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    The Kennedy Center

    4.3 (703 reviews)

    Services - The Kennedy Center

    Venue rental

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    Cassie P.

    I love a visit to the Kennedy center. It feels special and exciting. This visit we saw the Sound of Music. It was amazing! The cast was excellent! The seats could use a little extra cushion.., but I will survive. Looking forward to the next visit.

    Monique V.

    The Kennedy Center has been my favorite visit of 2026 so far! I went on Valentine's Day to see A Winter's Tale, and it was an absolutely wonderful experience. Beyond the stunning architecture of the building itself, the ballet was fantastic! I was captivated from start to finish. Both the performers and the orchestra were incredible. During intermission, there are concession stands where you can purchase food and drinks, which was convenient. I will definitely be back!

    Hall of States
    Sam O.

    What a beautiful venue on the banks of the Potomac to watch a play. Came to see Sound of Music and it didn't disappoint. Definitely go outside to the terrace, you can see Washington DC and also Georgetown. Gift shop is forgettable. Not a bad seat in the house. Parking garages are a maze so make sure to take pictures of where you are.

    Adam C.

    The Kennedy Center is a spectacular cultural venue. There is an Opera House and Concert Hall in addition to many other smaller performance spaces. You feel important as you walk down the Hall of Nations. You can also step out on the balcony overlooking the Potomac river. On a nice night it is great. These days you are allowed to drink adult beverages in the halls in specially provided sippy cups.

    Nina R.

    The Kennedy Center is a historical location for the live arts, functions, discussions and other important gatherings in Washington, DC. Located a few blocks away from George Washington University, in the heart of the Watergate condos, situated next to the Potomac River. I've been here for comedy shows, concerts, theater and festivals. They also offer The Mellinium Stage performances which are completely free of charge on certain days of the week at 6pm. You can drive there and park in their garage, rates about $20 and up. Or arrive early and get free parking on a street nearby and walk over. Or, take the metro and get off at Foggy Bottom-GWU, and take the Kennedy Center red shuttle bus in front of the metro station, departing every 30 mins. The staff persons are absolutely so polite and incredible. They wear the red jackets so it's easy to spot them for assistance. Once inside, there is a concession stand where you may purchase beverages, snacks or cocktails. I didn't price anything there. They have a lovely gift shop as well, a bit pricey in my opinion. For example, I saw women's fancy blazers with shiny gold and silver colors for well over $300, come on! We all know that's too much. Nevertheless, go to the Kennedy Center website and make plans to experience the live arts! Fantastic place with a wide diversity of arts catering to all tastes.

    Make your own digital portrait - Aug 2024
    Gail R.

    I saw the musical "& Juliet" here. It is described as: What would happen next if Juliet didn't end it all over Romeo? Before the show started (to pass the time) I browsed the Kennedy Center Gift Shop on the lower level. It was my first time entering it as I had only been to the one on the first level. Once I got back to the area near the Opera House, I noticed many were waiting in the area. It seems that a performance was still going on at the Millennium Stage, and so no one was allowed to enter the Opera House area until that show had ended. I saw a backdrop for folks to take pictures and a small pop-up shop selling things related to the musical - hoodies, T-shirts, mugs, caps, etc. Once it was time to enter the Opera House, you got your ticket scanned and then there were other ushers to guide you. We were informed that we could either take the elevators or the stairs. We chose the stairs - exercise is good for you. Even though I had downloaded a copy of the program before arrival (thanks to the online mobile friendly option), I still picked up one in person. Once our seats were located, we were ready for the show, I can say that the & Juliet musical was amazing and it was nice to watch the performance from some great seats. Already looking forward to the next musical.

    Par box
    Usamah N.

    Absolute stunning place and perfect for a date night, we went to go see the NSO, had Par box seats and was very happy with my seat selection! Could see everything perfectly from my seats, I've included pictures for reference! This was my first time ever at an orchestra performance so make sure to NOT come late as they'll seat you in Tier 3 until the intermission (don't get to go to your actual seats until the break) That was new to me but I completely understood. Highly recommend going if you haven't been

    Nancy P.

