When it comes to US cities, Washington D.C. has an abundance of things to see and do. From the world’s largest library (psst, it’s the Library of Congress), to free-entry museums, to the line of cherry blossoms that bloom every spring – each one a century-old gift from the mayor of Tokyo – there’s something for everyone. And for the music lover, D.C. is steeped in a vibrant music scene with great venues all over the city. Amidst the grand monuments and bustling corridors, these spaces await those in search of intimate musical experiences. Here are some of our top venues in Washington D.C.:
Eaton DC
We’ve hosted nearly 50 shows at Eaton House, and it’s easy to tell why. The building is both a hotel, a community hub, and an incubator, where creatives and innovators can focus on their work. Each room in the hotel is tastefully designed, complete with a turntable and vinyl to spin, plus a collection of botanical bath products to get you pampered before the show.
It’s also right in the middle of the city, making it the ideal place for tourists to stay, visit the Smithsonian museums, see the Capitol, and take in a Sofar show.
Eckington Hall
A “creative multipurpose room”, Eckington Hall started as a space for a one-off art show, which prompted many in the community to ask about follow-up events. The Hall is a big space, so the owners (who previously ran flea markets across the city) turned to their contacts to repurpose it. Now they host diverse events, from a regular flea market to workshops, to Sofar shows. We’ve got a handful of shows coming up at Eckington; don’t miss em!
Big Bear Cafe
By day, Big Bear Cafe is a restaurant serving up delicious breakfast and lunch. By night, it’s a venue for Sofar shows, trivia nights, and more. But it’s always a community hub and a fixture of the Bloomingdale neighborhood. It’s got a super cozy vibe and stellar acoustics, just right for a singer-songwriter night or open mic.
Oh! And it hosts events during the weekly Bloomingdale Farmers Market, which happens right there at the corner of R St. NW and First St. NW.
City Ridge Social Stairs
Ever seen a show on a set of stairs? Well, these stairs are no ordinary stairs. These are the Social Stairs, at D.C.’s City Ridge residences. The wide steps, reading lamps, and cushions on each level give an indoor amphitheater-meets-library vibe. Plus, the impeccable acoustics and gorgeous design make this one of the unique venues for a Sofar show in the capital.
Edgewood Community Farm
Get dirty while getting green. Edgewood Community Farm is an idyllic place for finding your community – and for catching a Sofar show. A nonprofit urban farm and community garden that addresses food justice and insecurity, Edgewood’s mission is to get people outdoors and connected with their city and the earth that provides their food.
They also sometimes let us sample their veggies, including their amazing pickles.
This post is sponsored by washington.org. Explore Washington D.C. on a deeper level and be inspired by new experiences, sights, sounds, and flavors.
Ready to see these shows for yourself? Come to a Sofar show in D.C.!
