The John F. Kennedy Library and Museum

“We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch-we are going back from whence we came.”

The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum overlooking Dorchester Bay is the official library of the 35th U.S. President. Set on a 10-acre park, the Kennedy Library  is housed in a dramatic glass and white concrete building that evokes the imagery of a ship . Whether you remember the 1960′s or consider the Camelot years as history, a visit to the library is an inspiring experience and a must-visit while in Boston.

The displays start with an introductory film, narrated by JFK himself, that describes his early interest in history that eventually led to a life in politics. In the galleries you can follow the 1960 Presidential election campaign trail. Here you can see memorabilia such as campaign  buttons that say “If I were 21, I’d vote for  Kennedy”  and hear Kennedy’s “New Frontier” speech in a mock-up of the 1960 Democratic Convention floor. Other period settings include replicas of the set of the Kennedy-Nixon debate, Kennedy’s Oval Office,  and the Attorney General office of Robert Kennedy.

Don’t miss the fascinating short film that examines the decision-making process of the Kennedy White House during the Cuban Missile Crisis. JFK’s role in enacting the Peace Corps, leading the race to space and promoting the civil rights movement is explored through video clips, documents, and artifacts.  The museum’s permanent collection also includes a popular exhibit of the late  Jackie Bouvier Kennedy’s early life and her influence as First Lady on American arts and culture of the day. On view are the Emmy award that she received for her White House Tour television special, clothing worn during her time as First Lady, and some of her personal effects- including the camera she used when she worked as a reporter for the Washington Times-Herald.

As you exit the gallery space be sure to spend some time in the museum’s spectacular  glass pavilion- the sweeping views of JFK’s beloved sea and Boston just across the harbor aren’t bad, either.

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum (Columbia Point, Dorchester)(Map), Red Line to JFK/UMass Station, then free JFK shuttle bus to the museum.

Image Credit: Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau, David Fox