    This is absolutely a beautiful venue. Again free to tour in if you make the reservations for available dates and times. And if you're in luck like we did you get to listen to free concerts. I love this place very much. A must see if you're in DC.

    "Generals gathered in their...ballet shoes!" Black Sabbath-The Ballet.
    Daniel C.

    I went recently to see a "Black Sabbath- The Ballet", a dance troup from Birmingham, UK. Although the ballet itself was an utter disappointment this venue was certainly not. There's an indescribable beauty stated in its architecture, facade, exterior and interior. It is epic and grandiose. To step inside it is to feel its history. You can sense greatness has entered or has performed here. In my opinion to the extent any city embraces the arts speaks to the way they view their city. The Kennedy Center, with the backdrop of Washington D.C, the center of American politics provides social commentary but leaves space for artistic conversation. Before I go any further let me rewind to my experience preceding my visit there, during and afterwards. We Ubered there, as parking seemed very problematic. The venue has a specific area for Ride Sharing, pickup and drop offs, which is extremely helpful. The venue itself is a huge installation with separate venues inside. For example as one show is happening, another one could be occurring elsewhere in the building. As I was walking through its long winding corridors I was awestruck by its decor. There were ornate chandeliers. Just looking into the endless ceiling it was as if was inspired by the Palace of Versailles. My summation is the venue wants to retain its "Old World" glamor whilst maintaining a hand into modernity. The misnomer to me was thinking a Black Sabbath inspired program would bring out dirty denim jackets and spiked bracelets. Instead the implied dress code were men in blazers, Valentino dresses and a population versed in Gucci. All evidence of Washington socialites and influence was in full bloom here. If you have any questions, staff is strategically placed in high traffic areas. They are extremely friendly and helpful. Once show seating begins, ushers will guide you to your seat. And they are very, very hyper-vigilant about it. I implore you to find your seats immediately. The Kennedy Center reminds me of "The Majestic Theater" or "Bass Hall" both venues in my state of Texas. A thing I really liked were the seats themselves. They were really comfortable. However, this is where I must interject my main critique. The leg room space is terrible and uncomfortable at best. For example throughout the duration of the show the couple in back of us were constantly kicking our seats. It was as if they were coordinating knocking our seats to "War Pigs." The quarters are tight which to the oblivious, is no concern to them. Never informing them that they share the same space we both are trying to enjoy. In addition when people get up to move to the aisle the spacing makes it impossible to leave without stepping on someone. A couple with zero people skills continously kept getting up throughout the show. One of them smashed my partner's leg, which later left an unsightly bruise. I finally, during intermission waited on the side. Which unintentionally caused ushers to make us move back to our seats. I will say the "seat knockers" stopped briefly during "Planet Caravan." Another major concern I had, especially being in D.C. was the absence of security. In Texas you are wanded, have to go through a metal detector even for a Sesame Street show. Even a bag of M&Ms will get you banned for life. I was struck seeing people with huge backpacks walking in without being searched. What if someone had a weapon? What is the security protocol in the event something does happen? After the show we went back to the round- about drop off point. As we sat waiting for our Uber I was able to process my experience. This is a venue that operates at the highest level. Obama has been here. Led Zeppelin too. World leaders, actors, musicians, artists, poets, influencers, etc. have all been here. Performing or speaking. This was the impression I left with when I came here. The Kennedy Center is a campus with different venues inside it. It represents this city's highest ideals as much as The Pentagon or Capitol does. There is a palpable history still alive here. The facade supports this. I implore you to go but if they host a "Metallica-The Ballet" sit far in the back.

    Moulin Rouge
    Roy A.

