Dive into The Hit Music Venues of the DMV

by Jack Engelhardt ‘25

On the streets of the night exist places that produce cherished shows, bustling with familiar friends and new ones alike. In these tiny clubs, music hungry fans tear off the walls. Up in the skies are huge arenas filled with theatrics and pyrotechnics that promise to provide you with a night you will never forget. With huge open walls, the music pours over and out into the streets of the city. While it may not seem like it from the outside, the Baltimore and DC areas have numerous music venues, all different but similar in their delivery of an unforgettable concert experience that will certainly have you coming back for more.
Metro Gallery
Located in the heart of the Station North Arts District, Metro Baltimore strives to have a little something for everyone. The Metro is a perfect place for local bands to thrive while also providing a place for bigger bands to play for their adoring fans. With a small seating area in the back and a couple tables, the Metro is a majority standing venue but due to its size no matter where you are, you will receive a fantastic concert experience. The Metro houses many different genres of music so it is likely you will be able to find a show that fits your style, be it the softest of jazz or the most pulverizing of metal. The majority of their shows are all ages with the only exception being their DJ nights, which are 21 and over.
Baltimore Soundstage
Located near the Baltimore Harbor,  Baltimore Soundstage is a medium-sized venue that allows for an ambient experience that leaves room for you to hang out in the back and watch the show in the front. Separated into two floors, The Soundstage is a larger venue while not being too big that you won’t be able to see the band. It also provides concertgoers with a small lounge area to the side of the venue for those who wish to have a great view of the show but not stand up front the whole time. The Soundstage houses many musical performances from the latest metal bands and hardcore punk bands, to popular country artists, pop sensations, and 21+ DJ nights. But the Soundstage does not only have music. Sometimes, the venue houses comedians and dance nights.
Pie Shop
Voted DC’s Best Pie by WCP 13 times,  Pie Shop is not only a well established dispensary for both sweet and savory pies, but a bustling venue that provides a place for local and smaller bands to perform. Located directly above the critically acclaimed shop, the venue portion is, while on the smaller side, an intimate space that makes up for its small size in its professional sound production and visual effects. It provides a large outer area with benches where you can hang out with friends before going in and seeing the bands. Much like its pie, the Pie Shop delivers a variety in its music. This musical variety ranges from metal, alternative, and rock music from local and non-local talent. If you or your friends are in a band and looking for places to play, look no further than The Pie Shop. It provides a comfortable and friendly atmosphere that allows newcomers to get their legs musically and perform an awesome show.
Lincoln Theater
Located in Downtown Raleigh DC, The Lincoln Theater may be the area’s premier live music, concerts, and events venue. This seated venue provides a comfortable concert experience with beautiful architecture and plenty of seating options. This is a larger venue that provides not only musical entertainment but also comedians, musicals, and immersive experiences. The Lincoln provides numerous genres that allows you to find whatever it is you’re looking for at an affordable price. The Lincoln was always a respected venue in its ongoing 100-year lifespan. It first began as a place that was widely regarded as the finest theater for African American talent and concert goers alike. The Lincoln was also a place for the most elite of Washingtonians with politicians, boxers, actors, etc. in attendance. While it may not be as prestigious as it once was, The Lincoln still delivers the same musical and visual quality, unwavering in its commitment to treat each concertgoer with the utmost respect.