John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

"The John F. Kennedy Center is a sight to behold, inside and out. Set on the banks of the Potomac River—between the Watergate Hotel and the Lincoln Memorial—this performing arts center is stately and iconic; it's the true monument to J.F.K. Edward Durrell Stone designed the modern marvel, whose halls are decorated with plush red carpets, enormous crystal chandeliers, and a bevy of state flags; its rooftop restaurant is a favorite place for Washingtonians to watch the sunset with a cocktail or coffee. The National Symphony Orchestra and Washington National Opera both call The Kennedy Center home. In September 2019, the Kennedy Center doubled down on its commitment to the arts with the opening of The REACH. Filled with intimate performance spaces and lecture halls, the expansion aims to create deeper connections between performers and audiences." - Adele Chapin

"Overlooking the Potomac River, the Kennedy Center stands as a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy and an iconic landmark for arts in America. Its marble facade, sky-high ceilings, and crystal chandeliers exude grandeur, not to mention the central eight-foot bronze bust sculpture of JFK. With its Opera House and seven other stages presenting a variety of musical and theatrical performances—as well as a free event every day at 6 p.m. at the Millennium Stage—there’s no excuse not to enjoy the artistic expression of the human spirit while visiting D.C. As quoted by JFK and inscribed in the walls along the River Terrace, “This country cannot afford to be materially rich and spiritually poor.”"

"Overlooking the Potomac River, the Kennedy Center stands as a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy and an iconic landmark for arts in America. Its marble facade, sky-high ceilings, and crystal chandeliers exude grandeur, not to mention the central eight-foot bronze bust sculpture of JFK. With its Opera House and seven other stages presenting a variety of musical and theatrical performances—as well as a free event every day at 6 p.m. at the Millennium Stage—there’s no excuse not to enjoy the artistic expression of the human spirit while visiting D.C. As quoted by JFK and inscribed in the walls along the River Terrace, “This country cannot afford to be materially rich and spiritually poor.”"

"Give us the big picture: What’s the vibe of the place, what’s it like? The John F. Kennedy Center is a sight to behold, inside and out. Set on the banks of the Potomac River—between the Watergate Hotel and the Lincoln Memorial —this performing arts center is stately and iconic; it's the true monument to J.F.K. Edward Durrell Stone designed the modern marvel, whose halls are decorated with plush red carpets, enormous crystal chandeliers, and a bevy of state flags; its rooftop terrace restaurant is a favorite place for Washingtonians to watch the sunset with a cocktail or coffee. What kinds of events can we see here? President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the legislation for creating this national cultural center (one of the theaters is named for him in homage), which John F. Kennedy championed; it was dedicated to him after his death in 1963. Today it's a preeminent arts venue with massive theaters and concert halls that host about 3,000 events annually. The National Symphony Orchestra and Washington National Opera both call The Kennedy Center home, while there are also regular performances in ballet, jazz, hip hop, improv comedy, and more. More into the theater? The venue hosts some of the best and buzziest Broadway productions, from Hamilton to Dear Evan Hansen . Good for kids? In pursuit of its arts education mission, the Kennedy Center’s 324-seat Family Theater hosts a number of performances geared specifically toward children, including children’s books brought to life through opera, or interactive concerts using games and stories. Anything in particular that makes this place special, from the programming to a unique feature it has? In September 2019, the Kennedy Center doubled down on its commitment to the arts in our nation’s capital with the opening of The REACH. Filled with intimate performance spaces and lecture halls, this Kennedy Center expansion aims to create deeper connections between performers and audiences. If we’re going to be in town, what—and who—do you think this is best for? Though the Kennedy Center might seem like a venue befitting a special occasion, this cultural center is for anyone—and at any time. Guided tours are available daily, and even if the arts aren’t your thing, it’s worth a visit to the rooftop terrace for its incredible city views." - Amy McKeever

"The Kennedy Center called off plans to host the first weekend of a 'lounge pop-up' from D.C. nightclub Heist on its rooftop terrace due to concerns over meeting health and safety standards and compliance with city reopening guidelines. The pop-up was planned to include table reservations, snack trays, and bottle service, and was classified as a restaurant under Phase 2 of D.C.'s reopening protocols. The decision was made to allow for further evaluation and ensure gatherings meet health standards and city guidelines." - Gabe Hiatt