The Lizzie Borden’s House in Fall River, Massachusetts, is a historic landmark shrouded in infamy.
Built in 1844 (or 1845, according to other sources), the house became the site of a brutal double murder just months later. Lizzie Borden, the daughter of the victims, was tried and acquitted, but the case continues to puzzle true crime enthusiasts.
Today, the Lizzie Borden House is a museum that offers tours exploring the Borden family history and the unsolved murders.
In this article:
The Lizzie Borden House
Located at 230 Second Street in Fall River, Massachusetts, the Lizzie Borden House Museum is a testament to the rich architectural tapestry of the American Gilded Age.
The house was built in 1844/1845. And, like most Victorian houses, it’s a great example of the grandeur of Second Empire architecture fused with the ornate detailing characteristic of the Queen Anne style.
Such architectural choices reflect a broader American Gilded Age aesthetic. Opulence. A visual demonstration of wealth during a time of rapid economic growth.
The Victorian-era house museum not only captivates with its unique design but also serves as a significant historical landmark, offering insights into a bygone era’s social and cultural nuances.
Historical Significance
The house was originally owned by Andrew Borden, who transformed it into a single-family home for his wife, daughters, and a maid. But that’s not why the house has a historical significance.
The place is notorious for being the site of the unsolved double murder.
On the morning of August 4, 1892, a gruesome discovery would forever alter the narrative of the Borden family and their stately home.
The axe murders of Andrew Borden and Abby Borden not only sent shockwaves through the small town of Fall River but also marked the beginning of an enduring mystery that captivates to this day.
A Living Museum and Cultural Hub
The Lizzie Borden House Museum offers a unique and immersive bed and breakfast and cultural experience. It allows guests to step back in time and experience the historical ambiance of the Borden family.
So, what exactly can you do here? Well, plenty. Here are some of the most exciting experiences guests can have in Lizzie Borden’s house:
Bed and Breakfast Experience
The location offers a range of room options for guests seeking an immersive experience within its historic walls.
Here are the different types of rooms available at the Lizzie Borden House Bed and Breakfast:
Bridget Sullivan Room
Accommodation: Up to 3 guests, with the 3rd on a fold-up roll-out bed.
Description: Located on the third floor, this room was where Bridget Sullivan, the Borden family’s maid, resided. She and Lizzie Borden were the only occupants in the house during the tragic events.
The room shares a bathroom with other third-floor rooms and features full-size beds.
Lizzie & Emma Suite
Accommodation: Can accommodate up to 5 guests.
Description: Situated on the second floor, this suite comprises two rooms that belonged to Lizzie and Emma Borden. Emma’s room has a full-size bed, while Lizzie’s room features a queen-size bed.
The suite shares a bathroom with the John V. Morse room (see below) and can accommodate up to 5 guests.
After 2, each additional guest is charged an extra fee. When only 2 guests rent this suite, they have exclusive use of the entire space.
Andrew & Abby Suite
Accommodation: Can accommodate up to 5 guests.
Description: Found on the second floor, this suite includes Andrew and Abby Borden’s former bedroom and sewing room.
The Andrew Borden room has a queen bed, while the Abby Borden room features a full-size bed.
This unique suite has a private bathroom and can accommodate up to 5 guests, with an extra charge for guests beyond 2.
John V Morse Suite
Accommodation: Can accommodate up to 3 guests.
Description: This suite is located on the second floor and is where Abby Borden was tragically murdered in 1892. It was also where Lizzie and Emma Borden’s uncle had stayed overnight before the incident.
The room contains a full-size bed and shares a bathroom with the Lizzie & Emma Suite.
Andrew Jennings Room
Accommodation: Can accommodate up to 3 guests.
Description: Situated on the third floor, this room is named in honor of Lizzie Borden’s defense lawyer, Andrew Jennings.
Like other third-floor rooms, it features full-size beds and shares a bathroom with other rooms on that floor.
Hosea Knowlton Room
Accommodation: Can accommodate up to 3 guests.
Description: Another third-floor room named after the District Attorney of Southern Massachusetts during Lizzie Borden’s trial, Hosea Knowlton.
It offers full-size beds and shares a bathroom with other rooms on that floor.
Notes:
- The price range for all the rooms above is $275 – $330 per night. The prices may vary based on the number of guests, when you book it, and for how long.
- According to the official website, “only well-behaved children over 7 years of age” are allowed for overnight stays. You may want to consider this before booking a stay :-).
Check the official Lizzie Borden House website for the latest pricing information.
Guided Tours and Educational Programs
The Lizzie Borden House Museum offers a variety of guided tours and educational programs for visitors, providing a unique and immersive experience of the historical and mysterious aspects of the property.
Here are the available tours and programs:
House Tours
These tours take visitors through all the rooms in the house. They are typically a 90-minute guided experience that explores the place’s history.
Guests will learn about the daily routines of the Borden family, explore where the murders took place, and gain insights into the infamous events of that fateful day.
House tours are available daily between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
Price: Tickets for the Lizzie Borden House Tour cost between $25-$35 per person.
Ghost Tours
The ghost tours focus on the history and hauntings of Fall River. They provide an outdoor walking tour that includes visits to haunted destinations in the area.
Guests will learn about the tragic and bizarre history of the Lizzie Borden House while exploring other allegedly haunted locations in Fall River.
The ghost tours begin at the gift shop and offer an exclusive extended tour through the house’s first floor.
Ghost Hunts
For those interested in a more interactive experience, ghost hunts allow visitors to conduct a “ghost hunt” inside the Lizzie Borden House.
Participants will use ghost-hunting equipment to delve into the mysteries surrounding the infamous murders that occurred in the house.
Ghost hunts take place on the first floor and in the basement, providing a unique opportunity to explore eerie darkness within this historically significant location.
Virtual Tours
The Lizzie Borden House offers virtual experiences for those unable to visit in person.
Guests can enjoy on-demand virtual ghost tours and house tours 24/7, allowing them to immerse themselves in the Lizzie Borden experience from anywhere in the world.
These virtual tours provide an engaging way to explore the historical and haunted aspects of the property remotely.
Special Events
The museum hosts special events throughout the year, including reenactments, photo ops, haunted story times, and other uniquely fantastical experiences that add an extra layer of excitement to visitors’ stays at the Lizzie Borden House Museum.
These events offer guests a chance to engage with history and mystery in a fun and memorable way.
Exhibits and Items at the Lizzie Borden House Museum
The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the historical significance and mystery surrounding the infamous double murder in the house.
Here are some of the exhibits and items you can see inside the museum:
Furnishings and Decor
The house retains its original furnishings, decor, and hardware, providing an authentic glimpse into the past.
The painstakingly duplicated decor and intact original doors transport visitors back to the era of the Borden family.
Artifacts from the Murder Case
The museum displays artifacts related to the murder case, offering a tangible connection to the events that unfolded on that fateful morning in August 1892. These artifacts provide insight into the investigation and trial surrounding the murders.
Memorabilia from the Era
Visitors can view memorabilia from the Victorian era lining shelves and manteltops, adding to the immersive experience of stepping back in time to when the tragic events took place.
Original Newspapers and Documents
The museum features an impressive original collection of newspapers for public viewing (along with over 1,000 pages of Lizzie Borden-related letters, news clips, and more).
These documents provide a deeper understanding of the historical context surrounding the murders.
Interactive App Games and Tours
Guests can enjoy interactive app games like the Borden Murder Mystery Game, Oak Grove Cemetery Tour, and House Tour App.
All these engaging activities can offer a modern twist on exploring the history and mysteries of the Lizzie Borden House.
What else Can I do in Fall River?
Beyond the storied walls of the Lizzie Borden House, Fall River, Massachusetts, boasts an array of historical and cultural sites that offer a deeper understanding of the city’s rich heritage.
We’d say it’s unlikely you’ll ever get bored in this beautiful American town.
Here are some options for things to do in Fall River:
Children’s Museum of Greater Fall River
What to Expect: This beacon of creativity and learning beckons families with a plethora of hands-on exhibits that encourage children to explore the wonders of science, art, and culture.
From climbing structures that spark physical activity to interactive zones designed to ignite young imaginations, the museum is a haven where educational play knows no bounds.
Get directions on Google Maps: 441 N Main St, Fall River, MA 02720
Battleship Cove
Explore: Home to the most extensive collection of preserved US naval ships in the world, Battleship Cove is not just a museum; it’s a living history lesson aboard the decks of storied vessels.
The USS Massachusetts, a battleship with a storied past, and the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., a destroyer with tales of valor, invite visitors to traverse their corridors, offering a tangible connection to the maritime heroes of yesteryear.
Engaging exhibits and artifacts bring sailors’ narratives and the realities of naval warfare to life, creating an immersive historical experience.
Get directions on Google Maps: 5 Water St, Fall River, MA 02721
Fall River Heritage State Park
Discover: This verdant oasis along the banks of the Taunton River offers more than just breathtaking views; it’s a gateway to relaxation and exploration.
With walking paths winding through lush landscapes, picnic spots nestled under the shade of towering trees, and panoramic vistas of the iconic Braga Bridge, the park is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
It’s a perfect spot for bird watchers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature.
Get directions on Google Maps: Davol St, Fall River, MA 02720
Fall River Historical Society
Journey Through Time: Housed in a magnificently preserved Victorian mansion, the Fall River Historical Society museum is a treasure chest of artifacts and stories from the city’s past.
Each room tells a different chapter of Fall River’s history, from its industrial triumphs to the everyday lives of its inhabitants.
Special exhibits on the textile industry, local legends, and significant events offer visitors a comprehensive understanding of the forces that shaped the city.
Get directions on Google Maps: 451 Rock St, Fall River, MA 02720
Lafayette-Durfee House
Step Back in Time: This historic house museum serves as a window into the 18th century, offering a glimpse into the life and times of Thomas Durfee and the Lafayette family.
The meticulously restored interiors, furnished with period-appropriate artifacts, transport visitors to the Colonial era, offering insights into the architectural styles, domestic life, and social customs of the time.
Special events and reenactments bring history to life, making the Lafayette-Durfee House a must-visit for history buffs.
Get directions on Google Maps: 94 Cherry St, Fall River, MA 02722
US Ghost Adventures
Encounter the Paranormal: For those intrigued by the supernatural, US Ghost Adventures offers a thrilling exploration of Fall River’s haunted history.
Led by experienced guides, these tours take you through the city’s oldest and most eerie locations, where tales of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena abound.
It’s a unique opportunity to experience the city’s history from a different perspective and maybe even encounter its spectral inhabitants.
Get directions on Google Maps: 234 2nd St Pole #84/4, Fall River, MA 02721
Fall River Waterfront Cultural District
Cultural Hub: This vibrant district is the heart of Fall River’s artistic and cultural scene.
Wander through galleries showcasing the work of local artists, explore historic sites that tell the story of the city’s diverse communities, and enjoy a lineup of events and festivals that celebrate Fall River’s rich tapestry of cultures.
The district is not just a place to visit; it’s a community to engage with, offering workshops, performances, and opportunities to connect with the city’s creative spirit.
Get directions on Google Maps: 177 Columbia St, Fall River, MA 02721
Fun Activities & Games
Enjoy Endless Fun: Fall River is a playground for the young and young at heart, offering a variety of recreational activities.
From the inclusive designs of Kennedy Park Inclusion Playground to the adrenaline-pumping excitement of Stumpy’s Hatchet House, the ice-skating charm of Driscoll Skating Arena, and the competitive flair of Rack ‘Em Up Billiards, there’s something for everyone.
These venues provide entertainment and a chance to build memories with friends and family.
Additional Resources
The official Lizzie Borden House website: This website has a wealth of information about the house, including its history, the murders, and the tours that are offered. You can also book your stay at the bed and breakfast or purchase tickets for tours on the website.
TripAdvisor: TripAdvisor is a great resource for reading other visitors’ reviews of the Lizzie Borden House Museum. You can also find tips on how to plan your visit, such as what to wear and how to get there.
Fall River Historical Society: The Fall River Historical Society is an excellent resource for learning more about the history of Fall River, Massachusetts, including the Lizzie Borden case. The Society operates the Lizzie Borden House Museum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lizzie Borden’s house open to the public?
Yes, the Lizzie Borden House is open to the public daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Can you stay overnight at Lizzie Borden’s house?
Yes, guests can stay overnight at the Lizzie Borden House, which operates as an inn with breakfast. The property offers six rooms, including two suites with two beds each.
How much does it cost to visit Lizzie Borden’s house?
The cost to visit the Lizzie Borden House Museum varies depending on the tour type or experience. For example, guided house tours are offered daily from 10 AM to 3:30 PM, while ghost tours and ghost hunts are available in the evenings. Specific pricing details can be obtained by contacting the museum directly.
Are there tours available at Lizzie Borden’s house?
Yes, various tours are available at the Lizzie Borden House, including guided house tours, outdoor walking ghost tours, interactive and hands-on ghost hunts on the first floor and basement, and virtual ghost tours and house tours available on-demand 24/7.
Is Lizzie Borden’s house haunted?
The Lizzie Borden House is known for its reputation as one of the most haunted houses in the United States. Visitors can participate in ghost tours and ghost hunts to explore the paranormal side of the property.
What is the history of Lizzie Borden’s house?
The Lizzie Borden House is famous for being the location of America’s greatest unsolved murder mystery on August 4, 1892. Today, it serves as an inn with breakfast and a museum offering a variety of tours and experiences related to its historical significance.
What is Lizzie Borden’s house like today?
Today, the Lizzie Borden House remains open daily for visitors to explore its historical and haunted aspects through guided tours, ghost tours, and interactive experiences. The property offers accommodations for overnight stays in late Victorian-style rooms.
How much does it cost to visit the Lizzie Borden House Museum?
The cost of visiting the Lizzie Borden House Museum can vary depending on the type of tour or experience chosen. You should check with the museum directly for current pricing information.
Can visitors take photographs inside the Lizzie Borden House?
While specific rules may apply, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs inside the Lizzie Borden House Museum. It is advisable to follow any guidelines provided by staff during your visit.
