Ventured over with my sisters expecting an incredible show as we've made Mav's shows a thing since our mother transitioned. Anyhoo- I'm not sure why they headlined Chandler, Naomi Reign, Todd G and NONE of them were present. I hope someone calls me back from customer service. We were really looking forward to this evening but ended up disappointed. Not cool Wolf Trap** Happy Yelping! read more

We enjoy our time visiting Wolf Trap. We recently moved to DC from LA where we lived within walking distance to the famed Hollywood Bowl. This is the closest thing to it in the DC area. While not quite as glamorous as the Hollywood Bowl, we appreciate that this venue exists. We laugh that there is a mostly outdoor concert venue when DC summers are notoriously humid and filled with heavy-hitting thunderstorms. There was one concert where there was a shelter-in-place order, prior to the concert. We decided to risk it and luckily the storm passed. I will say, the DC crowd is much hardier than LA. If there was even a rain drop in the forecast, nobody would show up in SoCal. But in DC, people will ride the storm. On our previous visit, it was a full-on downpour nobody abandoned their spots. I was impressed and at the same time, disappointed since I wanted a better spot in the field! There are covered seats, which is probably the safer bet. But we love the lawn seating for its laid back vibe and picnic atmosphere. Even with the rain, we'll be back! read more

Went to free Wolf Trap concert + fireworks ! and honestly it was even better than one of the Kennedy Center concerts I went to recently, which left me really disappointed. Maybe it's partially because it's free or opening concert that is intended to make you want to attend more paid concerts at venues, but the Marching Band and camera work/acoustics were pretty stunning. There were covers of Wicked (woman also narrated and blew me away with her vocal range-really moving) and a jazz duet that made it not seem boring..for the first time in my life. Everyone in the band is super talented and locked in-really inspiring-you can see they're bringing the energy and giving it their all. The weather was a bit rainy so seating requires extra preparation, but concert was really exciting. This Marching Band has been around since the time of Thomas Jefferson's inauguration and is around 230 years old, almost as old as the founding of the country. The concert was for Memorial Day and I'm someone who's skeptical of everything, but I also was feeling a bit patriotic in the end of with all the talent. The fireworks were pretty impressive too. Bathrooms outside were accessible with minimal lines. To get to the actual venue, there's a bit of a hike up from the parking but there are also a few people driving some carts up for free and I got to ride that too. Some of the direction and blocking off to direct into parking was awkward and require a roundabout drive. Parking can also be a bit crowded, but there was plenty-just be careful driving out of the venue with the traffic because noted there's some impatient/aggressive drivers. There was also some smoke from the fireworks that create what looks like a fog when you walk back down to parking. You can arrive early for better seating, but I was fine going there shortly before the concert starting. Overall really well done and so glad I went even in the rain-unfortunately my pictures do not really do it justice. Here's the link to the concert I went to: https://www.wolftrap.org/show/blast-off/ read more

Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts - Free seating - Performing Arts Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

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Outstanding venue for events. Acoustics and seating were great to perfect. Do be advised...lots if steps so if your mobility is a tad rough, heads up. I will not comments here on food, that is under another review for Ovations. Seating was actually comfortable but not a lot if leg room so again heads up. I will say getting out is very efficient and orderly and that is a plus. Overall, if you get to go to an event here, yes, go. read more

Super amazing event!! We came for the Bourbon and Bubbles fundraiser. Lots of drink options - so good. Yummy bites to eat. Even an oyster shucker walking around! Lighting was cool. Great service. Live music. read more

Out & About Festival at @wolf_trap truly was a blast!! Being able to vibe with fellow LGBTQ+ members and celebrating Pride Month is what makes this community amazing Having @brandicarlile as the headliner, she had the crowd smiling and singing along! read more

Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts - a woman in a dress - Performing Arts Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

