Reviews of John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum (Library)

Mark Lammers

Great history of a good man.

Max Pollak

This was my first Presidential Library, so I don't have anything to compare it against, and I also understand the bias that they have for JFK. With that being said, this was a really cool library and had a lot of information. I would have loved to see more/any interactive exhibits. There was also not a lot of info on JFK's death (understandably so). Overall this is a must go to if you are in Boston.

Ming

What a striking and magnificent building! John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum is really one-of-a-kind! You will find yourself enthralled in the history of life, leadership and legacy of John F. Kennedy, the thirty-fifth President of the United States. So much respect and admiration for his dedication and enthusiasm for public service! Lots of fascinating and eye-catching exhibits including his family photographs and political memorabilia! Given its strategic location, you will also be able to enjoy the panoramic views of the Boston Harbor! In a nutshell, don’t ever leave Boston without checking out the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum!

Neeraj Dalal

Space Fest 2019 to honor the 50th anniversary of landing on the moon was fun. The parking situation was tough but once i got in, i enjoyed it. The speakers were great and lots of family friendly activities. The museum was busy and warm on this hot hot day. Glad I visited once.

Ashley Stearns

One of the better presidential libraries I have been too. Very emersive and it flows well. Definitely recommended if you're in the area. It's convenient to get to from the T as well. They have a shuttle bus that will run from the T to the library.

Ramesh Ramakrishna

I’ve chosen to visit this museum more than ten times. They have a shuttle every twenty minutes from the JFK/UMass subway stop.

Danielle Hayman

This Presidential Library and Museum had a lot of very nice exhibits that stirred memories from my youth. There were many clips of newscasts and broadcasts about Kennedy. It was a smaller library and museum than I imagined it would be. I thought there would have been more information about the beginning of his political career, as well as more about how the relationship between JFK and his wife developed. As well as more of the fashion influence of Jackie. I still enjoyed everything very much!

Dick Krebs

Such a wonderful library. For a true American President. A must see!! We're from Minnesota and try to go every time in the area. Directly on the water. Can see JFK's sail boat as well. Spectacular building. Close your eyes and you can just picture all the Kennedy's around you. Fabulous pictures and stories of his past and presidency and assassination.

Chris Rogers

Throughout a wonderful journey through history.

Nikki Puurula

Amazing experience. Only downside was we went on a day where a ton of students also went. They took up all the space and never stopped talking.

JOHN MOHAMMED RACHID PAYNE

Wonderful. Great helpful and professional staff. A credit to the community of greater Boston and American history.

Divy Kangeyan

This was my first visit to a presidential library. Great architrcture and location for the library. Exhibits are also great. There are nice exhibits on great accomplishments of JFK such as space program, peace corps etc. But not much on blunders of JFK administration such as Bay of Pigs invasion or escalation of Vietnam war. I think it is important to show the mistakes along with the accomplishments so that future generations can learn from it!

NGUYEN VUONG

Very educational

Jessica

This has become one of my favorite public spaces in Boston. I’ve been three times within a few weeks and i find there is always something that i missed before. Permanent exhibit is thoughtful and inspiring and the JFK100 exhibit is very well done.

Jonny Smith

Amazing place to go visit, just wished I'd decided to go earlier in the day, turned up at 4 so only had an hour to wander round, but even still paying $14 it was fully worth it! Free parking is a bonus too after getting ripped off at other venues! Highly recommended, will be back again soon to spend a lot longer soaking up the life of JFK

Kayla Stiles

Got to the museum within an hour of them closing and got discounted admission ($5 per person). Museum was breathtaking, so much history. I am not much into museums, I get too antsy, however this museum was glorious. Many different exhibits. Wouldn't necessarily recommend for children who cannot read yet. This museum inspired me to be a better human being.

Kathy Pronti

So excited to go yesterday (6/10/19) afternoon. Got there at 2 pm only to find out closed for the afternoon for staff meeting. This was not posted on website till 3 pm. Many other disappointed people were there also.

John Cisetti

An inspiring visit. Lots of videos helped tell the story. We were there for a good three hours.

Vaishnavi Jawahar

Beautiful, awe-inspiring, well-done. Must visit for anyone in love with history or public service.

