John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

"What’s this place all about?The Kennedy family is synonymous with the legacy of Boston, and the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum—in the Dorchester neighborhood in the southern part of the city—inspires visitors to deepen their understanding of one of the city’s most famous sons. Guided by Jacqueline B. Kennedy following JFK's assassination, the vision of the library evolved into a modern monument and memorial to the 35th president. A striking geometry of darkly tinted glass, steel, and white concrete, the library itself is a world of contrast against the serene blue water of the Boston harbor. Architect I. M. Pei designed the dramatic building, which holds curated galleries that move through Kennedy’s formative years to his time in the White House, capturing the eloquence of his speeches with audio and video recordings. Politics aside, it’s a moving tribute to an inspiring figure. A museum's permanent collection is defining: How is this one?The collection anchors the study of President Kennedy’s life and work in a comprehensive holding of presidential papers, personal papers, records, oral histories, art, artifacts, photographs, audio recordings, and videos related to the Kennedy family. The collection is curated into dozens of moving multimedia exhibits, which transform artifacts like doodles from the Cuban Missile Crisis meetings into immersive experiences. Treasured family heirlooms—such as the President’s beloved sailboat, Victura, displayed on the lawn of the museum in warm-weather months—bring the humanity of this family to the forefront. But exhibits are what keep us coming back. How were they?The museum sometimes hosts temporary exhibits. One recent example, on view through the end of 2024, called “Service and Sacrifice,” offers personal glimpses into the stories of Americans who served during World War II, including members of the Kennedy family. The show also presents untold stories from historically marginalized communities, women and people of color among them. What did you make of the crowd?Museumgoers head here to experience a tribute to President Kennedy that matches the strength of his tenure in office. Given the seriousness of the subject matter, you’ll see a lot of furrowed brows. Any guided tours worth trying?Led by docents, the daily guided tours bring nuanced clarity to the workings of the Kennedy White House and some of the more dramatic moments in JFK’s life. A few times a week the museum also offers First Lady tours, which shine a spotlight on how Jacqueline B. Kennedy modernized The White House. Gift shop: What will we find here?The museum’s store features special collections of gifts covering different times of JFK’s life and career. Check out a collection of Presidential Seals, as well as merch related to the 1960 election, World War Two and the President’s love of the sea. You’ll also find the requisite sweatshirts, tees, and mugs featuring inspiring quotes from the man himself. Is the café worth a stop, or should we just plan on going elsewhere?Besides the harbor views, the JFK Café isn't anything to write home about. You’re better off skipping anything but a warm (or cold) drink. Anything else we should know?Because the museum is in Dorchester, it’s a bit of a trek from the center of Boston. Take the Red Line subway to the JFK/UMASS stop and follow signs to the ground-level bus shelters. Catch the free Route 1 shuttle bus provided by the University of Massachusetts Boston (on whose campus the museum sits). Exit the bus at the Kennedy/Archives stop located across from the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the Senate. Driving there and parking or taking a taxi are also, of course, good options. During a whirlwind tour of the museum, stop to listen to recordings of Kennedy’s speeches, and you’ll leave inspired." - Elizabeth Wellington