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Check out the best places to go to catch a show in Washington, DC
The 9:30 Club has been at the forefront of the District’s music scene since its inception, and made its bones in the ‘80s hosting soon-to-shine acts including Chuck Brown, Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Police. Since moving to its current location in 1996, world famous acts like Bob Dylan, The Beastie Boys and Radiohead have graced its stage.
815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
The Anthem solves the age-old problem prominent rockers and hot hip-hop stars face when performing in DC: What’s bigger than the legendary 9:30 Club but more intimate than an arena? The answer is the acoustically optimized, 6,000-seat concert hall operated by I.M.P. (of 9:30 Club fame).
Upcoming shows
901 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Also located at The Wharf, Union Stage offers a slew of shows upon its reopening, including a wide range of independent acts. The intimate setting means you’ll get to enjoy a healthy dose of sound, and you can also order beers and pizza from their Tap Room.
740 Water Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
A stroll down the cobblestone-lined Pearl Street will lead you straight to its eponymous Warehouse, The Wharf’s cozy venue channeling the Americana vibes of legendary music halls around the country. Get up close and personal with your favorite rock, country or blues artist, where every seat is a front-row seat and you’re never more than 25 feet from the stage. The harmonious pairings of classic all-American diner fare, craft brews and cocktails make a trip to the Pearl a musical experience you won’t soon forget.
Upcoming shows
33 Pearl Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
This haven for all things indie and alternative can proudly call DC rock legend Dave Grohl a part owner. No trip to Black Cat is complete without a visit to the Red Room Bar, a go-to for scenesters and music lovers, and Backstage, a second performance area with a more private setting for up-and-comers, as well as dance-party DJs. When the show’s over, check out DC’s buzzworthy 14th Street scene.
Upcoming shows
1811 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
DC9
DC9 does small-scale shows with expertise. The first floor features a long bar and booths ideal for pre-show loungin’, plus a robust food menu. On the second floor, you’ll find a stage level with the ground for an up close and personal concert experience. Finally, head upstairs to check out the expansive rooftop bar, another atmospheric spot for pre- or post-show drinks.
1940 9th Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
A major bonus to catching a show at this music hot spot is that it doubles as one of the city’s most exciting restaurants (which stays open late!). Located just two blocks from the White House, a steady stream of jazz, funk, hip-hop and jam bands play the subterranean venue. So grab a table up close for a dinner club vibe or settle down in the standing room bar section.
600 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
Let out your inner raver and embrace PLUR (that’s peace, love, unity and respect) at DC’s largest indoor concert venue, which also was voted as the world’s number one club in "DJ Mag's Top 100 Clubs poll 2021." The space's crowning glory is its state-of-the-art German sound system, perfect for DJs at the top of their game like Diplo and Calvin Harris. While a pumped-up dance party is a regular occurrence at the venue, it also attracts artists like Sam Smith and Kid Cudi.
2135 Queens Chapel Road NE, Washington, DC 20018
Before Harlem’s Apollo there was the Howard Theatre, situated just off what was once known as "Black Broadway." Shuttered for more than three decades, the Shaw venue was restored to its original luster following a huge renovation in 2012. Nowadays, you’ll find a full spectrum of artists across a variety of genres.
Upcoming shows
620 T Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
After opening in late 2019, the Pocket –located inside the 7DrumCity music hub in Bloomingdale – has established itself as one of the city's best new music venues. An intimate 70-person space, the club showcases hot local talent and offers chill, funky vibes, along with an incredible sound and light system on par with the city’s bigger stages.
1508 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20002
This new-old kid on the (same) block opened its doors to much excitement on May 30, 2023—exactly 43 years after the 9:30 Club, whose original vibes the Atlantis is meant to evoke. In a performance at the grand opening, Foo Fighters’ (and DC’s) Dave Grohl mused fondly that the venue “is like the 9:45 Club.” With a spotlight on emerging talent, exciting "surprise" performances and space for only 450 attendees, the Atlantis experience invites concertgoers into the cutting edge of the District's music scene.
2047 9th Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
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