Top Rated Attractions in Bethesda

Ford's Theatre, an iconic theater, is recognized as the place where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated on April 14th, 1865. A century later, in January 1968, the theater was reopened again for a performance after being under the management of numerous government organizations, including the United States Department of War and the National Park Service. Also found within Ford's Theatre is a Lincoln Museum that displays artifacts from the assassination, including the gun Lincoln was shot with. Mementos from Lincoln's life are also on display.

Built in 1929 to serve as a meeting hall for the Daughters of the American Revolution, this neoclassical building is Washington's largest auditorium. Throughout the year, concerts and other cultural events are held here. Famous artists from all genres of the entertainment world from rap stars to pop singers to classical musicians perform here.

Situated on over 100 acres of area is the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts which occupies the area of a national park. With a capacity of over 7,000 people, this place has hosted many artists and festivals. From May through October, Wolf Trap is home to a variety of performances - everything from classical music and jazz to rock 'n' roll, opera and theater. On warm summer evenings, it is popular to come early and bring a picnic. The park also includes The Barns at Wolf Trap - a year-round performance center and a Children's Theatre-in-the-Woods.