The 36 best spots to watch the sunset in Arlington (2024)

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A bucket list experience in a world-renowned venue! We were a bit nervous about parking but arrived about 40 minutes early, and it was very easy to access and a breeze to utilize. We visited to attend a touring musical and had a wonderful experience. The opera house lived up to our expectations and has such a rich history to appreciate while enjoying the performance. We look forward to our next trip to DC so we can take in another performance here!

Free to visit the center which has interesting and beautiful indoor and outdoor areas. Even on a Sunday night we had no problem finding a performance to view. If using the metro, there are frequently shuttles waiting to bring you, and they run even if just a couple people get on. I want to go back for a musical performance next time.

Absolute stunning place and perfect for a date night, we went to go see the NSO, had Par box seats and was very happy with my seat selection! Could see everything perfectly from my seats, I’ve included pictures for reference!This was my first time ever at an orchestra performance so make to NOT come late as they’ll seat you in Tier 3 until the intermission (don’t get to go to your actual seats until the break) That was new to me but I completely understood. Highly recommend going if you haven’t been

The Kennedy Center never disappoints! The staff is always courteous, and the shows are well-curated and executed. The Symphony orchestra, theater, and choir performances are definitely worth every penny. Additionally, the gift shop is well-stocked with souvenirs related to the current shows. If you're looking for a fun holiday activity, seeing The Nutcracker is always a great choice, and the Nutcracker souvenirs are plentiful. Recently, we saw a phenomenal Shakespeare Improv group, and they did an excellent job. With multiple theaters, there's always something to see, and the permanent exhibit on the top floor is particularly impressive. For a breathtaking view, I suggest visiting the Kennedy Center at dawn or dusk.

What an amazing space for watching performances. The center in itself is beautiful and houses an exhibition on J F Kennedy: arts and ideals. The exhibition is very interesting.The views are beautiful from the terrace. There is a restaurant which wasn't open when I visited but looked beautiful.We reserved parking near the center.I watched the Improv at Theater Lab which was very good.

First time visiting the Kennedy Center and it was a great experience. Staff was helpful in directing the flow of attendees and providing general information. The current exhibit upon entering was a nice addition to the evening. Maxwell and the orchestra were beyond fantastic. My seat was in the 3rd row on the right and the view was beyond what I expected! As the opening night to his concert series, the performance was perfect. This was a no phone event and what a welcomed difference. No views obstructed from people recording all night. Looking forward to more performances at this venue.

Watched mamma Mia and it was great! We had seats on the third tier and the view was still pretty good without anything blocking it. Seats were relatively comfortable and the theater was beautiful. Lots of beer and snack options available as well

Our reason for being in DC in February, a show at the JFK Center for the Performing Arts a grand venue with lots to see and do (besides the show!). Stroll the gardens and there are sculptures and other halls to visit. Take a free tour!! Inside there is a restaurant and a cafe, and an exhibit on Kennedy (from their website… “Art and Ideals: President John F. Kennedy is a major permanent exhibit in the massive roof-level Atrium”) that is worth a visit! It’s also free.The show at the Concert Hall was great. Very comfortable seating, though some rows only have one open side… the end of the rows are right next to the wall (so you have to walk past all the people already seated to get to the end of the row). We opted for box seats on the sides. Easy to enter and leave.All spaces are accessible. There are concessions (drinks/snacks) one can purchase before the show.The bathrooms are one floor down and there aren’t many of them. In the women’s room only four stalls and the lines were long. Men bathroom offered one stall and 3 urinals. Long lines formed there as well.Wanted to share one great thing! Our car trip to DC was about 5 hours and when we arrived we discovered that we left our tickets at home. Yeah, those were very fun minutes! After a few attempts on the phone, we reached operator #23 and she was SO gracious and helpful and told us to go right to the main box office and they printed us a new set of tickets. No worries!We had a great time and Mateo Lane was very, very funny!!

Stunning facility with nice views of DC! When I visited during a weekday, it was free to explore and an extremely helpful employee gave some tips on how to see everything. The hall of nations, hall of states, and Kennedy museum upstairs were all very interesting.

This was my first visit to the Kennedy Center. Absolutely beautiful! 💗 The staff was friendly and helpful and the atmosphere was very welcoming! An amazing feeling to be in a theater recognizing and acknowledging one of our country's greatest presidents!!Thank you!!

