Out on the Town

Great places for any night out in Northern Virginia

 

Places to Hear Great Riffs
Northern Virginia has a solid lineup of live music venues, including the Birchmere, IOTA, Jammin’ Java and Wolf Trap. But bars and restaurants that aren’t known for live music are making an effort to support the local scene, with intimate settings, affordable covers and a relaxed atmosphere.—Robert Fulton

Auld Shebeen
3971 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax; 703-293-9600; www.theauldshebeenva.com
When the well-known TT Reynolds closed down last year, the Fairfax music scene dispersed elsewhere, including Fat Tuesdays, the Firehouse Grill and this Irish restaurant and venue. Catch local music on Wednesdays and solid bands on Fridays in the Cellar.

Bangkok Blues
6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church; 703-241-9504; www.bangkokblues.com
This Falls Church joint offers an interesting dichotomy—it’s a blues joint and a Thai restaurant—and is one of the best blues venues in the area. “They’re really set up for music,” says Celeste Starchild, an Alexandria-based singer-songwriter. “They’re ready to be rediscovered.”

Dogfish Head Ale house
6220 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church; 703-534-3342; www.dogfishalehouse.com
Beer lovers are familiar with this Delaware-based brewery, but Dogfish Head offers more than just great suds. The Falls Church alehouse has live music from locals on Saturday nights, and with no cover. “They’re into the whole original music scene,” says Leesburg-raised and Clarendon-based singer-songwriter Justin Trawick.

Evening Star Cafe
2000 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria; 703-549-5051; www.eveningstarcafe.net
One of the most popular venues on this list is this friendly spot in Del Ray, owned—along with Vermilion Restaurant—by The Neighborhood Restaurant Group. Upstairs in the Evening Star Cafe is the No. 9 Lounge, where you’ll find original music from area bands. “They’re really into developing relationships with the music scene,” says Dave Greksouk, lead singer of The Reserves, referring to both Vermilion and Evening Star.

Galaxy Hut
2711 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-525-8646; www.galaxyhut.com
“Because Galaxy Hut only has shows Sundays and Mondays, it’s cool to play,” says Trawick about this cozy Clarendon bar. Hipsters know it, as do beer lovers. Intimate is an understatement, but the smallness of the location is a good change of pace.

Lakeside Inn
11150 South Lakes Drive, Reston; 703-264-0781; www.thelakesideinn.com
Next to Lake Thoreau in Reston is this overlooked spot with live music on Fridays. “It’s a little, teeny bar … with a faithful crowd that loves the local talent,” says area singer-songwriter Ted Garber.

The Light Horse
715 King St., Alexandria; 703-549-0533; www.thelighthorserestaurant.com
Better than its beer selection and egg-topped burger is the live music upstairs at this Old Town location. “It’s a cozy, good environment,” says Joanne Kim, an Arlington resident and bassist for area band Idea Track.

Old Brogue
760 C Walker Road, Great Falls; 703-759-3309; www.oldbrogue.com
This Irish bar in Great Falls is a favorite of Garber’s. “It’s really come-as-you-are. The bar maintains an ethos of anyone is welcome there,” Garber says of his favorite venue. His reasons: No televisions (except behind the bar), small stage, supportive ownership and receptive crowds.

Spanky’s Shenanigans
538 E. Market St., Leesburg; 703-777-2454; www.myspace.com/spankysshenanigans
It has a funny name, but open mic night on Wednesdays and live music on Fridays make this Loudoun County bar a must-hit spot.

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Guys’ Night Out
Relationships can sometimes turn a guy’s friends into distant acquaintances. Take a break from the romantic comedies to spend time with Y-chromosome buddies.

Cultural Night Out
A night out with the guys doesn’t have to be about drinking. Our area is home to a number of theaters, perhaps the most noteworthy of which is Tony Award winning Signature Theatre (4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington; 703-820-9771). Catch dinner at one of the fine restaurants in the Village at Shirlington, then check out Busboys and Poets (4251 S. Campbell Ave., Arlington; 703-379-9757) for open mic poetry or music.

Shoot ’Em Up Day Out
There’s nothing quite like NRA-sanctioned entertainment. If you’ve never tried range shooting, there’s no time like the present. Head to Blue Ridge Arsenal (14725 Flint Lee Road, # K, Chantilly; 703-818-0230), where firearm rentals are on site, and classes are available. Afterward, put your newfound skills to use at Hogback Mountain Paintball (20217 Hogback Mountain Road, Leesburg; 703-777-0057).

Gluttons’ Night Out
Put a twist on barhopping for this foodie-themed evening. Instead of going from bar to bar, visit several restaurants instead. Travel up Alexandria’s King Street to Las Tapas (710 King St., Alexandria; 703-836-4000) for Spanish apps. The main course: 219 Restaurant (219 King St., Alexandria; 703-549-1141) for savory Creole. To top it off: The Scoop Grill (110 King St., Alexandria; 703-549-4527) for frozen dessert.

Active Night Out
Looking to expend some energy? Try nine holes of twilight golf at Reston National Golf Course (11875 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston; 703-620-9333). Work up an appetite at Ultrazone Laser Tag & Amusement Center (3447 Carlin Springs Road, Falls Church; 703-578-6001). Then head to Ballston Commons (4238 Wilson Blvd., Arlington), to grab a beer and a bite at Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery (4238 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-516-7688).

Sporty Night Out
Nothing says guys’ night out like a sporting event. Baseball’s leisurely pace provides ample time between the action to chat and catch up with buds over beer and peanuts. If you don’t want to brave the Metro for a Nationals game, plan a trip to the next best thing: the Potomac Nationals, who play at G. Richard Pfitzner Stadium (7 County Complex Court, Woodbridge; 703-590-2311). Avoid the concessions by grabbing a burger at Ray’s Hell Burger (1725 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-841-0001) or any of the many Five Guys locations across the region for a tasty start to the night.—Chase Johnson

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Late Night Bites
The end of an evening’s events is when the hunger pangs strike. Luckily, there are a handful of 24-hour joints ready to cater to any craving, so scouring through your fridge isn’t the only option.

Mario’s
3322 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-525-0222
This after-hours institution serves up gargantuan subs (club-on-a-sub, meatball and cheese are perennial favorites), Sicilian-style pies and Carvel ice cream anytime.

Amphora
377 Maple Ave. W., Vienna; 703-938-7877
Generous breakfast platters, savory Mediterranean-style entrees and a round-the-clock bakery? Yes, please.

Frost Diner
55 Broadview Ave., Warrenton; 540-347-3047
Traditional country eats (cooked-to-order steaks, gravy-drenched eggs, crunchy hash browns) in a friendly setting.

Yechon
4121 Hummer Road, Annandale; 703-914-4646
Fill up on grilled short ribs, custom sushi or steamy sul lung tang whenever you need them.

Krispy Kreme
6328 Richmond Highway, Alexandria; 703-768-1002
Jonesing for freshly brewed java or a still-warm-from-the-oven donut? Krispy Kreme’s 24-hour drive-thru window has got you covered.

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First Date Spots
The ruffled silk blouse or tailored crop jacket? A quiet dining experience or drinks and appetizers at the bar? Does he pick me up? Do I meet him there?—Katie Greenan

When you live in a highly transient area such as Northern Virginia, dating can be even trickier. Business professionals can be hired and fired in a heartbeat. Motivated individuals may work for the government for a term or two and then move on, depending on the political climate.

And it’s not just about whom we choose to spend our time with, but what we wear and where we go. Certain decisions are simple. Buffalo wings versus chicken fingers? Order the chicken fingers—much easier to eat and half the mess. A second martini? Unless this is a date to nowhere, keep it to one drink. Kiss or no kiss? When in doubt, save the smooching for another night. If you’re into each other, there’s no rush.

Other decisions may require a bit more thinking, such as where to go on a first date. There is nothing worse than a boring date, but today’s standards allow for more variety and flexibility. Here are 10 places to start you off on a fun first date in NoVA.

Top Golf
6625 S. Van Dorn St., Alexandria; 703-924-2600; www.topgolf.com
It doesn’t matter if you’re not an athlete. You and your date can enjoy swinging out a bucket of balls on the driving range. You’ll have your own station, and a server is always around to take your food and drink order.
Ice Breaker: Challenge your date to a golf game on the computer screen at your station to stimulate innocent flirting and conversation.

Nick’s
624 S. Pickett St., Alexandria; 703-751-8900; www.nicksnightclub.com
Prepare for a night of fun at this karaoke, country line dancing and live music night club. You don’t have to be a cowboy or a dancer to have a good time here; after a tune or two, you’ll get the hang of it.
Ice Breaker: This is a great place for group dates, so get a crowd on the dance floor to increase the likelihood of you and your date doing the boot-scootin’ boogie.

Mount Vernon/Inn
3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon; 703-780-2000; www.mountvernon.org
George Washington’s old stomping grounds aren’t too shabby, especially if you plan it right by hitting up a wine festival or candlelight tour on the estate. This will get you and your date outdoors to enjoy the views and some history. And don’t forget to head to the Inn for dessert.
Ice Breaker: Walk the trail and answer the quiz questions that are provided along the way to start conversation (a good way to get to know your date’s interests).

Ruth’s Chris steakhouse
Multiple NoVA locations; www.ruthschris.com
You are in for a treat at Ruth’s Chris Crystal City location. It overlooks Washington Reagan National, so sit at the bar facing the window. It’ll be wheels up and wheels down over cocktails and appetizers. It’s a classy, top-notch experience that doesn’t have to break your bank.
Ice Breaker: Go when it’s dark outside. There will be more to see and talk about with D.C. and the airport lit up. Very romantic.

Great Falls National Park
9200 Old Dominion Drive, McLean; 703-285-2965; www.nps.gov/grfa
Grab your sneakers, and challenge your date to a sight-seeing excursion away from traffic and “torons” (tourists + morons). Benefit: Your date will most likely be wearing spandex.
Ice Breaker: Bring your dog, if it’s OK with your date. Poochy can be a natural ice breaker without being a third wheel (especially if Poochy has a frisbee).

Cheesetique
2411 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria; 703-706-5300; www.cheesetique.com
It’s just you, your date, a glass of wine and a cheese-and-meat board in the back section of this quaint cheese deli. If all goes with stop No. 1, head across the street to the next date place on the list.
Ice Breaker: Laidback but intimate, this is the place for all you face-to-face communicators. Prepare yourself with conversation starters and topics to keep the talking ongoing.

The Dairy Godmother
2310 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria; 703-683-7767; www.thedairygodmother.com
Whether you come for a visit after Great Falls, nibbles at Cheesetique or a romantic dinner for two, this is a no-brainer first-date must for anyone who likes to lick up tasty treats. The turtle sundaes are among the best to be had in NoVA, and the shop’s conveniently located in an area great for a stroll.
Ice Breaker: After you get your treats, head outside for a walk. It’s a dynamic street for people-watching and window-shopping.

Three Fox Vineyards
3 Fox Lane, Delaplane; 540-364-6073; www.threefoxvineyards.com/index.htm
This vineyard boasts bragging rights to beautiful scenery, free events and tasty Virginia wine. Pack a picnic lunch, grab a cozy blanket, and split a bottle of wine as you enjoy getting to know each other away from everyone else. Then take a stroll through the vineyards. You’ll feel like the property is yours.
Ice Breaker: Get messy with your date at Three Fox’s annual grape stomp each fall, or sign up for a winemaker walkabout.