Chris Hudson

I visited JFK in April at 10 am. Hardly anyone there at that time. The seniors discount is great. A tour map is available and docents invite you to join their free walking tour with detailed info on all the exhibits. There are special areas set aside for profiles of Jackie K, Bobby K and Edward K. The JFK theme was mainly orientated to his political career. It would have been richer with more home movies and more interviews with friends and family about his life growing up, and his personality out of the sight of media. It seemed an interesting but shallow exploration of JFK with all his complexity. Unfortunately the gift shop with books, sweatshirts and replicas was closed for renovation. The cafe offers excellent soup sandwiches and tea or coffee, drinks etc.

Eric Lyle

Wonderful experience. As a “young” person, I learned a lot about a man who inspired the US.

Joseph Sorbino

It was a wonderful experience & my two teenagers thought it was amazing.

Megan

This is a must see for any history buff! After hearing mixed reviews from friends I decided to check it out and I am glad I did. It is a neat library to learn about Kennedy's election and what he did while he was in office. Sadly I think everyone knows what happened, but I am glad his assassination and that day was mainly left out. If you want to learn more about that you can visit Dallas. I would recommend anyone to check it out if you happen to be in the area!

Johnathan Farrington

While I personally am not much of a museum person, this is one that will blow anyone away. Everything from the incredible items within such as a piece of the Berlin wall, to the incredible architecture of the building itself. For sure a must see while in the Boston area! There is a guided tour as well as self guided tour, it is a very open way of taking your time, or speeding through, the hallways lined with information about one of the most memorable presidents that America has ever seen. Probably not necessarily the best place for younger kids, probably at least 11 or 12 for the youngest age. Some of the content may not be fully grasped by younger kids, and there are some scenes in videos that may scare young ones.

Zainab Al-Habibi

Beautiful arciticture and enjoyable trip. The design of the museum brings history and entertainment together. There is creativity in presentation. It does student and child discount. Take your kids there, let them know history in a fun way. This museum is located in a nice area near the water good for walks and taking pictures.

Christina La

Really nice exhibit about the life and presidency of John F. Kennedy. They have a lot of good footage amd sound bites of JFK during different periods. Personally would have liked to see more interactive displays as well as information on some of the less than wonderful (but equally interesting) things that went on behind the scenes of his life and administration.

Tracey Oliver

Fantastic museum about the life of JFK. Beautiful building and views of the water. Great movie on his life. So many exhibits about his life, family and presidency. Also the sad history of his assassination. I remember that day along with anyone alive that day. I am the exact same age as his daughter Caroline and watched their lives in the White House in the early 60's. Such a wonderful and sad legacy. The day we were there is when the young, beautiful Kennedy cousin Saoirse died. More tragedy for that family. Even the restroom was amazing. The sink had an automatic water, soap and hand dryer all in a row. Wonderful gift shop. A great museum.

Jennifer Kate

The library is easily accessible by train-- get off the metro at the JFK/UMass stop, and walk about a mile there (or maybe investigate a shuttle or bus). You can take the harbor route, or walk along Mt Vernon St. My family and I visited this library and museum, dedicated to one of our most duty-bound and integrity-filled presidents. I left feeling truly inspired and introspective. Artifacts, quotes, speeches, documents, films and commentary tell the story of a truly great man's life. Major exhibits focus on his childhood and schooling, his family, the campaign and inauguration, the first family's impact on the White House, his foreign and domestic policies, the Peace Corps, and his assassination. I did not see any major explanation or details examining the story behind that tragic event. JFK suffered from almost every serious childhood illness, yet became a decorated war veteran in WWII. He was endearing and charismatic. He promoted Civil Rights for African Americans, in a time when that sentiment was unpopular; believing that our constitution could not support discrimination --as all the "whites only" establishments did. His speeches were inspiring and memorable. I highly recommend taking the tour, which was free with our entrance fee. Sign up for the tour near the front desk You will get to know the man, his wife- First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, and his presidency. One of the best historical museums I have visited by far.

Eric Bergman

Stunningly beautiful building with harbor views. Museum offers informative film prior to exhibits. Having now visited seven presidential libraries, we found this one average, with very little interactive tools to enrich our experience, especially for my younger children. Could also use a more detailed cultural backdrop: music, film, poetry. Tour guides--or docents-- who provide context might also be helpful. Overall, well worth the visit.

Brandi Baldock

My husband and I are new to the city, and were absolutely delighted to visit this museum. It's the best one we've visited in years. The museum really made JFK the man come alive, and showcased his place in history. We definitely teared up by the end, and were rewarded with a spectacular view of the harbor at the end of our visit. Highly recommended.

