Cabin John, MD
Situated close to the Potomac River, Cabin John is a tree-covered community with a sense of history, funky houses, and enough retail, shopping, and community amenities to serve but not overwhelm. The community feels like a modern day country crossroads, with its winding streets, small stores, and the sense that everyone knows each other.
Cabin John lacks sidewalks and has rambling yards and tall trees, but it's best known for Union Arch Bridge, a one-lane bridge designed to bring the Washington Aqueduct across Cabin John Creek.
The community has many long-time residents, but increasingly has its share of DC professionals. Residents like that its great for all ages and pedestrian-friendly (despite mostly lacking sidewalks), where neighborhood kids roam free. The neighborhood is also boasts Clara Barton Community Center and Cabin John Park, which have sports fields and playgrounds. The C&O Canal and trails leading to the Potomac River are reachable by foot. Glen Echo Park is nearby, offering fun cultural and arts attractions for all.
Cabin John has a great variety of home styles, and becomes more eclectic each year with home renovations and new-builds. The neighborhood boasts original houses, like from Sears kit bungalows, rambling Victorians, and ranch houses. The neighborhood also has sprawling mini-mansions.
Restaurant and Retail
When neighborhood residents want to dine in the community they go to Wild Tomato, one of the community’s only sit-down restaurants. It has wood-fired pizza and new American cuisine, boasting strong reviews and consistent crowds. The only other notable local amenity is the Bethesda Co-op, a large natural foods grocery store. Cabin John has all the basics (a post office, dry cleaners, day spa, deli, and a sushi restaurant), but amenities don't abound. It is relatively close to retail outlets in downtown Bethesda and Potomac Village.
Transportation
Cabin John’s location is convenient for drivers. It's close to the Beltway and the George Washington Parkway, offering easy access to northern Virginia, Maryland, and to a lesser degree downtown DC. Life is more challenging without a car. Public transportation is limited to Ride-On buses, which arrive every 30 minutes between Cabin John to Bethesda’s Metro station on the Red line. Some residents also commute into DC via bicycle on the C&O Canal’s towpath, which takes about 45 minutes.
Schools & Safety