Skip to main content
Sightseeing

Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site

📍 Penn Quarter, Washington, 20004, District of Columbia, United States of America
No photos yet
4.1/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Quick Facts

Location
USA, Washington
Category
Sightseeing
Duration
Recommended stay 1-2 hours
Address
Penn Quarter, Washington, 20004, District of Columbia, United States of America
Coordinates
38.8967, -77.0257

Introduction

Ford's Theatre National Historic Site is where President Lincoln was assassinated on April 14, 1865, operated by the National Park Service in three parts: the theatre, the Peterson House across the street, and an education center. Built by John Ford in 1863, the theatre was a major Washington venue during the Civil War; Lincoln was shot by actor John Wilkes Booth while watching Our American Cousin. The theatre is restored to its 1865 appearance, with the box, stage, and seats revealing the assassin's path. The Peterson House, where Lincoln died, displays the deathbed and relics. The education center uses multimedia to examine the conspiracy and Lincoln's legacy. It is the most moving place to grasp the end of the Civil War and the healing of national trauma.

✨ Highlights

1
Presidential Box
Lincoln box restored to 1865 appearance
2
Peterson House
Death room with bed and relics
3
Assassin Path
Booth's escape route clearly traced
4
Education Center
Multimedia on conspiracy and legacy
5
Living Theatre
Still stages plays and Lincoln events

🛈 Practical Info

→Transit:5-minute walk from Metro Center station
→Cost:Free but advance timed ticket required
→Booking:Released 30 days ahead; popular slots go fast
→Shows:Theatre still stages plays; separate ticket
→For:History buffs and all DC visitors
→Opening Hours:Daily 9:00-16:30; last entry 16:00
→Transportation:On 10th Street downtown; walk from Metro Center station

Ticket Information

Ticket Information
AdultFree

Free; advance online timed ticket required

💡 Tips

• Timed tickets must be booked online; none on-site
• Include Peterson House and education center across street
• Airport-style security; arrive 20 minutes early
• Check seasonal shows; you may catch a performance
• Maintain solemn silence in tribute to Lincoln

FAQ

What are the opening hours of Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site?

Daily 9:00-16:30; last entry 16:00

How much is the admission for Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site?

Adult: Free; Free; advance online timed ticket required

Any practical tips for visiting Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site?

Timed tickets must be booked online; none on-site Include Peterson House and education center across street

How long should I spend at Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site?

A typical visit takes Recommended stay 1-2 hours.

Ticket availability and shows may change; see the official site.

📰 Guides for Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site

All Guides →