds a busy strip of restaurants, many with sidewalk cafes. Choices include Lebanese Taverna for garlicky Mediterranean fare, brunch favorite Open City and District Kitchen for Mid-Atlantic comfort dishes and artsy cocktails in a cozy space.