Ford's Theatre

Ford’s Theatre, where Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth, is a national historic landmark and one of the most visited sites in Washington, DC. Visitors can enjoy a short talk by a National Park guide and learn the fascinating story of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. On the second floor of Ford's Theatre, you can see the boxseat where Lincoln was sitting when he was killed. On the lower level, the Ford's Theatre Museum displays exhibits about Lincoln’s life and explains the circumstances of his tragic death. The historic site also functions as a live theater, presenting a variety of high quality performances throughout the year.

Ford's Theatre reopened in February 2009 after an 18-month renovation. A multimillion-dollar expansion is underway that will give visitors the opportunity to learn more about Abraham Lincoln's life and his presidency. The project will include the addition of a state-of-the-art Center for Education and Leadership directly across the street from the theater. Six buildings on both sides of 10th Street NW will be linked together to provide a modern museum. Construction of the new education center is expected to begin in 2010.

See photos of the new lobby, stage and theatre

Highlights of the Theatre Renovation

The following upgraded features will make the theatre more audience friendly and handicap accessible:

• a spacious new lobby with concessions and an entrance to the theatre
  
• a new “parlor” for special events
  
• new seats
  
• upgraded sound and lighting systems
  
• updated stage capabilities for casts and crews
  
• improved heating and air conditioning systems
  
• renovated restrooms
  
• enhanced accessibility with elevators to the various levels

Theatre Tours

Guided tours are offered daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (except when the venue is closed for rehearsals and matinee performances). In an effort to reduce lines and wait times, Ford’s Theatre uses a timed entry system for visitors. The box office opens at 8:30 a.m. for distribution of same-day, timed tickets on a first-come, first-served basis. Individuals are limited to six tickets per person for same day tickets. Individual tickets are also available online in advance for a $1.50 convenience fee.

Museum Reopening

Scheduled to reopen July 15, 2009, the newly renovated museum will use 21st-century technology to transport visitors back in time to the 19th-century. The museum’s collection of historic artifacts will be supplemented with a variety of narrative devices—environmental recreations, videos and three-dimensional figures. Read more about the Ford's Theatre Museum

Address:
10th and E Streets, NW
Washington, DC
See a map of Penn Quarter

Hours:
The museum (when reopened in the spring) will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Christmas Day. The theater produces five performances per year.

Official Website:
www.fordstheater.org