I worked on the St. E’s grounds in the early 90’s. Some beautiful buildings and scenery there, as well as small 5-10 stone Civil War graveyards. Great view too.
The rest of Anacostia, well...
There are some nice areas off Branch Avenue, Alabama Avenue and Ridge Road. Hillcrest is all new. Westover is one of the best kept secrets in DC. Even the old downtown has spruced up considerably.
Yes, it's still patchy and a work in progress, but a big fedjob center at St. E's will make a big difference.