The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

Thoughtful and engaging look at a pivotal moment in American history. The exhibits do an excellent job of explaining Ford’s path to the presidency and the challenges he faced during a deeply divided time in the country. The museum balances personal history with major national events, especially the Watergate aftermath, the Nixon pardon, and the end of the Vietnam War. Artifacts, photos, and multimedia displays make the experience easy to follow without feeling overwhelming or overly academic. One of the strongest aspects is how human the story feels—it presents Ford not just as a president, but as a Midwestern leader navigating difficult decisions with integrity. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about U.S. politics, the museum is well worth a visit and offers real insight into leadership during uncertain times.

The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is an outstanding and engaging experience. The exhibits are well organized, informative, and thoughtfully designed, making it easy to learn about President Ford’s life, leadership, and impact on American history. The museum is beautifully maintained and includes powerful displays, interactive elements, and a moving tribute to President and Mrs. Ford. A must-visit while in Grand Rapids — educational, inspiring, and well worth the time.

This has to be the best Presidential Museum in the country. So much knowledge and information. It’s very very super clean, even the bathrooms are spotless. There is a scavenger hunt you can do for a prize (kids love it). The gift shop is also awesome. The President and the First Lady are buried outside the museum. The staff and the security is super friendly and helpful. Great time for the whole family and fun learning! 10/10

This is a great museum, looking back at history through the lens of today sheds new light on quite a bit of the history presented here. You come away with a new found respect for president Ford, but at the same time you realize who the notorious players were in that same era. Worth a visit and it is a beautiful museum that is extremely well maintained.

Very nice place. For the roughly 2.5 years of presidential service, this is a very nice honor. The ability to bring the country together was his amazing character.

We only had a short time to spend here, maybe a couple hours, but it was enough. As opposed to all other presidential libraries, it was separate from the museum. This wasn’t made clear on the website(s). One was open on Saturday and the other was not. And there was a 2-hr drive separating them. Interesting museum, but not spectacular, compared to others we have visited.

Wow! What a great find in Grand Rapids! This museum is amazing...especially if you love history. Gen X...you will definitely like it...Appearently 2025 is the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam war...There were many interesting facts there. Some things make you wonder...if Ford was dealing with the exact same issues then...and we are still dealing with them...are the issues ever gonna be taken care of...and I will let you visit and then you will understand that question...They even have a fun game for the kids or..anyone really! They give you a paper and you go around and find answers to questions within the museum...at the end...if you get them all right...you get a prize...There is so much to learn and experience here. Then...ya cant beat the museum across the street either!! Perfect for families with any age child...something for everyone's interest...Get the pass...and see both! Family of 7 and we had a great time!

This was our first presidential museum that we have ever visited and we were pleasantly surprised by how much we'd enjoyed it. Highly recommended if you're in the area to spend the time to tour this museum and learn a little bit about American history.

I'm biased, since I'm a presidential history lover and always have been, but this is definitely worth a stop! Note that there are no food options here, aside from gift shop snacks like candy, and there are no drinks, except water and (black) cold brew cans. We were politely told that I couldn't have the cold brew inside, which is fair, so my husband and I walked around the grounds as I drank (as much as I could tolerate of) it. We walked through the gravesite area, which was serene and inspiring. Back in the museum, we paid the $13 entrance fee and checked out a bit of the film in the auditorium on the first floor. Everything else is on the second floor and largely chronological. The flow you should walk in for such chronology isn't super rigid, since it's a pretty open plan, but it's fine because you can still note the plaques' headings for context, and they are intentional in carrying over various themes across such chronology, regarding what kind of person he was. The museum does a great job being honest about challenges he faced, never veering too hard into hagiography. For a president whose term was short and not as "action-packed" as others might be, the museum presents engaging, often surprising, pieces of history that can be understood by casual and not-so-casual history enthusiasts. Unsurprisingly, I loved the full-scale replica of the Oval Office and the Cabinet Room (the latter of which you could sit inside!). I also found the details about his presidency fascinating, particularly foreign policy work, how he tried to rebuild the image of the presidency after Watergate, and how he navigated two major pardon-related issues: pardoning Nixon and pardoning Vietnam War draft dodgers. I went into this thinking pardoning Nixon was a bad idea, but I gained more context from this museum and can see now why he thought it was a good idea. I am now more ambivalent and see more nuance! I was also glad to learn about Betty Ford, not just because they have some of her old dresses, but because she was fiercely independent. This was seen in her openness about breast cancer/recovery, being pro-choice during her own husband's Republican presidency, and her own addiction issues (later opening the Betty Ford center). Gerald Ford has an underrated legacy, as does Betty. Though his presidency wasn't Lincoln levels of consequential, he had some major wins, as well as struggles, and both are important to learn about. The gift shop has a great variety of items, with reasonable prices. (Note that a Gerald Ford signed book is about $400, though.) They have toys and books for kids, too!

