Exploring Southwest Federal Center

A Fascinating DC Neighborhood

Home to major federal agencies and near some of DC's most beloved cultural landmarks, Southwest Federal Center is an important hub for government activity and iconic sights. Here's the need-to-know.

What are the Boundaries?

Part of the larger Southwest Washington DC area, Southwest Federal Center is bordered by the National Mall along Independence Avenue (north), the Southeast- Southwest Freeway (Interstate 395) and the Washington Channel (south), South Capitol Street (east), and 15th Street SW (west).

What's There to Do?

Some of the area's most popular attractions include:

• International Spy Museum - Fascinating exhibitions include authentic espionage tools such as lipstick pistols, cipher machines like the Enigma, and microdots used in historical espionage. Interactive experiences like the Operation Spy mission let you try your hand at decrypting messages and identifying enemy agents. Learn more about famous spies from history, from KGB operatives to modern-day intelligence agents. Visitors also love the James Bond exhibit, showcasing gadgets and costumes from the films, and personal artifacts from notorious double agents like Aldrich Ames and Robert Hanssen.

• ARTECHOUSE DC - A cutting-edge, immersive art space where digital technology and creativity come together. Impressive interactive exhibits feature vibrant projections, lights, and sounds that respond to movement or touch. It’s a place where you can explore futuristic, otherworldly environments, making it perfect for capturing unique photos and enjoying an unforgettable experience. With regularly changing, themed exhibits, it offers something fresh and exciting each time you visit. There's even a futuristic cocktail bar.

• The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum - Educating visitors about the Holocaust through powerful exhibits and historical artifacts, this museum has welcomed millions of visitors from around the world since its opening in 1993. The permanent exhibit covers three floors and includes more than 900 artifacts, historic photographs, and video footage, offering a comprehensive look through time. The museum also runs extensive educational programs, teacher training workshops, and has an online archive that connects people worldwide to digital resources and records.

• The Museum of the Bible - Explore the history, impact, and narrative of the Bible through interactive exhibits, ancient artifacts, and cutting-edge technology. One of the largest museums in the city at 430,000 square feet, it houses a diverse collection of biblical artifacts, including ancient manuscripts, Torah scrolls, and an original King James Bible. The museum aims to present the Bible’s influence across history, culture, and society without promoting a specific religious viewpoint.

• The National Mall & Museums- While technically to the north of Southwest Federal Center, we'd be remiss if we didn't mention America's most-visited national park, as well as other iconic nearby museums and landmarks that include the Smithsonian Institution, the National Museum of American History, the National Air and Space Museum, the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, and more.

Where are the closest places to eat?

• L'Enfant Plaza Food Court – Located in the L'Enfant Plaza complex, this food court offers over 20 different casual dining options. Options include chains like Roti Modern Mediterranean, Five Guys, Sandella’s Flatbread, Au Bon Pain, and Starbucks, as well as Capital Teas, an specialty tea brand based out of Anapolis.

• Sam's Hot Dog Cart - With over 1,000 glowing reviews on Google Maps, this popular food cart offers a huge variety of options and might just have the best chili dog you've ever tasted.

• Dolcezetta at the Hirschorn– Located on Independence Avenue, this local chain specializes in artisanal, old-world gelato and expertly crafted coffee and espresso drinks. Winner of Best Gelato in DC for four years in a row.

• Rice Bar - A popular spot for customizable Korean rice bowls, offering take-out and fresh ingredients like bulgogi, kimchi, and a variety of sauces.

• 2 Sisters Deli - A a casual, family-run spot known for its hearty sandwiches and breakfast options.

• Manna - Located at the Museum of the Bible, this grab-and-go spot offes Mediterranean-inspired dishes like shawarma, falafel, and hummus.

What Major Government Agencies and Companies are Based There?

• Department of Education (ED) – Headquarters of the U.S. Department of Education, responsible for federal education policy and funding.
• Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – The agency responsible for national housing policy, urban development, and affordable housing programs.
• NASA Headquarters – The central administrative office for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, overseeing the U.S. space program and research.
• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) – Part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, responsible for regulating and overseeing all aspects of civil aviation.
• U.S. Postal Service (USPS) Headquarters – The central office for the U.S. Postal Service, managing nationwide postal operations.
• Federal Communications Commission (FCC) – The federal agency that regulates interstate and international communications via radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable.
• General Services Administration (GSA) – Responsible for supporting federal agencies by managing government buildings, supplies, and services.
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – The national agency focused on environmental protection and the enforcement of regulations related to clean air, water, and land.
• U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) – An independent, nonpartisan agency that provides trade expertise to both the legislative and executive branches of government.
• National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) – An independent federal agency responsible for investigating transportation accidents and making safety recommendations.
• The Smithsonian Institute Research Centers - Supports the administrative, research, and outreach functions of the Smithsonian Institution.
• National Trust for Historic Preservation – Nonprofit dedicated to preserving and protecting America's historic places, advocating for landmark preservation across the country.

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