Signature Theater
4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington; 703-820-9771; www.sig-online.org
Washington, D.C., is not the only place to take in entertaining stage performances. Forego the movies and popcorn, and head to the theater in Shirlington’s Urban Village. You and your date are more likely to better remember a live performance than a movie. If it’s a good date, hang onto the ticket stub for your scrapbook.
Ice Breaker: Head across the street to the eclectic bookstore Busboys & Poets, offering coffee, wine, cocktail bar, open mic, gift shop and people-watching.

Bowl America
Multiple NoVA locations; www.bowl-america.com
Do not discount bowling. It is still alive and well. On a typical Friday or Saturday evening people of all ages fill up local alleys for dates, get-togethers, parties and tournaments. Why? It’s fun and something different to do besides the usual bar or club scene.
Ice Breaker: This is a second good activity for group dates, especially if you make it to Cosmic bowling. Lights down, music up.

What Your Drink Says About You
A well-executed bar order can make an impression that precedes repartee, or even elements of your wardrobe. Regional drink specialists will be the first to tell you people draw conclusions from your choice of beverage. “This is something bartenders talk about a lot,” says Stephen Warner, bar manager of Eventide in Arlington. “You’ll get some opinions.”—Susan Anspach

Manhattan
In the Manhattan crowd, people either know what they’re doing or they don’t. Ordering [just a Manhattan] is the equivalent of saying, I’d like food.

Single-malt Scotch
Sophisticated and not afraid to show it. You’ve likely tried many varieties and have several of your favorite bottles lined up at home. (You’ll also likely share this and much of your knowledge with the bartender and the people around you.)

Rob Roy
You want to be sophisticated, but when you sip straight whiskey you go into a coughing fit and feel as though you’ve swallowed a match.

Vodka Martini and Gin Martini
Martini drinkers are puritans [who prioritize] simplicity and the need to get back to basics. Martini drinkers don’t want anything messing up the simple taste of the booze.
Vodka martini drinkers are the nouveau breed of people who enjoy life, a cold glass of good vodka and a small olive snack.
Gin martini drinkers have a classic old-school cool that dates back to the days of Humphrey Bogart and Greta Garbo.

Cask Ale
I recommend this for many guests, but particularly for two: the recent college graduate whose beer experiences may have begun and ended with fizzy yellow lager, and the seasoned wine and spirits drinker.

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Classy Nights Out
When’s the last time you shunned old blue jeans in favor of Ol’ Blue Eyes, or strolled through a gallery instead of a galleria? Northern Virginia is flush with venues affording residents prospects for top-shelf outings. “The cultural opportunities in Northern Virginia are there on a weekly basis,” says John Alciati, president and CEO of the Greater Reston Arts Center.—Todd McElwee

The Athenaeum
201 Prince St., Alexandria; 703-548-0035; www.nvfaa.org
The Old South meets modern art at the Athenaeum. Headquarters of the Northern Virginia Fine Art Association since the mid-1960s, but with roots predating the Civil War, the Athenaeum is an Alexandria landmark and regional treasure. Neoclassic columns, hardwood floors and wainscoting welcome you into an eclectic display of permanent, as well as rotating exhibits, showcasing an ever-changing myriad of mediums and genres. A wide range of musical and dance performances also dot the schedule of the former bank and U.S. Army facility.

Greater Reston Arts Center
12001 Market St., Suite 103, Reston; 703-471-9242; www.restonarts.org
If you’re searching for the cutting edge in visual art, since 1974, GRACE, located in the Reston Town Center, has been a receptacle for artists wishing to expand the boundaries of their respective mediums. Prepared to be surprised. The museum has everything from neon light sculptures to mixed-media prints and elaborate installations. GRACE also stages the annual Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival in May.

Fairfax Symphony Orchestra
Multiple performance locations; 703-563-1990; www.fairfaxsymphony.org
As you lay back and gaze up at the night sky, notice how the stars twinkle in unison with the timeless notes of Mozart and Beethoven during one of the FSO’s summer recitals within county parks. Performing throughout the year, the organization stages its renowned concert series at George Mason University’s Center for the Arts.

Loudoun Symphony
Multiple performance locations; 703-771-8287; http://loudounsymphony.org
On the cusp of its second decade, the Loudoun Symphony is celebrated for its community spirit. Led by maestro Mark Allen McCoy, the organization is known for presenting a hodgepodge of traditional performances, smaller ensemble shows and amateur talent competitions.

The Carlyle Club
411 John Carlyle St., Alexandria; 703-778-4830; www.thecarlyleclub.com
The Carlyle Club is where the Rat Pack would retire to in Northern Virginia. Take a seat in one of the high-back leather booths or at the backlit bar, and enjoy a drink before stepping onto the parquet dance floor. The club’s art deco decor harkens back to the age when speakeasies, playing host to notorious big band leaders, used to dot the landscape.

Virginia Ballet Company
Performances at the Ernst Community Cultural Center, Northern Virginia Community College, Annandale Campus
8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale; 703-249-8227; www.virginiaballetcompany.orgs
Ballerinas are grace incarnate. Dating back over half a century, the Virginia Ballet Company is a regional custodian of the divine art form. Your eyes will fixate on the elegance of the dance performers as they float across the stage, exhibiting the poise and physical aptitude of professional athletes.

Aurora Opera Theatre
(formerly Opera Theatre of Northern Virginia)
Multiple performance locations; 703-528-1433; www.auroraoperatheatre.org
The majesty of the genre resonates across NoVA, thanks to Aurora. Staging little-known works at a variety of venues, the opera theater is known for lending a stage to some of the region’s premier vocalists in performances that are both affordable (adults tickets start at $20) and accessible (most productions are in English).

Port City Playhouse
Lee Center for the Performing Arts
1108 Jefferson St., Alexandria; 703-838-2880; www.telgo.com/pcp
Whether for comedy or tragedy, few venues come as close to breaking down the fourth wall as Port City Playhouse. Immerse yourself in the intimate setting marked by the subtle, but not too subtle, gestures of the seasoned thespians who shine in the limelight. Port City strives to challenge its audiences, and only produces works that have not been seen locally in the past five years.

Dance Factory
954 N. Monroe St., Arlington; 703-528-9770; www.dancefactory.com
Sweep her off her feet (but mind those toes) as you glide across the ballroom during one of the Dance Factory’s Sunday Skyline Dances. Let some of the world’s preeminent classical masters be your guide while elegantly stepping to the majesty of their music. Almost every weekend, the Dance Factory offers some variety of class or celebration. Fridays feature a ballroom instructional session and party. The tempo picks up Saturday as the facility hops with the modern rhythms of fusion, country or swing.

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Party of Four VIPs

By Katherine Neubert

It’s Friday night, and two of your oldest friends are coming into town. It’s been a few years, and you haven’t seen them since college—those scrappy days of cheap liquor, tattered sweatshirts and long nights at the library.

All that has changed now. You’re older, and no longer drinking the cheap stuff, or at least that is the impression you want to give off. To really show your friends how far you’ve come, take them out for a night that proves it.

The Taste Caterers
Eventide
3165 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-276-3165; www.eventiderestaurant.com
A rooftop patio, uniquely crafted cocktails and dishes and curtained-off areas make Eventide a must-hit hot spot. Heavy royal blue curtains fall to the floor of three separate sections in the main dining room, and 10-foot-high windows grace each room. Bookings are available for select times, or pay a fee to secure the room for the entire night ($1,500). Eventide will also work with you to help create a special night—bartending lessons, cooking classes and a private table on the roof.

Your Private Reserve
Library Room
275 Decatur Road; Stafford; 540-446-2266; www.potomacpointwinery.com
A snug nook for small parties, Potomac Point Vinyard and Winery’s Library Room features brick walls showcasing the best of the best: the winery’s gold medal-winning reserve vintages. Winery staff hosts 30-minute public tours of the vineyard, situated on lush, rolling hills (weekends at 1, 3 and 5 p.m.). Then slip off into the quiet of the reservations-required room, where seating maxes out at eight, and room rental fee is $60 per hour. Food, wine and cleaning fees extra.