I really loved coming here and learning about Gerald Ford. I knew quite a bit, but this museum is so incredible moving throughout his life before he was a president through the time of his death. I also loved learning about his wife Betty Ford. Both of them are also interred there which is a beautiful spot to visit afterwards. There are several short films to watch along the way, which are really helpful and understanding more.

Great place to visit to learn some presidential history. It's a nice building a nice layout to meander through. The staff was pleasant and the building is in a convenient location with parking.

I'm a self proclaimed Presidential history nerd so when I was in Grand Rapids on a recent road trip, I had to stop into Gerald Ford's Presidential Museum. The museum is very well done with everything pretty much on the 2nd floor with exhibits in chronological order. Starting off with his birth in Omaha, NE and having a dead beat biological father and being adopted (President Leslie Lynch King Jr doesn't have the same feel) all the way through his presidency. There are exhibits about his days at Michigan, a letter from the Green Packers offering him a contract to play football, the gun used to attempt to assassinate him from Squeeky Fromme of Manson Family fame, a replica Oval Office and a bunch of other cool exhibits. Parking is free and the museum is only 13.00 plus discounts for veterans, seniors and other things. Cool place to check out and learn a few things,

This was my fifth visit to a presidential library, and I was very impressed. Gerald Ford was an interesting man, and the museum did a great job displaying his contributions to the country during a very turbulent time in American history. The fact he was never elected to the vice presidency or the presidency makes him historical. His reasoning for pardoning Nixon is addressed. His fiscal responsibility and his character were all well documented. I would highly recommend it.

Gerald Ford, our 28th president, from 1974-1977. He is quite a unique president in which he was the only president who was not voted into office. He was appointed to be former president Richard Nixon's vice president in 1973, after his former vice president, Spiro Agnew resigned due to criminal charges regarding tax evasion, money laundering and bribes he had received prior to being vice president. After Richard Nixon resigned, Gerald Ford took over as president, as that is what occurs when the president is no longer able to perform his duties (either has died during office, or in this case, resign). My husband and I came to this museum on a Saturday afternoon, around 1:45 pm and stayed all the way until closing, around 5 pm (which does include visiting the gift shop and also the graves of the former president and first lady). Currently there is a featured exhibit, Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel (admission to this presidential museum is included to view the featured exhibit) and runs through Sept 11. I was lucky to view this exhibit when it was in California (in 2019). With this museum, you start upstairs where you learn about the early life of the former president. Gerald Ford was actually born in Omaha, Nebraska, named as Leslie Lynch King Jr, after his biological father. His father was abusive/ violent and so his mother divorced him and then moved to Grand Rapids. Gerald Ford actually did not know about his biological father until the age of 12. His mother remarried a man named Gerald Ford, whom adopted the former president as his own son. It was interesting to learn that Gerald Ford was a high school football star and was offered to play professionally (from the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers). But he declined and decided he wanted to study law at Yale (previously, he earned an economics degree from Michigan University while on an athletic scholarship). However, Yale did not take him seriously and denied his acceptance. He was coaching football at Yale at the time. Yale eventually allowed him to take 2 classes and see how it goes and decide if he should be able to go further. Of course the former president blazed through those classes and proved that he was a serious student and eventually Yale allowed him into their law program. After he graduated from Yale, he enlisted in the US Navy, during WWII. After his service, he met his wife through mutual friends and eventually married her. However, he did ask Betty Bloomer (maiden name) to delay their wedding after the primary elections because he was running for the US House of Representatives. Because this would be her 2nd marriage and she was also a dancer, he wasn't sure how the people would feel about him marrying someone like her with the past that she had. They married on October 15, 1948 in Grand Rapids. During his presidency, he did end up pardoning former president Nixon regarding the Watergate scandal (you can actually view the original burglary items at this museum. It is believed that Richard Nixon's library did not want those items, with good reason). This really upset people and was quite the controversy. It was explained that he decided to ultimately pardon Nixon to put behind the scandal behind them and avoid a long, drawn out trial that would have caused more pain to the public. It is believed that his pardon for Nixon was a large factor as to why he was not reelected (he ran against Jimmy Carter and lost but only by a small margin surprisingly). Moving forward, Gerald Ford was unable to convince Congress to allow further military aid to South Vietnam. Sadly the country fell to North Vietnamese Communism in 1975. He helped reduce tension between the Soviet Union by signing the Helsinki Accords. He also came up with the WIN (whip inflation now), in an attempt to decrease inflation (as it was at an all time high) by coming up with counter solutions that people could do (including carpooling, lowering the thermostat, etc. Although I don't think this really helped to lower inflation and many Americans looked poorly to these suggestions from the former president). At this museum, it was interesting to learn that Gerald Ford had a pool added to the White House grounds (in the back) since he enjoyed swimming and exercising regularly. He was also very open and transparent with the media, allowing them to get a glimpse of his life to share with the public since they had lost so much trust in the president after Nixon's Watergate scandal. It was also interesting to learn that Gerald Ford was almost assassinated twice, while visiting California (about a week from each attempt). There is actually a letter written by one of two women explaining that she had gotten into the wrong crowd and wanted to apologize. There is so much more that this museum provides that I left out but I really enjoyed my visit. And ended it outside to view the burial place of Gerald and Betty Ford.

This is my second Presidential Museum I've visited and it's taken the lead for being my favorite... We purchased tickets online and had no issues checking in at the entrance. The Michelangelo exhibit was also showing here for a limited time so we were fortunate to tour two exhibits this visit. The flow of the President Ford's timeline was immaculate. There was just enough detail at each station to not feel overwhelmed and get the gist of it. I learned plenty as I toured the stations and was entertained through the journey. The artifacts were fascinating and i loved feeling the history of their presence. I appreciate his journey through a rough time of the United States and the mini-film stations throughout were informative. My favorite sections were the replicas of the Oval Office and Cabinet Room. I loved that you could take a seat in the cabinet room as you explored. Both areas felt interactive because of the scale of the replicas. The gift shop served it's purpose and the staff was friendly. The Gerald Ford Presidential Museum is a definite visit if you're in the area. Enjoy!

Learned lots. Time does put history in perspective. Worth the 2 to 3 hours. Reasonably priced.

Excellent museum for all things Gerald R Ford. No matter your political leanings, this museum incorporates historical occurrences, hometown heroism and beautiful location resulting in a great overall experience. Staff could use a bit of customer service refresher. Be nice to everyone- even those you think don't deserve consideration. They might end up writing a review of your lackluster behavior at a Presidential Museum. It costs nothing to be kind.

We came here as we only had 2 libraries left to complete. When we walked in, the building was kept beautiful. The grounds were nice as well. We went through the entire place and liked everything we saw. Ford seemed to be a man that cared. He seemed to be on the same wave length as jimmy carter as someone who loved America. Overall great site and probably would not come back unless I bring my kids.

Visiting the Gerald R Ford Presidential library was on the top of our list when we arrived in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The museum is conveniently located adjacent to downtown and some of the large hotels, so you can easily stay and walk to the museum and other downtown locations. We arrived shortly after opening and were able to get our tickets and start exploring the museum. The flow of the museum is in chronological order of his life starting with his youth, growing up in Grand Rapids. There is quite a lot of information on his time in the Boy Scouts of America and how important this was in establishing his values and leadership abilities. There is a great section about his involvement in football at both high school and college and then his years serving in the military. We then start learning about his down-to-earth, approachable style of leadership while growing in politics locally at the state level and then in congress. The information about his time as Vice President and how he became President as a result of Watergate and Nixon resigning was interesting and informative. It was interesting to learn more about some of the policies that Ford enacted and how he worked to build trust back into the office of the President. I was not familiar with how many tough decisions he had to make that were not necessarily the popular decision, but that provided a stronger foundation for our country's future. The mock-up of the oval office and cabinet room are always favorites in the Presidential Libraries and these were well done. I found the exhibit about his passing and the funeral very touching. It would have been very interesting to see what Ford could have done if he were not working under the shadow of the Nixon resignation. I left feeling that he was a good leader and a strong President. I am glad we visited the museum.

On my quest to hit all of the presidential museums, I found this museum to be interesting and neither under- nor over-whelming (just whelming, if you will). Since Ford had the shortest tenure of the modern presidents, the museum doesn't have the same impact as some of the others but it is nonetheless extremely well done and an honest portrayal of a man thrust into a very challenging position. I was also interested to see that both he and his wife are buried on the grounds. The museum is certainly worth the visit if you find yourself in the Grand Rapids area.

Beautiful garden, landscaping, statues, a lot of nice quotes from President Gerald Ford. It's nice to see that you can visit and wandering around to enjoy, relax, while learning about history. It's a great place to take the young kids here. It's free of charge and the library is right there.

A very nice museum dedicated to Michigans favorite son. Starting with his childhood and continuing to his funeral, they do an amazing job of highlighting some of his truly remarkable accomplishments. Definitely worth a couple hours visit

Due to the deteriorated local health conditions associated with COVID-19" the museum is closed for the time being. A bummer; will try again on another trip.

