About John F. Kennedy
Learn about the life and legacy of John F. Kennedy at these historical stops during your visit to Dallas.
Dallas And John F. Kennedy
In November 1963, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas at Dealey Plaza. It was a moment in history that will never be forgotten and put Dallas on an international platform. Today, the fateful events of that day are remembered and recognized through sites and museums throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Dealey Plaza
Named a National Historic Landmark in 1993, Dealey Plaza, located in Dallas’ West End district, is one of the most visited sites in the city and is a must-see spot for any American history buff. The plaza is outlined by white stone monuments and the infamous grassy knoll, a small sloped green space that overlooks Elm Street, the street on which President Kennedy was traveling when he was fatally shot from the nearby Texas School Depository.
Sixth Floor Museum
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, a must-see attraction on any visit to Dallas, chronicles the life, assassination and legacy of President John F. Kennedy with thoughtful exhibits and artifacts. The exhibit, set up as a timeline leading up to the November 1963 events, includes one-of-a-kind historical photographs, films, artifacts and documents that tell the story of JFK’s assassination as well as that of his family life and presidency. The museum also includes a robust collection of materials covering the investigation and conspiracy theories.
JFK Memorial Site
The JFK memorial is located just one block away from Dealey Plaza. Created by famous architect Philip Johnson in 1970, it has a simple design, with a 50-foot square enclosure and 30-foot-high concrete walls. Visitors can walk through gaps in the walls and read an inscription to Kennedy on a block of granite in the enclosed courtyard.
Texas Theatre
Lee Harvey Oswald spent his last moments as a free man watching a movie at the Texas Theatre in Oak Cliff, less than five miles from Downtown Dallas and the site of the JFK assassination. The theater, originally opened in 1931 by billionaire Howard Hughes, caters to specialty films and art house cinema and occasionally hosts live music and dancing.
JFK Tribute
Located outside the entrance of the Hilton hotel in Fort Worth, formerly Hotel Texas, is the JFK tribute. The location is where the President spent his last night and spoke his final speeches before his death. The tribute includes a sculpture of President Kennedy, with images that capture moments in time through archival photographs, and inscriptions describing his stay in Fort Worth.
Oswald Rooming House
Tour the infamous rooming house in Oak Cliff where Lee Harvey Oswald lived during the time of JFK’s assassination. Patricia Hall, who owns the house-turned-museum (and also knew Oswald) provides visitors with a glimpse into Oswald’s life in Dallas. You can book a tour with Best DFW Tours to hear from Patricia herself and tour the home.
More History
