On Columbia Point in Boston, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum traces the 35th president’s life from childhood and political campaigns through his years in the White House. Exhibits bring the period to life with photographs, films, documents and personal objects, including material on Jacqueline Kennedy, the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Space Race. The I. M. Pei-designed building is part of the visit: its glass pavilion looks out over Boston Harbor, with space to pause after the galleries.
A waterfront memorial on Columbia Point
The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is dedicated to the memory of the 35th president of the United States. It opened to the public in 1979 and stands on Columbia Point, overlooking Boston Harbor.
Architect I. M. Pei designed the building in white concrete and dark glass. Its glass pavilion rises above the galleries, bringing views of the harbor and city into the visit. The setting gives you room for a quieter pause before or after the historical exhibits.
From childhood to the White House
The galleries follow Kennedy’s life in chronological order, beginning with his early years and political campaigns before moving into his presidency. Photographs, documents, films, video and personal objects offer different ways to explore the period. The exhibits also include material on Jacqueline Kennedy and her work as First Lady.
Campaign footage and coverage of the televised debates place Kennedy’s rise in its media context. Re-created period spaces, including an Oval Office, give the presidential years a physical setting. The displays cover major events and themes of the administration, including the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Civil Rights Movement and the Space Race.
Films, objects and a final pause
The museum uses theaters and video presentations alongside its gallery displays. Film footage and recordings of Kennedy’s speeches add contemporary voices and images to the exhibits. Objects associated with the presidency include Oval Office furnishings, gifts and personal collections; displays also cover the Kennedy family.
The waterfront grounds extend the visit beyond the galleries. A promenade behind the building displays Victura, Kennedy’s personal sailing sloop, with views across the harbor. The glass pavilion is another place to stop and look out over the water before leaving.
Planning your visit
The museum is at Columbia Point in Boston. Weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends, and children aged 12 and under enter free. A guided tour is an option if you want added context for the exhibits.
Allow time for both the galleries and the building’s waterfront setting. The on-site cafe may not be the right choice for every visitor, so plan your meal elsewhere if food is an important part of your day.
FAQ
Where is the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum?
It is on Columbia Point in Boston, overlooking Boston Harbor.
What can you see at the museum?
Exhibits trace Kennedy’s life and presidency through photographs, documents, films and personal objects. Topics include Jacqueline Kennedy, the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Space Race.
Is admission free for children?
Yes. Children aged 12 and under enter free.
When is a quieter time to visit?
Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.
