Fort Totten borders the adjacent neighborhood of Riggs Park in Ward 4 of Northeast Washington D.C., Queens Chapel and Michigan Park in Ward 5 of Northeast Washington D.C., Brightwood Park and Petworth in Ward 4 of Northwest Washington D.C. Fort Totten is close to the Catholic University of America, Providence Hospital, Armed Forces Retirement Home, Rock Creek Cemetery, President Lincoln's Cottage, and Soldiers' Home Cemetery.

In addition to these Metrorail Lines, residents of Fort Totten are also served by many Metrobus routes as well.

The neighborhood takes its name from the Civil War fort located at the top of the hill.

The smaller Totten Battery, which lies 1000 feet to the north, and the connecting rifle trenches can be easily seen as well.

The modern-day park is home to a number of picnic benches as well as a Civil War centennial plaque marking the main entrance to the remains of the fort.