Came to the Kennedy Center for a free comedy show, and had a lot of fun! This place is huge. There's a shuttle to and from the Foggy Bottom metro station. 10/10 would recommend, I'd come back for another performance (rip). read more

Not since former NJ governor Brendan Byrne named the Brendan Byrne Arena after himself (and approved the NJ state income tax later that year) has a politician and his edifice complex fallen so far so fast. I was there once about eight years ago and honestly, the Kennedy Center is in dire need of upgrading. POTUS is probably right for shutting it down for two years for the repairs but naming the place after himself is fraught with peril for the Grand Old Party. Take it from Brendan Byrne who lost his bid for reelection and is now a fading Garden State footnote. Three cautionary stars. read more

Washington, DC - there's is only a small handful of performing arts presenters & venues in this country that's on par with the Kennedy Center in significance and scope of programming, among them Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in NYC, the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia, and Walt Disney Hall & Hollywood Bowl in LA. On any given day, you can find a diverse slate of performances and events, ranging from classical & opera, to jazz, dance. broadway & musicals, theater, country & bluegrass, comedy, popular programming, kids/family shows, films, variety, and special themed events...always an abundant lineup! I've been to the KC a fair share over the years and have attended all sorts of events here: orchestra performances by the National Symphony Orchestra, productions by the Washington National Opera, chamber music concerts on the Fortas Series, galas, festivals, indie shows, and community programs at the REACH. And each time I'm awed being at this cultural center in the Capitol city, which exhibits the highest caliber of artistic excellence in the nation and on the world stage. The building itself is huge and imposing, but there are helpful staff everywhere to answer questions and direct you where you go. Because the footprint is so big, if it's your first time visiting, definitely leave plenty of extra time to walk up to the building and find the right hall/entrance, pick up tickets, and get settled in your seats. For pre-concert dining, there are a couple of options on premises: the more formal Roof Terrace Restaurant, or the casual KC Café which has hot food as well as grab-n-go sandwiches and snacks. Both are located on the Terrace level above the Hall of Nations. Otherwise, there aren't many options super close by without venturing into Foggy Bottom. Tazza, and Kingbird at the Watergate Hotel or its lobby bar/restaurant Next Whisky Bar are the only outside options within a 10-minute walk. The only thing I don't love is, if you're taking a taxi/Uber, it's pretty crazy at the end of the night when everyone is leaving and you're all waiting for your car on the long and chaotic line in the taxi stand area. The Foggy Bottom-GWU metro station is about a 10-minute walk. (There are free shuttles between the metro stop and KC.) Oh and check out the back of the building which has a lovely promenade where you can stroll along the Potomac River! It's peaceful and scenic. Too bad the recent politicization of KC is casting a shadow over the institution, but it is not going anywhere, and my review speaks only to the many wonderful performances that have been put on there and the hard working staff who continue to produce the best season possible. To quote conductor Lidiya Yankovskaya's thoughtful and passionate op-ed in the Washington Post (which you ought to read in its entirety): "Art is no mere commodity, like a boycotted product sold by an exploitative corporation or an aggressor in a war. Art has the capacity to change minds, shift cultures, challenge assumptions. Choosing not to perform deprives artists and art of power, and it aids regimes that fear being culturally challenged. Choosing not to attend performances of content we support will only ensure that this content is not presented in the future." Wurd! read more

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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. read more

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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! read more

The Kennedy Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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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. read more

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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. read more

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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. read more

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We came back again to watch another show and just like last time it didn't disappoint. The talent at the Kennedy center is unbelievable to watch in person. We watched the orchestra and seeing all the instruments up close is truly breathtaking. We sat in a box and the seats were comfortable and high up to get a good full view of the stage. Highly recommend if looking for a different type of night out in DC. read more

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. read more

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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 read more

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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. read more

The Kennedy Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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. read more

The Kennedy Center - "Generals gathered in their...ballet shoes!" Black Sabbath-The Ballet. - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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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. read more

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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!! read more

The Kennedy Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Amazing and accessible place for the performing arts. They were the best when it comes to disability accessibility. The politicization of this place is a reason I may not go for a while but look forward to it being even better in the future. read more

Things are not the same since our last visit. The show was good but the staff did not seem like they were happy and motivated to be there. Hopefully things will be better at the next event i attend. read more

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

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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. read more

The Kennedy Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Overall, I really enjoyed this concert venue. It was convenient to get parking in the garage and they had areas where you could get food and drinks. If you arrived early, there was also time to look around at the artwork and store. While the service was really great and the people working, there were quite kind, I was a little disappointed by the quality of food and refreshments they had. Because the venue was on the fancier side I wish that the snacks they offered were a little bit more elevated. I tried one of the soft pretzels with cheese and it tasted like it was microwaved and was not worth the high price. If you're going to get snacks, I would suggest going for one of their candy or trail mix options. Overall, the concert experience was still good and I would definitely go back to a show here again in the future. read more

