Neighborhood Gems: Alethia Tanner Park
Q: What is Alethia Tanner Park?
A: It's NoMa’s largest green space—a 2.5-acre community park just off the Metropolitan Branch Trail. Built on a former industrial lot, it’s now a landscaped retreat with lawns, native plantings, shaded seating, and clear sightlines to the neighborhood’s colorful murals. The park is named after Alethia Tanner, a 19th-century educator and abolitionist who worked to expand freedom and learning for Black Washingtonians.
Q: Where is it located and how do you get there?
A: The park sits at 227 Harry Thomas Way NE, a short walk from The Hale and just north of New York Avenue NE. You can reach it directly from the Metropolitan Branch Trail, or by sidewalk routes along Harry Thomas Way and R Street NE. Cyclists often enter via the trail connection, and Capital Bikeshare docks are nearby.
Q: What can you do there?
A: The park includes an open lawn for everyone's enjoyment, a children’s playground, and a dog park for off-leash runs. Its paved paths double as connectors to the trail, making it an easy starting point for a walk, jog, or bike ride. You’ll also find benches, picnic tables, and a stage structure used for seasonal concerts and community movie nights.
Q: Are there regular events or activities?
A: Yes—Alethia Tanner Park is one of NoMa’s most programmed public spaces. The NoMa BID (Business Improvement District) hosts events like CiNoMatic (an outdoor film series), weekend markets, fitness classes, and food-truck pop-ups throughout the warmer months.
Q: Why is it important to the community?
A: This welcoming, well-landscaped park anchors NoMa's balance of urban life and open space. For residents, it offers a daily dose of nature without leaving the city—somewhere to exercise, walk the dog, or meet friends outdoors. Its link to the Metropolitan Branch Trail and surrounding public art makes it both a destination and a gateway.
