Spend half a day at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston

In a park overlooking the ocean, in the south-east of the city, stands the JFK Presidential Library and Museum, designed by the famous American architect of Chinese origin, Ieoh Ming Pei. Built in concrete and glass, this museum is dedicated to an equally famous figure, the former President of the United States, John Fitzgerald Kennedy, who was born in Brookline, an upmarket suburb of Boston. This tragically deceased politician still enjoys a high profile today. At the helm of this great country from January 1961 to November 1963, the 35th President of the United States, John Fitzgerald Kennedy (JFK), witnessed a troubled era that this library-museum invites you to rediscover. A poignant tribute in the city where he grew up.

Interior architecture of the JFK Presidential Library and Museum in Boston

- © Marcio Jose Bastos Silva / Shutterstock
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JFK, a star president from Boston and the surrounding area

The 35th President of the United States retains a special aura. His life began in the Boston area. He was born in Brookline, an affluent town in Massachusetts. His birthplace, located at 83 Beals Street in Brookline, complements the museum described here. He spent his childhood in this region of New England. His parents, of Irish origin, were also involved in the country's politics. Later, JFK enlisted in the US Army during the Second World War. Then came his political career.

JFK's sailboat in front of the museum

- © Marcio Jose Bastos Silva / Shutterstock

A visit to a museum dedicated to America's most famous president

In just 1,000 days as President, the charismatic JFK left an indelible mark on the political life of the United States. Elected on 8 November 1960 by a margin of just 100,000 votes over his opponent, Richard Nixon, JFK's short career is retraced through a number of videos, photos and personal objects. The library holds many documents and archives relating to the President, and a number of reconstructions bring to life the most significant episodes in this part of history. International relations were marked by the Cold War between the Soviet Union and the United States.

The tour begins with a documentary with commentary by the former president himself. This takes us back to the televised debate between Kennedy and Nixon, as well as the famous Oval Office. Other periods are detailed throughout the museum's 20 rooms (the Vietnam War, NASA projects, the Cuban missile crisis, etc.)... The tour ends in a dark room. Here the sad news of the assassination of this young president, who died aged just 46, is constantly broadcast.

Admittedly, the museum makes no mention of some of the more troubled periods in the life of this charismatic media president.

Débat entre Nixon et Kennedy JFK Presidential Library and Museum à Boston

- © Brett Welcher / Shutterstock

But for anyone interested in the history of this great country, a visit to Boston is a must. That's why you should allow at least 3 hours to explore the museum. For a break, you can have lunch in the museum cafeteria. The view over the water will give you a chance to rest and recharge your batteries. Before continuing your visit or setting off on other adventures in Boston!

Entrance to the JFK Presidential Library and Museum in Boston

- © Marcio Jose Bastos Silva / Shutterstock

Practical info

📍 Location: 220 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston

🚌 Getting there: underground access from the Red Line, JFK/U Mass stop. A free shuttle bus connects the Museum to the underground station every 20 minutes. The Boston underground is managed by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority. Finally, the Museum is accessible by car from downtown Boston. From downtown, follow Interstate 93 towards Plymouth and Cape Cod.

⏰ O pening hours: The library-museum is open 6 days a week, but is closed on Wednesdays and certain holidays. The JFK Presidential Library and Museum is open from 10am to 4pm.

👛 Rates:

  • adults: $18
  • seniors aged 61 and over: $12
  • students: $12
  • young people aged 12 to 18: $10
  • children under 12: free

More information on ticketing here

Where to sleep nearby?

⭐ DoubleTree by Hilton Boston Bayside

The standards for this type of establishment are well met. The practical rooms can accommodate a family of 4 with their large double beds. As is often the case, the hotel offers free parking to its guests. A nearby metro station provides quick access to downtown Boston. What's more, thanks to its location, the hotel makes visiting the Museum very easy.

DoubleTree by Hilton Boston Bayside Hotel Boston
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DoubleTree by Hilton Boston Bayside Hotel

The DoubleTree by Hilton Boston Bayside 3* is a chain hotel offering good value for money in a city as expensive as Boston.
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