Family travel five: Presidential libraries open the pages of history

(MCT) — Visit a presidential library with your family to explore our country's history and learn more about the leaders who helped shape it. Located from Massachusetts to California, the many presidential libraries offer museums, lectures, educational programs and interactive exhibits that are often free or discounted for children. Here are five stops on the presidential learning path.

1. Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, West Branch, Iowa.

Learn about Iowa's only president at this library and museum designed to appeal to all ages. The permanent galleries begin with Hoover's boyhood and continue to the Waldorf Towers in New York where he spent his final years. The museum is on the grounds of the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, where families also can tour Hoover's birthplace cottage, a blacksmith shop and a Quaker meetinghouse.

Contact: 319-643-5301; www.hoover.archives.gov

2. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston.

The Kennedy Library offers family programs throughout the year paired with the permanent collection, special exhibits and other presentations relating to the life and legacy of John F. Kennedy. Families can expect programs ranging from theatrical and musical performances for children to family guides and temporary exhibits.

Contact: 1-866-535-1960; www.jfklibrary.org

3. Ronald Reagan Library and Museum, Simi Valley, Calif.

President Reagan's vision of face-to-face diplomacy was paramount in his efforts to promote peace and democracy worldwide. Go aboard the Air Force One, on loan from the Air Force, that flew him more than 660,000 miles to 26 foreign countries and 46 U.S. states. Kids will also enjoy viewing one of his limousines and Secret Service vehicles as part of an exhibit on presidential motorcades. Don't miss the presentation on the fall of the Berlin Wall that has a 9 1/2-foot-tall piece of the barrier.

Contact: 805-577-4000; www.ronaldreaganmemorial.com

4. Jimmy Carter Library & Museum, Atlanta.

President Carter's life and work were celebrated during the recent reopening of the renovated library and museum. View photographs and historical memorabilia from Carter's four years in office, as well as a replica of the Oval Office and gifts received by the Carters during his presidency. A permanent exhibit of significant events during his life and political career includes photographs with interpretive text.

Contact: 404-865-7100; www.jimmycarterlibrary.gov

5. Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, Abilene, Kan.

Visit this presidential treasure trove to learn about Ike's life in the military and in politics. In 30,000 square feet of gallery, you'll see unique gifts and art objects given to the first family. Kids will enjoy a fun and educational scavenger hunt that will help them understand the dreams of a boy born in Denison, Texas, and raised in the heartland.

Contact: 1-877-746-4453; www.eisenhower.archives.gov

(Lynn O'Rourke Hayes is editor of FamilyTravel.com lohayesfamilytravel.com)

(c) 2009, The Dallas Morning News.