If you are looking for that perfect blend of walkability, easy access to downtown yet with quiet, tree-lined streets, look no further than the Alexandria neighborhood of Rosemont, located just outside downtown Old Town. This charming, early 20th century neighborhood, offers classic architecture, friendly neighbors and walkability. What more could you ask for? Well, here are a few more reasons to love where you live, Rosemont edition!
Metro Access
One of Rosemont’s most touted features is its walkability to Metro. Not one, but two Metro stops, King Street and Braddock Road, are walkable from anywhere in Rosemont! Both are stops for the Blue and Yellow lines. Amtrak service is also available at the King Street Metro station for easy access along the eastern seaboard.
Convenient to Main Roads
If Metro is not your means of commuting, rest assured many main commuter roads are also easily accessed from Rosemont. Route 1, 395, the George Washington Parkway, and The Capital Beltway-495 are all within a 10 minute drive. If you are frequent flyer, you will enjoy having Reagan National Airport just four miles up the road as well.
Close to Dining and Entertainment
Evening and weekend entertainment is just a (very) short stroll away from Rosemont, which is neighbored by both Old Town and Del Ray. Residents can walk to fabulous Del Ray restaurants such as Evening Star, Taqueria el Poblano, Cheesetique and Del Ray Pizzeria or grab dessert at The Dairy Godmother or Junction Bakery. Old Town offers countless dining options from fine dining at Brabo and Restaurant Eve to more casual meals at Faccia Luna and Hard Times Cafe. Residents can soak up the local culture in Old Town with jazz, art, dance, and more or with live music at The Birchmere or St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray.
Grape + Bean
This charming neighborhood coffee and wine bar located in the heart of the neighborhood is the perfect Rosemont gathering spot for a coffee date or happy hour Grape + Bean offers an extensive list of fine wines and craft brews. Additionally, it sells organic milk, eggs, cheeses, and handmade breads.
Parks and Recreation
Hooff’s Run Park & Greenway (also known as “Blue Park” for its bright blue playground equipment), Sunset Mini Park and Beach Park are all located in Rosemont. Hooff’s Run also features a basketball court for pickup games. Additionally, there are several church and school playgrounds. Two dog parks are nearby so your furry friend has a place to play as well!
Tree Lined Streets
Perhaps one of Rosemont’s best features is its lovely tree-lined streets. Mature oak, maple, dogwood, and locust trees create a gorgeous canopy over the neighborhood. Rosemont is a sight to behold in the spring months!
Classic Architecture
Charm abounds in Rosemont! Home styles here are primarily classic Colonials with plentiful thoughtful details. You will also find some condos and townhomes. Rosemont homes, built primarily between 1900-1920, have stood the test of time and remain attractive to house hunters a century later.
Active Citizens
The Rosemont Citizens Association plays an active role in the community, focusing on local issues such as traffic, crime, and education. There is an active listserv for Rosemont mothers as well. Rosemont is a member of the North Ridge Citizens Association, which includes a greater portion of the city. This organization sponsors several community events throughout the year, such as the annual Memorial Day Weekend “Wheel Day” parade and a holiday tree sale.
History
In 1992, the National Trust for Historic Preservation designated Rosemont as a nationally registered historic district. The Trust recognized Rosemont for its well-preserved identity as an early 20th-century neighborhood. Rosemont, named by its founders in honor of a Philadelphia neighborhood of the same name, began as a streetcar suburb. The Rosemont Station was the primary stop for the electric trolleys which ran through the neighborhood until 1932. The station was the hub of the neighborhood, serving as a meeting spot and polling location.
Many of the original street names in Rosemont have ties to our founding father, George Washington as to the nearby George Washington Masonic Memorial, which was under construction around the same time as Rosemont.
Events
Rosemont is home to several beloved annual events. Neighbors gather for an annual Fourth of July picnic as well as to watch or participate in the Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot that winds through the neighborhood.
If you’d like to learn more about Rosemont or take one of our neighborhood orientation tours, please reach out. We’d love to introduce you to this charming Alexandria neighborhood!
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