
Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 262 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre worth booking?
Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre is a 2-hour experience in Washington DC, United States, from $49 per person. It scores 81 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 262 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 81 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (262)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $49 per person
This tour will take you minute by minute through the last day of the 16th President, Abraham Lincoln. You will meet the conspirators who were desperately trying to save the Confederate cause in the dying days of the Civil War. There were to be 3 attacks that night. This tour unfolds as a story filled with suspense, intrigue, and espionage. -The White House - where Lincoln gave his final speech in the presence of his later assassin, John Wilkes Booth -Home of Secretary of State Seward - who was attacked that night by a co-conspirator of Booth -National Theatre - potential site of Booth's attack on Lincoln, but instead where his young son learned of the death of his father. -Site of the Kirkwood House Hotel - where VP Andrew Johnson lived and an attack on him was planned. -Ford's Theatre - the site of the assassination while watching a play. Travelers may opt to visit on their own. Tickets from NPS required. -Peterson's Boarding House - where Lincoln took his final breath.
What you get
About this experience
This tour will take you minute by minute through the last day of the 16th President, Abraham Lincoln. You will meet the conspirators who were desperately trying to save the Confederate cause in the dying days of the Civil War. There were to be 3 attacks that night. This tour unfolds as a story filled with suspense, intrigue, and espionage. -The White House - where Lincoln gave his final speech in the presence of his later assassin, John Wilkes Booth -Home of Secretary of State Seward - who was attacked that night by a co-conspirator of Booth -National Theatre - potential site of Booth's attack on Lincoln, but instead where his young son learned of the death of his father. -Site of the Kirkwood House Hotel - where VP Andrew Johnson lived and an attack on him was planned. -Ford's Theatre - the site of the assassination while watching a play. Travelers may opt to visit on their own. Tickets from NPS required. -Peterson's Boarding House - where Lincoln took his final breath.
What's included
Included
- Professional, Licensed Tour Guide
- 2 Hour Guided Walking Tour Following in Lincoln's Footsteps
- Historic Photos to View on the Tour of Sites and Characters
Not included
- Entrance into Ford's Theatre (tickets from NPS required)
What you'll see and do
St. John's Episcopal Church
Nicknamed the Church of the Presidents, we start our tour here to get an overview of Washington DC in the 1860s; understanding the events that led to this fateful night. (We do not enter any buildings on this tour)
5 minutes here
Lafayette Square
The tour will begin with an introduction to President Lincoln's final months in the White House. New characters will be introduced as we explore the historic row houses that surround the park.
10 minutes here
The White House
We talk about Abraham Lincoln's presidency during the Civil War and his final speech; given at the White House in the presence of his later assassin, John Wilkes Booth. (We do not enter any buildings on this tour)
10 minutes here · Admission not included
United States Department of the Treasury
Walk past the US Treasury Building, which acted as the temporary White House after Lincoln's Assassiantion.
Pass by without stopping
The National Theatre
On the day of the assassination, John Wilkes Booth stopped by this theater and met with a friend. Later that evening, Lincoln's son Tad was at this theater watching a play: Aladdin or his Wonderful Lamp. (We do not enter any buildings on this tour)
10 minutes here
Old Post Office Pavilion
Across from this grand old building was the location of the Kirkwood House Hotel. This is where Vice President Andrew Johnson stayed. Conspirator George Azerodt rented a room here and was given the job to attack Johnson that same night... (We do not enter any buildings on this tour)
5 minutes here
Learn about America's Main Street as you walk through downtown Washington DC, following in the foot steps of Presidential Inaugural Parades and how the residents of Civil War Washington DC traversed the city.
Pass by without stopping
Ford's Theatre
This is the historic theater where John Wilkes Booth snuck up behind the President like a coward and fired that fateful shot. Today it is a working theater and it has been restored to his Civil War era grandeur. Millions of Americans visit this location every year to remember Lincoln and his legacy. (We do not enter any buildings on this tour)
15 minutes here · Admission not included
Petersen Boarding House
This small and simple historic row house was a boarding house at the time of the Civil War. After Lincoln was shot, he was taken to a room on the first floor of this house while the doctors attended to his health. Secretary of War Edwin Stanton interviewed witnesses here that night. Robert Todd Lincoln arrived from the White House and stayed by his father's side all night. It was a sad procession early the next morning when they finally brought the President's lifeless body down the steps for his carriage journey back to the White House. (We do not enter any buildings on this tour)
10 minutes here · Admission not included
The original alley behind Ford's Theatre through which John Wilkes Booth escaped after the assassination. Ask your tour guide to tell you about it and you can walk there after the tour! It is open to the public and you can see some original buildings.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Washington DC
Please meet your guide at the entrance of the church on 16th Street NW, NOT the Parish House on H St NW. The tour begins at St. John's Church, the yellow-columned church at the corner of 16th and H St NW, across the street from Lafayette Square.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
The tour ends outside Ford's Theatre. We do not go inside Ford's Theatre on the tour.
Options you can book
The Lincoln Assassination Walking Tour
Private Lincoln Assassination
Private Tour: Same great tour, but just the guide and your group. Adjustments and customization available, just ask.
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 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- DC by Foot
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
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please note: This tour does not enter any buildings during the tour
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 262 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
9 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
262 verified traveler reviews for Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Hooked from beginning to end
Our guide Jim made it very entertaining. He really knows his knowledge on the last night of Abraham Lincoln.
via Tripadvisor
Amazing!
This was a great tour! Jim was an amazing guide. He was knowledgeable, had great visuals and was just a great speaker. I strongly recommend this tour. It's different because it's about one event in history, but so worth it!
via Viator
We were very impressed...
We were very impressed with the knowledge of the tour guide. We learned so many things that are not normally i history books.
Response from the operator: Thank you! We're so glad you enjoyed learning fascinating details beyond what you typically find in history books!
via Viator
Great tour! I learned a...
Great tour! I learned a lot and had an awesome guide. While it rained, the guide did a great job trying to keep us safe but also keep the tour going. I would definitely recommend!
Response from the operator: Thank you! We're so glad you enjoyed the tour and appreciated your guide's care during the rain. We truly appreciate your recommendation!
via Viator
Best part of my trip
Jim was an absolutely wonderful guide. He was funny, engaging, and knowledgeable. The tour was just the right length.
Response from the operator: Thank you! We're so glad you enjoyed the tour with Jim. His humor, knowledge, and engaging style make for a wonderful experience. We appreciate your kind words!
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
- $49 to $149
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 92
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by DC by Foot, who run 11 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 68.9.
See everything DC by Foot runsWhy this scores 81
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Washington DC.
How much does Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre cost?
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Prices start at $49 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 Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre 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 Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 81 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 262 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 Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre?
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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 Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre 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 Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre?
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Around 92 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 Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre 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?
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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 Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre?
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Included: Professional, Licensed Tour Guide; 2 Hour Guided Walking Tour Following in Lincoln's Footsteps; and Historic Photos to View on the Tour of Sites and Characters. Not included: Entrance into Ford's Theatre (tickets from NPS required). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre?
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Please meet your guide at the entrance of the church on 16th Street NW, NOT the Parish House on H St NW. The tour begins at St. John's Church, the yellow-columned church at the corner of 16th and H St NW. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre 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 Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre?
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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 Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; and Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre 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 Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre?
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Across 262 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
What booking options are available for Night of Lincoln Assassination: from White House to Ford Theatre?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including The Lincoln Assassination Walking Tour, Private Lincoln Assassination. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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