Day-Trip Across Massachusetts: Homes, Libraries and Historic Sites of the Presidents

Being home to many historic events and landmarks, Massachusetts also has played an important role in the lives of some of the previous occupants of the Oval Office. For those looking to spend a fun day learning and experiencing history, take a ride to these historic sites of the Presidents!

John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museumhistoric sites of the presidents

The JFK Museum in Hyannis highlights both Kennedy’s days as Commander-in-Chief and his time spent on the Cape with family. Through multimedia exhibits, the Museum features videos and photographs spanning 1934 to 1963.

With special exhibits that rotate throughout the year, there is always something new to see for repeat visitors. Be sure to visit their websitehistoric sites of the presidents for an updated schedule of events that includes book signings, lectures and more.

A shore drive away on Lewis Bay is the JFK Memorial Park. Sit on the benches while watching the boats sail past in the bay.

John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Historic Site

The birthplace of President Kennedy, located at 83 Beals St, Brookline, is open seasonally to the public. Entrance to the Visitor Center is free; a fee is charged for visiting the house museum.

JFK Presidential Library and Museum

This striking building on Boston’s waterfront includes a research room, special exhibits, museum store, visitor programs and more.

Adams National Historic Parkhistoric sites of the presidents

Located 10 miles south of Boston in Quincy, the thirteen-acre park is comprised of the Birthplaces of John Adams and John Quincy Adams; the Old House at Peace field, home to four generations of the Adams family; and the Stone Library. Come explore the grounds and taken a guided tour.

Gray Gables

Known as the “Summer White House,” President Grover Cleveland and his family summered in an estate “Gray Gables” in Bourne that they purchased in 1890. The home remained in the family until it was sold in 1920 and converted into the Gray Gables Ocean House hotel. Today, a private home has been built on the site but the Gray Gables legacy lives on. A replica of the Gray Gables Railroad Station is on display at the Aptucxet Trading Post.  In addition, a shallow area of Buzzards Bay, Cleveland Ledge, was named after the former President. The nearby Cleveland East Ledge Light, which sits on a man-made island, is the first fixed market when going northbound through the canal.

Calvin Coolidge Presidential Library and Museum

Located at the Forbes Library in Northampton, where Coolidge practiced law and served as mayor, the library is open for tours and research. Visit their website for hours and information.