I was so bummed this Museum was closed. The entire city people are walking around with no masks and this government facility is closed? DeVos Place required proof of vaccination and all people wearing a mask. Just as idea for the Presidential Museum.

Closed in mid-September because the local COVID rate was allegedly too high. Very disappointed. Just mandate vaccination and masks, don't close the museum. Typical government - easier to close the doors and deprive people of a national treasure than think about solutions.

So when you get a chance to go to Detroit for a conference you have to figure out how to get all the way to Grand Rapids to check out this library. At least that's what we did. We have the Presidential Library passport so we are in pursuit of getting all of the stamps when we can. This was our first one outside of California and I can say that it was a great experience. We drove all the way from Detroit after landing which was a 2 hour drive. Our reasoning was that we had no idea when we'd be back in Detroit let alone Grand Rapids so we trekked all the way there to not only see this museum but to explore a little of what Michigan has to offer. We were pleasantly surprised. We had no idea that there was an art show going on so there were probably more people than usual. Without comparing this to the other Presidential Libraries that we've been to I can say that really liked in its own. It's interesting to see how history is told through His story. To see the path that Gerald Ford took to become president is a story of circumstances and just being qualified to lead the country after Nixon's resignation. It is a great story of Gerald and Betty Ford's lives separate and together. Through photos, videos, and items from their own collection you're able to the history of his story and hers. Each room and wall depicted a different chapter of his life. From playing football at University of Michigan, to his time in the navy all the way to the white house with everything before, between, and after. My only issue was that I found it a bit confusing to follow the chronological order of his life from certain rooms and walls. This is a great place to spend a couple of hours. We actually had to drive to Ann Arbor to get to his library. I called this day the 'Smorgasbord of Gerald Ford' because not only did we go to the library later (read the next review) we met Mike Ford one of his sons in front of this museum. He was nice and can be proud of the mark that his father left. He was a true gentleman, patriot, leader. I highly recommend this museum.

We had been to this museum in about 2002 or 2003 and it was a very different museum then. Then the museum was half about President Ford and half about the 1970s. In 2016, they closed for 7 months and completely remodeled. Now the museum is a chronological record of his life and presidency. Many interesting artifacts like his christening gown and Michigan football jersey, and Nixon's resignation letter. Many videos of speeches, praise from friends and colleagues, and his funeral. Now the museum is a much more fitting tribute to a man who was bipartisan, well-liked, and full of integrity. President and Mrs. Ford are buried on the grounds behind the museum. Very nice gift shop. Free parking lot in front of the museum.

A very interesting and informative visit. I would suggest anyone interested in history, politics or the human experience take time to go. Gerald & Betty Ford were admirable people at the center of important moments in history. Even before this, they lived interesting lives - Ford was an accomplished boy scout and joined the Navy; Betty was a dancer. The museum breaks up the exhibits with short films. The museum is situated in a nice spot a long the river and there are some pathways for walking. The burial site for the Fords is located on the grounds. Wheelchair accessibility is good with the exception of the restrooms. Handicapped stall is not to code as there is no room for a wheelchair user to turn around. The gift shop is small but has some cute things. Employees were helpful & friendly.

If you are a fan of Gerald R Ford this is the place for you! I primarily went for the Sistine Chapel exhibit, which was quite underwhelming. I wondered around the remainder of the museum and looked at a lot of cool artifacts. All in all 2 stars, I didn't walk out awe struck.

Wonderful exhibit highlighting the brief presidency of Ford and his amazing wife, Betty Ford. Hearing Jimmy Carter say that he didn't disagree with anything Ford did and that he respects and admired him was nice to hear. So many people describe Carter as the "nicest" and most genuine Presidents. This journey into Ford may change that ... to be President at such a tumultuous time (Vietnam, Watergate, Inflation, Cold War) was daunting he did as good of a job as any good man could do. I highly recommend this spot.

Outstanding Museum, we were pleasantly surprised to tour such a well organized and beautiful put together Exhibit. President Ford truly was the man we needed in that short period of time.

This is the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. ⁣ ⁣ Along with the permanent exhibit about President Ford and Mrs. Ford, there are also changing temporary exhibits! ⁣ While you may have visited this museum before, have you ever took a trip to visit the Ford Library? Although it is located in Ann Arbor, the museum and library are a single institution. (Fun Fact! )⁣ ⁣

Very interesting museum. So many artifacts regarding this President, from his birth to his death. The Oval Office is a replica, if course, but still very nice. His biography is very interesting and I learned many things about his personal life. He & his wife, Betty, are buried on the grounds. If you like museums, this is one to see.

