9:30 Club

The 9:30 Club is one of Washington's best-loved music venues. It opened on 31 May 1980 in a small room at 930 F Street NW, which gave it its name, and in 1996 it moved to its current home at 815 V Street NW, a former music hall near U Street. It is run by I.M.P., the company that also operates The Anthem, the Lincoln Theatre and other venues in the region.

The club holds around 1,200 people, which is big enough to attract well-known touring artists and small enough to feel close to the stage. Most of the floor is standing room, with bars around the space and a balcony above. The stage sits on rails and can be moved forward to make a smaller crowd feel full, which is one reason shows here have a good atmosphere even midweek. The club also has its own food menu.

The calendar is full of touring artists across many styles, with some comedy nights as well. Popular shows sell out, sometimes well ahead, so buy tickets as soon as you know your dates. Age limits depend on the show; some events are open to 16 and over, others 18 and over, so check the listing before you buy, especially if you are travelling with teenagers.

A long-standing tradition is the 9:30 Cupcake, a chocolate cupcake the club gives to performers. It is a small detail, but it is part of the club's character.

The club suits music fans of all ages, from students to long-time gig-goers. Allow a whole evening, and arrive early if you want a spot near the stage or on the balcony rail. Ticket and box office details are on the club's website, and tickets for some shows go on sale later than others, so keep checking.

U Street Metro station is close by, and the area has plenty of places to eat before a show. Ben's Chili Bowl is a few minutes away on foot for a half-smoke, and the Black Cat on 14th Street is nearby if you want to see another band. The LINE DC in Adams Morgan sometimes offers special rates for fans attending particular shows.