TAKOMA PARK

Takoma Park is a nuclear-free zone. It allows immigrants who aren't citizens to vote in local elections and to run for local office.

The small city is known as the most liberal corner of the Washington metropolitan area, and is lovingly (or mockingly) called "The People's Republic of Takoma Park."

The downtown, a stone's throw from the D.C. border, has a small-town feel. It has several vintage clothing stores, a fancy pet store, free trade gift stores, a children's clothing and toy store and a boutique that specializes in organic clothes. Unlike many suburban commercial areas, it's not full of restaurants -- for years, Mark's Kitchen has been the only full-blown restaurant downtown. But Langley Park Crossroads, on the city's northeastern edge, is a hub of inexpensive ethnic restaurants.