About Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum
The Ford Presidential Library (in Ann Arbor, Michigan) and the Museum (in Grand Rapids, Michigan) promote popular interest and scholarly research in U.S. history during the post-World War II era, especially the Ford presidency (1974-1977). The Library collects and preserves the archival record, and aids public access. Where the Ford Presidential Library offers an analytic approach to our past and our government, the Museum provokes emotions that stimulate learning, reflection and a sense of democratic citizenship. For visitors, the presidency is theirs to see and touch through interactive exhibits featuring full-scale replicas of the Oval Office and the Cabinet Room and displays on life in the 1970s and Watergate. The Museum presents an ambitious program of temporary exhibits and special events. Both the Library and the Museum are part of the presidential library system administered by the National Archives and Records Administration, a Federal agency. The Ford Museum opened to the public in September 1981. Unlike other presidential libraries, the Museum component is geographically separate from the Library. Despite the separation, the Library and Museum are a single institution sharing one director.
How to Get There
From the north: US 131 south to Pearl Street exit (Exit 85 B). Turn left (east) onto Pearl at the light to Museum entrance. Turn left (north) into parking lot. From the south: US 131 north to Pearl Street exit. Turn right (East) onto Pearl to Museum entrance. North into parking lot. From the east: Interstate 196 west to Ottawa Street exit. South on Ottawa to Pearl. Right (west) on Pearl to Museum entrance. Right (north) into parking lot. From the west: Interstate 196 east to US 131 south to Pearl Street exit (Exit 85 B). Turn left (east) onto Pearl at the light to Museum entrance. Turn left (north) into parking lot.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum
Heading to Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum?
No central reservation system listed for Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/200007) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum?
From the north: US 131 south to Pearl Street exit (Exit 85 B). Turn left (east) onto Pearl at the light to Museum entrance. Turn left (north) into parking lot. From the south: US 131 north to Pearl Street exit. Turn right (East) onto Pearl to Museum entrance. North into parking lot. From the east: Interstate 196 west to Ottawa Street exit. South on Ottawa to Pearl. Right (west) on Pearl to Museum …
How do I contact Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum?
You can reach the park at phone: (616) 254-0400 or email: ford.museum@nara.gov.
References & Official Resources
