Lincoln Assassination Tour with Petersen House

Uncover the faces behind the conspiracy and track an assassin's footsteps through the heart of Civil War-era Washington. This walking tour combines the powerful visual history of the National Portrait Gallery with a hard-hitting investigation into the physical sites of America's most infamous true-crime story.

Explore the old Patent Office Building, today the home of the National Portrait Gallery, bringing you face-to-face with the towering political figures and key players of 1865. Armed with this crucial visual context, you will hit the streets to dissect the treacherous plot of April 14.

While this specific itinerary bypasses the interior of Ford's Theatre, our expert guides break down the exact mechanics of the assassination right outside its historic doors. From there, you will pursue John Wilkes Booth’s getaway path down Baptist Alley, investigate the site of the Star Saloon where the assassin took his final drink, and cross the threshold of the Petersen House where the wounded President spent his final hours. Dive into the raw facts, dismantle the myths, and investigate the people, the plotting, and the places that forever changed the course of American history.

Tour Highlights:

• National Portrait Gallery: Analyze the faces of the Civil War era, setting the stage for the dramatic events of 1865.

• Ford’s Theatre (Exterior): Dissect the timeline of the attack directly outside the building where it happened.

• The Petersen House: Step inside the historic boarding house where President Lincoln ultimately passed away.

• Baptist Alley: Track Booth’s desperate escape route into the Washington night.

• The Star Saloon (Site): Stand exactly where the assassin braced himself with a final shot of whiskey.

Important Booking Note:
This specific tour is designed to provide a comprehensive historical investigation outside of Ford's Theatre. Interior access to Ford's Theatre is NOT included with this ticket.