I have always been fascinated by the rich history and culture that surround this city. One of the most intriguing places that I have had the pleasure of exploring is the Sixth Floor Museum, located in the heart of downtown Dallas. 

This museum in Dallas is a destination that offers visitors a captivating look into the legacy of John F. Kennedy. 

Housed in the very building where JFK was assassinated in 1963, this museum is an immersive experience that transports visitors back in time to one of the most pivotal moments in modern American history. 

Inside, the museum boasts a range of exhibits, displays, and interactive features that offer a comprehensive and educational journey through the events leading up to JFK’s assassination, as well as its aftermath and impact on American society. 

From photographs and artifacts to films and interactive displays, the Sixth Floor Museum is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged experience that is not to be missed. 

Whether you are a JFK fan or simply interested in American history, the Sixth Floor Museum is a must-visit destination in Dallas. 

It offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore an important piece of our city’s past and gain a deeper understanding of the impact of JFK’s presidency and untimely death. 

Plan your visit today and prepare to be transported to a different time and place! 

Why is it called the Sixth Floor Museum? 

The Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas is named after the sixth floor of the Texas School Book Depository building, where Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly shot President John F. Kennedy. 

The name reflects the significance of this floor in the investigation and honors President Kennedy’s legacy.

When you visit the museum, you can begin your journey on the seventh floor, where you can learn about the life and achievements of President Kennedy. 

Then, as you make your way down to the sixth floor, you will learn about the assassination and the aftermath that followed.

One of the most powerful exhibits in the museum is the recreated sniper’s perch, where Oswald allegedly fired the shots that killed President Kennedy. 

Standing in that spot and looking out the window at Dealey Plaza, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the historic events that took place there.

In addition to the recreated sniper’s perch, the museum houses a vast collection of photographs, artifacts, and documents related to President Kennedy and his administration, including his speeches and personal belongings.

The name reflects the fact that the sixth floor of the Texas School Book Depository played a crucial role in the investigation, as evidence was found there that linked Lee Harvey Oswald to the assassination.

When did the Sixth Floor Museum open? 

The Sixth Floor Museum opened its doors on Presidents’ Day, February 20, 1989, and has since become a cornerstone of the Dallas cultural scene. 

What do you do at the Sixth Floor Museum?

At the Sixth Floor Museum, visitors can walk through exhibits showcasing President Kennedy’s life and legacy, view historical artifacts, and stand next to the recreated sniper’s nest. 

The museum also houses a research library for scholars and researchers to study historical documents.

What to Expect and See Inside the Sixth Floor Museum 

At the Sixth Floor Museum, you’ll find exhibits covering JFK’s life and presidency, audio and video displays, and a view of Dealey Plaza from the actual window where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shots. 

The museum hosts special events and has a gift shop. 

Exhibits 

The museum’s exhibits are divided into various sections that cover different aspects of JFK’s life and presidency. 

Visitors can see displays of photographs, documents, and artifacts that provide insights into JFK’s personal and political life, including his family life, his military service, his campaigns, and his speeches. 

One of the most popular exhibits is the display of the Zapruder film, which shows the assassination in detail. 

The Sixth Floor 

Visitors can stand in the same spot where Oswald stood and see the actual window from where he fired the shots that killed JFK.

The view from the window provides a clear perspective of Dealey Plaza and the route that JFK’s motorcade took on that fateful day. This gives visitors a chance to reflect on the tragic events of November 22, 1963. 

Audio and Video 

The museum features several audio and video displays that provide visitors with an immersive experience of JFK’s life and presidency. 

These displays include recorded speeches, interviews with eyewitnesses, and news footage from the time. Visitors can hear JFK’s voice and get a sense of the energy and enthusiasm he brought to his presidency.

They can also learn about the challenges he faced, including the Cold War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the Cuban Missile Crisis. 

Special Events 

The museum hosts special events throughout the year that provide visitors with a deeper understanding of JFK’s life and legacy. 

These events include lectures by experts on JFK’s presidency, book signings, and film screenings related to JFK. 

These events offer visitors the chance to engage with the history of JFK’s presidency in a more interactive and personal way. 

Gift Shop 

The museum has a gift shop that offers a wide range of souvenirs related to JFK and the museum. Visitors can buy books, DVDs, T-shirts, and other items that commemorate JFK’s life and legacy. 

The gift shop is a great place to find unique and meaningful souvenirs that can serve as reminders of the importance of JFK’s presidency and the events that shaped the country during his time in office. 

Can you visit where JFK was shot?

Yes, you can visit the site where JFK was shot in Dealey Plaza, Dallas. A white “X” marks the spot, and the Texas School Book Depository is now home to the Sixth Floor Museum. 

How much are Sixth Floor Museum tickets? 

The Sixth Floor Museum tickets cost $18 for adults, $16 for seniors, and $14 for children (6–18 years old). Discounts are available for military personnel, first responders, and teachers.

Children under 6 get in for free. It’s definitely worth the price for an educational and moving experience. 

How long is the Sixth Floor Museum tour? 

The length of the Sixth Floor Museum tour varies depending on whether you choose a self-guided or guided tour. 

The museum recommends allowing at least 90 minutes for the self-guided tour, and guided tours typically last around 60–90 minutes.

As we said earlier, it really depends on how much time you have and how much you want to see. The museum offers both self-guided and guided tours, and the length of the tour will vary depending on which option you choose.  

If you opt for the self-guided tour, you can take as much time as you need to explore the museum at your own pace. However, the museum recommends that visitors allow at least 90 minutes. 

This should give you enough time to see all the exhibits, watch the films, and read the information panels. 

If you choose to take a guided tour, the length will again depend on which type of tour you select. The museum offers several different guided tours, including a highlights tour, a VIP tour, and a photography tour. 

The length of each tour varies, but most are around 60–90 minutes long. 

Dos and Don’ts in the Sixth Floor Museum 

While visiting this museum, it is important to keep in mind certain dos and don’ts to show respect for the events that took place and the memory of President Kennedy. 

Here are some guidelines to follow while exploring the Sixth Floor Museum.

Dos: 

• Take your time and read everything. The Museum is a self-guided tour with a lot of information to take in, so it’s important to understand the significance of each exhibit. 

Don’t rush through the museum and try to absorb everything at once. By immersing yourself in the exhibits, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of JFK’s life and legacy.

• Use the audio guide to enhance your experience. The museum offers an audio guide that provides additional information about the exhibits and their historical context. 

The audio guide is available in several languages and is included in the admission fee.

• Respect the solemnity of the site. The museum is a place of remembrance and reflection, so be mindful of your behavior and avoid any disruptive actions. 

Please refrain from loud talking, running, or any behavior that may disturb others. Remember that the Sixth Floor Museum is a place of historical significance and should be treated with the utmost respect. 

• Ask questions. If you have any questions about the exhibits or events related to the assassination, don’t hesitate to ask the knowledgeable and friendly museum staff. 

They are there to help and ensure that visitors understand the significance of the exhibits. The staff can provide valuable insights and context that can enrich your understanding of JFK’s life and legacy.

Don’t be afraid to engage in conversation with them and learn more about this pivotal moment in American history. 

• Take a moment to reflect. Before leaving the museum, take a moment to reflect on what you’ve learned and the significance of the events that took place in the building. 

The museum is a powerful reminder of a tragic event in American history.

Additionally, be respectful of other visitors who may also be reflecting on the exhibits.

Don’ts: 

• Don’t touch the exhibits. The museum’s artifacts are fragile and require special care, so please refrain from touching them. 

Touching the artifacts can cause damage, so please refrain from leaning, sitting, or placing any objects on them. 

• Don’t take flash photography. Please avoid using flash when taking photos inside the museum as it can damage the exhibits. 

The strong light emitted by the flash can cause fading and discoloration of sensitive materials used in the exhibits, particularly older artifacts and photographs. 

So, it’s important to take photos without a flash to preserve the museum’s collection for future generations.  

• Don’t bring large bags or backpacks. The museum has a bag check area, so please leave large bags or backpacks there to ensure the safety of the exhibits and other visitors. 

We recommend bringing only essential items or using smaller bags that can be carried with ease. 

• Don’t bring food or drinks. To protect the exhibits, food and drinks are not allowed inside the museum. 

Also, chewing gum is also prohibited. If you need to eat or drink, please do so outside the museum in designated areas. 

• Don’t make inappropriate comments or jokes. Making jokes or inappropriate comments is not only disrespectful to the museum but also to the historical significance of the space.