    The Kennedy Center never disappoints and continues to be one of our favorite venues for enjoying live performances. The ease of parking and access makes getting in and out a breeze, which adds to the overall experience. Before the show, there's so much to see and explore within the stunning venue--whether it's the breathtaking views of the Potomac or the various exhibits on display. The staff are always welcoming and incredibly helpful, ensuring everything runs smoothly from start to finish. We went to see Clue this time around, and it was a fun, lighthearted show that kept us laughing throughout. We absolutely loved our seats with a great view, comfortable, and added to the overall enjoyment of the performance.

    Eunice I.

    I've been waiting to visit the Kennedy Center since I moved to DC last year. I always hear of so many great events that happen there. I finally had the chance yesterday when I went to see Clue in their Opera Center. It was a full house last night, and everyone was dressed to impress!! Neither my boyfriend and I had eaten all day, so we were hoping to grab some food before the show started. We walked up to a staff member at the front desk and asked for directions to get to the cafe. She was very sweet, and gave us detailed directions to get to the cafe and mentioned the restaurant was closed due to a gala event, but the cafe was definitely open. Great, we thought. We went to the elevators and were told that everything on the terrace level was closed due to the gala event, including the cafe. We were dumbfounded since the lady at the desk made it seem it was open. The employees at the elevator told us to get food from the concession. The concession lines were long, with limited options so we decided we'd just eat after the show. Now, we had box theater seats so we were near the top of the room. The rows are extremely narrow and tight, so be prepared to be uncomfortable. The play itself was great so no complaints there!! All the actors and actresses were phenomenal. Overall, I do think the JFK Center is nicely designed and I wish I could have explored it more, but I was disappointed in the cafe being closed, even after being told it'd be open, and the traffic getting there was a nightmare!!

    Gerald V.

    Great venue for the performing arts - Amazing shows and well run Beautiful view overlooking the river and Georgetown

    Stacy H.

    The Kennedy Center is the quintessential venue for the performing arts. Beautiful views of The Washington from the terrace. Two good restaurants and 3 different venues for opera, theatre and concerts. The center is cashless. They do run a shuttle to Foggy Bottom metro station.

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    Page 1 of 18

    The Kennedy Center Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - The Kennedy Center

    Does the Kennedy Center have a restaurant?

    The Roof Terrace Restaurant Is Open. Fine dinning.

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    Yes, it does

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    Review Highlights - The Kennedy Center

    I love that they make performing arts available to all by offering free performances at the Millennium Stage.

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    Isla - Shrimp cocktail

    Isla

    (91 reviews)

    Downtown

    I came on a Friday night, and it was packed so definitely make a reservation! From the time we…read moreentered the restaurant to the time we left, our experience was great. The staff were so hospitable, and our waitress was super knowledgeable about the menu. Everything we tried tasted authentic and reminded me of my childhood. We started with the oxtail patties and curry goat bara. Both dishes were amazinggg with tender, flavorful meat. For our entrees (pictured), I had the Lobster Cookup and loved it (I'm still thinking about that cookup rice) Unfortunately, they were out of the fried snapper's fish bone that night, but my boyfriend still really enjoyed it. It's on the pricey side so be aware of that! Overall, 10/10. Next time, we'll check out the attached lounge.

    Such a great spot! Love the ambience. The chandelier is stunning, the dimly lit light...it's a…read moregreat place for drinks and/or dinner with friends or for date night. I've came here twice and have loved all the dishes I've tried. My favorites so far are the grilled octopus and curry goat bara. Both were perfectly cooked and so flavorful. You can't go wrong with either one. For the raw & cold dish, get the hamachi crisp, you won't be disappointed. I also really enjoyed the oxtail patties. It's comes with three so good to share. I haven't tried any dishes from the feast & fire section so when I come back here, that's next on list to try. Highly recommend coming here, you'll love it!

