Petersen House: A Historic Window into American History

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Explore the Petersen House, a historic site in Washington, D.C., where President Abraham Lincoln spent his final moments, steeped in American history.

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Petersen House

Discover the Petersen House, a significant historical site located in Washington, D.C., where the legacy of Abraham Lincoln's final moments unfolds. This iconic location offers tourists a glimpse into the rich tapestry of American history, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the nation's capital. Experience the poignant atmosphere and learn about the events surrounding one of the most pivotal moments in U.S. history.

A brief summary to Petersen House

516 10th St NW, Washington, Penn Quarter, District of Columbia, 20004, US
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Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience.
Combine your visit with a tour of Ford's Theatre, as they are located close to each other.
Check for any special events or lectures scheduled during your visit for an enhanced experience.
Take time to read the informational plaques throughout the house for deeper historical context.

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Getting There

Public Bus

From the center of Gaithersburg, head to the nearest bus stop for the Ride On Bus service. Take the Route 55 bus towards the Shady Grove Metro Station. After approximately 20 minutes, get off at the Shady Grove Metro Station. From there, take the Red Line Metro train towards Glenmont. Ride for about 30 minutes and get off at the Gallery Place-Chinatown Station. Transfer to the Yellow or Green Line and take the train towards Branch Ave or Greenbelt respectively. Get off at the next stop, which is the Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter Station. Exit the station and walk north on 10th Street NW for about 5 minutes, and you will reach Petersen House at 516 10th St NW.
Metro

From Gaithersburg, make your way to the Shady Grove Metro Station by using the Ride On Bus Route 55. Once at Shady Grove, board the Red Line Metro train heading towards Glenmont. Travel for approximately 30 minutes and disembark at the Gallery Place-Chinatown Station. Here, switch to the Yellow or Green Line and continue for one stop to Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter Station. Upon exiting, walk north on 10th St NW for about 5 minutes to reach Petersen House located at 516 10th St NW.
Walking and Metro

If you prefer to walk, start from the Gaithersburg City Hall and head towards the nearest Ride On Bus stop. Take the Route 55 bus to Shady Grove Metro Station. From there, take the Red Line Metro train towards Glenmont. Once you arrive at Gallery Place-Chinatown Station, switch to the Yellow or Green Line train for one stop to Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter Station. After exiting the station, take a left and walk north on 10th St NW for about 5 minutes. Petersen House will be on your right at 516 10th St NW.

Discover more about Petersen House

Nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C., the Petersen House stands as a solemn reminder of a pivotal moment in American history. This historic site is renowned for being the location where President Abraham Lincoln was taken after he was shot at Ford's Theatre on April 14, 1865. The house has been meticulously preserved to reflect the period and offers visitors a glimpse into the tragic aftermath of Lincoln's assassination. As you step inside, you'll be transported back to the 19th century, surrounded by period furnishings and artifacts that tell the story of Lincoln's final hours. Visitors to the Petersen House can explore its intimate rooms, including the bedroom where Lincoln passed away. The guided tours provide informative insights into the life of Lincoln, the events leading up to his assassination, and the impact of his presidency on the nation. The atmosphere is both reflective and educational, making it a fitting tribute to one of America’s most revered leaders. The house is located just steps away from Ford's Theatre, allowing for a comprehensive historical experience as you explore the neighboring sites that played a crucial role in this defining moment of American history. The Petersen House is not just a museum; it is a place of remembrance and learning. For history enthusiasts, it offers a unique perspective on the personal and political ramifications of Lincoln's presidency. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to deepen your understanding, the Petersen House promises an enlightening experience that resonates with the themes of leadership, sacrifice, and the quest for freedom. Plan your visit to immerse yourself in the rich history that this remarkable site has to offer.