Skip to content
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, Grand Rapids, MI
MuseumsHistory BuffRainy-Day Pick

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

303 Pearl St NW · Grand Rapids, MI

Why you should go…

This triangular museum on the west bank of the Grand River tells the story of Gerald Ford, the 38th president, and his wife Betty, who are both buried on the grounds. You step into a full-scale replica of Ford's Oval Office and an interactive Cabinet Room, and a Watergate gallery begins its story with the June 1972 break-in. A 300-foot glass wall looks out over the river, and changing exhibits rotate through the year.

  • #presidential museum
  • #american history
  • #oval office replica
  • #presidential gravesite

Good to know

General museums guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Check the special exhibition separately

    Touring shows usually carry their own ticket and their own opening hours, listed apart from general admission.

  • Look for the free window

    Many museums run community days, member evenings, or discounted late openings. It is worth a look before you pay full price.

  • Travel light through the door

    Large bags and backpacks often have to go to a coat check, and lines for it move slowly at opening.

  • Weekday mornings beat weekend afternoons

    School groups clear out by early afternoon midweek, while weekends stay busy from late morning on.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, ordered by straight-line distance.

  • Attractions
    Family Favorite

    Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

    $25–$50

    Stroll 158 acres of gardens dotted with more than 200 sculptures, plus a Japanese garden and a five-story tropical conservatory.

    4.5 mi awaySwitch it up: Attractions

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Holland

    Free

    West Michigan lakeshore city known for its Dutch heritage, tulip festival and Lake Michigan beaches.

    25 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Muskegon County

    Free

    Michigan's Lake Michigan shoreline county, known for its beaches, lighthouses, and outdoor recreation.

    35 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Attractions
    Family Favorite

    Michigan's Adventure

    $50+

    Ride seven roller coasters and splash through a waterpark at Michigan's largest amusement park, north of Muskegon.

    40 mi awaySwitch it up: Attractions

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Kalamazoo

    Free

    Convention and visitors bureau for Kalamazoo, Michigan, covering hotels, dining, trails and things to do.

    47 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing