Petersen House House Where Lincoln Died
The modest boarding house where President Lincoln died after the Ford's Theatre assassination. A poignant historical site.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflective
Petersen House House Where Lincoln Died
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflective
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The modest boarding house where President Lincoln died after the Ford's Theatre assassination. A poignant historical site.
"It was surreal to be in the same room where Lincoln lost his life. A must for history students."
🎟️ Ticket Inclusion
Your Ford's Theatre ticket usually covers the Petersen House. Confirm when booking!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Combine with Ford's Theatre for a full historical immersion. Don't rush the experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lincoln's Death Room
Petersen House
Stand in the room where President Lincoln spent his final hours after the assassination. A somber and powerful experience.
The Petersen House Interior
Petersen House
Explore the authentically recreated 19th-century boarding house, offering a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in history.
Ford's Theatre Museum
Adjacent to Ford's Theatre
Discover artifacts and exhibits detailing Lincoln's life, the assassination, and its aftermath. A comprehensive historical context.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tickets & Timing
What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Ticket Inclusion
Your Ford's Theatre ticket usually covers the Petersen House. Confirm when booking!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Combine with Ford's Theatre for a full historical immersion. Don't rush the experience.
House where Lincoln died, 10th St NW, Washington DC ca 1900 -> 2018
🚶♀️ Cross the Street
The Petersen House is directly opposite Ford's Theatre. Easy to access.
📚 Book Tower Insight
Don't miss the impressive tower of books about Lincoln in the gift shop area.
Lincoln's deathbed at Petersen House, taken shortly after the President's body was removed, April 1865 [700 x 554]
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Ticket Inclusion
Your Ford's Theatre ticket usually covers the Petersen House. Confirm when booking!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Combine with Ford's Theatre for a full historical immersion. Don't rush the experience.
🚶♀️ Cross the Street
The Petersen House is directly opposite Ford's Theatre. Easy to access.
📚 Book Tower Insight
Don't miss the impressive tower of books about Lincoln in the gift shop area.
🤫 Respectful Silence
The atmosphere is somber. Be mindful of others seeking a quiet reflection.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Petersen House a deeply moving and historically significant site, offering a tangible connection to President Lincoln's final hours. While the house itself features recreated furnishings, the emotional impact is undeniable. The adjacent museum is praised for its artifacts, though some note a lack of original items within the house. It's considered an essential part of the Ford's Theatre experience.
"This was a surprise bonus to our Ford’s Theater tour. When we thought we were finished at Ford’s Theater, the staff told us we could head over to the Petersen House across the street, which happens to be the house Abe Lincoln was taken to after being shot. He passed away at the house. It was interesting to see the house set up like it was at the time. There were more sho it’s about Abe Lincoln - everything was really nicely done. I highly recommend!"
John T
"If you purchase tickets for Ford’s Theatre (across the street), this is included as well. This is where President Lincoln died, and they have a replica of the bed where it happened. However, many of the displays featuring artifacts were empty, which was quite disappointing. Nevertheless, the most impressive aspect of this place is the tower of books written to Abraham Lincoln. It goes from the 4th floor all the way down to the gift shop, where you can find a variety of souvenirs."
Adriana De Pitkin
"This was the second leg of our tour of Ford's Theater. This was the place where Lincoln lost his life on April 15, 1865. You could really sense the panic that happened trying to rush President Lincoln to safety, to deliver swift medical attention, and to keep him stable. It was all surreal to be in the same room. If you're a student of history, this is a must. Words can't do this justice."
Chris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Petersen House is located directly across the street from Ford's Theatre in Washington D.C. It's easily accessible via public transportation, with several Metro stations nearby (e.g., Metro Center, Gallery Place-Chinatown). Many visitors arrive on foot if staying in the downtown area.
Parking in this area of D.C. can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transport or rideshare services. If you must drive, look for commercial parking garages in the vicinity.
Typically, admission to the Petersen House is included with a ticket to Ford's Theatre. It's best to check the official Ford's Theatre website for the most current ticketing information and any separate entry options.
They are directly across the street from each other, making it a very short walk. You can simply cross 10th Street NW.