Summer concerts at the Wolf Trap is not for the faint of heart. The seats are tight so you're constantly rubbing arms with your neighbors. The lawn seating seems nice but I don't think you can see the stage from there. And it's first come first serve. The bathrooms are clean. Food lines seem to move fairly fast. I didn't eat anything there so I can't speak to their food. We had seats in the JJ section. When there was a little breeze it was super nice. The audio was good. But sometimes we couldn't hear the vocals over the instruments. The volunteers are helpful. I'd come back in the fall. Maybe even the winter. read more

Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts - Good view of the stage - Performing Arts Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

We had box seats to see CAKE in concert! This was my first time visiting the venue. The venue itself was stunning! The wood tone walls, beautiful grounds and minimalist set up were so pretty. Every single employee we interacted with was so kind and friendly. It was WARM, which meant lots of sweat and sticking to seats. But the amazing view and light show made up for it! It looks like you could get lawn tickets and bring your own food/chairs, which would be awesome to do next time we visit! Be warned, if you are sitting in the amphitheater (not in the lawn), drinks with lids are required (no open cups) and no food allowed. I believe you can bring a bottle/cup with lid if you are in the know. We ended up having to buy the $6 Wolftrap cup so we could bring it to our seat (in addition to the $14 High Noon). read more

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Went to a concert there recently with a disabled friend. It was a great experience buying the tickets (the agent was very knowledgeable and helpful with accessibility information), disabled parking and venue access was easy and convenient, and our seating was great! All of the ushers we encountered were incredibly friendly and helpful. It was a beautiful night and the concert was fantastic. A very memorable and enjoyable evening that I wasn't sure was possible. Thanks!! read more

This is a great venue for concerts. We usually enjoy the lawn seats for concerts. This allows you to picnic before the concert. They sell food and drinks there, but we usually like to take what we like in our coolers. You can take picnic blankets or seats for the lawn. If you take seats with any kind of elevation, you need to sit in the rear. They also rent stadium cushion seats there. Events are rain or shine. read more

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STUNNING intimate concert venue. The staff are incredible and help to keep it all so clean and nice for everyone. It was super easy for us to get out of the parking lot too. Hands down most laid back and enjoyable concert experience I've had. read more

Did you know that Wolf Trap is the only national park dedicated to the performing arts? And there is something for everyone! Adults can pick from the main Wolf Trap stage or the smaller Barns stage, while kids can enjoy the Theatre in the Woods or one of the camp programs. There's even hikes in the woods if you want to just enjoy the outdoors on these spacious grounds. And I more recently found a lovely fenced flower garden that my toddlers enjoyed running around for a good hour. I've personally enjoyed the main Wolf Trap stage as an adult. I know they have assigned seating but i actually prefer the lawn seating so you can easily enjoy a picnic with friends. With my kids, I've recently discovered the Theatre in the Woods. They had a lot of options on weekend mornings but we opted for a magic show performed by a magician from NYC - he was good! Actually the show was sold out! I can't say enough good things about Wolf Trap - It's actually overwhelming trying to write a review summarizing Wolf Trap because it has so much to offer! read more

