About Congress Heights Station
Congress Heights Metro station opened on December 18, 1994, as part of the Green Line's southern extension into Ward 8, Washington DC. Situated along Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, the station anchors a neighborhood undergoing significant investment and revitalization after decades of disinvestment.
The station sits near the edge of the historic St. Elizabeths Campus — a National Historic Landmark that operated as a federal psychiatric hospital for over 150 years before being redeveloped. The western campus now houses the Department of Homeland Security headquarters, bringing thousands of federal workers to the neighborhood each day.
Congress Heights is one of DC's most historically Black neighborhoods, with deep cultural roots and a strong community identity. Local organizations and small businesses line Alabama Avenue SE and Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, and new mixed-use development near the station is expanding housing and retail options for residents.
Lines & Schedule
Peak service (Mon–Fri 5–9:30am, 3–7pm): every 10–12 min. Off-peak and weekends: every 15–20 min. First train ~5:15am weekdays. Last train ~11:30pm weekdays/Sunday, ~1:00am Friday–Saturday nights.
Nearby Attractions
Station Exits
Rider Tips
- If you're heading to DHS headquarters at St. Elizabeths West Campus, exit toward MLK Ave SE. The campus entrance is about a 10-minute walk. Security-badged personnel should allow extra time for entry procedures.
- Metrobus routes serve Congress Heights station with connections to Anacostia, Congress Heights, and across the DC border into Prince George's County. Check WMATA's trip planner for the most current bus routes from this stop.
- Zone 1 station — peak fares to most downtown DC destinations are under $2.40 with SmarTrip. Congress Heights is one of the more affordable Metro commutes into the city center.
- The neighborhood surrounding Congress Heights station is actively developing. New mixed-use projects and community facilities are expanding, so expect the area around the station to continue changing in the coming years.
Adjacent Stations on the Green Line
Frequently Asked Questions
What is near Congress Heights Metro station?
Congress Heights Metro is near the St. Elizabeths Campus — the former psychiatric hospital now serving as the DHS headquarters. The surrounding Ward 8 neighborhood has several community centers, schools, and local businesses along Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE.
Does Congress Heights Metro have parking?
No. Congress Heights Metro station does not have a Park & Ride lot. Riders should use Kiss & Ride drop-off or nearby street parking. The closest stations with parking are Branch Avenue to the south.
How do I get to DHS headquarters from Congress Heights Metro?
The Department of Homeland Security's St. Elizabeths West Campus is approximately a 10-minute walk from Congress Heights Metro station. Exit toward Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE and follow signage for the campus. Security-credentialed personnel should allow extra time for entry procedures at the gates.