Plan Your Perfect Visit: The Barns at Wolf Trap Guide

Sep 30, 2025

Concert season is in full swing at The Barns! Known as Wolf Trap’s coziest venue, each seat is just steps away from the stage and treats your ears to some of the best acoustics around. The performance season runs from October through April, with a range of musical acts to suit every taste.

More than just a show, The Barns offers a full experience! Arrive early to connect with friends over a meal and drinks at the on-site restaurant and take in the historic atmosphere. Before setting out for your concert, brush up on some tips about tickets, dining, seating, and more.

Prep Ahead

A day or two before your show, streamline your arrival with these easy steps:

• Pre-save your digital tickets to your phone to make entry a breeze. View this instructional video for help logging in. To pick up physical tickets, Will Call is located to the right of The Barns’ front doors—be sure to have your photo ID and confirmation number ready.

• Get directions. Check out the different route options and view the map. If traveling on Dulles Toll Road (Route 267), note drivers will have to pay a toll. As always, plan extra time for traffic, construction-related delays, and parking. The Barns is located at 1635 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182 and offers ample free parking. Accessible parking is located near the building. For patrons using a rideshare or taxi, request your driver drop you off in the circle in front of The Barns. 

• Queue up a playlist for your drive. Get in the concert spirit with Wolf Trap’s “Rustic Rhythms” Spotify playlist, filled with songs from artists playing at The Barns this season. And check back often! As new shows are announced, more fabulous tunes are added to the mix.

• Text your concert crew! Start planning who’s ordering what at The Barns on-site restaurant. With so many delicious foods and drinks, The Barns is a cozy place to catch up.

Treat Yourself to Dinner & Drinks

Located straight ahead of the entrance in the Scottish Barn, The Barns’ one-of-a-kind gastropub serves up freshly prepared appetizers, mains, and desserts. Choose from items such as the Smash Burger or Mediterranean Bowl, and pair it with a handcrafted cocktail, locally sourced beer, artisanal wine, or non-alcoholic option. Check out the online menu before your show!

The on-site restaurant opens 90 minutes before showtime. Place your order at the bar or scan the QR code at your table. Your food and beverages will be delivered to you. Want a dining experience with a peek at Wolf Trap’s history? Dine in the atrium with photos and memorabilia from performances of years past.

Pro Tip: No worries if you’re still sipping your drink by showtime—you can bring beverages to your seat. Also ask a bartender about pre-ordering drinks for intermission. 

Pick Up a Program Book & Settle In

On your way to the stage, pick up a copy of The Barns’ program book, Timbre, from an usher. A perfect keepsake, this show-specific memento features artist bios and Wolf Trap happenings.

The Barns offers both seated and general admission shows—be sure to check your ticket to confirm which type of show you’re attending. General admission shows are standing room only to accommodate a lively audience and dancing. For seated concerts, seats are located on the floor (orchestra) and in the hayloft (balcony). View the seating chart or ask an usher for guidance. 

If you need to get up from your seat during the performance, please respect the artist and other attendees by moving in between songs or acts. 

Did you know?
The German Barn, which houses The Barns’ stage, turns 300 this year. Originally built in 1725 in Blenheim, NY, Wolf Trap’s founder Catherine Filene Shouse had the barn relocated to its current location in 1981. It has served as an intimate year-round performance space for local arts lovers ever since!

Share the Vibe!

Before showtime, take a moment to sit back and take in everything The Barns has to offer. Check out The Barns calendar to browse all the season’s shows, and spread the word by connecting with Wolf Trap on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok.

Whether it’s because of its charming atmosphere, inviting dining spaces, or the high-caliber performers that grace its stage, The Barns is the place to make special memories with friends and family. It’s not often you can experience a venue where history, artistry, and community perfectly intertwine.