Washington DC: Presidential Crime Scenes Walking Tour

If you’re interested in the darker side of America’s history, this Presidential Crime Scenes Walking Tour offers a compelling glimpse into some of the most notorious assassination attempts and conspiracies in Washington, D.C. For just 2.5 hours and a modest price, you’ll walk roughly 2.5 miles through the city’s heart, visiting key sites where history almost took a very different turn. Led by knowledgeable and engaging guides, this tour is a unique way to explore the city’s political landscape while uncovering stories of danger, motives, and chance that shaped the nation.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the storytelling aspect—learning about the forgotten and lesser-known assassination attempts, like Harry Truman’s narrow escape, adds a layer of intrigue many visitors miss when simply sightseeing. Second, the location choices—the tour covers prominent sites from the Capitol to the White House, placing you in the direct path of history. A potential drawback? The tour is entirely outdoors, so weather can impact your experience, and it’s recommended for travelers aged 14 and up, which might exclude some younger history enthusiasts or those with mobility issues.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, political junkies, or anyone curious about the threat and chaos that have surrounded American presidents. If you enjoy stories of intrigue and want a more narrative, storytelling approach compared to typical monument tours, this walk will suit you well.

In-depth stories of presidential assassination attempts, both successful and failed.
Walk through iconic sites from the Capitol to the White House, covering roughly 2.5 miles.
Learn surprising details about figures like Harry Truman and the Lincoln conspiracy.
Small group setting (limited to 8 participants) ensures personalized attention.
Totally outdoors, so dress comfortably and check weather conditions.
Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

When we think of Washington, D.C., images of grand monuments and federal buildings often come to mind. But beneath that polished exterior lies a history fraught with danger and intrigue—stories of presidents targeted by assassins and conspirators, some successful, most narrowly avoided. This Presidential Crime Scenes Walking Tour, offered by Walking Backward Tours, takes you right into that shadowy world with a focus on the very sites where history might have gone very wrong.

The experience begins on the east side of the U.S. Capitol, where your guide will meet you holding a sign that says “Walking Backward Tours” at the coordinates 38.88982391357422, -77.00594329833984. Over the next 2.5 hours, we explored four key locations linked to assassination attempts—a number designed to keep the walk engaging without feeling rushed.

The Route and Its Significance

The walking route covers roughly 2.5 miles, starting from the Capitol and ending in the park north of the White House. This proximity to major political symbols makes the tour both educational and visceral. Walking from the seat of legislative power to the executive residence, you’re walking through the very corridors of power where history almost took tragic turns.

What makes this route special? We loved how the guide tied together different sites with compelling stories. For example, we learned about the first presidential assassination attempt, which is often forgotten in standard tours, and the close call of Harry Truman—a story I hadn’t known before. Seeing the locations of Lincoln’s conspiracy and other attempts in context makes the stories come alive.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You’ll See and Learn

• The First Presidential Assassination Attempt: This story is often overlooked but is key to understanding the security measures that evolved afterward. Our guide shared details about motives and the manhunt that followed, adding layers of suspense.
• Harry Truman’s Narrow Escape: We recreated the scene of Truman’s very close call, an incident that could have changed American history if circumstances had been slightly different.
• Lincoln Conspiracy Sites: Walking past landmarks associated with the Lincoln assassination, the guide explained the complex conspiracy and the aftermath, giving context to why these sites matter today.

Authentic Stories and Engaging Guides

Our guide, whose name I’ll keep private, was outstanding—knowledgeable, personable, and passionate about sharing these stories. As one reviewer noted, the storytelling “shared motives, the manhunts, and crazy coincidences that might have changed history forever.” The small group size (limited to 8 people) created an intimate environment where questions were encouraged and stories told with enthusiasm.

Practical Details

Since the tour is entirely outdoors, the main considerations are comfortable shoes and weather. In the case of heavy rain or severe weather, refunds are possible, but it’s best to check the forecast before booking. The cost is reasonable given the depth of storytelling and site access, particularly considering the small group setting, which enhances engagement and safety.

The tour is aimed at travelers aged 14 and up, making it a suitable choice for teens with an interest in history or politics. It’s not accessible for those with mobility impairments, as it involves walking and outdoor conditions.

We believe this walking tour offers a rare glimpse into the threats that have loomed over American presidents and how those threats shaped national security. It’s a good fit if you enjoy uncovering stories behind famous landmarks or want an active, engaging way to learn about politics and history. The stories are vivid, and the sites give a true sense of proximity to historic moments.

If you’re looking for a small-group experience that balances history with storytelling, this tour delivers. It’s also quite flexible—booking options allow for free cancellation up to 24 hours before, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

The Washington DC: Presidential Crime Scenes Walking Tour offers a fascinating, well-paced journey through the city’s less-glamorous but equally compelling history. Because it focuses on specific stories and locations linked to assassination attempts, it provides a narrative depth often missing in standard sightseeing tours.

The combination of historic sites, engaging storytelling, and a small group setting makes this tour stand out. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a political junkie, or just curious about the edges of American history, you’ll find this walk both informative and memorable.

While it’s best suited for those comfortable outdoors and interested in more than just monuments, the tour’s storytelling approach means it can resonate with a wide audience. Just bring your curiosity, comfortable shoes, and an open mind—history is waiting to surprise you.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, covering about 2.5 miles on foot.

Where does the tour start?
It begins on the east side of the U.S. Capitol at the intersection where the guide will meet you holding a sign saying “Walking Backward Tours” (coordinates: 38.88982391357422, -77.00594329833984).

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for ages 14 and up, so younger children or those with mobility issues might find it less suitable.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as the tour is entirely outdoors. Checking the weather forecast is also advisable.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. You can also reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for changing plans.

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll get a live English-speaking guide and a small group experience, with a focus on storytelling around historic sites.

Are there any restrictions?
People with mobility impairments may find it challenging, as the tour involves walking and outdoor conditions.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While suitable for teens interested in history, it might not be ideal for very young children or those sensitive to outdoor conditions.

What makes this tour a good value?
Given its small-group size, depth of stories, and access to significant sites, it offers a rich, engaging experience for a modest price.

This walking tour is a wonderful way to add a layer of intrigue to your visit to Washington, D.C., blending history, storytelling, and site visits into an experience that’s both educational and remarkably engaging.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby