Learn about 8 years of American history in the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. This multimedia, interactive museum chronicles the major events of the 43rd president's time in office, offering a behind-the-scenes look at running the country.
The library is part of a national tradition to record and display the service of past presidents. Bush’s library is the 13th of its kind and opened in 2013. Browse the archives of digital and physical records from the two terms served between 2001 and 2009. The archives also contain gifts he received from other heads of state during his time in office.
Trace the highs and lows of his career in the museum, which captures some of the major events of his time as president. Remember the events of September 11, 2001, in the exhibit A Nation Under Attack, which centers around an installation of steel beams from the World Trade Center.
Imagine yourself as the president when you step inside the Decision Points Theater, an interactive room that invites you to face the same critical decisions as President Bush. The Freedom Hall features a wall of screens with multimedia clips chronicling the history of his two terms, while one room contains a to-scale recreation of the Oval Office.
The museum also hosts a range of temporary exhibitions on presidential themes. Ask what is on display when you visit. Past topics have included the First Ladies of the United States and the White House’s relationship with baseball.
The library and museum are part of the wider George W. Bush Presidential Center. Explore the grounds of the center, which includes a garden of native Texas plants, two restaurants and gift shop.
The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum is open throughout the year, except on holidays. Find it on the campus of the Southern Methodist University, about 15 minutes’ drive north of Dallas’ Downtown neighborhood. Metered parking is available on site. Use the city’s DART system to reach the attraction via public transportation.
