Raymond Recreation Center and Playground

If you’re in the Petworth area, this rec center pulls a lot of weight for the neighborhood. The climbing structure keeps kids in the 5-12 range genuinely occupied, and there’s enough open grass and a soccer field nearby that older kids aren’t just standing around waiting for a turn. Basketball courts are well-used and the walking path is a nice touch if you’re trying to get some steps in while the kids do their thing. Parking exists, which — in this part of DC — is not something you take for granted. Close to the Metro and a solid stretch of shops on Georgia Ave, so it’s easy to fold into an afternoon rather than making it a whole separate trip.