Great venue to take in a variety of shows, entertainment and live music concerts....all outdoors and under the stars!! And, with the Lawn seating being just as great as the General/Box seating area! I've been to the Wolf Trap for several concerts and have enjoyed them all. The amphitheater setting and sound quality is great. The layout and spacing is adequate...and you never feel like it's congested or too crowded. There are ample restrooms and food concession booths surrounding the venue as well. The only downside or negative of this venue is the parking and exiting situation. It can get very hectic and you can expect the traffic to be jammed from the parking lots...to the main roads when leaving. Okay, so now that we got that out of the way....on to the experience of this venue itself. During my last visit, some friends and I came here to enjoy the Mary J Blige (MJB) concert on the lawn. Being that we've seen her many times before there was no urgency for the general section / box seating....which was $120/seat vs. $45 on the lawn. The views and sound on the lawn was outstanding. There were teleprompters as well which really immerse you into the show and you felt like you got a front row seat for the entertainment. It was outstanding! Not to mention, you are allowed to bring lawn chairs, blankets, food, snacks and coolers....FULL OF LIBATION--ALCOHOL!!...to the lawn area only! Sorry....Box/General seating...you will have to pay for it at the food concession stands. I've been to three shows here and can honestly say, I prefer the lawn seating. The general and box seating can be a bit tight and the seats are not that comfortable. Plus, for big shows the ventilation and air flow in this area can get hot during the summer months. At the price of $45 bucks for lawn seating, my friends and I enjoyed a great evening "adulting" and literally it was a "party underneath the stars!"....from beginning to end! And, MJB did not disappoint! I don't think we sat down not once during the entire show. lol. It was the perfect meet up for a large group and great way to end a long, stressful work week! I would definitely recommend this venue for taking in a show or concert! It's the perfect setting to enjoy outdoor entertainment....day or night....whether in a large group, on a date or solo! *TIP: Park on the roads...outside the venue and walk to the arena! It will save you about an hour of time being stuck in traffic trying to get out of the venue's parking lots after the show. read more

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3.5 stars. Pleasant visit for a concert. Nice staff at entrance, very nice landscaping, parking was free and cleared out well enough after event, beautiful amphitheater, lots of ushers and help, good concessions, Three headaches: staff was always hovering enforcing "no photos" policy, swarming on the smallest offense, very few food/beverage options after the show, traversing the grounds and parking lot in the dark is a bit harrowing if your vision or dexterity isn't top notch. read more

I was surprised by this place. I've lived in VA for 10 years and never went here. We arrived for a Charlie Puth concert. WE brought our own food and sat at one of the picnic tables. They had plenty of places to sit, and we ate before the show. The park is beautiful and there weren't a lot of bugs around and everything is well maintained. Once you get through the gates, the lawn is very crowded and it's a little hard to navigate down to the covered Pavillion if you're unsure where you're going but they had plenty of staff helping. Everyone was so nice, and before the show started, they passed out earplugs to anyone who wanted them. The incline is great, so no matter where you sit, you can see the stage. I'd definitely come back to see a show here. read more

Greta again q and the tickets were great! Parking was alittle unorganized especially since this place has all types of concerts and events.

They have completely jacked the parking situation this summer. Strongly.recommend you uber

If you haven't visited Wolf Trap, you need to. If you haven't seen a show here, you need to. They sell food and drinks here but you can bring your own to enjoy up on the hill if you get the open lawn tickets, many people bring a blanket and cooler and chairs. Having enjoyed many shows here, and having enjoyed many shows in NY and around the world, I can say that Wolf Trap is one of the nicest feeling venues with best ambiance around. It's worth going to see your favorite bands here and their annual calendar of shows has an impressive line-up every year. Run don't walk to purchase a ticket. Go here. Wolf Trap. Concerts. They're amazing. I will go to more and hope you try it out! read more

Saw a classic rock and roll show for $37 lawn tix. Can't beat that! Tips- if going in a group, always good to have someone line up early and save a spot. Bring a blanket and a backjack type chair (the kind that sits flat on the ground and provides back support). Snacks + drinks are welcome, lots of vantages to see the stage and televised closeups. We took the shuttle from the parking lot since we had lots to carry. It's an open air hop on /off - like at the airport. Very short wait. At end of show, parking lot emptied quickly - the staff are great at directing flow. Well done Wolf Trap! read more

Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts - This was the most crowded I've ever seen the lawn - but didn't feel over crowded. Everyone was very respectful of each other's space. - Performing Arts Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

I love Wolf Trap. I've been here twice so far. Once for a Backstreet Boys concert (years ago) and most recently to see Josh Groban. Parking can be a pain. Arrive at least an hour prior to your show to find a parking spot. Be incredibly patient at the end of your show because the lots are jam-packed. Employees are friendly and helpful. There is a first aid area which is nice. Concession stands are also conveniently located. If you have lawn seating, you can bring your own food. Both shows I watched here were wonderful. The sound is excellent. I love the Wolf Trap Orchestra, they play so beautifully it warms my heart. Good times. Had so much fun with G and M! read more

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I love love love this venue. Whether you have a seat or you are in the lawn a good time is guaranteed. So bring a chair and some alcohol and have a great time!! read more

This venue is super easy to access from Maryland via the Dulles Toll Road, and a $2.50 fee each way. (It's been so long, I didn't know you don't need exact change anymore.) once you take the Wolf Trap exit, you're there! Parking is free. Yay! We got there super early. Not for securing a spot on the lawn, but for 6:30 reservations for the buffet at Ovations. We parked really close to the entrance and were standing in a long line for the gate to the lawn to open. We didn't realize that was what we were standing in, and then made our way to our dining destination- no line for us. We had orchestra seats, so we causally made our way there for the 8:00 start. The view was fantastic, and so was the sound system for Bonnie Raitt. The only annoying thing was the alcohol infused woman next to my friend that wolf whistled in her ear the whole time. It was a balmy night, but somehow we got an occasional breeze. We traded in staying for the encore for an early exit. I'm glad we did! My car was parked on the end near the entrance, and we high-tailed out of there with no wait what so ever! That's to Waze, we took an alternate route back to the Toll Road (still $2.50), and made our way to 495 with no traffic issues. I'm sorry it took me 15 years to return here. From now on, this is my #1 music venue. read more

Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts - Free cookies! - Performing Arts Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

Great to be able to bring in outside food and drinks. Food and drink is waaay overpriced Note that 'box seats' are closer to the stage, but have little room Most wolftrap seats are like flying economy! read more

Excellent performance venue in a beautiful, easily accessible location. Lawn tickets are great if you want to enjoy the show while bringing your own food and drinks (including alcohol!!). The views are good as far as "lawn" experiences usually go, as the venue is small enough to still see the performance on stage fairly well from anywhere. Live screens are placed nicely along the back of the seated section at a great height for viewing the action on the stage, which are nice to have and very well placed for view from most if not all lawn seats. If you really love who you're seeing and want to feel the live in person concert experience of seeing the artist up close, and having a good view of everything else that's going on onstage, then the seated tickets are typically the way to go. The views from the orchestra are obviously the best for close up, though we actually like the first few rows of the rear orchestra section the best if we can get them. Especially the ones in the very front of the center section (rows AA - CC). Those close to the center from AA - EE or so on the left and right sections are also solid. They're great views and usually slightly cheaper than the front orchestra. And elevated a bit more which can make them better than the back of the front orchestra. All personal preference of course. It's a great venue though. Beautiful grounds, tons of helpful staff and volunteers, multiple bathrooms that are fairly clean for concert standards, free parking (though it is a bit of hike up a hill from the lot to the actual theater entrance). Great sound too. Speakers are solid but not too loud or base-heavy (as they can be in some of the places especially in the city). Acoustics are excellent all around. It's designed very well. Makes a big difference. We've been to just about every venue in the area and this is one of our favorites. read more

This is my second season as a volunteer usher with Wolf Trap and if last year was any indication I will be loving this summer. I enjoy every event, whether a speaker, movie, opera, orchestra, or a concert, there is something wonderful about the experience. My tips for Wolf Trap: 1) I like the parking lot across the street -- the walk is not bad and there is a path under the road. Or, if you prefer, there are regular golf cart rides, just get in the line (varies in length) and enjoy the ride. 2) You can have food and wine (or other beverages) on the lawn BUT only water goes into the theater seating. This is not a random rule it is because of a need to keep the seats clean and discourage bugs/bees/wasps. Please don't yell at the volunteers. read more

