My future wife and I are history nerds. We came to DC to cover some of the points we missed on our last visit. We were pleasantly surprised that Ford's Theatre was a ten minute walk from our hotel. We decided to book a tour. The theater itself is still in use for productions. "The Little Shop of Horrors" is currently there and the stage was decorated for it. It did distract from the historical elements a little, especially for some of the students who were in the tour with us. We were led across the street to the Peterson House where President Lincoln had been carried after the shooting and would eventually die. Seeing the room where he died was a moment I'll never forget. The staff was friendly and informative. The only downside to our visit was that it didn't include the museum. We got to see the theatre and the Peterson House, but our tour tickets did not include the museum. This wasn't clear on the ticketing sight. I recommend going to Ford's Theatre, but make sure you get the right tickets. read more

I used to go to the Shakespheare Tavern in Atlanta every Christmas to see A Christmas Carol. Since I moved to DC I wanted to keep the tradition alive. I saw they had it when walking past Ford's Theatre. Of course the theatre is historical and has been recently renovated. It could still use some work though. The stage is nice and large and there were some nice special effects during the show. I sat in the balcony second row but next time I would choose a different seat. Front torn balcony at least. People's heads are in your way otherwise. I might splurge and sit on the main level in the future. They have a few selections for concessions and wine selections. Lines can be long. A good selection of souvenirs. read more

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Everyone should have the opportunity to visit the Ford theatre. An amazing Park Ranger recreated, step by step, the events of the night when Lincoln was shot. His presentation was eloquent. This is something every American should know about and understand. The ticket cost is $5. You start the visit by touring a museum under the theatre. Presentation is impressive. The ticket also allows You a trip across the street to the Patterson House. Lincoln was taken there after being shot. This is where he died. The exhibit finishes the story, explaining the final capture of John Wilkes Booth and co conspirators and their trial, etc. The explanation of events and how the situation intertwines with the Civil War is fascinating. Worth the time. You do need a reservation. It is in DC. There is a parking lot next to the theatre. Not expensive. The Ford Theatre is a working theatre still. Might check what is playing while You are in the City. Highly recommend!!! read more

Ford's Theatre - The Box where President Lincoln was shot. - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Amazing experience and very informative exhibits. Whatever they pay the rangers isn't enough, amazing performance.

Ford's Theatre is part of the National Parks Service and there are "tours" on the half hour, but you do need a ticket. We thought we'd have to pay $3 each, but they ended up giving them to us. (We arrived right at the 2:30 tour time, so not sure if this is why?) Thankfully we didn't have to wait in line in the heat. It's open seating in the still-working theatre, and we sat in the balcony. A park ranger came on stage and told the story of Ford's Theatre and all the facts of the events before and after Lincoln's assassination. It was very interesting, and we really enjoyed the history lesson and all the lesser known details. In total it was only about 20-30 minutes, so it's a quick stop for DC sightseeing. read more

I went here for the historical aspect of it being the place President Lincoln was assassinated. I specify because this still serves as a theatre for productions today. I appreciate that this theatre both memorializes the president and still serves its original purpose. The employees showing us around and presenting to us were amazing. I learned things I did not know before about the assassination and J.W.B. I loved how the person presenting the story to us emphasized that JWB was, in a direct quote, "a white supremacist and a racist." I think this is a very important thing to point out, as we are still dealing with people like this today. The story is ultimately one about a man who was, indeed, a white supremacist and a racist, and how he spiraled out of control and felt entitled to take the life of another human being he disagreed with. It is important to reflect on that as we interact with each other in present times, too. read more

