Shipley Terrace

As you cross Southern Avenue, you might not realize you stepped into another state. A neighborhood on the outskirts of Washington, Shipley Terrace offers the convenience of life in the capital and the comfort of a caring community.

Located at the Washington border against Prince George County, Shipley Terrace is home to over 10,000 people. Sidewalks connect each residential street, from Randle Heights to Archer Park. While subdivisions like Asheford Court feature single-family homes with colonial-style architecture and attached garages, others like Randle Heights and Archer Park include town houses with compact yards and the occasional driveway. Though some homes boast a construction date in the early 2000s, most homes date back to the mid-1940s. Three- and four-bedroom town houses range from $410,000 to $550,000. For single-family homes, three-bedroom properties cost between $405,000 and $679,000, and four bedrooms cost up to $735,000.

Oxon Run Park adds appeal to the neighborhood, as it’s the largest park in Washington limits. Oxon Run consists of over 125 acres of green space along the border between Washington and Maryland. Walk through the park’s many trails, shoot some hoops on the basketball court or practice your pull-ups on the outdoor gym equipment. Events are also hosted in the park, fostering engagement with clean-up days, kite runs, story times and community feedback sessions.

The Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Center adds additional value to the neighborhood and ensures there’s no shortage of activity in Shipley Terrace. Home to several non-profit organizations, an urban farm space, an art gallery and a playground, THEARC connects the community and provides opportunities to learn more about agriculture and the arts. For indoor exercise equipment, access either Fort Stanton or Anacostia Recreation Center in less than 3 miles.

For academics, students attend the District of Columbia Public Schools, beginning with Malcolm X Elementary, which earns an overall C rating from Niche. From here, students transition to John Hayden Johnson Middle School, a C-minus-rated school, and ultimately to Ballou High School. At Ballou, students can enroll in one of several academies, including the Academy of Hospitality and Tourism, Culinary Arts, Autotech and Computer Engineering. The school also offers Advanced Placement courses and partners with organizations like DC College Success Foundation to assist with college applications and Jubilee Jobs for career training and readiness.

Just as Shipley Terrace is home to the arts and local schools, the neighborhood includes a centralized grocery store, making it easy to find essentials. While THEARC Farm’s Community-Supported Agriculture program brings fresh produce close to home, Giant Food provides the perfect supplement for everyday needs. If you wake up on Saturday morning craving some fresh coffee and waffles, head to IHOP in the same parking lot as Giant, or, if you want to continue shopping at local businesses, swing by the Anacostia Arts Center less than 3 miles away and find local food vendors and markets.

Surrounded by the Congress Heights and Southern Avenue metro stations, the neighborhood ensures an easy trip to U Street, Shaw and Navy Yard. Bus routes along Congress Street Southeast also simplify travel to nearby communities, regardless of whether commuting for work or venturing out for fun. Additionally, the W3 bus connects you to the United Medical Center, less than 2 miles away. To drive on Interstate 295 and head into Alexandria, reach on-ramps within 3 miles, or, for travel cross-country, catch a cab to Ronald Reagon Washington National Airport, less than 9 miles away. For a commuter-friendly neighborhood with a passion for its people, build the life of your dreams in Shipley Terrace.

Written By

Alicia Swain

Photography Contributed By

Naleli Murry

Video By

Anne Sheridan