Dallas: JFK Assassination Tour, Sixth Floor Museum & Oswald Room

Summary

Walk Dallas streets tracing JFK’s final day, see Oswald’s room and the Sixth Floor Museum with time to linger where history changed

You’ll walk Dallas streets with a local guide who brings JFK’s story to life — from Dealey Plaza to Oswald’s rooming house and finally inside the Sixth Floor Museum itself. Expect small sensory moments: faded wallpaper under your hand, city sounds outside, and time to reflect by that famous window. It’s not just facts — you’ll feel history breathing down your neck.

What’s the experience like?

Our guide was already waving us over near Dealey Plaza, a folded map in one hand and a coffee in the other. I remember the way he paused before pointing out the exact spot on Elm Street — “Right there,” he said quietly, almost like he didn’t want to break the mood. There were kids chasing pigeons nearby, which felt strange given what we were talking about. The city noise faded for a second as we stood on the grassy knoll, listening to him describe how that day in 1963 unfolded. I could smell cut grass and something fried drifting from a food cart across the street.

We climbed into a van (small group, nobody awkwardly silent) and drove past spots I’d only seen in grainy photos — the Texas Theatre, Oswald’s old rooming house. That place surprised me: it still looks almost exactly like it must have back then. The owner met us at the door and told us stories about Oswald’s routines; she even showed us his tiny bedroom. The wallpaper was faded but original — I ran my fingers along it when nobody was looking (probably not supposed to). It made everything feel weirdly close.

The last stop was the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. You get your own audio guide so you can move at your own pace — I took longer than most because there’s just so much to take in. Standing by that window where history turned sideways… well, I wasn’t expecting to feel much but I did. Looking out over the plaza, cars moving below like nothing happened. Our guide had joked earlier about conspiracy theories (“Everyone in Dallas has one,” he grinned), but here it just felt quiet and heavy. Still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — JFK assassination sites and museum visit

• Visit John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza
• Explore Dealey Plaza and Grassy Knoll
• See Lee Harvey Oswald's Rooming House
• Learn about Oswald's arrest location
• Tour Sixth Floor Museum with audio guide

Top questions

How long does the JFK Assassination Tour take?

The guided portion lasts about 2 hours; allow another 60-90 minutes for the self-guided Sixth Floor Museum visit.

Is admission to the Sixth Floor Museum included?

Yes, entry to the Sixth Floor Museum is included with your tour ticket.

Do you visit Lee Harvey Oswald's rooming house?

Yes, you’ll go inside Oswald’s rooming house as part of this tour.

Where does the JFK Assassination Tour start?

The tour begins near Dealey Plaza in downtown Dallas.

Is transportation provided during the tour?

Yes, transportation between sites is provided during the group tour portion.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, children are welcome; those under 3 need their own seat or child seat as required by law.

How much walking is involved?

You’ll do some light walking around Dealey Plaza and inside attractions; most travel is by vehicle.

Is public transport nearby for after the tour?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to both start and end points.

What’s included

Your day includes entry to both Lee Harvey Oswald’s preserved rooming house and full admission to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza; all group transportation between sites is covered so you don’t have to worry about logistics along the way.