Downhill from the Hilton is the Childe Harold, technically located at 1610 20th St NW, but actually facing Connecticut Ave. Though Springsteen and Emmylou Harris played there "back in the day," it's still a good watering hole and restaurant.

The Brickskeller has a tremendous selection of bottled beers for which it has won awards. It's at 1523 22nd Street, NW, about 1/2 a mile from the Hilton. If you're a beer enthusiast, this is the place to go. - Tom Ipri

If any craft beer afficionados would like to check out the local scene one evening please let me know. In addition to the Brickskeller there's R.F.D. Regional Food and Drink, the District Chophouse and Brewery, a couple of brewpub chains, and a place or two out in Old Town Alexandria. I plan on hitting one or two of these places while I'm in town. - Mark Stoffan

If you haven't been, Madam's Organ is an interesting haunt to hear some local blues and related live music. Libations and food menu are par for this kind of bar. 2461 18th Street, NW (3-4 blocks up Columbia St NW). You can't miss the big picture of the Madam on the building outside... Scott Brandt a.k.a. techman

Last time I was in DC, I had a terrific time at Lucky Bar at 1221 Connecticut Ave. NW. Good music, fun crowd, great time. Erin Payton

I was interested in going to Madam's Organ last year, but never got there. Now that I see it has an endorsement from Scott Brandt, I'm going to make more of an effort. I'll start a list in case anyone will still be around on Friday and might be interested in some late night live music:

• Tom Ipri

The Black Cat is the DC indie-rock hipster hangout. They have a good bar (the Red Room), a good jukebox, and two stages for live music. Google for directions. barrett

dive bars.

- The Big Hunt

dark, a bit smoky, good beer selection, plenty of room, good omni & vegetarian bar food. approx .9mi from conference hotel

- Trio's Fox & Hounds

good strong drinks, dark, decent omni & vegetarian bar food. approx .7mi from conference hotel

Sarah Mercure