The museum itself is extremely impressive as there were many original artifacts, photographs, and extensive hour-by-hour details of the events leading up to the murder of President Lincoln. We added the optional audio devices (weird 90's phone-type devices that you hold to one ear to listen to while walking from display to display) for our tour experience. Although they were helpful in adding additional information on the museum and the events, the audio commentaries were not in the order of the layout of the displays within the museum. We all had difficulty navigating from one to the next even while using the provided map of the museum -- not too well planned out by whoever decided to add audio to the tour. Our tour of the theater included an informative performance/speech by an actor who described all of the events of the night as well, which was great! The reason for the 3 stars was due to the front desk staff working at the museum. One of our audio devices was not working properly and randomly wouldn't play certain display information. It was frustrating since it would work for one display, then not for the next 2 displays, and so on.. We mentioned this to the front ticket agent and asked for a refund for the device ($5) and were told that was impossible and we should have come back earlier and exchanged the device ourselves. (So I guess it was our fault) Seriously? "Impossible" to refund $5? Lame. Management: The blonde dude behind the counter then tossed the faulty audio device right back into the mix of the working devices for the next customer to have to deal with. Fun! Additionally, they don't seem to care about crowd control. It wasn't bad for the first 10 mins or so during our reserved time slot, then a tour group of approximately 60-70 teens arrived and it turned into a mad house. We were unable to tour the house across the street in which Lincoln died after our tour, as the line with all the tour group was so long. This group should have been allotted their own time slot. ((PS: Wear a mask due to their lack of crowd control)) read more

Oct 21~This is a must for history buffs. This museum is everything Abe Lincoln right up to the day he was shot. The second photo is where he was sitting watching a play when he was shot. Wasn't able to get a lot of photos. There was a huge group of misbehaving kids on our tour. This is a place I will go back to in a couple years when I go back to DC. *Bonus every museum and the zoo are all free in DC. read more

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Overall this is a must-see if you're interested in learning more about Abraham Lincoln's final hours. I reserved tickets for the wrong day (oops, mom brain) and the box office was very accommodating. I was still able to go inside the theatre. I brought my 4-year-old with me, so I wasn't able to stay as long as I would have wanted. I still enjoyed my short visit and the lady in the gift shop was very nice (she had bright blue/green hair and super fancy nails). I was able to get three cancellation stamps to add into my National Parks Passport. I also got some National Parks stickers to add into my passport as well. read more

Ford's Theatre - Ford's Theatre stage - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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If you love history and a sensational story, look no further. We all know Lincoln was assassinated. Here they give you the full scope of it all. Who, why, when, where and with what. You literally stand in the room Lincoln died from across the street 9 hours after being shot. The story is an incredible tell of a man who for a defying moment freed many, but it ended up costing his life. Four hundred years ago, the country made a stand. And we've been making progress since, although many would argue otherwise. Change takes time and with every step forward, there seems to be two steps back. Off topic, back to the Ford! The artifacts and displays are informative and enlightening. The people who work there are super friendly! Also, if you go, please donate. This is a free admission, but every little penny counts to keep this place running and open for all to enjoy. read more

Ford's Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Get tickets in advance, be prepared to wear a mask and note that you will not be able to visit the small balcony where Lincoln was assassinated in the Spring and summer months due to high peak season. My kids thought it was cool and a 30-45 min visit is sufficient though you can listen to audio and stay longer if you are without kids and have the time. read more

Ford's Theatre - Where Lincoln was assassinated. - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Fantastic tour! We visited in the off-season (December) and got tickets at the theatre, but tickets can be booked ahead of time online. The tour tickets are only $3 per person. The tour starts with a unguided visit to the museum that has a lot of information and displays on Abraham Lincoln. Then we went to the theatre and had a 15 minute talk from a park ranger who did a fantastic job of describing the history and events on the nights that Lincoln was assassinated. After the talk, we walked across the street to the Petersen House, the place where Lincoln was cared for until he passed away. The theatre still performs plays, but we just went to the Ford Theatre Tour. I highly recommend visiting the Ford Theater for the tour! read more

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Sitting in the theatre where John Wilkes Booth shot Abraham Lincoln feels pretty exciting- in the way that history from elementary school is coming to life. The story was brought to life by an actor in period garb on the stage where they stage other real world productions. Don't forget to go to the house across the street where Lincoln passed away. Beware the crowds at Ford's Theatre, as this is one of the more popular stops for tour groups. read more

Just saw Something Moving: A Meditation Maynard. Really well done. The actors were using real messages and memories collected in Atlanta. Learned a lot! read more

