I will try my best not to be biased towards this delicate quadrant of the city, however I have lived here for several years with my daughters for a reason.
Southwest is the smallest of all the quadrants in Washington, D.C., making one feel as though they are residing in the suburbs rather than a bustling city.
This could be accredited to many different aspects of living in Southwest, such as the laid back nature of its' residents or perhaps the smell of fresh crabs coming from the Wharf each afternoon.
Quiet, mature, tree-lined streets would best describe the neighborhoods in this quadrant. It also boasts a beautiful duck pond on 6th and I St. and a quaint library as the icing on the cake.
Living in close proximity to jogging and bike trails, the National Mall and Haynes Point affords residents the opportunity to get into the best shape of their lives while here.
Southwest currently has a much anticipated project at the Wharf in the works, encompassing 24 acres of land and more than 50 acres of water. It will feature 3 million sq. ft of residential, office, hotel and retail space, and more. The project is scheduled for completion in 2017 as evidenced by the dozens of cranes hinting at what is to come. The views that this development boasts will be by far the best that the city has to offer.
What I like best about living in this area is that no matter what neighborhood you reside in within the Southwest quadrant, you are always within a 10 minute walk to the metro.
What I prefer the least about living in the Southwest quadrant would have to be the scarce variety of restaurants in the area.
If you want some good grub you would have to take 10 minutes to get to Chinatown or Navy Yard for some good eats.