The airport Metro station, compact terminal layout, and proximity to downtown DC, is really what makes DCA such an awesome airport. I think it makes up for the lack of transcon and international flights. Wheaton Plaza is a decent mall but not in the best of areas anymore. It's really not at all worth the metro ride out there. Other closer and better malls with metro access are Pentagon City Mall, White Flint Mall, Georgetown Plaza (with a little walk), and probably some others. Even just walking through the Chinatown or Georgetown areas. It's my home airport and my home town so if you have other Q's about DCA i'll try to help out.....not to mention my airline shares the CO gates and ops area there!