Ford's Theatre - The program - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Anyone who has studied American history knows this story. The sixteenth president of the U.S.A., Abraham Lincoln, was murdered one fateful day at Ford's Theatre. His would be assassin? John Wilkes Booth, a 26-year-old actor who was a Confederate sympathizer. Booth, against the abolition of slavery, had deemed it days before that Lincoln was to be killed after he made a speech going against his views. As a result, the motive was clear and the plot was set. Booth killed Lincoln with a Deringer gun after the show, Our American Cousin, in the president's box. The former president was accompanied by his wife and two friends. While the rest lived to tell the tale, the president was injured, lost consciousness, and was later removed to the Petersen House, while Booth got away and went on a run for a couple of weeks before he was finally caught. He, then, suffered the same fate as Lincoln and was fatally shot by Boston Corbett. Keeping this all in mind, it is incredible to see this historic theatre. Not only have they managed to keep it still going as a museum, but they do still surprisingly do shows. I do not know how often the shows are, but they do still do them as there are advertisements all around. I believe A Christmas Carol is coming soon. Despite the age of this theatre and despite its renovations, this theatre is topsy-turvy. I suppose I should clarify. They have done various changes to this theatre. Per our tour, there used to be 1700+ seats in the theatre and they have now been changed to 600+, so it marks a stark contrast. Despite this, sitting in one of these seats, you will feel cramped. It is as if they are trying to maintain the old yet modernize it, but it just does not work. The stairs of this location, too, seem hollow and flimsy; I almost fell admittedly. While going here is a must for any history buff, I do caution people to be careful. The theatre itself is small, too many people visit at once, and well, there are limitations to consider. Bluntly speaking, you will see the box where Lincoln got shot, but you won't be able to access it. read more

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This review is for the museum and the historical aspect of the place. We all have learned about it in grade school, most likely second grade...this was where our beloved Lincoln was shot. The theatre is still in operation, even though it always hadn't been that way since 1865. The downstairs museum shows a lot in detail of the event that occurred on April 14, 1865. It also tells the histories of both Lincoln and John Wilkes Booth, as well as the Civil War. There was a lot I didn't know about Booth, like he was a very well-known actor at the time. (Remember, stage was what people watched) The two notable items inside the basement are: the pillow (won't go into much detail on that one!) and the weapon used to kill Lincoln. The actual theatre is cool to look at, especially the President's box - which is no longer for anyone's use. I first visited with my junior high group in 1995, and came back in 2019. Oddly, Washington had a tornado watch and we couldn't leave the basement until guards said it was okay. Be sure to check out the Petersen House across the street. read more

"A Christmas Carol"... and the site of where President Lincoln was assassinated in April 14, 1865. While Ford's Theatre is a working theatre, a historical monument, a museum and a learning center we came here for the story of Lincoln's presidency, assassination and legacy. Had we had more time to spend in the capital city we would've loved to watch a play here too. At this time of year "A Christmas Carol" will be on stage until the end of December 2018. I purchased tickets on-line ($3/person). You choose a time slot for your tour. No refunds or exchanges but as in our case when we couldn't make it to the original date I booked, Box Office was glad to move it to another date and time. On the day of our tour we stood in line outside until it was time and we were led inside the theatre. A ranger from the National Park Service (NPS) did a Q & A off stage while waiting for the seats to fill up. He then took to the stage and presented the history of this building. Ford's Theatre has an incredible history, including being the location of the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln in 1865. "Chip" (our Ranger narrator) gave an excellent review of account and story-telling detailing the events that took place. He spoke a little too fast for me but that was only because I wanted to immerse my thoughts in everything he was saying. Hubby and I sat on the floor level and we could see above to our right the President's Box where Lincoln sat the night of his assassination. The presentation was around 20-25 minutes long. The tour included a visit to the Petersen House across the street, where Lincoln died, as well as the aftermath exhibits where on display is a 34-foot tower of books written about Lincoln. This historic building has a stunning interior and exterior. This is a popular Washington DC tourist destination and I learned a lot in this visit. It is located on 10th Street between E and F streets. Get your National Park Passport stamped here too at the Box Office window. Review #1196 read more

