Best Nightlife in Washington

Many people think of a soundcheck as the time when a performer gets their voice and/or instrument ready in the hours or minutes before a concert. District residents may have to expand that definition to include Soundcheck DC, a nightclub on K Street where the music is ready to be heard. Opened in August 2015, the venue features a top-of-the-line sound system, lasers, two disco balls and LED screens. The club brings in local and nationally known DJs to spin the best in hip hop, house and Latin music. A coat check is available during the winter months. METRO: McPherson Square

Pump your fists and get ready to shake your hips at Ultrabar which features five different floors of beat-thumping music and state of the art lighting. Housed in a former bank, the venue kept echoes from its past and incorporated them into its current design. The main floor features a tall ceiling and elegant chandeliers while the basement level still has the original bank safety box boxes. Six full-service bars await your drink orders along with 26 exclusive tables featuring bottle service. Four DJ booths are stationed throughout the club and host a number of national and local talent. METRO: Chinatown/G Street or Metro Center

Located inside the former Addison Scurlock Photography Studio, this U Street sports bar strives for a welcoming atmosphere mixed with good times and delicious food. Sure, you can catch the game on one of the many televisions throughout the bar but what's this spot different from the rest is how many unique activities they offer. Come for drag brunch on Saturdays and Sundays or drag bingo on Tuesdays. Test your knowledge during out of bounds trivia or dance your cares away when they bring in a DJ. Hungry? Check out some Nellie favorites with bbq ribs, empanadas, chicken nachos and jumbo wings. METRO: U Street

Founded in 2012, this hybrid nightclub and concert venue was first inspired by the electronic music scene's warehouse roots. This destination is not for those who want an intimate gathering as the space is over 30,000 square feet and can host 3,000 guests. Featuring a top tier sound system and advanced LED visual displays, the venue attracts some of the largest names in music including Cardi B, Calvin Harris, Miley Cyrus David Guetta and also up and coming acts guests will want to know. There are nearly 40 tables availalbe for bottle service and two 60 foot bars on each side of the dance floor. METRO: Rhode Island Ave.

Walk through the doors of this Georgetown gem and you will be transported back to the supper clubs of the 1920s and 1930s. Founded in 1965, many well-known artists have played here including Dizzy Gillespie and Wynton Marsalis. While taking in a performance, treat yourself to their scrumptious menu with entrees like salmon cakes, jambalaya and stuffed pork chops. This venue is known as a listening club so be respectful during performances. Once you purchase tickets, make sure you can attend because sales are final and non-refundable. Seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis so get there early. METRO: Foggy Bottom

Named for the Adams Morgan neighborhood the venue calls home, Madam's Organ features live entertainment seven days a week and bills itself as the place "where the beautiful people go to get ugly." While known for showcasing jazz and blues bands, they also have rock, R&B and salsa performers. Featuring five bars throughout its five levels, the club offers free pool on the second level and more than a dozen appetizers to wash down its tasty assortment of beers and spirits. Their signs say "Sorry, We're open," but they have nothing to apologize for since many are sad when they close for the night. METRO: Woodley Park/Zoo

Foo Fighters, Kings of Leon, Radiohead and The Strokes are just some of the bands that have played The Black Cat. Since 1993, the club has been bringing patrons the best in live independent music. The 7,000 square foot main concert room hosts the big acts while the backstage suite offers a more intimate experience with indie, punk and garage rock bands, solo artists, DJs dance nights and independent film screenings. After a show, be sure to head to the Red Room Bar which is open until midnight after every main stage show. Guests can indulge in craft beers as well as a selection of liquors. METRO: U Street/Cardozo.

With quirky decor, large couches and curtains throughout, this event space does live up to its name even though its probably unlike most living rooms you have been in. Located in Logan Circle, this club and event space offers a place for District residents to forget their troubles and worries for a night in a relaxing yet stylish setting with only the best dance music. If you are coming with a group, you might want to book table reservations early. Also, they have an event space with more than 5,000 square feet so let them host your birthday or bachelorette party. METRO: McPherson Square

Everyone needs a good laugh and what better way to tickle your funny bone than to come to DC Improv, one of the top comedy clubs in the nation. A 'Who's who' of comedians have performed here including Ellen DeGeneres, Dave Chappelle, Lewis Black and Jerry Seinfeld and they continue to bring in tour headliners and local celebrities. The venue features a restaurant with a vast menu including vegan and gluten-free options for those who work up an appetite while laughing. Beer, wine and liquor are also available for purchase. Their comedy school offers participants the opportunity to learn how to do improv and standup. Metro: Farragut North

The official title is Nightclub 9:30 but most know the venue as the 9:30 Club. Some of the most popular names and bands in music perform at this intimate venue. Just scroll through the upcoming shows list and you will be amazed by the talent. While you are enjoying some incredible music, order a tasty dish off their 'Food Food' stand menu which includes a variety of tacos, quesadillas and salad bowls or stop by one of four bars for beer, spirits or non-alcoholic beverages. The venue is now cashless so be sure to bring your debit or credit card. They do have an app available to pay your bar tab from your phone. Metro: U Street