John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is a nine-story concrete and glass building designed by I.M. Pei that rises on Columbia Point with views across Boston Harbor and the downtown skyline. The architecture combines clean geometric forms with expansive windows that bring natural light into the exhibition spaces.

The facility opened in 1979 under President Carter to preserve and present documents, photographs, and objects from John F. Kennedy's presidency to the public. Planning for the building began in the 1960s, but construction was delayed by debates over the location.

The museum displays a recreation of the Oval Office where visitors can imagine the president's workspace during critical decisions. Beyond political exhibits about the Space Race, the collection also preserves manuscripts and letters by Ernest Hemingway that document his connection to the Kennedy family.

Researchers can access more than 300,000 photographs, millions of documents, and thousands of audio recordings related to the Kennedy administration through the archive system. The exhibition spaces are wheelchair accessible, and the building offers several terraces with water views.

The museum displays personal items from the Kennedy family, including the president's rocking chair and objects from his desk in the White House. The library also houses an archive of Robert Kennedy's speeches and correspondence from his time as attorney general.

Location: Dorchester

Inception: 1979

Architects: I. M. Pei

Elevation above the sea: 7 m

Fee: Yes

Part of: Presidential libraries system

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00-17:00

Phone: +16175141600

Email: kennedy.library@nara.gov

Website: https://jfklibrary.org

GPS coordinates: 42.31361,-71.03333

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:56