Statement from Our Director

An update from Director Paul R. Tetreault on anti-racist work and the 2020-2021 season at Ford’s Theatre.

Read Statement

Historic Site

Historic Site Currently Closed

Breadcrumb

The site of President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. Ford’s Theatre Society and the National Park Service have closed the historic site until further notice.

Read more about our current closure.

Visit Ford’s Theatre and step back in time. While at our historic site, you will learn about the events of April 14, 1865, and the lasting impact of Lincoln’s assassination on our nation. We are a popular Washington, D.C., tourist destination and welcome more than 650,000 visitors a year. 

Ford’s Theatre presents live theatre on stage regularly, so our daily visit schedule varies. See what is currently on stage.

tips for your visit
  • Every visitor needs a ticket.
  • We have timed-entry every half hour. Museum and theatre are not included in every ticket.
  • An entire site visit lasts ~2 hours.
  • March-July is our busy season. To guarantee tickets, reserve in advance.
  • Same-day tickets are limited. Box Office opens at 8:30 a.m.

Four Parts to Ford’s Theatre

Historic Site Visit

Learn more about what you can see during a visit to Ford’s Theatre.

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Museum

In our museum, you can see rare artifacts from the Lincoln assassination, follow Lincoln’s presidency and learn about the conspiracy. 

Theatre

At different times throughout the day, you can hear a National Park Service ranger talk about the events of April 14, 1865 or go on a self-guided tour. In the spring and summer, you can see a short one-act play called One Destiny. At certain times, the theatre is closed for matinees and rehearsals. 

Petersen House

After you see the historic theatre, visit the house where Lincoln died. The house is located across the street from the theatre. This small home accommodates 15 people at a time. 

Aftermath Exhibits

View exhibits about what happened immediately after the assassination. Follow Lincoln’s funeral train from Washington, D.C., to Springfield, Illinois, and learn about his legacy. Or follow John Wilkes Booth's escape and the trial of the conspirators.

Enhance Your Visit

Audioguide

Add-On Item

This pre-recorded audio tour provides additional content and historical background. Available in both youth and adult versions. $5 each. You will be prompted to add an audioguide on when you reserve tickets.

Plan your Visit

Tips to help you plan your visit.