3 Best Nightlife in Northern Virginia, Virginia

A legend in the D.C. area, the Birchmere is one of the best places outside the Blue Ridge Mountains to hear acoustic folk, country, and bluegrass. Enthusiastic crowds regularly enjoy table-side service while taking in performances by artists such as Judy Collins, Don McLean, Bela Fleck, and Emmylou Harris. But the club is also a draw for some of the country's best jazz and R&B artists (Rachelle Farrell, Sheila E., Angie Stone).

This is the place to go to see concerts by aging hit makers from the past such as the Smithereens or tribute bands to the likes of Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and Bon Jovi. Attendees have the choice of sitting or standing in this renovated movie theater, which is about 10 miles west of D.C. The popular 1980s retro dance parties, featuring the Legwarmers tribute band, draw locals who like to dress the part.