Guide to Washington D.C.: Nightlife & Entertainment

D.C. as a Trendsetter

Washington, D.C. has historically been an entertainment center and remains to this day a trendsetter in music, theater, and art. The political capitol of the country also happens to be the museum capitol, with astounding art and cultural galleries open to the public. From people who prefer browsing historical exhibits to people who enjoy the flavorful music and dance scene, everyone finds in Washington, D.C a treasure trove of leisure activities.

Washington as a Cultural Haven

The Arena Stage, a non-profit theater in D.C., produces eight shows a year that celebrate the tradition of American theater. One of the great Shakespeare companies in the world, the Shakespeare Theatre Company, has its roots in D.C. Perhaps the most refined of D.C.'s venues, the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, is home to the National Symphony Orchestra, the Washington National Opera, and the Washington Ballet.

Among the city's art museums are the National Gallery of Art, National Museum of Women in the Arts, and the Phillips Collection. Other outlets for fashion and design include the boutiques of stylish Georgetown and the Bohemian shops of Adams-Morgan, as well as D.C.'s many great malls.

Go-Go D.C.: Underground Music and More

Not many cities can claim their own unique music genre. D.C. is home to "go-go," a funky version of R&B that uses wild percussion to create persistent dance rhythms. Washington was also an important city for the growth of punk rock, which is still existent in a significant underground scene. The historic U-Street district sports over two dozen jazz bars and clubs that feature live jazz throughout the week.

Sources:
Lonely Planet
Washington, D.C. Tourism