Explore the high-end retail and laid-back dining options that line the streets of this suburban neighbourhood in the northwest of Washington D.C.

Friendship Heights is an affluent neighbourhood, which has the peaceful atmosphere of a small town coupled with all the amenities of a city. See colonial houses sitting alongside modern apartment buildings. Find luxury retailers, shopping malls and a range of restaurants. Friendship Heights sits at the northwest edge of Washington D.C. and stretches across the border into Maryland.

The neighbourhood’s combination of residential, retail and entertainment areas make it popular with families and long-time denizens. Its focal point is Wisconsin Avenue. Go to Wisconsin Place, just over the Maryland border, to find a strip of upscale outlets. Among these are well-known brands such as Christian Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Ralph Lauren.

For more shopping and a slice of entertainment, visit the neighbourhood’s two malls. Mazza Gallerie mixes affordable dining options with exclusive jewelers, homeware and leather retailers. Catch the latest Hollywood releases at the mall’s movie theatre. Browse the department stores for affordable prices at the Chevy Chase Pavilion.

Spread along the wide pavements of Wisconsin Avenue is a varied collection of bars, cafés and restaurants. Choose from family-friendly pizzerias and steakhouses to Chinese, French, Japanese and Thai cuisine.

Go to Fort Reno Park, crowned by a defensive fort used to protect the city against the Confederates during the American Civil War. During the warmer months the park is a popular picnic spot and hosts a free summer concert series.

Friendship Heights is served by the Friendship Heights Metro station, located at Wisconsin Place. From here it’s just a 20-minute metro ride into the heart of Downtown Washington D.C. Public buses also travel between the neighbourhood and the city’s downtown districts.