Broadway in D.C.: Uncover the Magic of Washington’s Theater District

The United States’ capital city, Washington, D.C., is known for its majestic national monuments, memorials, museums and extensive history. As a cultural hub and one of the U.S.’s most famous cities, Washington, D.C. has much to offer both locals and visitors. The city is also home to some of the nation’s most innovative artists and performers, playing host to a thriving arts and culture scene.

When it comes to plays in Washington, D.C., thanks to a number of state of the art theaters and venues in the city, D.C. has served as the birthplace of various shows, including Dear Evan Hansen, Come From Away, Mean Girls and Beetlejuice — all of which went on to have successful Broadway runs. Here, you can learn more about the city’s bustling arts scene, the theaters that support it and the various attractions that surround them.

About the Washington, D.C. Theatre District

Over the years, Washington, D.C. has evolved to be a vibrant cultural hub in which the arts thrive. The city’s historic venues such as Ford’s Theatre and the Lincoln Theatre coexist with contemporary spaces like the Arena Stage and the Kennedy Center, creating a rich tapestry of theatrical experiences. The abundance of choices ranging from intimate black-box showrooms to the grandiose halls, guarantee that there will always be something suited to every taste and interest. Drawing audiences from near and far, Washington, D.C.’s theater scene is not one to be missed out on.

Iconic Theaters in the District

Washington, D.C.’s theater scene is perfect for audience members who want a little taste of everything. The varying size of the city’s venues and the works that grace the spaces make for a diverse offering of entertainment. The Kennedy Center is one of the city’s most famous performance spaces, hosting iconic ceremonies such as the Kennedy Center Honors as well as inviting actors of Broadway-caliber to participate in its musical productions. Also based in D.C. is The Shakespeare Theatre Company, one of the nation’s most famous Shakespearean repertory theatre companies. With every theater in the city boasting its own unique architecture and roster of shows, the city offers a delightfully eclectic array of experiences to its patrons.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566

The Kennedy Center presents and produces a wide range of theatrical works, from cutting edge original performances to fan-favorite Broadway shows. The complex holds nine presenting spaces, five of which present theatre programming year-round. The beloved Kennedy Center Honors ceremony is also held at the venue, which recognizes artistic excellence in dance, music, theater, opera, motion pictures and television. As a memorial to President John F. Kennedy, the Kennedy Center hosts over 2,000 performances, events and exhibits annually.

Arena Stage at The Mead Center for American Theater

1101 Sixth St, SW, Washington, DC 20024

Founded August 16, 1950 in Washington by Zelda Fichandler, Tom Fichandler and Edward Mangum, Arena Stage has been recognized as a flagship American theater. As one of the first nonprofit theaters in the United States, the venue was the first regional theater to transfer a production to Broadway. In fact, Arena Stage has seen 22 of its productions head to Broadway, including Dear Evan Hansen, Next to Normal and Sweat. With a focus on American artists, Arena Stage seeks to produce works that reflect the American spirit.

Warner Theatre

513 13th St NW, Washington, DC 20004

Lauded by The Washington Post as “a pleasure to enter and a regret to leave” upon its opening in 1924, the Warner Theatre has remained a staple of Washington D.C.’s theater scene ever since. Owned by the Warner Brothers since the 1940s, the venue has seen a variety of acts pass through its showroom, from serving as a cinema to a setting for vaudeville. Now, the theater is best known for regularly hosting traveling musicians and comedy acts, in addition to the BET Honors, political events including former President Barack Obama’s inauguration festivities and the Washington Ballets’ annual rendition of The Nutcracker.

National Theatre D.C.

1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW , Washington, DC 20004

The National Theatre has been located in the heart of downtown D.C. since its founding in 1835, being the oldest continuously operating organization on Pennsylvania Avenue and the second oldest theater in the nation. The National Theatre has burned down four separate times during its tenure, but has nevertheless persevered. The venue now regularly hosts touring Broadway performances and unique concert events, being one of the city’s most respected venues.

Lincoln Theatre

1215 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009

At the time of the Lincoln Theatre’s opening in 1922, Washington D.C. was still segregated. Despite this, the theater quickly established itself as a cultural epicenter of what came to be known as “Black Broadway.” Great American poet Langston Hughes was so inspired by the space that he penned a poem entitled “Lincoln Theatre” after the venue. Now, after over 100 years of existence, the Lincoln Theatre’s stage has seen some of America’s most beloved artists, including Kendrick Lamar, Janelle Monáe, Brian Wilson and Emmylou Harris.

Dining and Accommodations

The entertainment doesn’t have to end when guests leave the theaters, as there are an abundance of activities to be found in Washington, D.C. From historical landmarks to vibrant nightlife and eclectic dining options, the city is full of opportunities for continued exploration and enjoyment. With numerous parks, cultural festivals and neighborhoods to explore, Washington, D.C. offers a variety of experiences that ensure the excitement extends beyond the curtain call.

Where to Eat Near the Washington, D.C. Theater District

Sixty Vines at Foggy Bottom

Sixty Vines at Foggy Bottom, located at 2200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Suite # 300R, offers casual-yet-elevated American cuisine and a full wine bar in finely curated modern surroundings. Guests can explore 60 wines from the restaurant’s wine on tap system, paired with seasonal vineyard-inspired shareable plates. In addition to the delicious food and decadent drink options, guests can learn about Sixty Vines’ sustainability efforts in the wine sector.

North Italia

North Italia, located at 2112 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Suite 102 offers guests artisanal pizza and fresh pasta made from scratch daily; a heightened take on classic Italian fare. North Italia serves lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, also offering a weekday happy hour from 4-7 p.m.

Baan Mae

Baan Mae, located at 1604 7th St NW was created by Chef Seng Luangrath. Inspired by her mother’s kitchen, Luangrath crafted a rotating menu of home- cooked Southeast Asian dishes and accompanying creative cocktails..

Where to Stay Near the Washington, D.C. Theater District

The Watergate Hotel

The Watergate Hotel, located at 2650 Virginia Ave NW, is an iconic luxury hotel known for its distinctive modernist architecture and its central role in the Watergate scandal of the 1970s. Designed by architect Luigi Moretti and completed in 1967, the hotel features sleek, curved lines and a striking façade. It offers elegant accommodations, upscale dining options, a rooftop bar with panoramic views and a range of high-end amenities.

Ritz-Carlton Washington, D.C.

The Ritz-Carlton Washington, D.C., located at 1150 22nd St NW, is a luxury hotel renowned for its refined elegance and impeccable service. Situated near key landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods, the hotel offers sophisticated accommodations with plush furnishings and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a range of upscale dining options, with an in-house restaurant and a lounge to relax in. The Ritz-Carlton also features a fitness center, a full-service spa and various event spaces.

Melrose Georgetown Hotel

The Melrose Georgetown Hotel, located in the historic Georgetown neighborhood at 2430 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, offers a blend of classic charm and modern convenience. Known for its inviting atmosphere and stellar service, the hotel features stylish, contemporary rooms and suites designed to the T for a comfortable stay. During their stay, guests can enjoy amenities such as a fitness center, a business center and an on-site restaurant serving American cuisine.