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The Barns at Wolf Trap is the indoor performing arts/music venue at Wolf Trap - and as such sees most of it's use in the cool and cold weather months. The season kicks off in the Fall. The interior of the place is extremely cool. It IS a large Barn. and the interior architectural elements are stunning. The way they have managed to use large timbers for the ceiling structure is interesting to look at - and the place retains a somewhat natural and country feel to it. The acoustics are also excellent. From a sound standpoint, there really aren't any bad seats - both floor and balcony seating is available. The last performance I attended there was the Celtic Rock band - The Young Dubliners. I can't wait to go back for another concert! I'm waiting for Wolf Trap to start selling tickets for the 2008-2009 Barns at Wolf Trap season - I'm going to score some tix to see Battlefield Band perform at The Barns - a very groovy and eclectic group from Scotland - they perform at the Barns this coming November! As I mentioned in my review for the Filene Center - there are several distinct and separate addresses for Wolf Trap - the Barns, Filene Center, and the Center for Education - all have different street addresses - which apparently has caused some confusion for other Yelpers - as reviews for different Wolf Trap venues have been lumped under one address - the addresses are as follows: Filene Center (1551 Trap Road) The Barns at Wolf Trap (1635 Trap Road) Center for Education at Wolf Trap (1645 Trap Road) read more

Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts - Performing Arts Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

It's almost a case of negligence that I've been to Wolf Trap multiple times for concerts and have even mentioned it in other reviews, but have never actually reviewed the place. However, after catching the Gin Blossoms show at the Barns at Wolf Trap, I can finally provide a full review on the Nation's only national park for the performing arts. History aside, Wolf Trap offers two aesthetically impressive venues, the Filene Center and the Barns, that host a wide array of musical and theatrical performances that appeal to most audiences. I say most, since while you may be able to hear Gregorian monks doing their thing (if you're into that) you're not at all likely to hear your favorite death metal band playing live. The Filene Center is a medium-sized outdoor amphitheater capable of accommodating around 7000 people, approximately half under a striking all-wood, open-air structure and the other half under the stars on a sloped grass area. Many prefer sitting/listening on the grass since patrons are allowed to bring in coolers with food and beverages. However, I much prefer sitting in the reserved seating under cover since sightlines to the stage and acoustics are much, much better. Plus, I'd rather be nice and dry since rain won't stop the show. The Barns is a much smaller, indoor venue capable of holding almost 400 people. True to its name, the Barns was constructed out of an actual set of barns, which gives it a nice rustic/rural hoedown feel. Seating is a little tight, but acoustics in the intimate setting are pretty good without being muddy or too loud. Getting into Wolf Trap for performances at either the Filene Center or the Barns is pretty easy. Parking is free and plentiful for both venues. Getting out of Wolf Trap after performances at the Filene Center can be a maddening, chaotic affair, so be prepared to wait out the mass automobile exodus out of the parking lots. It's not a problem getting out of the lot after a performance at the Barns. Without a doubt, Wolf Trap has the best and nicest outdoor amphitheater in the Filene Center that I've experienced and I've been to more than a few. The Barns is a great small venue although it doesn't tend to attract near as many performers as I'd like to see/hear when compared with the 9:30 Club or the Birchmere. In the end, though, Wolf Trap really is a treasure, perhaps not a national treasure, but definitely a local one! read more

I enjoy the summers here in the DC area. My better half does not. We do enjoy the lineup that Wolf Trap offers but again, it's during the hot and humid summer months. My dad is a big fan of Celtic Woman. They come to Wolf Trap once a summer. They also come to the Patriot Center. This night was Celtic Woman at Wolf Trap and it was also the night of the big thunderstorm. The staff is very accommodating. Our seats were really not handicap accessible but a simple phone call to the disability department and they swapped out our seats. My dad uses a wheelchair and requires accessible seating. There is also handicap parking very close to the orchestra gates. Despite the horrible weather, we enjoyed the show, thanks to the flexible and accommodating staff. read more

Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts - Performing Arts Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

