14 Best Nightlife in Virginia, USA

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).

There's free nightly entertainment from April through Labor Day weekend at the 24th Street stage or on the boardwalk.

Originally a D.C. institution, made its first move out of the District with this prime spot on the Shirlington promenade. Sip on a signature brew from Amber Waves Ale to Prohibition Porter while noshing on beer-friendly appetizers like black-and-tan onion rings or southwest keg rolls.

This is a local watering hole with true character, not a tourist trap. Don't be surprised to see a great white shark staring back at you as you eat a juicy piece of that shark's cousin (mahimahi) stuffed with fresh Chesapeake Bay crabmeat, or enjoy raw oysters and a cold Corona.

There is trivia night on Tuesday, afternoon entertainment Sunday, and entertainment all other nights in summer and Tuesday–Saturday during winter—there's typically an Irish musician or two.

This lively pub has authentic Irish entertainment nightly and a blazing fire in the winter. It can get quite crowded on weekend nights.

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.

Three dining rooms and two bars twist through this 200-year-old building. Although it's also a restaurant, come late for a beer in the busy main bar or chat with friends in the cozy Oyster Bar area.