Imagination Stage hosts dramas, workshops, summer camps, art classes and other events for kids. It encourages children to think laterally through a variety of shows, music, drama and art classes. The theater seeks to inspire and encourage young people to explore the arts through its various programs. The theater also hosts shows every season, which gives theater-goers the chance to discover and appreciate new talent.
Originally intended as a small reference library, the Library of Congress is now home to the second-largest collection of books and reading materials in the world, second only to the British Library. The collection comprises close to 100 million items, including rare documents such as the Gutenberg Bible, early drafts of the Declaration of Independence, and Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. The splendor of the magnificent Main Reading Room is just one of the attractions worth a visit at the Library of Congress. Browse through the many excellent exhibits on display in the library's three buildings, participate in a guided tour, or attend any of the concerts, lectures, and other events hosted here. The library's collection is open to all who hold a valid Reader Identification Card; however, materials cannot be taken outside the library premises. Other than the mind-blowing collection on display, the interiors of this centuries-old building are equally mesmerizing. Huge, vaulted ceilings with classic frescoes and designs, ivory pillars of Greek design, and the irreplaceable heritage surrounding the place make it one of the most iconic locations in the country.
Located just down the street from the National Air and Space Museum, the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden is one of Washington’s most renowned art museum. Here visitors stroll up a rising, circular incline and view works by Calder, Rodin, and contemporary sculptors. The special exhibits here have included the works of globally celebrated artists such as Mircea Cantor, Rivane Neuenschwander and Morris Louis. The museum's collection boasts of thousands of paintings sculptures and murals. The sunken sculpture garden across Jefferson Drive is a must-visit, wherein the Auguste Rodin's Burghers of Calais is a must-see.
Ford's Theatre, an iconic theater, is recognized as the place where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated on April 14th, 1865. A century later, in January 1968, the theater was reopened again for a performance after being under the management of numerous government organizations, including the United States Department of War and the National Park Service. Also found within Ford's Theatre is a Lincoln Museum that displays artifacts from the assassination, including the gun Lincoln was shot with. Mementos from Lincoln's life are also on display.
Originally established at a different location in 1980, 9:30 Club is widely considered to be among the best live music clubs in the country, hosting notable acts like Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Bangles, Foo Fighters, R.E.M. and many more through the years. This club somewhat resembles Dr. Frankenfurter's laboratory in The Rocky Horror Picture Show. The large, open space features a bar and a chest-high stage with an impressive sound and lighting system. Multiple bars are located throughout the venue, serving premium draft and bottled beer. Light snacks are also available for when those late night hunger pangs start kicking in.
The Atlas Performing Arts Center is a complete complex boasting theaters, studios, stages, dressing rooms, a café and a production space. With 60,000 square feet of space the center has its own theater and dance company, orchestra and choral group. It is housed in historic theater and is home to many art organizations too. It is definitely a place for performing arts to live and thrive in Washington DC.