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I attended a performance here with my 4th graders. The performance was amazing and so encouraging and engaging for all the students that attended! They were able to introduce each section of the orchestra individually with their own individual performances and then have a performance with the whole orchestra. I would recommend this field trip to others! read more

Such a gorgeous venue for the performing arts! The center caters to many tastes, offering musicals, operas, symphony orchestras, ballet, and more. Staff are incredibly friendly. Be sure to take a stroll outside on the terrace for spectacular views of the Potomac River! read more

The Kennedy Center - Waiting area before a theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

First timer and so glad we made it to 30th Anniversary of Riverdance. What a beautiful building and loved the entire experience there. I am looking for other events at the venue in the future just to go up to DC and experience the place again. The Cherry Blossoms were in bloom even thought they were not in other areas of town. So nice! read more

The Kennedy Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I keep checking in here, but never finishing my review. I love the ease of seeing shows at the Kennedy Center due to easy (though costly) parking and a quick drive back home after the show. The venue is great and you can enjoy a drink outside before the show. My only complaint is that the seats in the theaters are among the most uncomfortable seats I've ever sat in anywhere. I think it's time for new seats at the current ones lack any cushion or support. The productions are always excellent so it worth a few hours of discomfort. read more

It is one of the most amazing institutions in the world. Few celebrate the arts the way that the Kennedy Center does and they always ensure that these arts are approachable to all. From the free offerings (almost daily) to the home of the National Symphony Orchestra to the amazing theater offerings, this place has something for everyone. Situated on the Potomac River, this icon houses 3 main stages and a dozen other performance spaces with shows happening every night of the week. A national dedication to the arts, this place leaves you feeling both inspired and patriotic in a way that many Washington icons do. Having frequented shows at the Kennedy Center, I can strongly recommend the free performances for locals and for those coming from out of town, grab tickets to anything that is in season and suits your fancy. Opera, theater, live music of all genres, ballet, other dance, orchestra, art exhibits, comedy, lectures, the list goes on and the tickets aren't going to set you back like they would in other event spaces. A rare historical moment in history where a bipartisan agreement enabled this institution to exist and thrive (in celebration of Kennedy's life) makes you wonder what else is possible when we look past our differences and create something great for Americans and citizens of the world to enjoy. read more

Maybe Kennedy Center's exterior isn't all that stunning compared to other performing art houses around the world- but it is prestigious and grand indeed in other ways once you step inside. There's an air of respect that hangs when you truly walk on the red carpeted floor- at least for me it was; seeing these majestic chandeliers- just gives the lobby area an incredible wow factor. It was just soaring. Hubs purchased orchestra seats for the 'Social Tango Project' performance group as well as book our parking pass about a month before this trip because we didn't want any surprises. It was just a few minutes from our hotel in DC- to get here on foot, but with stilettos on, it was a no-go. Our own car it was. Reserve+pay for your parking in advance is the way to go to feel at ease. Pay attention to which theater is housing your specific performance (there are 3: the Eisenhower Theater, the Concert Hall and the Opera House) as this will make things a lot easier getting to the underground parking. I won't get into the acoustics and the science side of it- but the space made the show sound great. Get here early so you can order wine or a cocktail. But give yourself EXTRA time if you want to enjoy a bite or a cheese plate like we did- but didn't completely enjoy it because we'd gotten the dim lighting cue a few minutes before the performance and had to trash the rest. The folks at the concession stand get busy. Plus they have these awkward self-payment contraptions that even 30 yr olds had a hard time figuring things out. And for Kennedy Center? Things have to be flawless and those machines, were not. I thank the stars that the 'Project Tango' performance ONLY lasted an 1hr+15mins- because that was the perfect amount of time for a show like this. We'd come back in a heartbeat. And to know that Heart belted out Led Zeppelin's, "Highway To Heaven"- just made it that more dramatic being here. read more

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I saw the 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee musical, it was my first show at the Kennedy Center. I sat in the very, very back and was able to see, hear, and enjoy the show wonderfully. The facility itself is beautiful and so much larger than I expected. The day after, I joined some friends at the Kennedy Center for a Fresh Farm Market hosted on the grounds. The farm was AMAZING -- but that's for a different review. The Kennedy Center was a wonderful host. I got to explore the large facility a bit more and continued to be impressed. I will be back! read more

The Kennedy Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Every time, the Kennedy Center delivers. The atmosphere, the magnitude of the simple glamour, and the service. I came a bit early to my 7:30pm showing of the opera Romeo and Juliet so I was able to catch the free South African musical show on the Millennium Stage! Everyone was singing along when they performed their version of Toto's Africa as an encore. Be sure to check out the Kennedy Center's calendar online for tours and free or super affordable shows. I've found that going to a few even if I'm unsure of the genre has really expanded my palate for the performing arts. The fact that this sort of experience can be offered is amazing and I'm happy the performing arts can reach everyone. Cocktails and drinks are affordable, so grab one before your show and walk around their terrace outside overlooking the Potomac River. Their gift shop is well stocked with something for everyone - they had a ton of Christmas and ballet related items for the Nutcracker. Big thank you to the Theater Manager and everyone else who assisted both on the phone and in person for their graciousness in a ticket snafu. The show was spectacular and we really appreciate your hospitality. read more