The area is generally accessible. The Petersen House itself is a historic building, and while efforts are made for accessibility, it's always good to check with the venue directly for specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, your ticket for Ford's Theatre includes admission to the Petersen House. It's crucial to verify this when purchasing your tickets online or at the box office.
Admission is typically included with a Ford's Theatre ticket. If there are separate entry options, check the Ford's Theatre website for current pricing.
The Petersen House generally follows the operating hours of Ford's Theatre. It's best to consult the official Ford's Theatre website for the most up-to-date hours of operation.
While same-day tickets may be available, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as timed entry slots can sell out.
Standard museum policies apply. Large bags, food, and drinks are usually not permitted inside. Check the Ford's Theatre website for a full list of prohibited items.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The primary draw is the room where President Lincoln was taken after being shot and where he ultimately died. Visitors can also see the recreated 19th-century boarding house setting.
No, the bed in the Petersen House is a replica. The original bed is reportedly in Chicago. However, the room is recreated to reflect the period.
While some reviews mention a lack of original artifacts in the house itself, the adjacent Ford's Theatre museum has significant items like John Wilkes Booth's pistol and the knife used in the attack on Seward. +1
A visit to the Petersen House itself can take about 30-45 minutes. If you combine it with the Ford's Theatre museum, plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours.
The Petersen House offers a somber historical experience. While educational, parents should consider their children's age and sensitivity to the subject matter. The museum portion may be more engaging for younger visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, flash photography is prohibited inside historic buildings like the Petersen House to preserve artifacts and maintain the atmosphere. Check for posted signs or ask a ranger.
The exterior of the Petersen House offers a classic historical street view. Inside, focus on capturing the atmosphere and the recreated setting, but be mindful of any photography restrictions.
A straight-on shot of the facade from across the street provides a good overview. Inside, focus on the details of the period furnishings and the somber ambiance of the death room.
Capturing the essence of the death room is more about the historical significance than a perfect shot. Be respectful and discreet if taking photos, and always adhere to any rules.
The Ford's Theatre museum and archives often have historical photographs available for viewing or purchase. Online historical archives are also a good resource.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Focus on the broader historical context of Lincoln's presidency and his importance to American history. The tower of books about Lincoln in the gift shop area can also be a visually interesting element for kids. Ensure your Ford's Theatre ticket includes access to both the theatre and the Petersen House.
📚 History Buffs
Don't miss the Ford's Theatre Museum, which houses significant artifacts related to the assassination, including John Wilkes Booth's pistol. The museum provides a comprehensive narrative that complements the visceral experience of the Petersen House. Consider booking a guided tour if available, as rangers often share unique insights and lesser-known facts.
🚶 Day-Trippers from Out of Town
Book your tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment. The proximity to other D.C. attractions means you can easily incorporate this into a packed itinerary. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking within the museum and theatre complex.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance
Visitors often describe the experience as surreal and deeply moving. Being in the very room where Lincoln passed away can evoke a profound sense of history and the gravity of the event. While the furnishings are largely recreations, the atmosphere is carefully maintained to reflect the period, allowing visitors to imagine the scene of panic and grief that unfolded. The house serves as a powerful reminder of Lincoln's legacy and the profound impact of his assassination on the nation's trajectory.
Beyond the immediate tragedy, the Petersen House experience is often paired with a visit to the Ford's Theatre museum. This museum provides crucial context, displaying artifacts such as Booth's pistol, the knife used to stab Secretary of State William Seward, and personal items belonging to Lincoln. This comprehensive approach allows visitors to understand the full scope of the events, from the planning of the assassination to its immediate aftermath and Lincoln's enduring influence.
Visiting the Petersen House: What to Expect
While the house itself is relatively small, the emotional weight of the location is significant. Some visitors note that the house is sparsely decorated, with the bed being a replica. However, the power of the site lies in its authenticity as the place where Lincoln died, rather than the presence of original artifacts within the house itself. The adjacent museum offers a wealth of historical items that complement the visit to the house.
Plan to combine your visit to the Petersen House with Ford's Theatre and its museum. This combined experience provides a fuller understanding of the assassination and its context. Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for the entire site. Remember to book your tickets in advance, as timed entry slots are common and can sell out quickly.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit