One thing I’ve always believed since the moment our daughters were born is that you shouldn’t stop doing things just because you have kids. For example, Kris and I had always wanted to see a show at the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
We made the decision to purchase tickets to see An American in Paris as a family Christmas present last year. Read my blog post about why I like non-toy Christmas gifts here.
The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is located along the Potomac River adjacent to the Watergate complex. The iconic building, designed by Edward Durell Stone, is easy to see as it sits just north as you cross the Roosevelt Bridge from Virginia into Washington, D.C. The building’s outside walls and a few interior walls are made of Carrara marble, a gift from Italy. In fact, many features of the Kennedy Center are gifts from other nations.
- 16 Orrefors chandaliers in the Grand Foyer are a gift from Sweden
- Two mirrors on either side of Opera House lobby are gifts from Belgium
- Box Tier displays gifts from Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, France, Argentina and African nations
- The Russian Lounge, a gift from the Vladimir Potanin Foundation. It features chandaliers and sconces gifted from Ireland
- The Opera House chandalier is a gift of Austria
- The red and gold silk stage curtain in the Opera House is a gift from Japan
- The Concert Hall’s crystal chandaliers are a gift from Norway
- The Lobby and Box Tier of the Concert Hall displays gifts from Israel, Luxembourg, the United Kingdom, Denmark and Switzerland
- The Hall of Nations has a painting by Antonio Maro which is a gift of Peru
- The Nation’s Gallery has six wool tapestries gifted from Australia
- Artwork on the ground of the Kennedy Center are gifts from Germany, Spain, and Colombia
Planning Phase
Prior to purchasing our tickets I spoke to someone at the box office to inquire about seating. He said sitting in the first row of tier 1 is ideal for families with children as it’s easier for kids to see. While I can’t speak about other seats we did find ours to be adequate. However, Hannah is short and we had to create a “booster seat” for her with some of our winter coats. In the end they all felt we had great seats and no one had difficulty seeing.
I also inquired about any age recommendations. If you’re looking to take your kids to a show, look online for something that interests you. Age recommendations are included within the description of the shows. An American is Paris was listed as “recommended for 8 and up.” Hannah is six and thoroughly enjoyed it. Kris and I found it to be appropriate for her age. Interestingly, The Little Mermaid was also showing there earlier in 2017. However, it was described as not being appropriate for younger audiences.
Getting There
Foggy Bottom is the nearest metro station to the Kennedy Center. Parking is available, but it’s best to prepay for a parking voucher online. You also save $3 by prepaying.
We parked in lot A and had a very short walk to the opera house. It is not necessary to check your coats as most people kept theirs with them. They sell refreshments and souvenirs (specifically related to the show we were seeing) were available for purchase. The souvenirs were cash only. There are also two gift shops in the Kennedy Center where general items can be purchased. We bought a Christmas ornament there.
It is important to have young children use the restroom prior to the show starting. We had a 20 minute intermission but the ladies’ restroom had a very long line. We were able to wait and use the restroom before we walked back to the car.
The Show
We saw the D.C. premiere of An American in Paris. An American in Paris in the Tony Award-winning musical about the lives of an American soldier and a French girl in Paris after the war. Our daughters take ballet lessons and found the ballet portions, songs, and dancing unforgettable.
Both acts were just over an hour in length. With a 20 minute intermission, this made it easy for the girls to enjoy.
Dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill
In keeping with our exciting day in Washington, D.C. we had dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill, which is located two blocks from the White House. This was an excellent option as you can make reservations online at open table and it’s close to the Kennedy Center. We were able to find street parking on the same block, and parking is free on Sundays. We had a dinner reservation for 5:45 p.m. which was perfect for us.
The Old Ebbitt Grill is Washington’s oldest and most historic saloon. It was founded in 1856 and has been a gathering place for notable guests. Guests include former presidents, generals, and lobbyists. The interior of the restaurant is full of antiques and memorabilia.
There is a collection of beer steins, animal heads (supposedly from animals hunted by Teddy Roosevelt), and wooden bears that were apparently imported by Andrew Hamilton for his private bar. Everything from the paintings, to the clock over the front entrance revolving door to the style of furniture has historical significance.
I highly recommend dining here. They have some simple options like burgers and fries but good options if you’re looking for something a little nicer. They have a great kids menu. All kids meals are $9 and include a drink, meal and dessert. Options for kids included pizza, tacos, hamburgers, grilled cheese, fish and chips and salmon. You can find their menu here.
What to Remember
- The Kennedy Center offers free tours. Check their website for details.
- The Millenium Stage offers free shows 365 days a year! No ticket required. 6 p.m.
- There is a free shuttle that departs from the Foggy Bottom metro station every 15 minutes.
- Free tours of the Kennedy Center are offered on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on weekends from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
