By: Lily Martin
Photography by: Megan Rooney
Wednesday night marks the beginning of students (un)steadily flowing from campus to the dim, welcoming lights of the revered Piano Bar. Willingly or not, Hoyas usually experience this trademark bar at least once. But why not enjoy the ambiance that comes with the territory? Sure, a piano isn’t everyone’s go-to instrument for a pre-game soundtrack, but Georgetown and its surrounding neighborhoods provide a number of diverse music venues to make getting outside of the Georgetown bubble a little more worthwhile.
Gypsy Sally’s
Distance from the front gates: 11 minute walk
Music scene: Americana/Indie Rock
Time: 5 pm-2 am
Cover?: Occasionally for certain performers, but the Vinyl Lounge is always free
Imagine Mumford and Sons aging about ten more years and deciding to open a bar between your favorite french brunch restaurant and the Georgetown waterfront; the result would be this classic rock, “dad-esque” treasure. With both locally and nationally renowned featured artists, a killer appetizer menu, a bar top made of old vinyl, and a separate room primarily for relaxing to old records, paying the extra couple of bucks to avoid donning a jersey for the night becomes so much more appealing.
Blues Alley
Distance from the front gates: 5 minute Uber, 13 minute walk
Music scene: Jazz
Time: 8 pm-12 pm
Cover?: Depending on the night, tickets (sold online or at the door) can range from $15-$40
This little slice of history is the nation’s oldest continuing dinner jazz club in the U.S.. Though it may not feature Ryan Gosling nightly, it’s sure to satisfy any La La Land jazz fantasy you have. Self-described as a “listening club”, where loud conversations are heavily frowned upon, this is a destination bar for anyone who doesn’t want to shout over the chorus of Mr. Brightside.
Adams Morgan
For those who want to venture out further, Adams Morgan is host to numerous live music bars that’ll expand your bar-hopping circuit.
Club Timehri
Distance from the front gates: 16 minute Uber
Music scene: Reggae/Soca
Time: 9 pm-2 am
Cover?: Nope!
The Black Squirrel
Distance from the front gates: 17 minute Uber
Music scene: Bluegrass/Americana
Time: 8 pm-1 am
Cover?: No, plus it features one of the biggest taprooms in DC and a build-your-own mac & cheese night.
Black Cat
Distance from the front gates: 19 minute Uber
Music scene: Indie/Rock/Alternative
Time: 9 pm-3 am
Cover?: Some of the shows have a cover, but the Red Room Bar is always free
So whether you’re in the mood for some music or just want to change up your weekly routine, be sure to check out these local musical bar destinations.
