The REACH Washington DC
A living theater
Opened in 2019, The REACH is a modern expansion of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Described as a “living theater,” The REACH is a performance hall, education center, and rehearsal space rolled into one. As you walk through the three pavilions, feel free to peek in through the various glass walls — don’t be shy. The REACH’s mission is to break down the barriers between audiences and artists. So, if you get lucky and stumble upon a dance rehearsal, stay a while and enjoy.
Once you tour the interior, step outside, and you will see that the outdoor space is just as thoughtfully designed as the indoor space: an expansive green roof, a reflecting pool, and a grove of 35 ginkgo trees commemorating JFK, the 35th President.
I love stopping by The REACH whenever I am taking a walk along the waterfront. I never know what to expect when I pop inside, but that is part of the fun. And the park is a wonderful place to take a breather and enjoy the greenery for a little while before getting back to my walk.
For people looking to add The REACH to their walking tour of D.C.: There is a pedestrian bridge that allows for easy access to and from the Rock Creek Trail, which depending on which direction you head in, will lead you to the National Mall or to the Georgetown waterfront.
Find your way with 101 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Washington DC
The Salsa Room
Dance all night
There are a lot of places to dance salsa in DC, but "The Salsa Room" is one of my favorites. I like how patrons who show up are really here to dance....
by
JR
Denson
East Potomac Golf Links
In the shadow of the Mall
"East Potomac Golf Links" in DC is probably my favorite place to play golf in the whole world. The view is amazing - and it's surprisingly affordable!
by
JR
Denson
Hill Center DC
Events on Capitol Hill(ish)
"Hill Center DC" is an events facility with all kinds of activities, from wine tastings to ASL & cooking classes. It's a real under-the-radar location!
by
JR
Denson
The Bullpen
Chill outdoor hangout
"The Bullpen" in DC is a great outdoor venue to go and hang out. I like going when they have special happy hour during Nationals home baseball games...
by
JR
Denson
DC Brau
The DC beer
Dublin has Guinness. New York City has Brooklyn Brewing. And DC has "DC Brau." It isn't just a local beer. It's the local beer...
by
JR
Denson
NoVA Ultimate Frisbee
Play near the Pentagon
There's an ultimate frisbee pick-up game that's been going on for years in a park across from the Pentagon City Mall in DC. It's so friendly and laid back there!
by
JR
Denson
Port City Brewing Company
Local brew
"Port City" isn't just one of my favorite beer companies locally in Washington DC, it's one of my favorite beer companies ANYWHERE. Try their porter...
by
JR
Denson
Canal Park Ice Rink
Chill ice skating
The "Canal Park Ice Rink" in Washington DC is somewhat of a hidden gem in a quiet neighborhood but w/ plenty of nice things to do around...
by
JR
Denson
Studio Gallery
Longest running artist cooperative
"Studio Gallery" in Washington D.C. is a great place to pop into for a quick dose of inspiration. It's the longest-running artist cooperative in D.C.!
by
Katya
Barannik
Looped Yarn Works
DC's happiest yarn shop
"Looped Yarn Works" calls itself D.C.'s happiest yarn shop, and I can't argue with that. The shop is like your best friend's living room...
by
Katya
Barannik
The Phillips Collection
Modern and contemporary
"The Phillips Collection" in Washington DC praises itself as America’s first museum of modern art, which encompasses art from the 1800s to today.
by
Katya
Barannik
Heading to Washington DC?
101 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 101 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Washington DC
Get to know our other Spotters from Washington DC
As featured on:
