Ford’s Theatre in Washington, DC, is both an active performance venue and the site where President Abraham Lincoln was shot on April 14, 1865. Explore the museum’s exhibits on Lincoln’s presidency and the theatre’s history, then see the room where the shooting took place. Ranger programs add context to the visit, and the Petersen House across the street continues the story of Lincoln’s final hours and legacy. You can also attend a performance on the historic stage; check the theatre’s current program if you want to plan an evening around your visit.
The theatre and Lincoln’s assassination
Ford’s Theatre was a popular venue for stage performances in the 19th century. On April 14, 1865, President Lincoln was shot there. The building remains an active theatre, so a visit can connect the historic site with live performance on the same stage.
The theatre reopened in 1968 and again in 2009. During a visit, you can see the auditorium and the room associated with the shooting. Ranger programs provide further explanation of the assassination and its place in Lincoln’s life.
Exhibits about Lincoln
The museum on the lower level covers Lincoln’s early political career and presidency, along with attempts on his life. Its displays and interactive elements give visitors a way to follow the history of the building and the events around the assassination.
If you attend a performance, museum access is included with the production ticket. Some performances also allow time to visit the museum beforehand, so check the details for the show you are booking.
Continue across the street
The Petersen House, across from the theatre, is part of the historic site. Lincoln was taken there after he was shot and died in the house. Its exhibit space focuses on his death and legacy, making it a useful continuation of the visit to Ford’s Theatre.
The two buildings tell connected parts of the same story. Plan to see both if you have time, and consider joining a ranger program or attending One Destiny for additional interpretation.
FAQ
Where is Ford’s Theatre?
It is at 511 10th St NW in Washington, DC. The Petersen House is across the street.
Can you visit Ford’s Theatre for free?
Free same-day timed-entry passes are available in limited numbers. Advance tickets can also be reserved for a fee.
What can you see at Ford’s Theatre?
The visit includes a museum about Lincoln and the theatre’s history, the theatre itself and the room associated with the shooting. The Petersen House across the street has exhibits about Lincoln’s death and legacy.
Is Ford’s Theatre still used for performances?
Yes. It remains an active theatre, and museum admission is included with tickets to a theatre production.