    The Metropolitan Club Of The City Of Washington - Lobby

    The Metropolitan Club Of The City Of Washington

    (6 reviews)

    Downtown

    This review is long overdue. I was invited to dinner here and this has to go in the Top Ten places…read moreI've ever dined at. Of course my friend is a member and if I'm lucky, someday I will be too. It started off as I walked up the sidewalk and approached the club, the doorman was standing on the sidewalk. As I got closer, the doorman greeted me by name! I was taken a back for a minute wondering how could he possibly know my name! I was escorted in and asked to wait in the main reception while they went to get my friend. I went into what they refer to as the "Correspondence Lounge" which is sort of a small library with some incredibly old literary works. They have very strict rules and one of surprise is no use of cell phones... period. How refreshing! You can go into the Correspondence Lounge if you need to use your phone but otherwise you cannot use while in the dining room or other public areas. So make sure you "check-in" on Yelp when you are outside. Naturally they have a dress code, but really, if you have to ask what the dress code is, you probably aren't going to this place. Another rule I was surprised is they try to keep business limited so you cannot bring out a bunch of papers, laptop, etc... The only papers you can hold would have to be a newspaper or a book. Once seated, the service is impeccable. Extremely polite and not overbearing. They knew when we were engrossed in conversation and didn't interrupt. I had the lump crab cake for dinner and it was without a doubt the BEST! I lived in Virginia for five years and went to college at George Washington so I'm quite familiar with East Coast seafood and I can honestly say the lump crab at the Metropolitan Club is the BEST! I could go on about this place but simply put, if you have the opportunity to go, don't pass that opportunity up for what will end up being one of the greatest dining experiences of your life.

    This is a wonderful spot nestled across from the White House. The building and members have more…read morehistory in Washington, than just about any place in the capitol, or the nation for that matter. I have been fortunate enough to dine, party, and converse with some of Washington's behind the scene's power players. You can learn a lot, if you ever get past the door man, or Lily.

    Exclusively Entertainment

    Exclusively Entertainment

    (144 reviews)

    Kia and Farzan were quite literally AMAZING. Probably the #1 thing I am most happy with is going…read morewith y'all for music. Not only did they make me feel comfortable and excited with their presence but Kia also helped with our timeline in a way that made everything go extremely smoothly. When him Conor and I. Had a meeting couple weeks before the wedding. We were struggling with the timeline of everything and how we're going to incorporate the Persian ceremony with American ceremony and Kia was able to explain how it will be done so effortlessly. As for the actual music, we sent a couple ideas what we wanted the night to be like in Kia couldn't be more perfect in his effortless djing and MCing. And Farzan was a tremendous add, I am so happy We have also had him to compliment Kia. Everyone we spoke to after the wedding could not stop raving about both of them. Also both of their extremely positive attitudes was a cherry on top- they were truly a huge part of the night and couldn't have gone as smooth as it did without them. I need Kia to make a playlist on everything he did because OBSESSED. My maid of honor getting married next year also using Kia also said she is now soooo excited to use you guys!

    I couldn't recommend Exclusively Entertainment more! They are extremely professional,…read moreaccommodating, personal, and talented! The DJ for our wedding, Maz, executed my vision just perfectly. He was the perfect match for our fusion wedding!

    DACOR Bacon House - North Drawing Room Holiday Decor at DACOR

    DACOR Bacon House

    (14 reviews)

    Foggy Bottom

    DACOR Bacon is a sensational venue for hosting a party/wedding/school reunion/etc.. We have thrown…read morea cocktails and dance party there for the past three years, and can't say enough about the professionalism of the staff, the quality of the food, the service, and the price. Best of all, our guests love DACOR Bacon and come back each year. The house is an elegant Federal brick building (1801), home of John Marshall when he was on the Supreme Court. It is decorated with beautiful antiques and paintings. If you're having a large event, the garden AND the house are able to accommodate 180 people. When we wanted to rent a tent for dancing under outside, they helped us. When we wanted great DJs, they helped find them. For smaller events, the house is wonderful for a cocktail party, lunch or dinner. It retains its beautiful old world charm and is located just a stone's throw from the White House. Parking is fairly easy on weekends and in the evening We have also used DACOR Bacon for alumni cocktail parties. Guests tremendously enjoyed the elegant and comfortable setting. Washingtonians love to come to parties there -- it's the only still functioning grand historic house in Foggy Bottom. People walked by and say, 'What's that? I'd love to go in there." Out of towners are thrilled with its location, history and beauty. The staff is very experienced and helpful. They go out of their way to ensure the success of the events. Sylvia, who is the events coordinator, always goes above and beyond to make sure that we have a good experience. Alba and Jose make sure all the logistics are running smoothly, and they do a wonderful job. Meg wonderfully oversees it all.

