Spring Valley is one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in Washington D.C. Its leafy and hilly streets are lined with luxurious mansions, which sit on their own estates with vast gardens. As you make your way through the neighborhood, take a moment to marvel at the grand colonial and Tudor-style architecture.

Curiously, in the early 1900s Spring Valley was an undeveloped district used by the U.S. Army as a testing ground for military weapons. Today, many of the houses are built over unexploded ordinances such as bombs, grenades and land mines.

Aside from its quiet residential living, Spring Valley is home to the main campus of the American University. Experience a day in the life of a campus student by strolling amid lecture halls and perfectly groomed lawns. Spot historic buildings such as the 19th-century Hurst Hall and the elegant Battelle-Tompkins Building. A map for a self-guided tour is available to download on the university’s official website.

Be sure to visit the American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center. Browse permanent and rotating art exhibitions, which showcase work by regional, national and international artists. Learn about Washington’s art history and admire a collection of contemporary Israeli art. Admission to the museum is free and free guided tours take place every Friday.

When the sun shines, do as locals do and head to nearby Little Falls Park. Discover paved and natural biking and hiking trails spread across 160 acres (65 hectares) of woodland. Explore a section of the popular Crescent Capital Trail and enjoy scenic picnics. Look for varied wildlife, including colorful birds, lizards, snakes and turtles.

Situated in the northwest quadrant of Washington D.C., Spring Valley is easy to get to via public buses. It’s about a 20-minute journey from the neighborhood to Downtown Washington D.C. If arriving by car, park for free on the neighborhood’s streets.