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This is the gold standard for rock clubs, and not just in Washington but across the country. There are plenty of reasons it regularly wins nightclub of the year awards from such magazines as Billboard and Pollstar. Such pantheon artists as Paul Simon, Bob Dylan, James Brown and Dolly Parton have all graced the 9:30's stage.

Rosslyn's destination for art and culture includes multiple theaters, galleries and a ballroom.

Alexandria's 500-seat sit-down venue is the local home to many top veterans of country, singer-songwriter, R&B and bluegrass. Show up early if you want one of the best tables; prime spots are usually gone shortly after the doors open at 6 p.m.

The Black Cat has been the undisputed king of indie rock clubs in Washington since it opened on U Street in 1993, before the area became the night life hub it is now. With the upstairs Mainstage (capacity about 700) and downstairs Backstage (capacity about 150), it hosts established and fledgling acts. There's also the Red Room bar.

Don't be fooled by the name: this is a jazz club. All the big names play (or have played) this intimate Georgetown venue, which is pricey, but worth it if you're a jazz head.

Legendary jazz spot is split between the cave-like basement, made from petrified wood, and Liv, an upstairs nightclub for hip-hop DJs.

The University of Maryland's multi-venue arts complex hosts theater, music and dance.

No other pizza parlor in town packs in as much jollity as this retro retreat, where the green tabletops and round white lights support a Ping-Pong theme and an igloo-shaped, wood-fueled oven cranks out tasty pies.

Historic 3,200-seat auditorium, which once hosted only opera and classical shows, now is a popular venue for soul, hip-hop and pop acts.