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DC After Dark

Your ultimate guide to Washington DC nightlife. Bars, clubs, rooftops, jazz, and hidden gems.

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Neighborhoods

U Street

Adams Morgan

Capitol Hill

Georgetown

Shaw

Logan Circle

H Street

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Best Bars in Shaw, DC

The 5 best bars in Shaw, Washington DC — ranked by locals and updated weekly.

5 venues · Updated weekly

1
Columbia Room

Columbia Room

Featured✓ Verified

Shaw · $$$$ · Smart Casual

James Beard Award-winning cocktail bar with a tasting room, punch garden, and spirits library.

★ 4.9

312 reviews

21+

2
Nellie's Sports Bar

Nellie's Sports Bar

Featured✓ Verified

Shaw · $$ · Casual

DC's favorite LGBTQ+ sports bar with drag brunch, trivia nights, and a massive roof deck.

★ 4.6

678 reviews

21+

3
The Passenger

The Passenger

Shaw · $$ · Casual

Classic Shaw cocktail bar known for perfect drinks, no-frills atmosphere, and welcoming staff.

★ 4.7

234 reviews

21+

4
Right Proper Brewing

Right Proper Brewing

✓ Verified

Shaw · $$ · Casual

DC's beloved neighborhood brewery in a converted historic building with exceptional house beers.

★ 4.5

345 reviews

21+

5
Bar Betsie

Bar Betsie

Shaw · $$ ·

Bar Betsie is a popular spot in Shaw with 61 reviews and a 4.3 star rating.

★ 4.3

61 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What time do bars close in DC?

Most DC bars close at 2 AM on weekdays and 3 AM on Friday and Saturday nights. Some venues with special licenses serve until 4 AM on select holiday weekends.

Which neighborhood has the best bars in DC?

U Street and Adams Morgan have the highest concentration of bars. Georgetown is great for upscale cocktail bars. H Street NE has the best dive bars.

Are there any free entry bars in DC?

Most DC bars have no cover charge. Clubs typically charge $10–$30 cover, but bars are usually free.

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