Shawn B.
Yelp
Visiting the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is an inspiring journey through history. Nestled atop the picturesque hills of Simi Valley, the museum offers breathtaking views that set the stage for an experience filled with patriotism and reflection. From the moment you step onto the grounds, you are transported into the legacy of Ronald Reagan - the All American, Actor, Governor, and President - a leader who truly brought out the best in America. His optimism and unwavering belief in the American spirit shine through every exhibit, reminding visitors of a time when hope and strength guided the nation.
During my visit this time they had the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibition, presented by the Israel Antiquities Authority. Seeing these ancient texts in person was a humbling experience. These tiny scraps of scrolls, hidden in caves and buried under sands for centuries, connect us with a history predating much of what we know. It was incredible to see artifacts that have shaped our religious and historical understanding, offering rare glimpses into the world of the past.
The Air Force One Pavilion is a marvel. The stately Air Force One aircraft stands proudly, allowing guests to walk through the same plane that carried President Reagan and other world leaders. Marine One and the Reagan motorcade - complete with his limousine and secret service vehicles - provide a tangible connection to Reagan's history.
The museum beautifully chronicles Reagan's journey from his Hollywood years to his governorship and through the trials of his presidency--including the failed assassination attempt. An actual section of the Berlin Wall is a powerful reminder of Reagan's role in ending the Cold War, with his iconic challenge, "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!" The grounds even feature an imposing F-117 Nighthawk, adding to the museum's collection. The final resting place of Ronald and Nancy Reagan is serene, a fitting tribute to their enduring legacy.
A few TL;DR tips: You can't bring bags or backpacks inside. If you want to bring in bottled water, it must be in a clear bag (the museum has these at the front desk). A pleasant surprise was discovering the dining options at the museum. You can grab snacks at the charming Irish pub from Ballyporeen inside the Air Force One Pavilion, but the hidden gem is undoubtedly the Gipper's Bar and Bistro. The menu offers classic fare--salads, sandwiches, burgers, and pizza--but the BEST food is still the Reagan Family Chili (which I've written about before!). Made with bell peppers, onions, and chunks of steak, this chili is - hands down - some of the best I've ever tasted. I've made trips just for lunch, and the best part? There's no charge to get in and eat at the bistro!
I have never bought tickets online; I just walk up and buy them on-site. Parking can be packed on weekends (Fridays and Mondays included), but you can easily find parking in the convenient lot during the week. If parking is full, you can park along the road you drive up to get to the museum; they have shuttles running all day.