For $10 it's definitely worth it. Lots of history to be learned, I was born just after he served so I learned a lot, especially how he's the only President ever to become President by the 25th Amendment. Could have spent many more hours reading everything in there, but be warned, yes that's what you will do a ton of, Reading! There are a few movies but there's no timers that show when the movies will re-start. I hate watching something mid way in, so I skipped them all. But I do wish I would have watched at least the first movie in the main theatre. Even the guards didn't know when the movies would re-start.

Awesome Memorial, it's a shame they had to put a fence around it because people are stupid and messed with it.

Unexpectedly, this was one of the best museums I have ever visited. As you walk in, the first room returns you to the '70's. Think Nehru jackets, Bruce Lee posters, Paul McCartney and Wings. The memorabilia in the rooms brings back a tidal wave of memories. Then the life of Gerald Ford unrolls before you - a Boy Scout, a college football player, a Navy vet, small town lawyer, congressman, Vice President, and President. For people of a certain generation, the museum will hit you right in your strike zone. The cataclysmic Watergate saga. The staircase on the roof of the embassy in Saigon where our fleeing diplomats boarded the helicopters during the embassy evacuation. Damn -they had that staircase in the museum. They have a big room displaying hundreds of letters Ford received from Americans (incuding one from a very young William Jefferson Clinton). Think it's a tough job being President? I was struck by letters from the left vilifying him for pardoning President Nixon. I was also struck by the letters from the right vilifying him for pardoning the draft dodgers. One Marine returned his Viet Nam medals to Ford because he was so upset over that. If you love history, and you ever find yourself in Grand Rapids, I promise you won't regret stopping here to learn about a common and gentle man who through the crazy spirals of circumstance and random twists of history became an accidental leader.

We decided to make the trip to Grand Rapids because we are both history buffs, and thought this would be a nice way to end our trip to Detroit. *** Heads up - the museum is in Grand Rapids, and the library is in Ann Arbor. So off we went for the 2+ hour trip each way before our flight home to NJ. The museum is located downtown and directly facing the Grand River. We were fortunate to visit on a warm, sunny day. There is a series of reflecting pools and a fountain (that occasionally spouts like a geyser), along with a garden. President Ford and his wife are buried in a tomb next door to the museum that have quotes from his inauguration speech (this quote is repeated several times throughout the museum and is a bit repetitive). The architecture of the museum is quite nice as well and the exhibits are curated well. They give you a sense Ford's life, including his childhood, military service and law practice, the issues he faced during his presidency, and his departure from office. One particular highlight is how well they are demonstrate what a difficult decision it must have been to pardon Richard Nixon at the time the decision was made, and to live with that decision thereafter. The museum does this in a very balanced way by displaying letters from both sides of the issue, and from people who were celebrities and regular Joes. There is some room for improvement. I don't think that they really need the psychedelic room they have towards the beginning of the exhibit with 8 tracks, clothes, signs, etc. to give you a sense of Ford's brief tenure. That is really accomplished via the news articles, memoranda, and other letters you are able to read throughout the museum. It would also be desirable if they could update some of the displays as other Yelpers have suggested. Some do look a little tired. I don't think you need an 90s TV to give a retro feel. Plus, some of the videos cut out at weird times. This museum is worth a visit should you go to Michigan. Parking is free.

I've been to a handful of Presidential Museums, and this one impressed. The building itself is huge and they did a good job of filling it with artifacts and replicas. I learned about Ford's upbringing (didn't know his original last name wasn't Ford) and about the blond Congressman's time in the House of Representatives. Also learned more of the details about how he took over the Presidency from Nixon. Perhaps most interesting two artifacts: Nixon's original resignation of the presidency letter side-by-side with Ford original acceptance of the presidency letter. I appreciated that they covered the Watergate scandal so intensely. It happened and dominated his Presidency. And to be honest, it's what everyone wants to see. I wish they'd had his pardon letter displayed (that would have been very interesting). Walked through his faux Oval Office (which many Presidential Libraries have) and then through his faux Cabinet Room (which I've never seen before). There was a wall which showed pictures of Ford Cabinet Members and his advisors... he did a very good job (or bad depending on how you look at it) of picking the political leaders that pushed Republican ideology in the U.S. for 30 years: Dick Cheney, Donald Rumsfeld, George H.W. Bush, and many others. Also learned a bit about the election between Ford and Carter... I didn't realize (remember) that the race was as close as it was. Finally, saw a helicopter coming out of the ceiling and some of Betty Ford's dresses. Walk a few feet from the building, and you can see the tombs of Gerald and Betty Ford. Probably no-so great for young kids... not too much interactive stuff. Maybe it's better for older (high school kids) and beyond. Free parking!

This was a great experience as we went when there was free admission. We got to see the wooden dogs project that honored service dogs that were in the military. The wooden dogs displayed there war injuries carved into them such as shrapnel in their side. Then, upstairs was the great life of Gerald Ford.

The Gerald Ford Museum is way more fun than a presidential museum has any right to be. From the opinion letters about Nixon's pardon, to a teleprompter you can try out, to the cabinet room where you can sit at the table and "advise" the President on the issues of the day, I had fun from start to finish. It would be easy to spend the better part of the day absorbing all the information in the exhibits, but an hour and 1/2 is enough time to hit the highlights. Start with the movie - it's well done and sets the stage for everything you'll encounter.

This museum was surprisingly interesting and well done. The building is very nice and I love the fountain outside. Great location on the river. The video areas with seating were interesting and were a nice break from walking around. The full size replicas of the oval office and the meeting room were cool. Overall this is a worthy stop. I will say that the girl at the front desk needs to work on her customer service skills. I went to the desk and she just stared at me, I guess waiting for me to pay for a ticket? Didn't say anything, just took my credit card and ran it. What a weird thing to do. I don't know how people like this even get jobs. I probably looked annoyed because she then started to act like a normal person. There is also an inexplicable section on space travel that they do not even attempt to link to the president, so yeah that was weird.

I don't have a lot to compare this too since I've never been to another presidential museum. I thought the exhibits were neat. There was plenty of stuff from his presidency. Ford served a relatively short time so for that there is a good variety. My one LARGE negative, which almost dropped it to 3 stars, was the wall of the Presidential tomb is VERY Dirty. That is so disrespectful that I was shocked and saddened!

This marked my 11th presidential museum I've visited and is in top half. The exhibits are laid out well, the building is uniquely designed and has a beautiful campus with gardens and fountain on the banks of the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids. A must stop for all history buffs and all things Americana. Being a Kansas City native it was great to relive the 1976 Republican convention. Nice job Grand Rapids!

I've never been to a Presidential Museum before, and when I found myself in Grand Rapids recently, the chance to see one was too much to pass up. When I walked into the Gerald R. Ford Museum, I was immediately immersed in the 1970s, with Disco dancing on lighted floors, pop culture, compact stereos and sound bites from television shows and the first of many sound bites of Richard M. Nixon telling the American public that "...I am not a crook." It all came crashing back in a split second! These were tumultuous times. In 1973, the country was in turmoil. The army was fighting an unpopular war in Viet Nam, the President of the United States was under fire, under suspicion, and teetering on the edge of impeachment. Vice President of the United States Spiro Agnew had resigned under pressure, accused of taking bribes and receiving kickbacks while he served as Governor of Maryland. It was the IRS that got Mr. Agnew, for failure to report $29,500 in income on his taxes. He agreed to a deal where he would plead no contest and resign from office. Gerald R. Ford grew up in Grand Rapids, he served in the House of Representatives from 1949 and as Minority Leader since 1965. Under the provisions of the 25th Amendment of the Constitution, Ford was nominated to fill the vacancy. He was confirmed in the Senate with only three no votes - all from Democrats - and in the House by a vote of 387 to 35. One hour after the confirmation vote in the House, Ford took the oath of office as Vice President of the United States. When all this started, Elton John was topping the charts with songs like "Crocodile Rock" and "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road", Jim Croce was singing to us about "Bad, Bad Leroy Brown" while Roberta Flack won the Grammy for "Killing Me Softly With His Song" and the best new artist was Bette Midler. In the theater, we were rushing to see "The Sting" and "American Graffiti." At home, we were watching "All in the Family" and "M*A*S*H." A new organization called the Organization of Oil Exporting Countries called for higher prices and embargoed oil, causing long lines at the gas pump, skyrocketing gas prices and stations restricting sales. OPEC immediately changed the automobile business as the market demand flipped from large cars to compacts overnight. You weren't cool unless you had a Pet Rock. Meanwhile, in Washington, D.C., two reporters at the Washington Post were busy taking down an American President. Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein had uncovered a 1972 conspiracy to break into and bug the Democrat National Committee Headquarters in a previously little-known office/hotel complex called The Watergate. The third rate burglary was performed by second rate burglars, who got caught. By the time Woodward and Bernstein were done getting information from an anonymous source known at the time only as "Deep Throat" - a reference to a 1972 XXX movie of the same name - the Nixon Administration was in complete disarray. Hardly anyone noticed Gerald R. Ford as Vice-President because the news media was obsessed with Watergate. On August 9, 1974, Richard M. Nixon resigned from the office of President to avoid impeachment, and Gerald R. Ford became the first President of the United States who was not elected to the office. Touring the museum, after the immediate immersion into the '70s, we see Gerald Ford's upbringing in Grand Rapids, working in his step-father's paint factory, his great athletic career in high school and as an outstanding center on a not very good University of Michigan football squad. Ford was so good, he was offered pro contracts by the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers. He decided pro football was not for him, and he pursued a law degree instead. Another room tells us about Betty Ford, her career as a dancer and model with Herpolsheimer's Department Store in Grand Rapids. We learn about their marriage and family, and Jerry Ford's political career tha began in 1949. President Ford's Oval Office has been faithfully reproduced and another room reveals Ford's most difficult time in office, withdrawing from Viet Nam. The most controversial action of President Ford was the full pardon of Richard M. Nixon. At the time, Ford came under fire for the pardon, in retrospect, the act was exactly what the country needed because it put the Watergate turmoil to rest and allowed us to move forward to face even more turmoil in the late 1970s. Ford was the longest-lived president, reaching the age of 93 and third-longest post-presidential retirement, beginning after the 1976 election of Jimmy Carter. President and Mrs. Ford are entombed at the museum, overlooking the Grand River. The museum is a beautiful building in a beautiful location, in downtown Grand Rapids and next to the "Rapids" of the Grand River. The tomb of Gerald and Betty Ford is in an urban but idyllic setting next to the building. I found my visit to be enlightening as well as a stroll through the memories of my youth. It was a Grand experience.