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Unfortunately I had a bad experience, I had purchased my 6 tickets online and when I went to Fords Theatre to return 4 tickets and keep 2, the lady at the counter returned all of them, the ladies at the counter are very rude and have no people skills, because of their lack of professionalism and expertise we had to return to the ticket booth so after being in line in the cold we were placed behind a crowd of loud school kids. The place overall is quite rude, it feels like it's honoring and glorifying John Wilkes Booth and the Confederates than Abraham Lincoln, like for example there was a lady impersonating Mary Surratt that is so tasteless! I felt gross being in there. It's so small and you could be out in 15 minutes, if you love Abraham Lincoln like I do, don't go! read more

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So happy i was able to get this amazing place in today!!! This place is prob one of the highlights of my trip! Amazing to go to a place w so much history and tragedy. The rangee talk was awesome and added so much context to the theatre read more

Feb. 22nd- Monday, 2017. This place is fascinating. It's really cool to see the interior of the theater (even though it was rebuilt). The wait was not long, and the ability to sit down and listen to someone talk about the events that transpired is fantastic. You can also ask questions without someone rushing you out. On F St., you can take a look at the back of the theater to see where John Wilkes Booth ran off. FYI- it's a working theater, so sometimes there will a backdrop set up, or people moving things about. Pretty cool. Across the street is a museum of sorts, of the place Lincoln actually died. It's the house that became the museum with artifacts and the actual place Lincoln passed away. Here is the mountain of books written about Lincoln (second only to the number written about Jesus). Check this place out. read more

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Amazing to be able to sit and bask in the amount of such important moments in history in Washing DC. Amazing to me how well these beautifully structured buildings are preserved read more

Ford's Theatre - Ford's Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I am SO glad that I decided to purchase tickets ($3.50 each) to tour Ford's Theatre! If you purchase your tickets ahead of time, you STILL need to go inside to their box office and physically pick up your tickets BEFORE you get in line for the tour. We took the 9:00 am tour, which included a great presentation by a National Park Service Ranger, right inside the Theatre where president Lincoln was shot. The ranger described moment by moment, the days activities of both Lincoln and John Wilkes Booth, that fateful April day in 1865. There's a nice museum in the basement of the theatre, where amongst other things, you can see the actual pistol that was used to shoot president Lincoln. After you tour the museum and listen to the Ranger presentation (the presentation is ONLY given on the hour, NOT on the half past the hour tickets), you can walk across the street to tour the boarding house where the president was carried after he was wounded. Once inside the boarding house, you view a couple rooms that don't appear to be too important, but they were pivotal in tracking down the assailants. The tour (self guided), continues down a hall to the room where President Lincoln eventually succumbed to his wound the next morning. There's also a simulated replica of a railroad car that has a flag draped coffin, giving you a great idea of what the funeral train that carried the presidents body back to Illinois was like. There is a small gift shop inside the main entrance to the box office. My wife and 21 year old daughter found the whole tour very interesting. read more

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For 3 bucks you can't beat it. The museum is very well done, a great space and presentations, pictures and tells the story well. Ranger in the theater was very informative and polite. Its smaller than you'd think but beautiful although its not original the recreation/restoration is wonderful. Peterson house was a bit of a let down, but all in all it is a great tour, a must see for Lincoln or history fans. Lots of parking garages around, souvenir shops, food etc. The theater also has a nice gift shop to get 'real' souvenirs. read more

Ford's Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Some stuff went down here. Big time. The museum is well done and the theater part is, of course, the highlight. If I could do it all over again these are my tips: 1) Plan the time of your visit after 2-ish. Anything before that means you'll be standing in a long ass line outside for...well...a long while. 2) Inside the museum skip ahead to the assassination exhibits. Look at the pillow, read about the plot to kill the president, and check out all the objects. The beginning of the museum is a great introduction to Abe the man but by the time you get to the final exhibits surrounding his death you'll be wiped out or you'll be rushed to pile through to the theater. 3) Inside the theater sit on the far left side so you can see where it all went down. Our guide inside the theater was the most monotone soliloquist. I mean, there was no emotion or personality in his presentation. Picture the 'Visine clear eyes guy' giving your talk. Totally lifeless, man. At some point, we started giggling cuz we couldn't take it any more. read more

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On April 14, 1865, John Wilkes Booth (famous actor/Confederate sympathizer) assassinated President Abraham Lincoln at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. The attack came 5 days after the surrender at Appomattox Court House ending the Civil War. Booth and his co-conspirators believed the assassination of Lincoln, Vice President Andrew Johnson and Secretary of State William H. Seward would throw the U.S. government into disarray. At 10:15, Booth fired his .44-caliber single-shot derringer pistol into the back of Lincoln's head. Booth leapt onto the stage and shouted, "Sic semper tyrannis!" ("Thus ever to tyrants!"-the Virginia state motto) while also managing to break his leg and somehow escaped for 12 days. The president slumped in his chair, paralyzed, and barely able to breathe was carried to a boardinghouse across the street. But what about the Johnson and Seward??? Lewis Powell was assigned to kill Secretary of State William H. Seward. Seward previously in a carriage accident had suffered a concussion, a broken jaw, and a broken arm and was confined to bed. Powell stabbed at Seward's face and neck in an attack, slicing open his cheek, but the splint doctors had fitted to Seward's broken jaw prevented the blade from penetrating his neck. He eventually recovered, though with serious scars. George Atzerodt was assigned to kill Vice President Andrew Johnson. Atzerodt asked a bartender about Johnson's character and behavior. He eventually became drunk and wandered off through the streets, tossing his knife The seven-week trial for the conspirators included the testimony of 366 witnesses. All of the defendants were found guilty on June 30. Mary Surratt, Lewis Powell, David Herold, and George Atzerodt were sentenced to death by hanging; Samuel Mudd, Samuel Arnold, and Michael O'Laughlen were sentenced to life in prison. Edmund Spangler was sentenced to six years. Mary Surratt was the first woman executed by the United States government. read more

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We were here a few month's ago, History have-to and a Lovely place to visit with a modern museum and great narration from the rangers. Lots of cool artifacts and original gun was chilling. In retrospect, not sure I would get the audio guidance tour. Also, you can't actually see the presidential box. However, it is a have to visit for the history buffs and Abe fans. Peterson house had a line around the block so we didn't see that one. Be prepared to wait even during the week. read more

Ford's Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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This was one of the most entertaining musical performances that I have seen in DC since moving here over twenty years ago. I came Monday for a preview performance before the show officially opens tonight. Everything about the show, especially the acting was outstanding. The venue was the perfect, intimate spot to see this show. The Skid Row Flower Shop scenery was very realistic and the use of red and green lighting techniques was very effective. The show keeps your attention from start to finish, but it is the talented acting skills that really stand out. Jenna Coker-Jones and real life husband Christopher Kale Jones play opposite each other as Audrey and Seymour, the hapless flower shop worker that discovered Audrey 2, the ever growing plant with a voracious appetite for... blood. They were made for these roles! They made you laugh and applaud for their great musical skills as well. Another standout was Evan Casey who played Orin, the sadistic, abusive boyfriend of Audrey, along with several other character roles in the performance. He was hilarious! His performance of the song "Dentist!" was one of the best of the night! The show was so good, I am considering attending again before its final run on May 22. Don't miss this show! read more

Ford's Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I love history. In my opinion there is nothing more interesting than learning about our country's past. On my last trip to DC I discovered that you were able to visit Ford's Theater- where Lincoln was shot, and ultimately killed by John Wilkes Booth while attending a showing of, 'Our American Cousin'. You can purchase your tickets at the theater or online through Ticketmaster. Ford's Theater does recommend buying your tickets in advance because they can sell out. The admission is $5 and it also gets you into the Peterson House- the home where Lincoln died. Double your money. The tours have set times to them so pick the admission time that works best for you. While you wait for the tour you'll get to walk through a small Lincoln museum. Honestly, the coolest thing there, and there were a lot, was being able to see the gun that shot Lincoln. Definitely a cool piece of American history. Once they're ready for you, you'll line up and head into the theater. The theater has only been slightly updated and is now used for live productions, in addition to museum tours. Imagine being in a play on that stage? No thanks. The balcony where Lincoln was shot is closed off and made as a small shrine to the late President. The curator, while standing on the stage, takes you on a brief tour (speaking) of what was going on in the country at that time, Lincoln, John Wilkes Booth, and how the events of that evening transpired. The curator spoke with great energy and passion, and although you're just sitting there, you're definitely entertained. After he speaks, you're able to go through and walk around parts of the theater. You can get next to the balcony, but you cannot go in which was a bummer. The overall experience of being able to walk into the theater, hear these stories, and kind of relive that evening was worth every minute and $5. I highly recommend this for anyone; so many artifacts and history gems here. You're going to love it. read more

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I came here to watch Violet. I was really impressed with this little theater. It packs a punch in terms of performance, set design, sound and lighting. I mean, it's not one of those huge theater halls, but it's cozy and I felt that all seats have great views of the stage (unless you're sitting behind a poll?) Seats were comfy and far apart that it didn't feel cramped. The Lincoln's museum was underneath the theater and that was really informative. I appreciated the timeline of Lincoln's last day, history of important people, etc. It wasn't overwhelming so I actually had time and energy to go through everything pretty thoroughly. Everyone that worked in the theater was very nice, from ticketing to ushers. I also appreciated the little gift/snack shop. There were cool things you can buy like random Lincoln memorabilia, DC souvenirs, and also snacks and drinks that were not crazily priced like most theaters. I really enjoyed my experience here. Very easily metro accessible too! Oh, my fav. was the Lincoln booth on top that they kept in honor of the late President. So much history in this theater. read more

Ford's Theatre - The presidential box - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

You cannot possibly be a history nerd and not visit Ford's Theatre. I cannot tell you how many times I have now been there or how many times I've dragged different friends in with me. Such an awesome experience, and not likely one you will ever forget. read more

Saturday morning I went to Ford's Theatre to experience the "History on Foot" Walking Tour called A Free Black Woman: Elizabeth Keckly. And an experience it was! The mile and a half walk takes you from the Theatre to K street across New York Avenue and ends at Pennsylvania Avenue. Our group was greeted by a time period dresser who comes out like someone who just stepped out of a time machine. Elizabeth Keckly was dressmaker and confidant to Abraham Lincoln's wife. Her hard work and determination enabled her to purchase she and her son's freedom, after establishing herself she used her money and influence to fund various groups that gave board and shelter to disadvantaged people coming out of slavery. In addition to this, Elizabeth published a book thought to be controversial at the time about her relationship with the Lincoln Family and enduring 30 years of slavery to becoming a free woman. Our guide was EXCELLENT! She had such a gentle and smooth voice; almost like she was speaking poetry. She took questions, read beautiful heartfelt passages from Elizabeth's book, and shared with the group all types of little Washington insider stories that took place during the Civil War. Our group consisted of all ages and we stuck together, no one complained about her moving too fast, we even experienced a little rain. But that was ok! Hey 90 minutes goes by relatively fast when you' re learning and having a great time! Do check this tour out. There are also other walking tours to choose from as well! Living here all of my life makes it so easy at times to take for granted the wonderful things DC has to offer. It was awesome to feel like a tourist traveling back in time. read more

Ford's Theatre - Elizabeth Keckly On Foot Walking Tour - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I saw 12 angry men here with my wife for a theater date and we loved the theater, the museum and the show. Before the show we got to walk through some of the museum and take in some of the history. I wish we'd showed up a bit sooner to have more time to take it in, but you take the childcare you get and make the best of the time you have. I could have easily spent an hour browsing through things chronicling the Civil War, Lincoln and some history of the presidency and country. The theater itself was different and cool. It has some of the old, smaller theater feel with balconies and everything feeling like it's a bit more crammed into a small space than modern theaters do, but it does it in a really nice, cozy way. The stage itself was different and cool. It was trapazoidal with one (shallower) point going into the middle of the audience and then sloped down toward the audience, which meant that almost every seat had a nice view of the stage. The production of 12 angry men was great, but read my review of that itself. We will definitely be back. read more

Bottom Line: We're so fortunate that this historic theater has not only been preserved, but also contains a wonderful museum in Lincoln's honor. Every time I see Ford's Theatre on TV or drive past it, I think about how fortunate we are that this historic gem still proudly stands on 10th street. Given the tragedy that occurred here, I am sure some people would have been ok with the theater being leveled; however, I am glad that American's have insured its survival. Although Ford's Theatre is most well known as the place of Lincoln's assassination, the show does go on and theater-goers can still enjoy performances here. Below the theater, there is also comedy and tragedy to be had in the museum dedicated to Lincoln. Although people may not typically associate comedy with Lincoln, he was a witty man with some great one liners! A detailed study of Lincoln reveals the sense of humor he kept in tact despite having a tough life and a taxing job. Most of the museum pays tribute to Lincoln's great accomplishments as our 16th president and only a small portion focuses on his assassins, which I appreciate. The museum is very well done and has some great artifacts, the most impressive and surreal being the pistol that John Wilkes Booth in performing his unimaginable final act. The day I visited Ford's Theatre the theater itself was not open but I am still giving this place five stars just based on the awesome museum. I can't wait to return for the encore and check out the gorgeous, historically significant, theater. Thank you President Lincoln for the inspiration you continue to provide Americans. read more

Ford's Theatre - The infamous pistol used by John Wilkes Booth. All of the artifacts here are amazingly well preserved. - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I somehow stumbled upon A Christmas Carol and decided to buy tickets to see the show while visiting DC! I am sooo glad I did! We saw the 7pm show on Wednesday and it was fantastic! This isn't the type of thing my husband and I usually do and even he was thrilled we saw this. It's even more fascinating it's where Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. We were in the orchestra section row B and the seats were great. I don't think there is a bad seat in the house. There is a concession stand that sells water for $3, beer and wine for $8 and Prosecco for $12. The only liquid allowed in the theatre is bottled water. Highly recommend! read more

Ford's Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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So with almost 200 reviews on the books for Ford's I'm going to skip the play by play details and just riff on a few pointed thoughts about our experience: * The museum portion in the basement is absolutely outstanding! If you don't have the time to engulf yourself it in or if you're one of those intellectually lazy slobs who don't enjoy crazy things like reading then don't come because you either won't like it or you'll cheat yourself out of the main part of the experience. * Spend the $5 and rent the Acoustiguide. They are invaluable at helping to further explain the displays in greater detail. They can either be rented in advance via Ticketmaster or when you show up just go to the appropriately marked box office window although they will ask you for your driver's license as collateral until you return the guide. * The Peterson House across the street by itself is not really worth the time. The original death bed is in Chicago and all you can you see of the house are two rooms and then you're back outside. It's nice to say that you were in the same room that Lincoln was in when he died but past that, there's not really much of a point to crossing the street to visit. The education center that is somewhere over by the house was closed but of course the Rangers across the street at the theater didn't know that as one of them kept telling people to go over and see it when they were done at the theatre. * If there is one damning observation I can make about visiting NPS sites after being to nearly fifty, it's that normally the Rangers you encounter at the smaller more out of the way places are far more passionate & knowledgeable about the site they're at versus the larger/busier sites where the Rangers seem to be more beaten down/just punching a clock/there for crowd control only. Let me explain. I saw prior to coming to Ford's from reviews on this site and others that the Rangers normally give talks at some point(s) during the day in the theater. Well the Sunday that we visited a few weeks ago, no talks/no nothing and we were there for nearly three hours. Also the one Ranger I was able to find I asked if they ever open Lincoln's box for viewing and he said that they do it on slow days but that they weren't going to do it today. Well, the day we went it was sleeting/snowing out and hardly anyone was there including no groups. I'm not sure how much slower it could have been? But I guess him doing that would have interrupted him from leaning on the far left wall inside the theatre as he just stood there looking like he was trying his best to avoid all contact with the public. What it boils down to is that as a wonk for all things US History the lack of Ranger involvement, education or interpretation was fine as I knew a good bit about what happened at Ford's before I came but for someone not nearly as inclined, curious or interested they definitely would have had an inferior experience. Don't get me wrong in that coming here is still a must especially if you can do it during the offseason and not do it on a weekday when school groups over run the place. But just know that at least from my POV based on the day that we went I found the Rangers here to be lazy, bored and disinterested at interpreting what happened here which last I checked, is sort of their job. If you go: Ford's is open from 9-5 daily except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Admission is free but timed entry tickets are required and can be reserved in advance via Ticketmaster for a fee or by calling the theater's 800 number directly. You can also just show up but if you do on a day when school groups are there you might get shut out as only so many people are allowed into Ford's or the Peterson House at a time. read more

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I've spent a decent amount of time touring DC but recently realized I had never visited Ford's Theatre. Obviously that had to change. Last month, a friend and I did the tour under the theatre. It was a little museum with plenty of neat artifacts, statues, videos, and informative passages. Some museums are too bold-text-heavy even for an avid bookworm like me, but this one had a nice balance. The theatre itself was closed that day due to a rehearsal in progress (it's still active), which was a bummer, but we did stop at the gift shop and Petersen House after the fact. Considering the whole experience was free -- aside from my inevitable souvenir purchases -- I'd say this was time well spent. A must-stop if you have the time. read more

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Nice theater. Lots of history. Love the museum inside... like taking another bootcamp history class. In Washington D.C., it is all about the history!!! The location is right across from Old Town Trolley Tour welcome center. Perfect to visit the theater before you jump on the trolley for the tour. read more

Ford's Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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The place where Lincoln was shot and the balcony where he sat can still be seen. When you are inside your eyes are immediately drawn to it. So much so that you forget how small the theater is. The theatre itself still functions as a theatre today and offers shows throughout the year. The theater, while resides on one building, encompasses three buildings to fine a historic site. The Petersen House is where Lincoln died and the building next door holds the Aftermath Exhibits. read more

The Ford Theatre is 2 parts. 1) A historical landmark and 2) an active working theatre. I cannot speak to how it plays to watch a show or concert since I was just here to feed my inner history nerd. Tickets are insanely cheap and I don't even think it covers the Ticketmaster fees. They maybe losing money. The lady friend and I did the audio tour which was all of 3 bucks each.....I think the non audio part is free. The place is super busy and sells out quick. Tours are every 30 minutes and you coral outside in line waiting to be called upon. One you go in, you are hurried down the stairs into the basement where the self guided tour begins. It's crowded as hell and hard to go in chronological order with 500 other people looking at the same stuff. The cool part is when you go into the actual theatre and sit down. Here your eyes are fixated on the balcony where Lincoln was shot. A National Park ranger comes out on stage and talks about that night for a good 10-15 minutes and gives an excellent history lesson/timeline of events. Once the tour is done, you can go across the street to the Peterson House to see where he actually died. The house is small so the line is insane. We didn't go into this part but one of the theatre workers told us to avoid the line come back around 3 once the Ford tours are done as long as we kept out stub. Really cool place to check out, just don't go on the Saturday before Easter like I did. read more

Ford's Theatre - Lincoln rocks! - Performing Arts Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Pros: Admission is free and the box where Lincoln was assassinated is very well preserved. Cons: There's almost too much in the exhibition before the theater. If you're with people whom are the type to read every information panel and watch every video (like the group I was with) it's going to take 2 hours to get through the exhibit and theater. The exhibit covers almost every aspect of the presidency, as well as Lincoln's personal life. I wasn't a huge fan of the exhibit itself, but I did enjoy seeing some of the photographs of Lincoln and his associates, as well as the short video on the working relationship between Lincoln and Frederick Douglas. read more

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