Top 10 Presidential Sites for Kids to Visit: Museums, Libraries, and Estates

Exploring the lives and legacies of U.S. presidents is a fantastic way to make history come alive for kids. From interactive museum exhibits to historic homes and sprawling estates, presidential sites offer hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity and teach kids about leadership, democracy, and the nation’s past. At Presidents For Kids, we’ve curated a list of the 10 best presidential sites for kids to visit, including museums, libraries, and estates across the U.S. These family-friendly destinations feature engaging activities, artifacts, and stories that make history fun and educational for young learners. Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable historical adventure!

Why Visit Presidential Sites with Kids?

Presidential sites—museums, libraries, and historic estates—offer immersive experiences that bring U.S. history to life. Kids can walk through replicas of the Oval Office, explore the homes where presidents lived, and interact with exhibits designed to engage young minds. These sites combine education with entertainment, making them perfect for homeschoolers, family road trips, or history-loving kids eager to learn about America’s leaders.

Top 10 Presidential Sites for Kids to Visit

1. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (Springfield, IL)

Overview: This state-run museum offers interactive exhibits on Abraham Lincoln’s life, from his log cabin beginnings to his presidency during the Civil War.

Why It’s Great for Kids: Features a kid-friendly “Mrs. Lincoln’s Attic” play area, holographic theater, and life-sized dioramas of key moments like the Gettysburg Address.

Best For: Ages 6–14 who enjoy interactive storytelling.

Address: 212 N 6th St, Springfield, IL 62701

2. Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum (Hyde Park, NY)

Overview: The first presidential library, located on FDR’s family estate, showcases his leadership through the Great Depression and World War II.

Why It’s Great for Kids: Offers interactive “fireside chat” exhibits, a scavenger hunt, and tours of FDR’s home, Springwood, with kid-friendly guides.

Best For: Ages 8+ interested in immersive history.

Address: 4079 Albany Post Rd, Hyde Park, NY 12538

3. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum (Boston, MA)

Overview: Located on a scenic waterfront, this I.M. Pei-designed museum explores JFK’s life, presidency, and the Space Race.

Why It’s Great for Kids: Features a replica of the Oval Office, kid-oriented exhibits on Jacqueline Kennedy, and hands-on activities like designing a campaign poster.

Best For: Ages 10+ who love modern history and architecture.

Address: Columbia Point, Boston, MA 02125

4. Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum (Simi Valley, CA)

Overview: This expansive library features exhibits on Reagan’s Hollywood career, presidency, and the Cold War, plus an Air Force One plane.

Why It’s Great for Kids: Kids can board the actual Air Force One, role-play in a White House set, and enjoy outdoor gardens perfect for a break.

Best For: Ages 7+ who enjoy planes and interactive exhibits.

Address: 40 Presidential Dr, Simi Valley, CA 93065

5. George Washington’s Mount Vernon (Mount Vernon, VA)

Overview: George Washington’s historic estate includes his mansion, gardens, and a museum with interactive exhibits on the first president.

Why It’s Great for Kids: Offers hands-on activities like colonial games, a 4D theater, and a chance to meet “George Washington” interpreters.

Best For: Ages 5–12 interested in colonial life.

Address: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy, Mount Vernon, VA 22121

6. Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library and Museum (Austin, TX)

Overview: Located on the University of Texas campus, this 10-story library highlights LBJ’s Great Society programs and the Civil Rights Movement.

Why It’s Great for Kids: Features an animatronic LBJ telling stories, a replica Oval Office, and kid-friendly exhibits on space exploration.

Best For: Ages 8+ who enjoy storytelling and technology.

Address: 2313 Red River St, Austin, TX 78705

7. Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museums (Fremont, OH)

Overview: The oldest presidential library, located on Hayes’ Spiegel Grove estate, includes his Victorian home and a museum.

Why It’s Great for Kids: Offers free admission, kid-oriented tours of the Hayes home, and outdoor trails for family exploration.

Best For: Ages 6–12 who love historic homes and nature.

Address: Spiegel Grove, Fremont, OH 43420

8. Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site (New York, NY)

Overview: A recreated brownstone in Manhattan where Teddy Roosevelt was born, featuring period rooms and exhibits on his early life.

Why It’s Great for Kids: Guided tours include kid-friendly stories about TR’s childhood, plus hands-on activities like writing with a quill pen.

Best For: Ages 7+ interested in urban history and adventure.

Address: 28 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003

9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum (Independence, MO)

Overview: This museum covers Truman’s presidency, including World War II and the Korean War, with a focus on his humble roots.

Why It’s Great for Kids: Features a kids’ section with games, a replica Oval Office, and a courtyard where Truman is buried.

Best For: Ages 8+ who enjoy personal stories and WWII history.

Address: 500 W US Hwy 24, Independence, MO 64050

10. William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum (Little Rock, AR)

Overview: Located in a modern facility, this library showcases Bill Clinton’s presidency with exhibits on the 1990s and global issues.

Why It’s Great for Kids: Includes a replica Oval Office, interactive policy exhibits, and a nearby park for family relaxation.

Best For: Ages 10+ interested in recent history and politics.

Address: 1200 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201

Tips for Visiting Presidential Sites with Kids

1. Plan Kid-Friendly Activities: Check for scavenger hunts (FDR Library), play areas (Lincoln Museum), or interactive exhibits (Reagan Library’s Air Force One).
2. Combine with Local Attractions: Pair visits with nearby kid-friendly spots, like the Culinary Institute near FDR’s estate or Disneyland near Nixon’s library.
3. Check Admission Costs: Some sites, like Hayes’ library, are free, while others charge $3–$18. Look for family discounts or Blue Star Museum free entry for military families.
4. Use the Passport Program: Pick up a National Archives Passport to collect stamps at each presidential library for a fun keepsake.
5. Prepare for Learning Styles: Visual learners will love LBJ’s animatronic exhibits, while hands-on kids will enjoy Mount Vernon’s colonial games.

Why These Presidential Sites Stand Out

These top 10 presidential sites were chosen for their kid-friendly engagement, historical significance, and geographic diversity. From the interactive Air Force One at the Reagan Library to the colonial charm of Mount Vernon, each site offers unique experiences that cater to young learners. Managed by the National Archives, state governments, or historical societies, these locations provide authentic artifacts, immersive exhibits, and family-oriented programs that make history accessible and exciting.

Plan Your Presidential Adventure Today!

These presidential museums, libraries, and estates offer unforgettable experiences that teach kids about U.S. history while keeping them entertained. Whether you’re exploring Lincoln’s legacy in Illinois or walking Washington’s estate in Virginia, these sites are perfect for family outings or homeschool field trips. Visit Presidents For Kids for more resources, including presidential fun facts and activities to inspire your child’s love for history!