Sample Selection
Restaurant Eve
110 S. Pitt St., Alexandria; 703-706-0450; www.restauranteve.com
Reserve a spot in their intimate Tasting Room, and choose from three menus offering five-, seven- or nine-course meals. Multicourse meal options start at $110 for food, with $70 for wine pairings. The Tasting Room offers the highest level of service, along with special gifts sent out by the chef, not shown on the menu. After dinner, tell your waiter you’d like to head down the street to PX for an aperitif, and he’ll reserve you a spot at the local speakeasy.

Under the blue light
PX Under the blue light (beneath Eamonn’s)
728 King St., Alexandria
Modeled after a 1930s speakeasy and requiring a jacket and tie for gentlemen, PX was named for VIP guests of Restaurant Eve. If you’re not coming from dinner at Eve, reservations can still be made through the resturant’s website. And if that’s not VIP enough, gather a small crowd to rent the Blue Room for a two-hour increment. A minimum of 10 guests is required (max. 15), with a three-drink minimum per person.

Elite seats
2941
2941 Fairview Park Drive, Falls Church; 703-270-1500; www.2941.com
If this establishment’s koi pond, hanging sculptures and glass walls aren’t enough, 2941’s VIPs have two options to impress guests: the Chef’s Table, which can be reserved for a four-course lunch ($65 pp) or a six-course dinner ($110 pp, including wine pairings), or private dining in the Tasting Room. Reservations for the Tasting Room need to be made through event directors, while Chef’s Table reservations can be phoned in.

A hidden treasure
Sea Pearl
8191 Strawberry Lane, Suite 2, Falls Church; 703-372-5161; www.seapearlrestaurant.com
Sea Pearl Restaurant and Lounge offers a chic and serene atmosphere created to represent the open sea at sunset: Mother-of-pearl chandeliers, a variety of blue tiles, hardwood floors and decorated lighting. Sea Pearl will work with you on whatever you have in mind for entertaining your out-of-towners, from semi-private rooms to reserving the bar or lounge. Prices for appetizers range from $7 to $15, while entrees run from $13 to $29.

BACKUP PLAN
Guarapo
2039 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-528-6500; www.latinconcepts.com/guarapo
Maybe you’ve got a few more rungs to climb on the corporate ladder. If you want the glitz without having to throw down the green, restaurant-lounge Guarapo offers a punch of Latin flavor in its tapas and authentic drinks. Hookahs are for rent in the $20 range, and weekend salsa music attracts people who know their way around a dance floor.

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Places to Get a Laugh
Feel like your sense of humor has been down like the economy? You’re not the only one. It’s no secret that folks in our region have been working a little too hard and taking themselves a little too seriously as of late. So why not partake in some public humiliation? Or frequent an establishments that’s based on it. Whether it’s comedy, karaoke or good old-fashioned humorous antics that you crave, we’ve got your bases covered in our top 10 places to visit if you’re looking for a laugh, below. Drop into one—before you become as blah as the manila folders piled on your desk.—Lindsay Holst

The Comedy Spot/ComedySportz
4238 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-294-5233; http://comedyindc.com
Ever leave a comedy show thinking you were funnier than the comic? At ComedySportz, you can prove it. Located in the Ballston Mall, this venue offers weekly interactive shows that encourage audience participation, as well as regular classes for comedy novices and experts alike. Bonus: Students of the comedy classes get free admission to all weekly comedy shows occurring during their class sessions.

The Capital Steps (Traveling Comedy Group)
210 N. Washington St., Alexandria; www.capsteps.com
We love good, smart, political theatrics around here (We watch them on the news every day!). Toss in clever skits, song parodies and a heavy dose of satire, and we’re in—no matter which side of the aisle we prefer. Formed in 1981 by a group of Hill staffers looking to poke fun at their notoriously self-important profession, the Capitol Steps has evolved into a national act with headquarters in Old Town. So find a nearby performance, and enjoy 90 minutes of sheer bipartisan humor. (Leave party insignia at home.)