Aleathia

Staff very accomodating and friendly..nice gift shop..enjoyable...enjoyed seeing campaign debate between Kennedy and Nixon...my, how far we have fallen in regard to political civility in this nation.

microsome Dude

Excellent museum about the life of JFK and the history he influenced. Spoiler: if you are looking for details about his assassination this is not the right place.

Alex

The museum strikes first with the beauty of the building and its location at the waterfront! Inside, you’ll meet friendly staff and experience life and work of one of the greatest presidents of the Unites States. The tour starts with a movie and you’ll continue trough a dozen of galleries dedicated to different years and topics of JFK’s political career. All of those were well organized and interesting to read and look at. Anyone visiting Boston should dedicate 2-3 hours and visit this great venue!

Shannon Topel

This was my first presidential library experience and it was wonderful. Reading his words gave me hope that maybe American can get back to greatness and to a place of tolerance. Reading the speech he was to give the day of his death was perhaps the greatest treasure the library has. I encourage all to visit and to get back to something greater than oneself.

Dawn Peters

This was an amazing experience! I was lucky enough to take the tour. Our tour guide was terrific ! I learned so much about the whole Kennedy family and politics during the 50’s & 60’s. It’s a beautiful & inspiring place to visit. A must see in Boston

Mary Izett

As a couple of visiting Brits we thought this was a really great museum, well thought out and put together. Gave us a good insight into the person and politician, and the climate of American politics at the time. Also lovely little cafe, very reasonably priced with great view of planes landing at the airport.

Quentin-Allen Fernandez

Such a beautiful place about the life and legacy of the 35th President of the United States.

G Aquino

JFK's political and personal life is well-documented and is probably the most covered among US Presidents. Those familiar with his story and the issues of the day will probably not learn anything new or surprising here, but might appreciate seeing memorabilia not just of the President but also his equally famous wife. Those who wish to learn more about him will probably find the exhibitions informative and insightful. There is also a small section of the museum dedicated to JFK's brother Robert, whose life also ended tragically when he was assassinated in 1968. The building is an architectural eye-candy and is an attraction in its own right. You can tell that it was designed specifically to wow visitors with sweeping views of Boston's skyline and harbor. The area, however, is a food desert so if you get hungry, the only option is the on-site cafeteria that serves simple breakfast, snacks, and meals. Thankfully, prices are fair and not hyper-inflated. For those taking public transportation, you can take the subway to the JFK/UMass station (red line) and then transfer via the free shuttle just outside the station. You can also walk from the subway station to the museum, which should take roughly 20 minutes for the average person.

Tammy Liu

Beautiful location, nice architecture, great 20 min video and lots of other interesting history about JFK!

Mattias Zackrisson

This is a good presidential museum, but maybe not in the same class as the Ronald Reagan museum in California. Still I liked it a lot even though the parking situation was terrible due an event.

George Mantis

Great but just shy of perfect. Excellent overall if you want to learn about JFK from his early life, through his political career, the 1960 campaign, and his Presidency (milestone events, Jackie’s role, life in the White House). Glad the 100 year exhibit was still there, too. The $15 admission is a bargain for what you get. Easily accessible by the “T” - the museum isn’t as far away as you might think. I deducted 1/2 star for each of two reasons. First, there’s precious little concerning how JFK first got the USA involved in the Vietnam conflict. My photo is pretty much all there is. Second, why is there no Apollo program exhibit, especially now for the 50th Anniversary of the Moon landing? The “virtual” exhibit is, frankly, a cop-out to this achievement and JFK’s inspiration thereof.

Jenna North

Absolutely amazing. I accidentally found this on Google maps. 100% the best part of the trip. Always have been a fan of JFK. Glad we added this last minute stop.

Ole Jik

Great history leader.

Cole Stecyk

The museum provides a detailed look into John F Kennedy’s time while serving as president. The tour starts with a short 15 minute video about JFK and his life up until his presidential election. The rest of the museum is divided into different sections for each of his different experiences while in office. There is an additional optional 15 minute video half way through the walking tour. Traveling at a slow pace and watching both videos, it look me 2-3 hours to make it all the way though.

James Fish

One of the best curated spaces I have visited. A masterclass in history. Picture shows the inscribed coconut that saved JFK and his crew.

