Jazz Up Your Evening at These Swingin' D.C. Venues

Built in 1922, this district destination hosted jazz legends Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Nat King Cole, Louie Armstrong and Cab Calloway in its early years. Though the theatre was shuttered for a time, a renovation project in the 1990s brought the space back to its former glory. Today,the venue welcomes performers from a variety of different genres. Shows are for all ages unless otherwise stated. If you come hungry, don't worry. They have a bar with snacks in order to fuel up before, during or after a show. Shows are announced usually on Mondays so be sure to check their social media if there is an act you've been waiting to see. METRO: U Street/Cardoza

Dubbing itself a European-style oasis on American soil, this venue offers both a charming place to sleep and a restaurant featuring a seasonal dish menu which changes every day and inspired by local, fresh offerings. Be sure to go for dinner when live jazz music is played at the bar and lounge every Sunday, Monday and Tuesday night. Be sure to get to shows early because setting is on a first-come, first serve basis. The lounge has quite the cozy atmosphere including a fireplace and antique furnishings. Check out their website to see which act will be gracing the stage during your visit. METRO: Dupont Circle

Located in Adams Morgan, this night spot is a place where jazz and blues fans can come to have a great time and listen to some fantastic music. The atmosphere is cozy and family-friendly so wear something comfortable or get dressed up in your favorite outfit. Their menu features American fare such as pasta, pizza, sandwiches and burgers. Grab a drink at the bar where cocktails are named after jazz legends like The Duke, Fats Manhattan and the Billy Holiday Tini. Grab a spot on the patio to people watch or just enjoy a beautiful evening out on the town. METRO: Woodley Park/Zoo.

First opened in 1910 and geared toward African American musical acts, the Howard Theatre underwent renovations in 2010 and reopened its doors in 2012. Some of the recent shows include Salt N Peppa, Babyface, and Jody Watley. Like many other venues, seats are on a first-come, first serve basis. Singing along to some of your favorite tunes can work up a thirst so hit up their bar for refreshments including wine and specialty cocktails or grab a bite to eat off their menu with appetizers and entrees available. Be sure to check out their nightclub when an amazing concert isn't planned. METRO: Shaw-Howard U

Built in the late 1930s, this venue's former life included serving the area as a movie theater. Today, guests from all over the region come to enjoy a classic continental fare dinner along with seeing some amazing musical talent. Folks will find two different seating arrangements â€" both with great views of the stage â€" the dining area and stadium-style theater seats. Some shows will offer a dance floor for those who like to groove while taking in a show. Attire is business casual and children ages five and up may taken in a show but parents are encouraged to consider the show's suitability beforehand.

Sunday brunch never sounded so good when you combine great food with live jazz music. If you like the show on Sundays, be sure to come back for another jazz performance held on Wednesday nights from 6 to 10 p.m. Fine Southern cuisine is on the menu at this establishment so bring a healthy appetite. If it is a beautiful crisp night, try to get a seat out on their patio. Valet parking is available during Sunday brunch service and every evening after 5 p.m. Reservations are recommended and business casual attire is suggested. METRO: Faragut North.

Seating between 65 to 100 guests, this jazz club gives patrons the opportunity to listen to music in an intimate setting that is full of unique character. The stage may be small but the music remains big. Order a dish off their internationally-themed menu or grab a drink at their colored ceramic cave-like bar but always be prepared for a great show. Besides offering a fun venue with delicious food, the venue has formed the Twins Jazz Foundation which provides opportunities for local students to participate in weekly jam sessions and be mentored by area musicians. METRO: U Street.

The Kennedy Center is one of the country's busiest performing arts centers hosting more than 3,000 events and welcoming more than 2 million guests so you will enjoy the intimate setting they provide for jazz music. From hosting fresh, new talent to welcoming seasoned veterans, this venue is a must-visit. See a show on their intimate rooftop terrace theater or take in a performance in the cabaret setting of the club. Whichever you chose, your ears are sure to thank you. Drinks may be purchased along with light fare snacks. Check out their website to see what act will be gracing the stage during the upcoming season. METRO: Foggy Bottom

Walk through the doors of this Georgetown gem and you will be transported back to the supper clubs of the 1920s and 1930s. Founded in 1965, many well-known artists have played here including Dizzy Gillespie and Wynton Marsalis. While taking in a performance, treat yourself to their scrumptious menu with entrees named after jazz greats like Tony Bennett's shrimp and artichoke hearts and Jerry 'The Iceman' Butler baked salmon. This venue is known as a listening club so be respectful during performances. Once you purchase tickets, make sure you can attend because sales are final and non-refundable. Seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis so get there early. METRO: Foggy Bottom

Blending nostalgia of the early 1920s with a contemporary flair, guests will find an impressive selection of live jazz music at this U Street venue every evening except Mondays. Opened in 2003, JoJo features two levels each with a full bar. With a vibe of an upscale restaurant without the dress code, guests can enjoy entrees such as bourbon BBQ baby back ribs, blackened salmon with shrimp wrapped with bacon and jerk chicken along with a selection of burgers, sandwiches, pasta and salads. Because of its intimate feel, visitors with large groups should make reservations ahead of time to guarantee their party may be accommodated. METRO: U Street