The John F Kennedy Center

It is a gorgeous and true home for performing art! The first time I went there was almost 20 years ago. From the first sight, I fell in love with this national art palace. The first impressed thing was the paper cut on the windows. It was designed by Tim Yip, an Oscar winner, the art director of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. I am so proud to see traditional Chinese elements were included in this national art center. The hall looked very elegant. I like the introductions of M. Kennedy and the history of the art center. They are very informative. The performances has never disappointed me. “Kennedy Center” is like an endorsement for high quality art performances. The 360 degree patio brings the best view of DC into your eyes. The Watergate Hotel, Potomac River, Georgetown University, Washington Monument, Long Bridges, and even the Capitol Hill, are all included. I’d like to visit later in the Autumn to experience a different view.

Lives in the DMV my whole life and finally had a chance to come and visit. Brought the wife and kids to a play in the Family Theater. The entire facility is beautiful and is marked pretty clearly which way to go for events. We paid for parking and tickets a head of time so that made it seamless. Several entrances for parking and multiple areas within the building or on the balcony for photo opportunities. The performance was great as well. I only wish there were more restrooms on the main level but I think it helps with crowd control with the way it's currently set up

Lunar New Year Lanterns. Beautiful Display and family friendly. During COVID everyone was wearing masks even outside. Recommending you go early to park and although the line was long it moved quickly for how long it was 40 minutes. There was a free station for activities the kids could do. Bring two adults for kids so someone can stay in line while the other one has the kids exploring.

We had an absolutely amazing time! The entire experience was just wonderful. My 6 year old thoroughly enjoyed it as well. Venue was incredible, staff exceptional. Weather was a perk too, perfect day. The outside area for intermission with views of DC is fabulous. We will absolutely be back. Thank you for adhering to masking and vaccination policies as well while bringing the arts back into these hectic times.

We visit there on last 2 days of the Reach Winter Lanterns Festival. It was a huge area filled with lanterns displays celebrating 2022 Lunar New Year, it was so beautiful and bright. They have benches with heater around the open space. The organizer has worked excellent to manage the guests flow!

A true home for the performing arts, the Kennedy Center has numerous stages from the Opera House to a black box theater and everything in between. Created for DC residents and tourists alike, the Center brings or originates amazing shows, events and workshops. It’s both the institutional house for the National Symphony Orchestra and the place that has daily free shows of all types at 6pm. It’s truly got something for everyone, and with the recent addition of The Reach its uhm, reach has broadened even further! You can never go wrong with the KC. Highly recommend visiting on a random day even if you’re not going for a show: having just celebrated 50 years, the center is proud of its history and showcases it among other revolving pieces in its vast and airy halls. Check out the terraces ground level and “terrace” level and enjoy sweeping views of the city. A true gem in the nation’s capital!

Our visit to the Kennedy Center a few years ago is one of my fondest memories. Attended a performance of Mendelssohn' violin concerto in E minor, with Hillary Hahn as the soloist. A near-perfect experience, acoustically and visually. A striking venue. Walking distance from the Watergate also highly recommended.

I love being a member of the Kennedy Center. I joined during the pandemic because I wanted to support the arts and because a friend told me how much they enjoyed being a member. Fast forward a couple years later and I am finally able to enjoy both indoor and outdoor events at the center. The mission of the Kennedy Center really speaks to me and the community events as well as amazing performances throughout the year definitely make the membership worth while. My husband and I attended our first opera this year. We have also attended a few National Symphony Orchestra performances and a members only rehearsal. It was really special to watch the orchestra rehearse and see how the players and conductor come together to perform beautiful compositions. The Hall of States and Hall of Countries are really something to behold as well. There is so much history to learn about. The Reach is another building on the campus that is also full of great historical moments and an active work area for artists. The grounds have an amazing view of the Potomac River as well. There is parking on site for $25 and members receive a $5 discount on parking if you book in advance. We have not tried the on site restaurant yet, but plan to soon. Definitely check out an event and grounds of the Kennedy Center, if you are in the area. You will want to come back for sure. Thanks! :- Update 1/8/23: My husband and I visited the Kennedy Center last night to tour the new JFK exhibit, dine at the Rooftop Terrace and watched Wicked. We had an amazing time. The new exhibit is a great way to immerse yourself in all the aspects surrounding the creation of the National Cultural Center and the role the Kennedys played to make it a reality, which of course, contributed to the re-designation as the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The Rooftop Terrace is a very nice restaurant with the most friendly staff; the only downside is the food is overpriced, in my opinion, for what you receive. The musical, Wicked, is so awesome. I loved every minute of the show. The details and complexities of the set, lighting, sound and quality of the performers just blew me away. Bravo....bravo. Thank you again for another great evening enjoying the arts in our nation's capital.

Arrive early, grab a drink, and walk along the roof top. Perfect way to start the evening looking at many views of DC. Masks are required for the theater.

Beautiful performing arts center with amazing friendly staff. Our family loves to attend shows as well as grab some snacks and walk the grounds. Some beautiful views of the river, some monuments and Georgetown. Also 2 gift shops, a cafe, and multiple snack stations. Underground parking also available or you can grab the shuttle which picks up and drops off at the GW metro station.