The Rock It Grill
1319 King St., Alexandria; 703-739-2274; www.rockit-grill.com
Cheap pitchers, wild dancing and a song list thicker than a phone book: This is the Rock It in a nutshell. This dive-y karaoke bar’s bare-bones, working-class nature has distinguished it as the illegitimate second cousin of the posh, pristine drink-and-dine establishments that comprise the rest of King Street. Arrive early—the sign-up list fills up faster than you can say “PBR.”

The Eleventh Street Lounge: Open Mic Comedy Night
1041 N. Highland St., Arlington; 703-351-1311; www.eleventhstreetlounge.com
Open mic comedy nights are something of a rare commodity in this area, and this sleek, urban watering hole has one every Monday night, in addition to half-price select small plates. Sit back, relax, and see who will pleasantly surprise with their witty repertoire and who will crash and burn—hey, it’s all funny. Bonus: No cover charge!

Arlington Cinema ‘N’ Drafthouse
2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington; 703-486-2345; www.arlingtondrafthouse.com
Thursday night is $5 Stand-Up Comedy Night at the Drafthouse, a classic Arlington establishment that never disappoints. Bonus: If you should happen to catch a showing of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” or “Sing Along Sound of Music,” you get to participate. The ensuing spectacles often rival the comedy shows in hilarity.

Wiseacres Comedy Club and Pub
8401 Westpark Drive, McLean; 703-734-2800
When you sit down at a card table at this no-frills comedy spot, located in the former meeting room of a Best Western Hotel off Route 7 near Tysons, just bear this in mind: It’s about the comedy—not the decor. The laughs you’ll get out of the acts will render the scene endearingly grubby. Win the raffle for two free tickets, and come back for another wisecracking show.

Del Rio Comedy Club
701 E. Market St., Leesburg; 703-777-9554; www.delriocomedy.com
Laugh into your enchiladas at the standup acts this brightly hued Mexican restaurant features every Saturday night. A quirky, improbable comedy spot, Del Rio provides a warm, jovial atmosphere for its patrons and comics, who are as eclectic (and spicy) as its dishes.

All Stars Comedy Club (at Young Chow Restaurant)
2317 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-739-7377; www.allstarscomedy.com
When it comes to winning combinations, you really can’t beat comedy, beer and Chinese food. Located six blocks from the Crystal City Metro station, this upscale, comedian-owned comedy club also offers regular month-long comedy classes and open mic nights for those looking to try out their jokes on a few unsuspecting victims.

O’Shaughnessy’s
1322 King St., Alexandria; 703-836-7885
Formerly the Laughing Lizard Lounge, this seedy hidden gem is tucked above the New York Deli on the corner of King and West Streets in Old Town. Order a cold beer and a hot pastrami sandwich off the menu downstairs, and enjoy the improv and comedy troupe shows that regularly perform at this lovably gritty pub.

Lulu Karaoke and Café
13830 Braddock Road B-10, Centreville; 703-815-5656; www.lulu-cafe.com
With a full bar, lounge and four individual karaoke rooms for its patrons to enjoy, Lulu is all business when it comes to karaoke-singing. If your friends are looking to humiliate themselves in private, this is your spot. Bring a group, and choose from Lulu’s varied selection of Korean and American pop songs. Choose your tune wisely, but remember it’s all fun and games.

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Girls’ Night Out
Since the days of Greek mythology, nothing has fascinated cultural zeitgeists more than when the women ditch the men to engage in Dionysian, “girls only” behavior.

Glam Night Out
Certain things are important to every woman. Among them: shoes, dresses, accessories. Start your girls’ night a little early by hiring a personal stylist at Nordstrom (multiple NoVA locations) to get your group ready for going out. Show off your new looks out on the dance floor to the beat of live music at Caribbean Breeze (4100 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington; 703-812-7997). They offer salsa dance lessons every Saturday night.

