Studio Theatre
MAP IT
This bustling neighborhood offers dozens of trendy restaurants, happening bars and stylish boutiques amid quirky, historic architecture.
Known for its lineup of provocative, fresh plays (many recently on Broadway), this neighborhood stalwart has been putting on shows since 1978. Four stages, including an edgy black-box space, host musicals, avant garde dramas and new comedies in a converted, industrial-cool commercial building.
DC’s young and thirsty congregate at many of Logan Circle’s bars and restaurants after work, and there’s no hotter seat (or standing spot) than on an outdoor patio or roof deck. A few to try: Zeppelin for sushi, cocktails, and karaoke, Barcelona Wine Bar for tapas al aire libre or Pearl Dive Oyster Palace for happy hour deals so good that people spill out onto the street. For sweeping city views, check out Players or Hush at the Viceroy.
In business since 1993, this dimly lit, two-level music hall features an upstairs stage and a downstairs lounge with pinball games and pool tables. Up-and-coming and established rock, punk and electronica acts play here almost every night, plus there are regular DJ gigs and occasional comedy shows. An onsite cafe doles out vegan and vegetarian chow to enjoy before or after the show, including a mighty good lasagna.
DC has improv comedy? Yes, and... it's amazing! Escape your strictly scheduled agenda for a few gloriously fun hours during which you (and the performers) have no way of knowing what's coming next. You're guaranteed some belly laughs with Washington Improv Theater as you watch them create a show they have never rehearsed and that will never be repeated.
Whether you're a die-hard fan, curious to try the art form yourself or just in it for the laughs, everyone is welcome at this District gem, a staple for over 25 years. The calendar features fresh takes on popular series like Ask Me Anything every Friday and Saturday night, along with free weekly shows on Mondays and Tuesdays.
ChurchKey
In a moody, narrow, second-floor space, this temple to suds pours more than 500 beers by the bottle, draft or cask. Look for unusual varieties like sour ales, toasty doppelboks and plenty of hoppy IPAs. The food menu puts unusual spins on pub fare, with items like bratwurst burgers or sausage gravy-covered fries.
© Jason Dixson Photography
Sit at the zinc-topped bar (or outside) in restaurateur Stephen Starr’s ode to a classic French brasserie where dazzling, throwback decor sets the scene for Gallic fare like trout amandine and steak frites. Oui, there’s often a wait, so come early or get a reservation if you’re craving champagne and paté.
Anyone who has ever driven in DC knows about its infamous traffic circles. But Logan Circle, with its grand Victorian mansions flanking the curves of the street, is the city’s last remaining residential one. Stroll around it, admiring turrets, towers and architectural flourishes, or take a picnic to the circle itself to take it all in.
Logan Circle boasts many other restaurants and shops, plus historic charm galore. Wander over to 14th Street to see one of DC's most popular strips.
Partner Content