So, you’ve passed the ripe old age of 30, and all of a sudden, partying with the underage interns at Dan’s Cafe and Nellie's just isn’t cutting it. Reader Kendra B. says, “Every time I go out in D.C., I think I'm on the right track. Then, at 10:00 p.m., it's overrun by college kids. Where’s the best age-appropriate nightlife for 30 to 40-year-olds?”
Kendra, we’ve got your back. Here are our favorites:
Dew Drop Inn (Eckington):
Older doesn’t have to mean boring. One of the few truly cheap places in D.C. Go for one of their regular events, like the witching hour, comedy, or queer nights.
The Denson (Downtown):
This Gatsby-esque speakeasy has excellent drinks, and unlike many of D.C.’s speakeasies, doesn’t attract “college kid clubbing” vibes after 10 p.m.
Cotton & Reed (Union Market):
The warehouse setting gives this bar a casual vibe, but the drinks are high quality and primarily use homemade rum. You can even take a tour of the distillery. Last Call Bar around the block is another great option.
Opening night at Trouble Bird in Navy Yard. (Kaela Cote-Stemmermann/City Cast DC)
Red Derby (Petworth):
This classic dive bar caters to all ages and types. The upstairs deck has great tunes, board games, and fried foods. But maybe leave the beer-and-shot combos to the 20-year-olds.
Sauf Haus (Dupont):
Wait wait, hear us out! Sauf Haus definitely has a "younger" atmosphere, but the music tends to be early 2000s classics, which makes it the perfect hang for us geriatrics.
Trouble Bird (Navy Yard):
This cocktail bar opened in February by two bartenders from the Silver Lyan (another great 30+ choice). The drink menu is seasonal, but they always have the classics, some great frozen drinks, and an intimate but flashy ambiance.
