The jazz scene in Washington, District of Columbia, is flourishing, with a plethora of venues that offer exceptional live performances. The following is a compilation of the ten most exceptional jazz venues in the city:
- Blues Alley
Established in 1965, Blues Alley is a renowned jazz supper club located in Georgetown. It has hosted legendary artists like Dizzy Gillespie and Ella Fitzgerald, offering an intimate ambiance reminiscent of classic New York jazz venues.
Website: bluesalley.com
Phone: (202) 337-4141 - JoJo Restaurant & Bar
Situated on the historic U Street Corridor, JoJo combines a 1920s vibe with modern flair. It features live jazz and blues acts from Wednesday through Sunday nights, complemented by American cuisine and classic cocktails. citeturn0search1
Website: jojodc.com
Phone: (202) 319-9350 - The Birchmere
Located in Alexandria, The Birchmere is a historic music hall that has evolved into an internationally renowned venue. While it showcases various genres, jazz and blues remain at its core, offering performances by both legends and emerging artists.
Website: birchmere.com
Phone: (703) 549-7500 - Georgia Brown’s
Since 1993, Georgia Brown’s has been a D.C. staple, blending Southern cuisine with live jazz. Notably, their Sunday Live Jazz Brunch offers a four-course meal accompanied by smooth tunes, transporting guests to the South.
Website: gbrowns.com
Phone: (202) 393-4499 - Mr. Henry’s
Billing itself as the “home of Roberta Flack,” this Capitol Hill venue hosts a live jazz supper club from Wednesday to Saturday. With a cozy patio and hearty comfort food, it’s a cherished spot for both locals and visitors.
Website: mrhenrysdc.com
Phone: (202) 546-8412 - The Kennedy Center
As the nation’s performing arts center, The Kennedy Center hosts jazz legends and emerging artists in elegant settings. Under the direction of pianist Jason Moran, it offers performances that push the boundaries of jazz.
Website: kennedy-center.org
Phone: (202) 467-4600 - Rhizome DC
A DIY community center, Rhizome DC is a hub for experimental and free-form music. It provides a platform for artists to explore and challenge musical boundaries, offering audiences unique and original performances.
Website: rhizomedc.org
Phone: (202) 882-7177 - St. Vincent Wine
This wine bar offers jazz brunches every weekend, featuring rising stars and established local jazz musicians. Guests can enjoy a mix of original music and traditional jazz songs in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Website: stvincentwine.com
Phone: (202) 853-9741 - Westminster Presbyterian Church
Known for its classic jazz performances, Westminster Presbyterian Church hosts D.C. jazz elders playing 1950s-style swinging tunes. The venue also offers a home-cooked fish fry in the basement, providing a true education in the history of jazz.
Website: westminsterdc.org
Phone: (202) 484-7700 - Madam’s Organ
Located in the heart of Adams Morgan, Madam’s Organ is a vibrant blues bar known for its lively atmosphere and eclectic decor. It offers live music seven nights a week, featuring local and national blues and jazz acts.
Website: madamsorgan.com
Phone: (202) 667-5370
These venues collectively enrich Washington, D.C.’s jazz landscape, offering diverse experiences for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
