Catch a show at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

The Kennedy Center Overview

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts was built and named for America's beloved Camelot president. The Kennedy Center houses the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera, and it hosts numerous other dance, theater, and musical performances throughout the year. Although ticket prices can run a bit high, you can take in a performance for free on the Millennium Stage.

Permanent Exhibit

The Kennedy Center debuted a new permanent exhibit in 2022: Visitors can explore the free "Art and Ideals: President John F. Kennedy" immersive exhibit to learn about the relationship between Kennedy's presidency and the arts. The facility also includes the REACH, an indoor/outdoor complex comprising an art gallery, sculpture garden, classrooms and studios, lecture halls, a video wall, and more interactive spaces.

Rooftop Terrace

Enjoying a show is a wonderful experience at The Kennedy Center, and the venue's rooftop terrace offers breathtaking views of the Potomac River and the surrounding area. To learn about the theater's history and architecture, consider joining one of the building's free guided tours.

Accessibility and Amenities

You can get to The Kennedy Center via a free shuttle bus that runs from the Foggy Bottom-GWU Metro station on the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines. Fee-based parking is also available in the property's garage between 5 or 7 a.m. and midnight, depending on the day. There are multiple bike racks as well as a Capital Bikeshare station nearby. Restrooms, gift shops, and eateries are available on-site.

Hours

Tours are offered by theater volunteers on weekdays between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Performance times vary; the box office is open daily from 10 a.m. or noon to 9 p.m. For more information about upcoming show times and ticket prices, check out The Kennedy Center website.