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. Acoustically designed to suit dramas, plays and even live chamber music concerts. The venue along with the Lansburgh Theatre on the 7th Street is owned by the Shakespeare Theatre Company.

The Music Center at Strathmore has been hosting music shows since 1981. World class performances by local, national and international talents take place here. Several organizations, each unique in their own way, host concerts spanning numerous genres from folk and jazz to rock and pop, thus offering something for every music taste here. Concerts are held at one of the many spaces featured on the premises of this expansive venue. These include the Concert Hall and the Rehearsal Rooms.

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 a rather impressive sound and lighting system. Four 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. You can relish a wide range of items like sandwiches, wraps, paninis and sweets among many others during your visit to 9:30 Club.

The Kennedy Center is a must-see for any visitor. The center consists of Concert Hall, Eisenhower Theater, Family Theater, KC Jazz Club, Opera House, Terrace Theater and the Theater Lab, which show productions that include plays, operas, ballets, concerts and films. Among the center's highlights include the Shakespeare Festival produced by the Shakespeare Theatre. Free tours introduce visitors to the Hall of States, Hall of Nations, the main theaters and gifts from many countries honoring the 35th president.

This is perhaps the best-known venue 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 can be seen here, 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 is Creole-inspired. On most nights, artists perform two sets, but occasionally a third set is added on the weekend. The cover charge changes each night.

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. Ticket prices vary, depending on the venue and performance time.