About this experience
In the summer of 1881, a hopeful nation welcomed a new president - until gunfire in Washington shattered that promise. On this self-guided walking tour, you'll follow President James A. Garfield from his unexpected nomination to his tragic assassination and agonizing death. You'll also meet the delusional gunman who pulled the trigger, and the doctor whose incompetence may have sealed his fate.
You'll walk the National Mall, climb Capitol Hill to the East Front, where Garfield took the oath of office. I'll guide you to the Baltimore and Potomac Train Station, now the site of the National Gallery of Art, where Charles Guiteau fired two shots that set off 80 days of national anguish.
You'll follow the aftermath: the bungled medical care, Alexander Graham Bell's experimental metal detector, and the trial that gripped the country.
At a glance
- Duration: 1 hr–1 hr 30 min
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 1 hr–1 hr 30 min for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is included
- Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- App for Android and iOS
- Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
- Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Not included
- Smartphone and headphones
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
You’ll pass by the Arts and Industries Building, the second-oldest Smithsonian museum building, celebrated for its distinctive Victorian architecture and role in showcasing innovation and creativity. Please note that entry to the building is not included in this tour.
You’ll pass through the National Mall, the iconic landscaped park stretching between the U.S. Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial, surrounded by many of the nation’s most significant monuments and museums. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.
You’ll pass by the Capitol Reflecting Pool, a scenic reflecting pool offering picturesque views of the U.S. Capitol and the surrounding monuments. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.
You’ll pass by the United States Botanic Garden, one of the oldest botanic gardens in North America, showcasing diverse plant collections from around the world. Please note that entry to the botanic garden is not included in this tour.
You’ll pass through Capitol Hill, the historic neighbourhood surrounding the U.S. Capitol, known for its grand civic buildings, tree-lined streets, and political significance. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.
You’ll pass by the United States Capitol, the iconic home of the U.S. Congress, crowned by its distinctive cast-iron dome and serving as one of the nation's most recognizable landmarks. Please note that entry to the Capitol is not included in this tour.
You’ll pass by the District of Columbia Court of Appeals, the highest court for the District of Columbia, housed in the historic former City Hall building. Please note that entry to the building is not included in this tour.
Meeting and pickup information
- This tour starts in front of the Smithsonian Arts + Industry building. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Languages and tickets
- English — Audio
- English — Written
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- VoiceMap Audio Tours
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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