Over the past few years, we have enjoyed visiting the presidential museums of five former presidents.

Note: The links on the first four are to theramblingquilter.com where I have information on admission, camping, and more about each location.

Abraham Lincoln

If you ever find yourself in Springfield, Illinois, along Route 66, be sure to check out the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. Here you will find the wonderfully preserved home where our 16th president and his family lived prior to and while he was running for president. Walk the streets where he walked on his way to work in his law office and go through his home and the neighboring homes with more artifacts about his life before he became president.

When you are finished there, head to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, which tells of his time as president.

You can also visit the Lincoln Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery (a short drive from the museum).

Ronald Reagan

On top of a mountain overlooking Simi Valley near Los Angeles, California, is the very impressive Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum.

The museum chronicles the late president’s life from early radio, through television and movies, his time as Governor of California, President of the United States and culminating in his later years and subsequent passing at the age of 93.

Along with many artifacts, there is also a wonderful display of his presidential vehicles, including Air Force One, Marine One, and Secret Service motorcade vehicles.

George W. Bush

Dallas, Texas, is steeped in presidential history. It is also home to the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. Situated on the campus of Southern Methodist University, this museum is spectacular. There is a full-size replica of the Oval office, displays of gifts presented to the president and first lady, clothing worn by the first lady, and many other artifacts.

One of the most moving for us was the 9/11 section. Along with countless newspaper articles and the president’s schedule on that day, there was also a piece of the World Trade Center.

While in Dallas be sure to check out Dealey Plaza, the site of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The Sixth Floor Museum is inside the Texas School Book Depository and chronicles the life and tragic death of President John F. Kennedy.

As you can see from this Google image, there are two Xs on Elm Street marking the two spots where President Kennedy was hit as his motorcade progressed along Elm Street from right to left in the picture.

Lyndon B. Johnson

Known as the Texas White House, the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park is located in Fredericksburg, Texas, on his ranch.

Be sure to begin your day at the LBJ State Park and Historic Site visitor center. If you are driving, you will need a free permit to be on the grounds, which you can get there.

You can take a driving tour around the complex and walk among the buildings. “Air Force One-Half” is also located in a hanger at the end of the runway he had constructed on the property.

There are also buildings on the property that tell more of his life, as well as the family cemetery.

Dwight D. Eisenhower

Abilene, Kansas is home to the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home. We made a stop here on our way through and were glad we did. While not as grand as some of the other presidential museums and libraries, this one is just as informative. Definitely worth a stop if you are on your way through the area.

The Place of Meditation is a beautiful chapel and final resting place for the late president.

If you are a homeschooler (or just a lifelong learner), these stops are wonderful educational opportunities. There are so many interesting and historical spots, so get out there and explore.