Terri McBride

We have been to every presidential library except two and this is at the top. The library tour flows through JFK's political career with a lot of family information. There is also a lot of film footage of key events. Kennedy taped the conversations that took place when determining how to handle the Cuban missile crisis. These conversations are overlaid with video footage. The building and grounds are worth the alone. If this review was helpful to you please give it a like.

Andre Monette

Go if you have the chance, there is great history here. I like the Johnson ranch better.

Telisa Hampton

Its fun im from Boston and i went there servals times its okay sometimes its get boring but it fun im 39 years old bow i rake my kids there my wife said its history i said yes Boston is my city i went there i saw somebody who famous his name is Mark wahlberg i said welcome back to Boston where beantown im happy to meet famous people from Boston

Adam Homeyer

Gorgeous building and exhibits paint a picture of JFKs remarkable life and legacy.

Mohamed Malih

14$ per adult.. The best way to understand and live with president jfk

Nick Ellis

World class museum focusing on life and presidency of JFK. Bit of an effort to get to, but worth it. Tons of docs and items (top hat and gloves from inauguration. Great 20 min film for an intro and a pretty cool 10 min film on Cuban Missile Crisis. We are history buffs and spent about 3 hrs and could've taken even longer. Only downer is they only have a little cafe where you pick up pre-packaged food and nothing nice close by.

Tim Lam

If you wanted a one stop shop for everything JFK this is it. This museum will help you understand how JFK came to become the leader of the free world. There are a lot of artifacts of of his childhood leading up to his presidency. There are also other exhibits that showcase the accomplishments of the other Kennedy’s that have placed their stamp on history. You will want to give yourself 2-3 hours to get through from beginning to end.

Mark Angel

The John F. Kennedy Library is the presidential library of the 35th President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, located in the corner of Columbia, Dorchester, in the suburbs of Boston. The library was designed by IM Pei. The building is the official location of the Kennedy Government's original materials and correspondence, including a variety of special materials. In 1979, the then US President Jimmy Carter and members of the Kennedy family unveiled libraries and museums.

Rocky Cole

The library does not tell the complete story of Kennedy's life, does not dive deep into his policies or political views, and really touches on most things superficially. In addition, they are very stingy with exhibits -- despite sitting on top of the greatest collection of Kennedy artifacts in the world, the vast majority of the documents displayed are facsimiles. Easily the worst presidential library I've been to (and I've been to a few).

Kaity Waite

Amazing. Brilliant. Beautiful. Favorite place in Boston.

Byron Ng

A trip to Boston isn’t complete without a stop to the presidential library of one of America’s most influential leaders. The life of JFK perfectly put on display, chronicling his early days, rise to political prominence, all the way to his untimely passing. As a Canadian not engrossed in too much US history, the trip was certainly well worth the price of admission.

Alex H

The museum exhibit oftentimes dips into hagiography, but I suppose that’s to be expected in a presidential library. Other than that, it doesn’t have much to offer visitors - but why else would you come?

Jennifer Hagen

I wasn't sure what to expect but I really enjoyed it. It begins with a 20 minute movie to get you up to speed on JFK to the point if the 1960 democratic convention nomination. The museum exhibits begin at this point. My parents, husband, and I were very interested in the exhibits and quite enjoyed ourselves. My 13 year old was mildly interested and my 7 year old not at all interested. Keep in mind if you have small children. Small cafe with soup, salad, boxed sandwiches, pizza slices. Reasonably priced. Easy to get to on the red line of the T with a short ride on a shuttle bus.

Steven F.

Great library and museum full of a ton of fun interesting facts about jfk. We took the tour (which is free) and were able to learn a ton about jfk's life and political career. I would highly recommend the tour.

Mandy Kirby

A little of history that has been commemerated in such a tasteful manner. It is a fabulous tribute to such an iconic figure in American presidential history. Loved how they had so many things there for Jackie as well

Bobby Guliani

One of the finest event venues and library in the country. A must see for all JFK fans.

Paul J

Amazing place from the beautiful building on the waterfront to the thoughtfully laid out exhibits. Going from the almost dark warehouse-like campaign exhibits to the bright and posh White House decor is quite the transformation to walk through. I've been here several times and the staff is always very friendly and helpful. This time I caught part of the guided tour which I highly recommend. Get there early and plan on spending a minimum of 2 or 3 hours. Definitely catch the short film when you first walk in as well as the one in the Cuban Missile Crises. Both very interesting and informative. Before, or after, take a walk on the harborwalk next to the museum and take in the architecture of the building and amazing water views. The only drawback, and the reason for 4 stars and not 5, is there's not enough on display considering what must be stored in the 7 stories above the exhibit. Especially pertaining to his personal life. Also, there's a treasure of Ernest Hemingway's personal items stored up there as well and they barely scratch the surface on it. There's 100 milestones and mementos" on display through Nov. 2019 that might be easy to miss if you're not aware of it that's worth checking out as well.

