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Museums and Galleries

FORD'S THEATRE AND LINCOLN MUSEUM

(10th and E Streets, NW)

The theater where President Lincoln was assassinated while watching a performance of "Our American Cousin," has been restored as a center for the performing arts. The President's Box remains as it was on the night of April 14, 1865.

A Lincoln museum in the basement of the theater contains such historical items as the President's stovepipe hat, cape and the suit he wore on the night of his assassination. Relics from Lincoln's youth and his Presidency are also displayed.

Just across 10th Street is the Petersen House, where the wounded President was taken following the shooting and where he died in a second-story bedroom.

202-426-6924
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Daily
Closed Christmas

U.S. MARINE CORPS MUSEUM AND HISTORICAL CENTER

(Washington Navy Yard - 9th and M Streets, SE)

From the halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli, the Marines in action since 1775.

(202) 426-6924
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Closed Thursday and Sunday afternoon for theater performances.

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART

(6th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW)

World masterpieces from medieval times to the present adorn the National Gallery. Included are major works by Botticelli, Cezzane, da Vinci, Raphael, Renoir and many other masters.

The East Wing highlights contemporary art, beginning with the building designed by I.M. Pei. Since its opening in 1978, the East Wing, a gift to the nation from Paul Mellon, has been recognized as a major exhibition place for Matisse, Calder and other fine contemporary artists. Extended summer hours are determined each year.

(202) 737-4215
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday
11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday
Closed Christmas and New Year's Day

U.S. NAVY MEMORIAL MUSEUM

(9th and M Streets, SE- Building #76)

From John Paul Jones to "Bull" Halsey to the modern fleet, the Navy's contribution to America's national defense is chronicled here. Visitors can explore old submarines, a ship's bridge and a variety of sea-going weapons. Guided tours available.

9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day

THE FOLGER SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY

(201 East Capitol Street, SE)

The library houses the world's largest collection of Shakespeare's printed works, as well as an authentic Elizabethan Theatre.

(202) 544-4600
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Monday through Saturday

CAPITAL CHILDREN'S MUSEUM NATIONAL LEARNING CENTER

(800 3rd Street, NE)

Three main exhibits - International Hall,Changing Environments and Communication - combine arts, sciences, humanities and new technologies. "Please Touch" signs are everywhere, increasing a child's enjoyment and understanding of a rich mixture of exhibits. Admission is charged.

(202) 543-8600
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Closed Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day

B'NAI B'RITH MUSEUM

(1640 Rhode Island Avenue, NW)

A variey of Jewish ceremonial objects from antiquity to modern day are featured.

(202) 857-6600
10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday through Friday