Written By Malcolm Lawson
To the south of Washington D.C. and to the north-west of Waldorf is Fort Washington in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Despite being a suburb of the capital, the community has a rural feel that homeowners love. This is enhanced by the many parks and an abundance of nature.
About Fort Washington
The name Fort Washington is derived from the fact that this community began as a fort— in fact, the fort was the only one to protect Washington D.C. during the War of 1812. Completed in 1809, the fort was an earthwork on the shore of the Potomac River. Unable to stop the invasion of a British fleet, it was later replaced by a large stone fortification. This was used for the US Army’s Adjutant General’s School in World War II — and still stands today.
Homes for Sale in Fort Washington, MD
The median home price in Fort Washington is $395,676, which is just slightly higher than Maryland as a whole, where the median price is $332,500. The vast majority of residents own their homes. The median rent in Fort Washington is $2,084.
Living in Fort Washington, Maryland
Fort Washington is a welcoming community with a majority African American population. Most of Fort Washington lies to the west of Maryland Route 210, although a small part is on the east side of the highway. Many public transit routes serve the community, including several Metrobus routes. There are also three Amtrak stations nearby: Alexandria, Washington, and Lorton.
Schools in Fort Washington
A number of above-average public schools serve Fort Washington. Some of the largest elementary schools include Apple Grove Elementary, Fort Foote Elementary, Tayac Elementary, and Fort Washington Forest Elementary. Middle schools in the area are Isaac J. Gourdine Middle, Oxon Hill Middle, and Accokeek Middle. There are also two public high schools: Friendly High School and Oxon Hill High School.
Due to its proximity to Washington D.C., several colleges and universities are just a short distance from Fort Washington. In addition, the community is only a few miles from Strayer University (both the Suitland campus in Maryland and the Arlington campus in Virginia) as well as from Medtech Institute in Falls Church.
Parks in Fort Washington
The highlight of the community is Fort Washington National Park. There is no longer an entrance fee to visit the grounds, fort, and visitor center — you only need to pay if you want to reserve a picnic area. The park is an excellent place to learn about African American history, hike along the Potomac River, and spot wildlife, especially a wide range of birds. You can also walk the grounds of the 18th-century mansion Harmony Hall (the mansion itself is not open to the public).
There are also many more parks in Fort Washington. Some of the most popular are:
- Fort Foote Park — Another fort turned national park, although this fort was active from between 1863 and 1878 and briefly during both World Wars.
- Potomac River Waterfront Park — Many biking and hiking trails with spectacular views from the bridge.
- Riverview Recreation Center — Great for a variety of sports, including football and basketball, as well as for relaxing with the family.
- Betty Blume Park — A small playground with a tennis court and picnic area.
Shopping in Fort Washington, MD
There are five shopping centers in Fort Washington:
- Potomac Shopping Center
- Olde Forte Village Shopping Center
- Forest Plaza Shopping Center
- Livingston Square Shopping Center
- Fort Washington Shopping Center
Things to Do in Fort Washington
In addition to shopping and parks, there is plenty to do in Fort Washington. A favorite activity with residents is attending the horse races at Rosecroft Raceway, which has held numerous famous harness races since it opened in 1949. However, if you’re looking to participate in a sport yourself, you have several options. For instance, you could play a round at the National Golf Club, rent a kayak to go out on the Potomac River, skate at Tucker Road Ice Rink, or take a class at Delana’s Yoga Suite.
Finding a Place to Live in Fort Washington, Maryland
To make Fort Washington your home, you need support from a real estate agent who knows the area well. Reach out to our team for help finding the perfect property.
Check Out These Latest Fort Washington Homes For Sale
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