Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House in Washington DC, United States
Washington DC, United States

Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House

Outty Ranking 85 4.9 · 557 traveler reviews2 hoursFrom $65
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Outty Ranking

85/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.9/5

Based on 557 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House worth booking?

Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House is a 2-hour experience in Washington DC, United States, from $65 per person. It scores 85 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 557 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
85 / 100
Rating
4.9/5 (557)
Duration
2 hours
From
$65 per person

The first Lincoln Assassination tour to go into Ford's Theatre! Step back in time to April 14, 1865, and investigate the conspiracy that shattered a nation. while exploring various Civil War era sites that stand today. You will walk the exact streets where the plot unfolded and track John Wilkes Booth’s movements leading up to Lincoln's murder and his desperate escape route down Baptist Alley. Stand at the site of the Star Saloon where the assassin threw back his final drink, and step inside the historic Petersen House to see where President Lincoln took his last breath. Our expert guides dismantle the myths and lay out the raw facts of America's most infamous true-crime story right where it happened. Please note: Between May 28 and August 31, Ford's Theatre closes its interior to tour groups for repairs on select dates. Theatre availability is noted in the tour option.

What you get

    About this experience

    The first Lincoln Assassination tour to go into Ford's Theatre! Step back in time to April 14, 1865, and investigate the conspiracy that shattered a nation. while exploring various Civil War era sites that stand today. You will walk the exact streets where the plot unfolded and track John Wilkes Booth’s movements leading up to Lincoln's murder and his desperate escape route down Baptist Alley. Stand at the site of the Star Saloon where the assassin threw back his final drink, and step inside the historic Petersen House to see where President Lincoln took his last breath. Our expert guides dismantle the myths and lay out the raw facts of America's most infamous true-crime story right where it happened. Please note: Between May 28 and August 31, Ford's Theatre closes its interior to tour groups for repairs on select dates. Theatre availability is noted in the tour option.

    What's included

    Included

    • Bottled water
    • Ford's Theatre Walkthrough Entry
    • Exclusive souvenir booklet featuring historical photos and histories of the sites and key figures
    • Reserved Entry into Petersen House, the house Lincoln was taken to after his fatal shot
    • 2 Hour Guided Walking Lincoln Assassination Tour in Washington DC

    Not included

    • Gratuities
    • Ford's Theatre Closed for Entry Select Dates Between May 28-Aug 31 2026

    What you'll see and do

    1. Meet your guide in our welcome center where you will begin the story at the historic location of the National Intelligencer and see original newspapers about Lincoln's Assassination on display.

      10 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Follow the footsteps of those involved in the Lincoln assassination, from conspirators to victims, while learning about Washington, DC in the Civil War Era. See key sites including where John Wilkes Booth lived, where he procured a horse, and the location of the former homes of several characters involved. Learn where Booth was prior to the events of April 14th, 1865.

      15 minutes here

    3. Penn Quarter

      Explore the historic neighborhood of Penn Quarter as you learn the stories of the conspirators of Lincoln's assassination, visit buildings that remain from the Civil War area, and learn about what once stood in the area.

      Pass by without stopping

    4. National Portrait Gallery

      See an original portrait of Abraham Lincoln, his life and death masks, and visit the hallway where he held his inaugural ball, once home to the US Patent Office.

      20 minutes here · Admission included

    5. Ford's Theatre

      Explore the Museum at Ford's Theatre with a personal guide and learn the stories of the rare artifacts on display relating to the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. Then take a guided tour of the actual theater while learning more about the events around Lincoln's assassination. *IMPORTANT: Ford's Theatre museum is closed for visitors May 28 through August 31 2026 for repairs, and the theatre is closed on select dates. Check your selected option to see if the Theatre is available.

      45 minutes here · Admission included

    6. Petersen Boarding House

      End your tour at the house President Lincoln was taken to after his fatal shot at the theater, with entry to explore inside and see the room where he died the following day.

      10 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Washington DC

    Meet your guide inside the Unscripted Welcome Center at 400 7th Street NW. Look for our signs out front

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Returns to the starting point

    Options you can book

    • Lincoln Tour w/Ford's Theatre

      Includes Ford's Theatre

    • Petersen House THEATRE CLOSED

      Theatre Closed: Ford's Theatre is closed for maintenance but the show goes on. Tour explores Booth's route, Baptist Alley, Ford's exterior. Includes Petersen House: Explore the Portrait Gallery where Lincoln had his inaugural ball and visit the room where Lincoln died.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 12 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Unscripted Tours

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • *IMPORTANT: Ford's Theatre is closed for visitors select dates May 28 through August 31 2026 for repairs, During this time no entry to Ford's will be possible. Tour will still visit Petersen House and Aftermaths Museum.

    Photos

    Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House in Washington DC, photo 2Ford's Theater, Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House in Washington DCPresidential Box at Ford's Theater, Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House in Washington DCLincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House in Washington DC, photo 5Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House in Washington DC, photo 6Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House in Washington DC, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 550 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    6 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Traveler reviews

    550 verified traveler reviews for Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    510
    4 star
    26
    3 star
    8
    2 star
    2
    1 star
    4
    Sort
    Rachael_W · October 2026

    Worth every penny.

    Tony was so good at explaining everything in detail. More walking than I expected but was so worth it!!!

    via Viator

    Maria_G · October 2026

    Fascinating and deeply moving piece of D.C. history!

    I went on the Lincoln Assassination Tour today and learned so many details I never would have picked up reading a textbook. Standing right outside Ford’s Theatre and stepping into the Petersen House made that dark night in 1865 feel so real. Dash was incredibly knowledgeable, kept the pacing great, and answered everyone's questions. If you love history, this is a must-do in Washington, D.C.

    via Viator

    KentuckyRoamer58 · October 2026

    Definitely worthwhile

    Added this tour at the end of a trip to DC but it turned into the highlight. Tony is a fantastic guide and very knowledgeable on the subject.

    via Tripadvisor

    Lynda_N · September 2026

    This was a great...

    This was a great experience. Communication and texting was excellent due to the fact we were running late due to traffic issues. Our tour operator was very good historian. I would recommend this tour to anyone visiting the Washington DC area.

    via Viator

    kristin_r · September 2026

    Excellent

    Fascinating, thorough story of the Lincoln assassination. Ford’s Theatre and its small museum were almost secondary to the story our excellent guide provided. But seeing the places involved was amazing. Highly recommend.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    2 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $65 to $79
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    195
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Unscripted Tours, who run 25 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 63.5.

    See everything Unscripted Tours runs

    Why this scores 85

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)92
    Review evidence (18% weight)80
    Booking momentum (14% weight)76
    Value for money (12% weight)75
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)87
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Washington DC.

    How much does Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House cost?

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    Prices start at $65 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Washington DC usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House take?

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    Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Washington DC is not rushed.

    Is Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 85 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 557 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Washington DC, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House?

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    Around 195 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Washington DC can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Washington DC and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Washington DC within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Washington DC?

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    Washington is the rare city where the headline attractions cost nothing and the scarce resource is access. Timed entry to the Smithsonian museums, Capitol and White House tours, and the night monument runs by bike or bus are what fill up. Our ranking rewards operators who secure the passes themselves rather than telling you to sort it out at the door. On Outty we rank every Washington DC experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Washington DC "See the City" Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour, Arlington Cemetery Small-Group Tour & Changing of the Guards, Washington DC Small-Group Sightseeing Experience. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Washington DC?

    +

    Late March to April for cherry blossom, or September to November for cool museum weather. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Washington DC?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House?

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    Included: Bottled water; Ford's Theatre Walkthrough Entry; Exclusive souvenir booklet featuring historical photos and histories of the sites and key; Reserved Entry into Petersen House, the house Lincoln was taken to after his fatal shot; and 2 Hour Guided Walking Lincoln Assassination Tour in Washington DC. Not included: Gratuities; and Ford's Theatre Closed for Entry Select Dates Between May 28-Aug 31 2026. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House?

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    Meet your guide inside the Unscripted Welcome Center at 400 7th Street NW. Look for our signs out front Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House offered in?

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    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House?

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    Across 557 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    What booking options are available for Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House?

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    There are 2 options to choose from, including Lincoln Tour w/Ford's Theatre, Petersen House THEATRE CLOSED. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Lincoln Assassination Tour with Ford's Theatre & Petersen House.

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