Penn Branch is a primarily residential neighborhood located on the southeast side of Washington, D.C. The neighborhood is so named for its location at the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue and Branch Avenue where a small commercial area is located. A pharmacy, convenience store, bank, and other services are located at this strip mall and can be reached on foot by residents. There are also schools and churches in the Penn Branch neighborhood, but no large shopping areas.
Penn Branch canines and their owners can enjoy lots of warm, sunny days walking the neighborhood throughout the year, but also some wet and stormy weather that will require precautions and preparation. Thunderstorms have high winds and heavy rain. Blizzards are rare, but when they do occur, postpone outings with your dog until the weather clears. Winter weather can usually be combated with a warm coat and appropriate footwear. When very humid summer conditions occur, try waking earlier or later in the day to beat the heat.
The Anacostia River and greenways are separated from homes by the Anacostia freeway. There are apartment buildings, public housing complexes, and lots of single-family detached dwellings in a variety of architectural styles. Properties are well landscaped and maintained and there are lots of large trees lining residential roads. Most roads have separate sidewalks for pedestrians and pets to walk on, however, some residential areas do not.
The area is located at a high altitude and there are some inclines and hills in the neighborhood, although they are not steep or difficult to climb.
The east side of Penn Branch is home to the Fort Davis Park and trail. This treed area connects to Fort Dupont Park and a trail system extends into this wooded area as well. Two small parks in the Penn Branch neighborhood include the Randall Circle Park and the Pope Branch Park which have small, but pretty green spaces with lawns and some trees that are worth a stop when you and your furry friend stroll by.
The Anacostia Park and Riverwalk Trail are nearby, located just west of Penn Branch.