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Wolf Trap, or as the great Brandi Carlile calls it, the "Red Rocks of the East", is simply one of the best concert venues in America. This place is so well run with tons of friendly staff and you're able to bring in your own food and drink (including alcohol) if you have lawn seating. Lastly the acoustics from anywhere in the Filene Center (Wolf Trap's main stage) are impeccable. I'll tell you, there is nothing better in the summer than going to see a show at Wolf Trap and laying down on a blanket on the lawn with the moon and stars above you. Parking is a pretty easy in and out too. Just go-you'll love it. read more

No complaints about Wolf Trap which is a great venue; If you are heading to Wolf Trap in the future, please be aware of The Fermented Pig policies before ordering. I placed a picnic order for a concert which got cancelled; they took all the money and are not offering refunds saying they have no control over the performers. This policy is not clear (might not even be) on their website/facebook. read more

Excellent venue with a good summer lineup that includes things for almost any age group or interest. I watched Mamma Mia and was impressed with the venue. The show itself was just ok with most of the performers being rookies and lacking serious vocal strength. No matter though, the venue is a gem. I think for a theater performance, I'd go for the pavilion which is actually pretty small and there isn't really a bad seat in the house. For sing along/dance along stuff, I'd spring for a closer seat so you can really be immersed in the show, otherwise, sit in the back on the pavilion and enjoy from afar. For musical performances, I'd go for a lawn seat which are inexpensive, and with a small venue, you still aren't really that far away and can enjoy a leisurely picnic. Parking. Park near the left exit and go left towards route 7. Everyone wants to exit right, so you can avoid that log jam like the clever beaver you are. read more

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We are very fortunate to live close to such a great venue. This season we attended about a half a dozen events over the summer. For half of these we reserved seats and for the others we just sat out on the lawn. I much prefer the lawn seating, bringing a meal and enjoying my own bottle of wine during the show. Gates open an hour in advance of show time for you to claim your patch on the lawn with a blanket. Regular seating doesn't open until 30 minutes before show time. Apart from water, no food or drink in the seats. They will rent you a nice seat cushion for the lawn which we almost always do. You need to leave your DL with them as collateral to return it. They are surprisingly efficient though at returning your license at the end of the show. There's plenty of free parking available. I have no real tips on good places to park for you. I do much prefer parking on the side with the entrance and avoiding the lot connected via a tunnel across the street. That one always seems more clogged after the show. read more

Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts - Main stage for Lyle Lovett and His Large Band. - Performing Arts Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

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This is the best place to see summer concerts in the DMV. This venue offers opera, ballet, theater and bands of all genres from May to September. A beautiful facility in the woods with walking trails, a restaurant (Ovations-Reservations are the way to go ) and plenty of picnic areas. It's easy to get to via car, bus, uber..They run an express bus to the East Falls Church metro after the shows. Plenty of parking, although if it's a sold out show it may take up to an hour to get out of the parking lot because they have changed the traffic patterns (not for the better). You can bring a picnic with alcohol to enjoy on the lawn prior to or during the performance. If you have seats in the pavilion , you can bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawn and then sit in your seats. If you purchase the Wolf Trap plastic cup with lid for $5(best money you'll spend), you can take alcoholic beverages to your pavilion seat or a bottled water. They have two food & beverage locations, a gift shop and a performer merchandise booth. Plenty of clean bathrooms. The park does provide both recycle and trash bags for your garbage. Wolf trap added 3 screens on the pavilion for the folks on the lawn to better see the performers and any videos they have for the shows. The audio is always excellent. This place is staffed by many volunteers and it is extremely well run. I love this place and go many times in the summer. We are very luck to have the only National Park for the Performing Arts in the DMV. read more

Great outdoor concert venue! They have theater style seating towards the front of the theater of you can bring blankets to sit at the lawn towards the back. We saw Boy George and B52s there. The concert sounded great and the stage was beautiful! We had an amazing time! read more

Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts - Boy George - Performing Arts Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

This National park is hands down the best concert venue in NOVA. It's amazing you're actually encouraged to bring a cooler of adult beverages and food and hang out on the lawn to watch a show! The variety of shows is diverse, something for families, 90's bands, symphony/orchestra and modern alternative options all summer long. Beautiful scenery, parking is simple and crowds are always laid back and fun! Although there is regular concert seating, the lawn is where it's at! read more

Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts - Performing Arts Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

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I love this venue so much and for so many reasons. For an outdoor amphitheater, it's a little pricey but it is definitely a pleasant "classy" outdoor experience. Wolf trap is really difficult to access from public transportation, but parking is free and you can take the backroads and avoid paying tolls to save yourself $6. I came for the Jake Owen show and bought lawn seats with a few friends. Being used to Jiffy Lube Live we were amazed upon arriving how gorgeous, woodsy and clean the venue and parking lot was. It was raining, so they allowed folks to upgrade to the back of the pavilion for $10 more which was a blessing. The venue is very well staffed with pleasant and helpful folks. The acoustics are superb and all the seats, including the lawn seats are close to the stage leading to an intimate and enjoyable experience. We were impressed with the concession stand which offered local brews, kosher hot dogs in pretzel buns, mezzeh platters and other snacks priced from $8-$14. We enjoyed our food, but next time we will definitely pack a picnic basket to save a few $$$ on food and alcohol. It was such a pleasant evening, I plan to return this summer. read more

Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts - Performing Arts Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

I visited Wolf Trap for the first time yesterday, and it was such a beautiful venue! The architecture of the space itself is remarkable, but so is the maintenance of the space and the friendliness of staff. While I had purchased seats in the orchestra, the grass areas were so lovely and offered such a wonderful view, I was nearly tempted to swap spots! read more

The first thing I think of when I come to Wolf Trap is, "Man! If we Asians could have our way, we'd do Wolf Trap right!" I've been to Wolf Trap twice and each time, the lawn has been packed with people sitting on blankets, chowing on some crackers and cheese, and sipping wine. Come on now. If we could have our way, you'd better believe we would find the lone outlet and hook up a 100' extension cord and do a hot pot on the lawn. You best recognize that we'd bring out our little butane burners and grill some meats, and cook up some ramen and drop some eggs in there. But alas, this is America, so picnic baskets will have to do. I've been to Wolf Trap twice, once on the lawn and once inside, and they are completely different experiences. LAWN (The Corrs): Call ahead to find out what time they open the gate and get there early. We got there an hour before showtime and the lawn was packed! I guess a lot of ppl in the DMV enjoy the Irish family (Go on, go on...leave me breathless. Did I get it stuck in your head?). As such, our seats were craptacular and I may as well have been listening to them on a CD, but enjoying snacks and sipping cool beverages with the one you love and friends in a remarkable venue was a fantastic way to spend a summer night. If you have lawn seats, don't even try to move inside. Actually, you can't even approach the sidewalk to get a better view. Trust me. Some of the ushers/staff may look old and feeble but they'll send you walking back w/ your tail between your legs. If you can get there early enough, you can score some awesome seats for $8 for some shows. The lawn is also kid-friendly, as we saw many families there. And there were some teens unabashedly making out, which was unsavory, but I guess w/ the Corrs ballads, you gotta expect it. INSIDE (Noche Flamenca) We had seats in Section F, row U and had a great view of the stage and it was a completely different experience from the lawn. If you want to enjoy the show sans binoculars, I'd recommend getting seats inside. The cost is more than double what you would pay for on the lawn and you can't bring in food (but you can bring in water bottles). If you are coming from MD, you'll likely get stuck in traffic so making it early to get a good seat on the lawn is challenging, and if you're a chronic "I'm 5 minutes away!" type of person, I recommend getting seats inside so that you'll be assured a decent view. So what holds the two vastly different experiences together? DC humidity. No matter where you sit, DC humidity will get ya. I love being outdoors as much as the next guy but I felt lethargic and tired after sitting in humid weather for 2+ hours. As a guy who sweats profusely and enjoys climate controlled venues, I'll give this place 4 enthusiastic stars. Some helpful tips: 1) Bring water - we forgot ours last night and were parched! 2) No photography allowed during the show 3) Bring something w/ back support if you're going to sit on the lawn - you can rent seats 4) a note on the parking: When you cross over the Dulles Toll Rd while traveling on Trap Rd, stay in the left lane and turn into the first parking lot on your left. There is limited and reserved parking closer to the Filene Center, but I find this parking lot the easiest as there's almost no line to get in. There's also a tunnel you can take that goes under Trap Rd: Tunnel | ^ | | | | Exit __________________________________ | | | _____________| x | | | | | | | Parking Lot | | | | | | \0/ | | You | | | / \ | |_______________________________________| x: shuttle via carts for elderly and those w/ disabilities When exiting the lot, stay in the right lane for the Toll Rd and stay on the left to head to 495. And as if that picture wasn't enough, I've uploaded a few that will give you a better idea of the various views through the Center. Enjoy the show! read more

