It’s Friday night, you’ve conquered your work week with valor and you are in need of some serious playtime. Washington, DC is brimming with diverse clubs, bars, and gastropubs perfect for a thrilling night in the city. Grab your friends and head to one or all of these fun focused spots for an evening of celebration. Whether you like to sip cocktails amongst refined decor or try a new craft beer in a spot that exudes casual charm, there is a place here for you. Although every day is worth celebrating, make today a memory you and your spirit sisters can laugh about for weeks to come.
1. Indulge with a visit to Sip & Dry Bar
Editor’s note: Establishment is permanently closed
Self-care is a must and at Sip & Dry Bar, you can tend to your natural curls or tamed tresses with a creative cocktail in hand. Sip & Dry Bar offers a variety of services including blowouts, updos and full make-up for a daring new style to complement your carefree weekend attitude. Sit and relax while one of their master mixologists creates a drink perfect for your pregame pampering. Choose one of their signature service-drink combinations, or mix it up and choose your own pair. Book online to save time and provide a seamless experience with your scheduled group services.
Sip & Dry Bar
Address: 2004 Hecht Avenue N.E., 20002 Washington, DC
Website: Sip & Dry Bar
2. Conversation and cocktails at Kramers
Not every group is keen on spending the night hopping bar to bar. Maybe you and your ladies are more into discussing the latest economic trends or political scandal before the party begins. If your group enjoys a good book just as much as a nice cocktail, Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe could be just what you’re craving. With a delicious array of options for lunch and dinner, dining area, and bar, Kramerbooks is a unique venue for a casual night out and a frequent spot for some of DC’s most interesting characters. You never know who you might meet reaching for the same copy of a new autobiography or historical fiction.
Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe
Address: 1517 Connecticut Ave NW, 20036 Washington, DC
Website: Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe
3. An after work fiesta
Alero’s is your favorite happy hour bar you haven’t discovered yet. Located in the middle of U Street, the festive Mexican restaurant has stylish decor, great daily specials, and delectable bites. Friendly bartenders, a community feel and maybe even some dancing can be found in this local spot where friendships can be made and kept strong over tequila or margaritas seven days a week. A perfect after work spot that’s classy enough to bring your new co-worker but casual enough to invite your best and craziest friend along too.
Alero's
Address: 1301 U St NW # 113, 20009 Washington, DC
Website: Alero’s
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4. Dance away your worries at Rosebar
Now that the pre-party has transformed into a full-fledged celebration, it’s time for some music and dancing; absorb the energy of the night air and head over to RoseBar for some sophisticated excitement. The intimate space is decorated in alluringly deep reds and luxurious fabrics that are certain to leave you feeling queenly. Be sure to step in early to avoid long lines as this lounge is usually humming by midnight. The wide range of music depending on the night is sure to satisfy even the most selective music lover, and if you happen to come hungry, Rosebar also boasts some of the best late night sushi in town (restaurant closes at 11 p.m. and midnight on Saturdays).
Rosebar Lounge
Address: 1215 Connecticut Ave NW, 20036 Washington, DC
Website: Rosebar Lounge
5. Levels of luxury at Ozio's
One of the most iconic features of the American northeast is the gorgeous rooftop lounges. The crisp air, creative layouts and vibrating city streets below are an intoxicating mixture. Ozio’s Rooftop Lounge is no exception to this charm.
Equipped with cigar service, Mediterranean cuisine and a reputation for crafting one of the best martinis, Ozio’s is a must visit for you and your crew. Ozio’s has four floors and each holds the potential to be your favorite with a variety of music styles such as top 40s, hip hop, and Latin hits. For an exclusive experience, two VIP lounges can accommodate your needs for a refined experience.
Ozio DC
Address: 1813 M St NW, 20036 Washington, DC
Website: Ozio DC
6. Eighteenth Street Lounge
Calling all house music lovers and dancers, if you have a passion for the beat and hypnotic motion of deep house, Eighteenth Street Lounge will be sure to satisfy. With three separate dance floors, this dance haven has the feel of a speakeasy with the accessibility of a neighborhood bar. You’ll find several regally decorated rooms, a patio area and a cozy living room style lounge blaring the best in underground hip-hop your ears have ever heard. Needless to say, this is where the too cool for school kids get down and you are more than welcome to join the fun. Check their website to catch some amazing live performances as well.
Eighteenth Street Lounge
Address: 1212 18th St NW, 20036 Washington, DC
Website: Eighteenth Street Lounge
7. Beat the heat at The Fainting Goat
This infamous U Street spot is renowned for its tasty bites to share, crafty cocktails and a beautiful patio setting perfect for meeting your besties after a long day. A relaxed yet elegant style welcomes all who wander into this regional gem. Check in on weekdays for happy hour and stick around for a dinner menu that is sure to help you kick off your night on the town with a sensational savory twist. If you happen to miss the dinner rush, The Fainting Goat is open late night for your tantalizing cravings after midnight on weekends.
The Fainting Goat
Address: 1330 U St NW, 20009 Washington, DC
Website: The Fainting Goat
8. Take your night to the next level at Sax
Transport yourself to a world of drama, desire, and intrigue where mysterious performers douse the stage with fiery acrobatics, amazing vocals, and daring stunts. A night at Sax is like no other. The immense decadence of this mansion style club will take your breath away, with the allure of a Vegas-style entertainment, unbelievable drinks and the potential to meet a new interesting friend along the way.
Sax
Address: 734 11th St NW, 20004 Washington, DC
Website: Sax
Let the night take you
Friendships are what tether us to the world. The experiences we create and share with our community keep us grounded in the midst of uncertainty and become the cheering squad for our every accomplishment. Celebrate the beauty of these connections with a night together. You never know when the demands of daily life can pull you away, so before they do, grab your crew and toast to the moments you’ve had and the moments on the night’s horizon.