Foodies’ Night Out
Nothing leads to hot gossip like good food and good company. Start your girls’ night with tapas and wine at Evo Bistro (1313 Old Chain Bridge Road, McLean; 703-288-4422). Their DIY wine system allows you to try over 50 small pours, paired with their Mediterranean small plates. Keep the night going with dancing and drinks at Ecitie Café and Bar (1524 L-M Spring Hill Road, McLean; 703-760-9000).

Girls’ Night In
Ease the anxiety of shaving, plucking and waxing by sharing in the rituals with friends over food from Cornucopia Personal Chef Service (703-201-2049). Call a stylist from Arlington-based Miracles Mobile Spa (703-516-9800) for at-home facials, waxing, manicures. Polish off the night with makeovers from makeup artist Marti at Tica (703-282-1347).

Girls’ Day Out
Trade in those pumps for hiking boots, and take your girlfriends on an outdoor adventure at Shenandoah National Park (Front Royal; 540-999-3500). You can work up a sweat riding horses on one of the 180 horse trails, then grab a meal at Main Street Mill Restaurant (500 E. Main St., Front Royal; 540-636-3123) before ending the evening with drinks and live music at Lucky Star Lounge (205A E. Main St., Front Royal; 540-635-5297).

Girls’ Weekend Out
Girls’ night is fun, but it doesn’t have to end at last call. Indulge in a girls’ weekend at Lansdowne Resort (44050 Woodridge Parkway, Lansdowne; 703-729-8400). Relax at the spa or pool during the day. By night, dine at an exclusive on-site restaurant. Reserve a wine tour via Reston Limousine (Dulles; 703-478-0500). They’ll chauffeur you to area wineries of your choosing, like Loudoun Valley Vineyards (38516 CharlesTown Pike Waterford; 540-882-3375) and Veramar (905 Quarry Road, Berryville; 540-955-5510).—Alissa Ponchione

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Places to Impress the In-Laws
Marrying into the family does not always earn you a spot at the top of the in-laws list. In order to do that not only do you have to treat their son or daughter with the utmost respect and shower them with affection, but you must show the in-laws that you are a responsible adult who knows how to have a respectable good time.

History in the making
Known as a hub for shopping and dining, Old Town Alexandria has more to offer than what meets its cobbled streets. In the heart of a historic town steeped in stories from the Colonial Era, a guided tour is sure to pique the interest of any mother- or father-in-law, and make great fodder for breaking those uncomfortable moments of silence. Hire a speaker to tailor the tour to your in-laws’ personal interests (Alexandria Colonial Tours, 201 King St.; 703-519-1749). After treating their minds, treat their palates to the Fish Market (105 King St.; 703-836-5676), a place entrenched in history and crustaceous delights.

Performing Acts
Show the in-laws that you not only partake in local culture, but that you are also in the know when it comes to of-the-moment venues. The soon-to-open Hylton Performing Arts Center (opening May 21, 10900 University Blvd., Manassas; 703-993-9364) will offer the cultural gamut of performances, from music, dance and theater to visual art exhibitions. Once the in-laws have had their fill of culture, treat them to a cold one at a Manassas staple, Kline’s Freeze (8200 Centreville Road; 703-368-2013). Or, if classic American theater is what they trend toward, catch a performance at The American Century Theater (2700 South Lang St., Arlington; 703-998-4555), followed by cocktails at nearby Willow (4301 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington; 703-435-8800).

Organic Dining
Fiscal responsibility is a key characteristic parents look for in their son- or daughter-in-law. But using that hard-earned money to treat them to a top-notch, five-course organic meal with some of the most beautiful views this area has to offer may just rank a little higher. The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm (42461 Lovettsville Road, Lovettsville; 540-822-9017) is just the spot. In a glass-enclosed conservatory nestled in the hills of Loudoun, overlooking the Potomac River, diners are served a la carte meals with ingredients from the adjoining garden.

(May 2010)