Washington DC - Southwest

The Southwest district is one of the old working class neighborhoods of Washington. Originally, it was referred to as “the island,” cut off from the city by the old Washington Canal. This seclusion kept the district separate from the rest of Washington and allowed it to grow in a different way, out of sight, out of mind.

Urban renewal revitalized Old Southwest in the 1950s. It presents a dramatic example of post-World War II urban architecture. The Potomac River flows by much of the district and provides a fine setting for lunch or dinner, as well as a cooler temperature compared with many other parts of the city during the summer.