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Summer isn't complete unless I've attended a concert at Wolf Trap! Fortunately I had an opportunity to surprise my niece (as an early birthday gift) here to watch Ke$ha. She had no idea Ke$ha was performing until arriving inside Wolf Trap! Guess I'm the Uncle of the Year ! During previous visits to Wolf Trap I've sat in the lawn but further back as I arrived later than initially planned. Fortunately, this time around we had a great view of the center stage sitting in section / row RORC7 QQ 110 while singing: "Don't stop, make it pop DJ, blow my speakers up Tonight, I'mma fight 'Til we see the sunlight Tick tock on the clock But the party don't stop, no" Ke$ha was AMAZING ! Everyone was screaming and yelling out her name between sets. My ears were still ringing the morning after ! If there was anything negative to review, it would involve her erotic innuendo's (whip cream spraying, male dancers wearing female 2 pieces and stripping). I'm assuming a few parents had an interesting post concert conversation with their children. Prior to the concert we took advantage of the bring your own food (Z Pizza - See review here: http://www.yelp.com/biz/zpizza-fairfax-3#hrid:chtL2lvS5kaFxcUYxFZkBg/src:self) and beverage policy. In addition, we enjoyed free parking with the tail gating atmosphere. By arriving early we parked closer to the exit. This paid off tremendously as we left with ease and no congestion as everyone else stayed for her last song. Another plus was being dropped off right in front of the venue by the complimentary shuttle before the concert. The venue is well kept and clean as it is considered "America's National Park for the Performing Arts." Fortunately Wolf Trap is a part of a non-profit foundation. As a result concert prices and atmosphere is family friendly. I'll definitely consider becoming a member ( http://www.wolftrap.org/Support_Wolf_Trap.aspx ) to further support their programs. read more

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Wolf Trap is a must visit/to-do whether you're a local, or visiting DC - especially the Filene Center. The Filene amphitheater is spectacular! I recommend box/lodge seats, orchestra, then lawn seating last when booking tickets to really experience the venue. Lawn seating is tricky not because of the view, but solely based on weather. I've been to a 1 pm show and did not anticipate how bright and distracting the daylight was going to be and could not see the performance on stage. I've been to a show when it rained (prepared and brought umbrella/poncho) and there is no covered area on the lawn. Some spectators power through the rain and wind, I usually end up leaving. Hopefully, your weather predictions are better than mine, otherwise you'll have a great time on the lawn and make sure to bring a picnic! Most of the staff escorting you to the seats, scanning tickets are volunteers. Parking is free (2 lots) with plenty of handicap spaces near the entrance, in addition to free shuttles from lot to entrance. There are so many different performances to choose from Cirque, orchestra, ballet, singers, etc.! read more