The Kennedy Center - Romeo and Juliet opera - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

So, I went back to the Kennedy Center to see another play (Romeo and Juliet) and I must say I was impressed with the talent of the cast. This was my first time going to a play/musical that was authentic/ exceptional quality Opera. Needless to say, I was impressed with their voices. Then the costumes, the scenes, the acting... all these factors made the play a great success. I will definitely be scoping out the other shows and events to be back basking in all of their talent. One thing to notate, the play is not in English but subtitles are shown. read more

The Kennedy Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I had a fantastic experience at the John F. Kennedy Center. It's a beautiful venue to watch shows, with excellent acoustics, the seatings are a bit small but they are okay. The views from the terrace were breathtaking, offering a stunning panorama of the city. I have been here 2 times for 2 different shows. They were both great! read more

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We loved Moulin Rouge musical at Kennedy center. Great ambiance as always. Biggest disappointment was big groups of people coming late and really making our experience bad. I think our row had to get up at least 6 times because people were late for the 1st and 2nd acts. So please, if you are reading this, don't be late and turn your phone off and enjoy! read more

The Kennedy Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I recently went to the Kennedy Center for a play. The Center was beautiful and the staff were very kind. They did have beverages and snacks for sale, but I did not venture over to that area. The restrooms were clean and well maintained. Being on the taller side at 5'9 (I can only imaginehow those taller than me feel.), my only issue was the seating. I was definitely a bit cramped. I was in the balcony, maybe I have to start springing for floor seats. I prefer to be able to look over and not have to look through people though. Overall, this is a lovely venue and I hope to visit soon, whether it be their exhibit or for an event. read more

The Kennedy Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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24 Feb 24 Update: Still love visiting the Kennedy Center. The REACH to the Forest festival is a ton of fun and most of the events are free. Thanks for being awesome! :-) read more

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The Kennedy Center is a must go, if there is anything playing while you are in D.C. It is amazing, beautiful, historic and an honor to President Kennedy. The place is large and is stunning inside and out. It can be pricey, but not always. It is the sort of place where you dress to impress. There is something so special about it. The staff is wonderful. You will love it. Go. read more

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I've been going to the Kennedy Center for years now...pretty much since they opened. I absolutely love the variety of shows they have. From hip hop artists, to orchestras, to magic shows. Seeing the rainbow lights when you drive by outside is cool. To me its a sign you are in the city. Inside, walking down the grand halls with all the nations flags is also cool. I think some parts of the interior could use some remodeling/touch ups but for the most part, the theaters are usually pretty clean. Parking is expensive but hey its DC. read more

Now a rapidly diminishing program of cultural offerings, along with the old problems of remote location, expensive parking and overpriced bad food. Fortunately, there are a lot of other things going on in DC, including many arts organizations finding new homes. read more

Nice opera house though acoustics are not great. Took us really long time to get there and pass through 3 lines of security. Allocate extra 15 min at least, we were nearly late for the opera. read more

The Kennedy Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Came to see Matteo Lane. The show was great and the audience was awesome. The bathrooms were clean this time but the climate of the concert hall was HOT, musty and muggy feeling. People were coughing, slowly stripping their jackets and cover-ups and many of us were sweating. Do they not believe in AC?! read more

The Kennedy Center - Opera House Bathroom - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

A beautiful and elegant venue for theater, opera and other entertainment. Over 2,000 performances each year are given in the several venues inside the Center. The Millennium Stage offers free performances (standing room only) Wednesdays through Sundays and those performances are live streamed. The Center is easy to get to by car. Parking is expensive ($25). Walkable from the Metro (Foggy Bottom), there is a Kennedy Center Shuttle that picks up at Foggy Bottom every 15 minutes. I've used this a few times and it's very easy and convenient. I was concerned about not being able to get back at the end of the performance but had no problem getting in the shuttle when I wanted to after two sold-out shows. The cafeteria-style eatery (KC cafe) is good, high quality food, but expensive. If you can grab a seat by the window, you get a great skyline view of the City. Although the place is elegant, people come to the Center in a variety of attire. If you go, give yourself a bit of extra time to visit the Terrace for great City views read more

GREAT SHOW!!! Truly felt like I was just sitting there choppin it up with my closest chicas - acting goofy, sharing laughs, talking bout whatev & whoev over drinks. Jokes aside, she's relatable, keeps it , cares about humanity & genuinely seems like a good homie on & off stage... Never a bad time when seeing a show at The Kennedy Center. read more

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