Mark O'Connor

A sensitive and nuanced compilation of audiovisual material, personal artifact and official papers covering seminal moments in JFKs rise to power and subsequent presidency. . A love and respect for JFK infuses this place, as it should. I’m British, and once Americans are over the embarrassment of electing Trump they could do worse than smooth and balm their wounds with the integrity, honesty and service to country that is found here and will still be here long after Trump Towers has fallen. Thank you Mr President

Caleb Kempf

What an amazing place. Located right on the water, this venue is awe-inspiring. Really does justice to JFK. A well-paced guided tour hits on the main points in each room but also gives time for everyone on the tour to really immerse themselves in the exhibits. Would love to visit again.

S A

A great place to see life of the 35th president. There are a lot of things to see here. Family friendly. Beautiful place as well. You will definitely love this place. Have a nice day

Per Stobbe

Worth to spend some hours understanding better a visionary, intelligent man and his honest dream for improving life for humans globally. See the movies, which makes us remember we were close to a nuclear war under the Cuba crises. Bring a sweater as its unnecessary cold inside.

Skirman

Amazing place to visit with family and kid. I remember going with my 7 grade class and it was truly a really fun experience and we got to learn a lot about history. I’m looking forward to going back an visit again with my younger brother and ma niece. Also this place has a nice view and it really nice for taking Instagram worthy pictures. The structure of the building it really nice too and appealing to the eyes.

mark p bryant

Just returned to Kentucky from Granddaddy’s Historical Adventure to the John F. Kennedy Library with my 11 and 12 year old grandchildren and it was fantastic! The building itself is a piece of art but the displays and movies about President Kennedy’s life and Presidency were superb enough to keep Children’s attention and draw their approval. President Kennedy remains a hero to many in my generation. I would go again!

Victor Wang

Absolutely amazing museum that everyone in the Boston area should check out at least once. This place is filled with amazing details of JFK's life from the start to the end with all the context. The admission price is being reasonable especially considering the architecture is stunning. The 6 story all glass foyer is a sight to behold. Information wasn't overwhelming and the museum isn't so large as to take all day. The small videos playing at many artifact displays were concise and well made. They even participate in Bank of America's Museums on Us program.

Kim Bosshardt

First presidential visit. Check in on a Saturday at 10 am was a nightmare. Website difficult to buy tickets—had to dig. Should have kiosks. Volunteers and staff were very friendly and pleasant. Beautiful museum. Interesting glimpse of history. Many videos and archives from the family.

Danny Kelly

Love the Gorgeously Painted Sweatshirts! ! !

shlomoh samuel

An exemplary embodiment of the American spirit and soul! The museum was a living testimony of America from the past and it's future. The design was the best, starting from his early life to the culmination at his inaugural address.

Amanda Culver

I loved reading and listening about JFKs background, history and milestones. I learned so much about a man I knew so little about.

Leopoldo Weaver

If you want to see some great history take the time to venture over to the JFK library and take the time to see some history from the early 60’s. Some great Items you can view and hear some first hand. There is great detail about the highlights of his shortened term, ending, of course, with his assassination. You end by going out into a tremendous room with about a 4-story ceiling and a view out over Boston Harbor.

Gustavo Hüning

Good way to learn about JFK life and achievements.

Toni60WA

One of the most interesting places I have ever been to. Fascinating historical events documented in film and photographs of John F.Kennedy. Private and political life. Sensational footage of Senate and presidential campaigns and inspirational speeches and also his inauguration.

Sam Rogers

The first museum and library I've visited and this is definitely more museum than library. Interactive exhibits take you through his political life from being elected senator, DNC nomination and his presidential career. The exhibits are well thought out and interesting and spent a happy 3 hours walking round. If you visit and are politically minded then do visit the Edward Kennedy Senate experience next door, tell them you visited the JFK museum for discounted entry and learn more about the US Senate. Free parking.

周涵

Amazing building wild with JFK's letters.