Overview
Address: Columbia Point, Boston, MA 02125
Website: https://www.jfklibrary.org/
Hours: Thursday to Tuesday (10 AM to 4 PM) – Closed on Wednesdays
History
On October 19, 1963; President Kennedy was visiting Harvard and chose the location for his library next to Harvard Graduate School of Business Administration. A month later, the President would be assassinated, and while the Presidential Library and Museum would go forward, there would be a change in location.
The new site, Columbia Point in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston was the new home for the Presidential Library and Museum. The museum opened to the public on October 20, 1979. The Museum was designed by a relatively unknown architect I. M. Pei (he was unanimously chosen for the project by the committee).
Exhibits
Visiting the museum, you will be able to explore the life of President Kennedy in various stages. The Permanent exhibits are split into: Young Jack, 1960 Presidential Election, the Inauguration, JFK and his relationship with the press, Ceremonial Room, US Space Program, Robert Kennedy, The Oval Office, First Lady, White House Corridor (Gifts from Heads of States) and his state visit to Europe.
Including the Permanent Exhibits, there are always Special Exhibits (limited time at the museum) as well. Please make sure you check with the website for the latest information.
The on-site JFK Cafe boasts provides great views of Boston city skyline and is a great family-friendly place to grab, breakfast, lunch or snacks throughout your visit.
Ernest Hemingway Collection
The library is home to a collection of documents and belongings from Ernest Hemingway. The collection was established after letters were exchanged between Mary Hemingway (widow of Ernest) and Jacquline Kennedy. Mary Hemingway was given a special waiver in 1961 to travel to Cuba to collect her husband’s belongings after his death.
Visit
You can purchase your tickets here:
