Top Rated Attractions in Washington DC

The Kennedy Center is a must-see for any visitor. The center has seven theaters which include the 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. Ticket prices for performances vary. Half-price tickets are available to students and seniors. Discounts are offered on group purchases. See website for ticketing, performance schedule and events calendar.

Built in 1924, the Warner has long been a respected part of theater life in downtown Washington. Housed in an imposing building, it underwent an extensive USD10 million restoration in 1992. The intricately decorated vaulted ceilings and rich brown-and-rose interiors contribute to the lavish rococo decor. The Warner Theatre is one of a small number of venues in the city that present theatrical productions with a national reputation. This is where Washingtonians are likely to see touring Broadway plays and musicals. Some musical tours also stop at the Warner.

Escape a few miles north outside of the hectic district and beltway and relax at the stylish, trendy, and quaint Bethesda Row. Choose from a wide variety of over 30 international restaurants including Irish, Thai, American, Asian, Spanish, Mediterranean, and American for a nice outdoor lunch or dinner. Enjoy desserts at specialty shops such as Dolcezza Gelato or Sweetgreen. There are plenty of new boutiques and stores to please all types of shoppers. Bethesda Row also holds many events such as Movie Nights and art fairs.

What once stood as the historic Bethesda Theater in 1938 has now been transformed into suave live music supper club. Still carrying the glory of the yesteryear, Bethesda Blues and Jazz houses a small concert hall that serves brilliant continental fare. While 300 seats are ticketed as dinner seats, there are an additional 200 performance seats made available later. Come and enjoy this acoustically enhanced wonder on a fine evening.

Located inside Rock Creek Park, this amphitheater is a 4,200-seat outdoor concert venue. Located in a beautiful wooden setting and operated by the The National Park Service, it provides quality performances. A variety of musical concerts like jazz, country, reggae and rock are showcased here. The seats are very comfortable and the natural environment adds an interesting dimension to the events. Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, B.B. King, The O'Jays, and Smokey Robinson are some of the famous artists who have performed here. Check the website for upcoming events.

This club and music venue opened its doors in March of 2010 and has since become the go-to place in DC to see fresh new acts and well-known artists. Being a DJ-owned establishment, U Street Music Hall features the best of the best, from the sound system to cork-cushioned dance floors. The two separate and fully stocked bars means getting your cocktails is a breeze, with none of the usual attention-grabbing antics for the bartender's attention. Check their schedule as there is often a band worth catching at U Street.