    This is a private club. Went for a group dinner sponsored by a member. We had to preselect our…read moremenu, but there was a decent variety for a quiet evening. I had the arugula and heirloom tomato salad, spring pea soup (which was quite delicious, I think it had some mint?) ginger glazed salmon for my entree, and an orange cake. Had a decent merlot. Servers were very attentive and polite. The building itself was the draw for me; rich with character. It must be about 200 years old. It feels like a converted private house with how the rooms are carved out of the space. Very nice experience.

    The Gathering Spot - Sculpt + Sound event with Robin Renée, Britt Daniels, and Dante Baker

    The Gathering Spot

    (18 reviews)

    Downtown

    I was invited to an event at The Gathering Spot, and while the event itself was wonderful, The…read moreGathering Spot truly felt like the perfect place to host it. It was a happy hour and learning-style event, and the space worked incredibly well for both. There was a great balance between areas that encouraged socializing and connecting, while also having comfortable spaces where everyone could sit down and focus during the learning portion. The staff was phenomenal. They were attentive and proactive in a way that stood out. They seemed to anticipate questions before we even had them and made sure everyone knew where things were and felt taken care of throughout the evening. I also ordered the spinach artichoke dip during the class portion of the event and I need to take a moment for that because it was, without exaggeration, the best spinach artichoke dip I have ever had in my life. I'm still thinking about it. A few others at the event also commented on how incredible their dishes were, so kudos to the kitchen because clearly this was not a one-off experience. I'll probably be dreaming about that spinach artichoke dip for a while.

    If you're looking for a great place to hold a meeting or a gathering. The gathering spot is your…read moreanswer it has all the chic pizazz of a lounge but the sophistication of an office setting. The happy hour menu is the best in the city and the staff is amazing. If you're looking for a membership hit them up and as for Mr. McCraw tell him Donica sent you.

    Decatur House - Our gorgeous Courtyard! Photo courtesy of Timmester Photography.

    Decatur House

    (14 reviews)

    Downtown

    My daughter and I visited in 2015, 2019 and again last Spring 2023 took a tour of the downstairs…read moreonly. In 2019 a 200+ pound replica of the White House by former Executive WH pastry chef Roland Mesnier was on display. A photo of the Gingerbread house has been attached to this review. The unassuming brick home sets across from the WH. The house happens to be the oldest private residence in DC at almost 200 years young. I would not go out of your way, but we thought the cake was super cool inn2019. 3.5 rounding up.

    Came here for a after-hours party so to be honest, this is more of a review about that party than…read moreit is about the house itself. The party occurred in what I assume to be the courtyard; it was covered (though the weather was nice out for March), with beautiful lighting. But crazily enough, the space was HUGE. Absolutely gorgeous. If you're looking to host a large party, I 100% recommend this location. The set-up was fantastic. I have NO clue where the food came from, but whoever catered was phenomenal (I had the best cheesecake bites I have EVER let my tastebuds experience). While waiting 45 min for this lyft to arrive, I decided to venture around the house (with the guide). The house itself is pretty bare, but I love it's simplicity. It was of course quiet, though you could hear the faint sounds of the party outside. I completely forgot that we were SO close to the white house, could have gone for a night stroll, but didn't. Overall, this was a fun experience and I am glad I got to enjoy it in such a way.

    The Kennedy Center - theater - Updated June 2026

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