I enjoyed the museum very much. Really made me appreciate the man who was only president 2.5 years. He was the 38th president. Didnt know that he lost to Carter by such a close election. 11000 votes in ohio (my home state) and a few thousand more in Hawaii was the difference. Everything was well done from his early childhood to growing up then going to michigan and then yale. Showed how he started as a lawyer and the his political career. He never wanted to be VP or President but stated he wouldnt sherk his duties. Previously I heard he was a boring President. My view totally changed from his International dealings. He pardoned Nixon so the US could heal and he could work on other issues. They have a newer exhibit on military ships and the Carrier named after him. I love history! There was a 20 minute video that plays on the top of the hour. It was good. Day worth $7 admission. Kids would be bored. Lots to read including letters, telegrams, daily white house schedules and much more. There were many visuals from Watergate and 70 tv shows to Nixons resignation speech to Ford inaugurial speech. The model oval office was nice along with the associated dialog. I dont want to list everything because it would take awhile. Definitely visit if you like history or want to learn more about President Ford.

One of the things I enjoy to do is visit Presidential Library/Museums. Ever since I moved to Michigan, I know I was going to take a road trip out to Grand Rapids to visit the Gerald R Ford Musuem, my 8th museum. Glad I finally made the trip! The Ford Museum had a small admission fee but had a lot of multi-media including a 10 minute orientation film at the top of every hour. The exhibits were varied and really delved into the details of whatever they were depicting. I really enjoy seeing the portion of museum devoted to the man before they became President, so the Ford's seasonal exhibit of "Growing up Grand", focusing on his childhood in Grand Rapids were catered to that desire. Outside the large water feature and the museums' location near the river created a terrific sense of tranquillity and place. I enjoyed this Presidential museum much more than others.

Best museum in the world, no. Great Museum and a true treasure in Grand Rapids, YES!!! This place is really top-notch. The history and perspective provided through this museum experience is really a quality experience. It's easy to judge a man by headlines or history books, but when you are able to get the perspective combined with some personal context, it really helps you understand why things happened the way they did. This museum has great artifacts from the Vietnam and Watergate era, as well as fantastic artifacts from Gerald Ford's time as a Congressman, VP, and President of the United States. Everything from his Congressional Desk and Oval Office Replica to Watergate artifacts and a section of the Berlin Wall. It doesn't gloss over the issues, but it offers the perspective that Gerald Ford was coming at the issues from. The museum is extremely well put together and curated and has classrooms, an auditorium, and even a replica of the Cabinet Room. It has a lot of interactive displays and frequently hosts traveling exhibits, such as the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame exhibit on protest through music. I have been there several times and every time I go, I find something I didn't quite catch the time before.

During a recent vacation, I spent several hours here. This was my fourth trip to a presidential museum. Some people visit every major-league-baseball stadium, but I think I'd rather visit every presidential museum. They're like ballparks for history nerds. The exhibit at which I lingered longest was the one detailing the events surrounding President Ford's pardon of Richard Nixon. Many were surprised that Ford pardoned Nixon, so unilaterally and so quickly after assuming office, evidenced by the 200,000 letters received by Ford, some of which were on display. Fascinating stuff, give yourself at least a couple of hours for a first taste of what this museum has to offer.

