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Washington NightlifeLive Music
About 10Best's recommendations for Washington's Live Music:
The nightlife scene in Washington is dynamic enough to suit just about everybody's taste. This is especially true in the case of bars and clubs specializing in live music. If you dig that kind of show – rock, blues, jazz, country, or R&B, it doesn't matter – do yourself a favor and check out the big-name acts and local bands scheduled to play at these spots.
Category: Live Music - Washington Nightlife
Address: 1940 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
If you're keen on finding a nightspot that doesn't fall into the realm of "trendy," this U Streeter is a good place to start. DC9 has established itself as a great place to meet up early in the evening when all you want to do is play songs on the jukebox, catch up on the day's events, and down a few doses of your favorite poison. Around 8pm or so,...
Category: Live Music - Washington Nightlife
Address: 815 V St NW, Washington, DC 20009
The Nightclub 9:30 is always packed, so get there early if you want a good standing spot (there are no chairs). On stage, you'll see both big name national acts and local bands. Past performers include REM, Fiona Apple, My Bloody Valentine, Moby, Bob Mould, and Garbage. Four bars make it easy to get refills. Call or check their website for the...
Category: Live Music - Washington Nightlife
Address: 1811 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
The Black Cat is a rocking, post-funk bar co-owned by the Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl. The stage is always alive with alternative music, and the bar prices are decent. The bar menu includes mostly vegetarian dishes. The separate bar next door has no cover charge, some great drinks, a few pool tables, and a jukebox. METRO: U Street/Cardoza
Category: Live Music - Washington Nightlife
Address: 220 N Washington St, Falls Church, VA 22046-4517
This renovated movie theater has transformed into an attractive, popular live music venue. Hardwood floors, several bars, full-dining and a luxurious balcony make it a comfortable spot to hear live rock, blues and folk bands perform nightly. Patrons scurry for seats, so arrive early or plan to stand – or if the night calls for it, kick your heels...
Category: Live Music - Washington Nightlife
Address: 3701 Mt Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22305
Birchmere is an interesting mix between a bar and a concert hall. You will always find great live music, including names like Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Nancy Griffith. There are pool halls, their own famous brewery, and a full-service bar. You are likely to hear folk, blues and bluegrass performances while you are here. METRO: Braddock Road
Category: Live Music - Washington Nightlife
Address: 2711 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201
This little club is likely to be overcrowded with locals because the space is so limited. However, if you can get inside, it's well worth the trouble. The bands sit level with the audience, the crowd is youngish and full of energy, and the bar fare is excellent – regardless of whether you are out for something greasy like cheese fries or for...
Category: Live Music - Washington Nightlife
Address: 2832 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201
Iota Club & Café sponsors local musicians, both those just getting started and those who have already established names for themselves as singers and songwriters. Open mic nights give everyone a chance to be a star, and literary fans often attend the Sunday poetry series, where everyone is encouraged to read. The menu features hot entrees...
Category: Live Music - Washington Nightlife
Address: 2408 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007
You are likely to find this place packed with college students, who are probably there to see their friends' bands. The Grog and Tankard hosts many of DC's local bands, especially cover bands that play the tunes everyone knows. The stage is in the center of the room, so of course, the action is in the music. METRO: Tenleytown/AU
Category: Live Music - Washington Nightlife
Address: 111 N Pitt St, Alexandria, VA 22314
You receive a hearty Irish welcome as soon as you walk into this popular pub, where owner Pat Troy loves entertaining his guests with a song. Belly up to the bar and lose yourself in a cold pint of stout while you listen to the live Irish music that plays every night. If the old stomach starts to rumble don't fret – the menu includes everything...
