Top Rated Attractions in Washington DC

The Sidney Harman Hall is a majestic 774-seat theater in the heart of Washington DC and forms a part of the Harman Center of the Arts. Suitable for dance and music events, organizers can choose from the proscenium, thrust, semi-arena or bare stages, depending on the show. It is acoustically designed to suit dramas, plays and even live chamber music concerts. The venue along with the Lansburgh Theatre on the 7th Street is home to the Shakespeare Theatre Company.

Nestled in the Dupont Circle neighborhood, the Phillips Collection is a century-old modern and contemporary art museum. Founded by the avid art collector, Duncan Phillips, the establishment is also America’s first museum of modern art. This former home of Duncan Phillips now houses several thousands of art works. Interestingly, the galleries here are frequently rearranged to make way for the works of newer artists and to facilitate newer experiences for the visitors. In addition to the famous exhibitions held here, the museum also offers award-winning educational programs for people of all ages. An impassioned ode to the power of art, this museum is a must visit for all modern-art lovers.

The Kennedy Center is a lively space that hosts performing arts and events. The center offers three main theaters including, Concert Hall, Eisenhower Theater, and Opera House, which hosts different genres of performing arts: such as plays, operas, ballets, concerts, and films. Among the center's highlights include the Shakespeare Festival produced by the Shakespeare Theatre. The center is also home to one of the few open-air rooftop terraces, open for visitors to enjoy the panoramic view of the city. Free tours introduce visitors to the Hall of States, Hall of Nations, the main theaters, and gifts from many countries honoring the 35th president. It is a must-see for any visitor.

An iconic theater, Ford's Theatre is recognized as the place where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated on April 14th, 1865. A century later on 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 National Park Service. Also found within the 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.

Thrumming with the dreamy sounds of jazzy tunes, Blues Alley is one of the best-known venues in Washington for jazz and blues performances. The club is tucked away in lower Georgetown, near the C&O Canal. A number of national acts have serenaded patrons at this beloved establishment, and the atmosphere is sleek and sophisticated. The place bills itself as a "Jazz Supper Club," and the food is almost as good as the music, much of it being inspired by Creole cuisine. Munch on savory bites such as Salmon Cakes and Stuffed Mushroom Caps as you sway to the music that envelops the lively space.

Since 1950, Arena Stage has been a primary player in the cultural life of Washington and one of the strongest regional theaters in the country. Its highly respected resident company performs a variety of stage productions, from Moliere to the Marx Brothers, as well as significant contemporary works. Arena Stage has three distinct venues: the "in-the-round" Fichlander Stage; the Kreeger with a proscenium stage and the Old Vat Room with a cabaret-style atmosphere. The theater is located near the southwest waterfront and several fine seafood restaurants.