If there's history nearby, count me in, and so it was that I found myself in Grand Rapids and to this Presidential Library in President Ford's home town. Interestingly, the Ford Presidential Library is not co-located here as is common with other Presidential Museum/Library sites, but that's no bother for a routine non research visitor like myself. The outside is somewhat austere, situated nicely on the banks of the Grand River, with the tombs of the President and First Lady just outside the building away from the hubbub of traffic. The exhibit area is on the second floor and covers the life of our 38th President from beginning to end. I came away with a new found respect for the man who restored decency and honor to the Presidency in the wake of the Watergate scandal that resulted in Nixon's resignation. Plan on 2-3 hrs here as a minimum to get a good sense and take it all in.

Overall, this was a good historical museum, showing Ford's roots in Michigan. The actual Watergate artifacts and papers were probably the most intriguing. Some unexpected bonuses included lots of Betty Ford info (though they played up her breast cancer activism and WAY downplayed her issues with drugs and alcohol), a general scene-setting 70s display with faboo clothes, 8-tracks and a pet rock, and a small collection of bicentennial fever artifacts. The replica of the cabinet room and the oval office were pretty cool, and the miniature White house was nifty, too, though the animatronic guards were a little creepy. Two negatives that kept it from being 5-star for me: Fairly biased commentary in some of the exhibits and the $7 entry fee. It was cool, but I thought $7 was a little excessive.

Labor Day admission is free & open to the public!! I really enjoyed my brief walk through this museum. It is a must-see for those stopping by GR's.

I have to be honest; the museum itself is kind of a snore fest (this is very biest since I haven't been inside in ten years), but the grounds of the museum are absolutely beautiful. I enjoy taking walks there with my wife and the people only bridge leading across the grand river is great for access to restaurants. The parking is free... If you can find a spot.

$7 for an adult ticket. A few hours of great information and entertainment. I do like history, but I"m not a history buff. However, I found that I spent about 1.5 hours in here, and could've easily done another hour (if I had time). I will admit... I knew almost nothing about President Ford. However, when I started learning about everything that happened... (Let's start with Eagle Scout!)... his involvement through Watergate... the enacting of the 25th amendment... his role in foreign policy with Japan and the Middle East that set the stage for the next 40 years! Who knew? I was overwhelemed and blown away. No matter what your politics are... it's nice to appreciate how hard these men work... especially this one... and all the things they do before they are in the White House for a few years, and all the things they do behind the scenes when they are actually in there! God Bless America!

Beautiful museum with so much to see. I've always admired President Ford, but today I learned he was even more admirable than I had previously known. You won't be disappointed. The $8 fee is well worth the experience and the chance to visit the former President and First Lady's graves. If you are visiting Grand Rapids, GO!

One of the true gems in Grand Rapids. The museum does a wonderful job of portraying both President and Mrs. Ford. It seems that every time we learn something new and the special exhibits are great. When you get done at the Ford Museum go across the street and see the Grand Rapids Public Museum!

This was my second presidential museum, and it was pretty good. I appreciate the time and effort that people took in acknowledging the Gerold Ford for bringing up the USA on the top and in the time of need. It's a commendable job on part of the museum on keeping his legacy alive and every time you read or see anything you feel appreciation for Ford as being an incredible president in time when integrity was needed most, and that's the theme you can see all around the museum. The oval offices and cabinet room replicas are really worth to see and watch, do spend time on the computers screen as you can know more about the artifacts that are there like the secret door, if you can spot it. All the pictures from his navy days college football days and clipping were very well showcased as well as his departures. It's a great way to honor a president.

Presidential Museums and Libraries tend to be rather anti-climactic. There's just very little that you can put within that is not already a matter of public record, and aside from a few notables such as Lincoln, Kennedy, et al, there are few that accumulated any artifacts worth preserving, let alone showing to the public at large. With that said, the Gerald Ford Museum somehow accomplishes the impossible task of making one of America's least-interesting presidents appear even less interesting. I will avoid the temptation to discuss Ford's mediocre presidency...however, much like his pardon of Richard Nixon, his own museum seems a desperate, obvious, and ultimately failed attempt at revisionist history. A bias tempers every exhibit with an almost palpable slime; I literally felt as though there were some Ford Administration crony standing over my shoulder, whispering conservative talking points in my ear. And the asking price? Peh, the admission seems insulting, especially considering the moderate level of importance or interest invoked by the exhibits. I could care less about Ford's footballer days, or seeing the clothing of-da-times, especially when I can walk into a Goodwill and see those for free. In reality, this museum is an attempt to create interest where none deserves to be created - Ford was simply not that important of a public figure, and this building not that important of a Grand Rapids landmark. Pass.