Living locally I usually visit the Kennedy Center once a year or so, to take visitors to a show or check out the rooftop. After my recent visit, I will be reconsidering taking any visitors for performances, particularly at the Millennial Stage. Unfortunately this recent visit was a lowlight of an otherwise fun Saturday due to the general stuffy and uptight vibes that persist at the Center. First off, a NO DANCING rule is pretty absurd for an institution that claims to be a pillar for the arts, come on Kennedy Center- let us enjoy life a little more! Additionally the line/ticketing system for the stage also is a bit misleading, splitting up families and groups with everyone else being held about 200 feet back from the stage. Finally, I would suggest that the management at the Stage brush up a bit on people skills, not only was the barking of rules to hapless tourists an embarrassment to our city, it’s not really an effective way to convince people to cooperate. I would think the Center could make a bit more of an effort to be inclusive of a wider range of people who may not enjoy the uptight old school formality and want something more modern and relaxed in order to enjoy the arts more.

My second time at the Kennedy Center and I'm always in awe at how incredible the experience is. Everyone is so polite and professional, it's insanely clean, and the quality of the visuals are top tier. I was lucky enough to see the National Symphony Orchestra play and was moved to tears at the passion, talent, and beauty of the music. I'm hoping to return soon to see NSO perform again!

As always, the choice of events is fantastic. We were floored by the Swedish orchestra. I would like to add that as a person who was with their elderly parents and recently injured myself, it is not as disability friendly. There should be more signs to direct to nearest restroom or handicap bathrooms closer to exits. We were told to walk out of our way when later realizing there was a restroom much closer. Live and learn… we will be back…

It's a huge building that just doesn't, from the bland exterior, justify the splendid interior. From the flags of nations to the concert, & opera halls. From the state flag hall to the eisenhower theatre and the Reach annexe. Superb. Free tours available in the basement.

Background:I visited the Kennedy Center for the first time on May 25, 2024 for Turandot, which was also the Washington National Opera's (WNO) 2023-24 season finale.Before You Go:The Kennedy Center website says that you can wear casual attire, but I would highly recommend dressing formally. 99.9% of opera-goers wore either suits (for the men) or dresses (for the women). See photos for reference.Architecture & Acoustics:In the Kennedy Center, it'd be very difficult to find an angle that results in a poor photo, as the entire complex is a beautifully crafted architectural icon. Furthermore, the center boasts incredible acoustics, as I had no problem listening to any of the amazing singers. The equally talented WNO orchestra was also deafening at times, and paired wonderfully with the stage's visuals.Vision & Temperature:Despite sitting at the back row of the highest floor (TR2, Row G), I was able to clearly follow the plot of Turandot. It can get a little chilly back there, so I'd recommend bringing either a jacket or blazer to stay warm. However, I wasn't too bothered with just my black oxford shirt.Intermission:Turandot featured a 25 minute mission. If you plan to use the restroom, however, you should head there immediately. Long lines already started forming 1-2 minutes after intermission began. The riverfront was open during intermission, and I was able to see great views of the Potomac River during this break.Final Thoughts:The Kennedy Center is an iconic venue that I'd like to re-visit, and if you will be visiting DC in the future, consider buying tickets for the Washington National Opera. Even for an undergraduate college student, I found the tickets affordable (roughly $51 after tax and fees) and worth every penny.

My favorite place in the District (and the prettiest view in the city)! I've never had a bad experience. Everytime I go I am awestruck at how beautiful and warm this place is even at night and even in the dead of winter. No finer tribute to President Kennedy or his legacy on American art and culture. No matter what you see here, go see it!

A Cultural Gem in Washington DCThe John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is an absolute must-visit in Washington DC. From its striking architecture to the phenomenal array of performances, this cultural hub truly stands out.The center's design is breathtaking, a modern masterpiece set against the Potomac River. Inside, the various theaters cater to diverse tastes, offering everything from classical music and ballet to contemporary theater and jazz concerts.Attending a performance here is a treat for the senses. The acoustics are impeccable, ensuring an immersive experience no matter where you're seated. The artists and performers consistently deliver outstanding shows, leaving the audience in awe.What's also impressive is the center's commitment to education and outreach. Their programs engage with the community, fostering a love for the arts among people of all ages.The staff is courteous and knowledgeable, always ready to assist and make your visit seamless. Additionally, the location provides stunning views of the city and the nearby landmarks.Whether you're a local or a visitor to DC, a visit to the Kennedy Center is an enriching and unforgettable experience. I highly recommend exploring this cultural gem and catching a show—you won't be disappointed!

I visited JFK Center to watch a performance and tour the building beforehand. The building is extraordinary because it serves as a cultural center and memorial to President John F. Kennedy. The center promotes the arts worldwide by connecting with artists and inspiring communities. REACH, an open stage, welcomes diverse cultures and encourages inclusivity and interactivity, breaking down barriers between art and audience.

We saw Pathways to Performance Exercises in Reframing the Narrative, a celebration recognizing the Black contributions to classical ballet in the Eisenhower Theatre.These performances were outstanding. Simply beautiful. The choreography was amazing.

2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566, USA•https://www.kennedy-center.org/•(800) 444-1324•Tips and more reviews for John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts