Ford’s Theatre National Historical Site
www.fordstheatre.org
On April 14, 1865, President and Mrs. Lincoln were attending a performance of “Our American Cousin,” when Confederate activist and actor John Wilkes Booth shot the president. Lincoln died the next morning at Petersen House, located directly across the street. The theater closed its doors after the assassination and served as a warehouse, museum and office building for 90 years until President Eisenhower authorized its restoration in 1954. Ford’s reopened in 1968 and has since become a theatre known for staging classic American plays. Renovated in 2008, Ford’s was largely restored to its 1865 appearance. The site also houses a museum packed full of artifacts such as Booth’s 44-caliber Deringer, and displays examining the assassination conspirators and their trials. And set to open February 2012, the Center for Education and Leadership will explore the lasting effect Abraham Lincoln’s presidency—and its untimely end—have had on our country. Ford’s Theatre is open from 9 am-5 pm (except during matinee performances). Admission is free. 517 10th St. NW. 202-426-6841.

National Theatre
www.nationaltheatre.org
The National Theatre has hosted every sitting president since it opened in 1835. Young Tad Lincoln was attending a performance of “Aladdin” when his father was assassinated at nearby Ford’s Theatre. Almost a century later, Washingtonian actress Helen Hayes led the effort to integrate the playhouse. She succeeded in 1952. National Theatre faces Freedom Plaza and its memorial to Dr. King. 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. (202) 628-6161.