Reagan Library: Is It Worth It?
Have you heard about the Reagan Library and are wondering if it’s worth the drive out? Read on for more details about the museum and our thoughts about whether the trip is worth it for you and your family.
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What Exactly is the Reagan Library?
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum (aka Reagan Library) is located in Simi Valley, California. You will find several artifacts throughout the museum that span the life of President Reagan. There is even a replica of the Oval Office as it appeared during the President’s time at the White House.
There are often special exhibits at the library. As of this writing, the library is currently presenting the Secrets of WW II Exhibit. Read all about the Secrets of WW II Exhibit in our post here: Reagan Library Secrets of WW II Exhibit: Tips for a Successful Mission!
Is the trip to Reagan Library Worth it?
It was our first trip out to the Reagan Library and we can tell you that it is ABSOLUTELY worth it! There were so many things to see and enjoy for visitors of all ages.
In no particular order, here is why we believe the visit to the Reagan Library is worth your time.
Walk through the President’s early years
It is pretty neat to see evidence of the President’s personal life before he became president. Walking through the exhibit, you’ll see Reagan’s charming smile shine through photographs. Some examples of what we saw included:
- Childhood family photos
- Old commercials from his acting days
- Love letters to Nancy Reagan
Nancy Reagan displays
There was an entire room dedicated to Nancy Reagan. In this room, you will see dresses she wore to special events. There were also several gifts on display from foreign dignitaries.
Oval Office Replica
One of our top two favorite parts about the Reagan Library was the Oval Office Replica. This room is a replica of what the President’s office looked like when he was in office. I found it comical that you can see of Jar of Jelly Belly jelly beans on one of the side tables as he was famously known for loving his jelly beans.
On a side note, read all about the Jelly Belly Factory Tour if you’re interested in checking it out! You can find more information about it in our post here: Jelly Belly Factory Tour: Is It Worth It?
Air Force One and security detail autos
Our second favorite part of the Reagan Library was the area with President Reagan’s Air Force One and security detail autos! You actually get to walk through the plane and it is so neat to think of all that took place on that plane. Of course, there were Jelly Belly jelly beans on the plane too 😉
Special Exhibits
The Reagan Library also has special exhibits. We recently walked through the Secrets of WW II exhibit and it was a treat to see both the exhibit and the museum in one day. You must purchase a separate ticket for exhibits. Read more about the Secrets of WW II exhibit in our post here: Reagan Library Secrets of WW II Exhibit: Secret Tips for A Successful Mission!
We look forward to heading out to the Reagan Library exhibit, An American Christmas Story coming this November and will share our experience with you soon!
Is Reagan Library boring for kids?
I would say there is something for EVERYBODY! Whether your kid is into fashion or planes, this museum has a little something for them.
My kids loved the following:
- Nancy Reagan dresses and gifts she received from foreign leaders.
- Oval office Replica
- Air Force One and limo
- Berlin Wall replica crawl through, and piece of the actual wall.
How much does it cost to visit Reagan Library?
General admission ranges from free for Active U. S. Military, to $16 for adult general admission. Tickets that include admission to BOTH the museum and exhibit range from free for Active U. S. Military to $29.95 for adult general admission. Head to their ticket information online for more details.
How long does it take to go through the Reagan Library?
You can expect to take about 3 to 4 hours to get through the library. There is a cafe on sight to purchase food if you get hungry.
Quick Facts
Address: 40 Presidential Drive
Simi Valley, CA 93065
Tickets: You can purchase tickets at the library or online HERE.
Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Parking: FREE!
Check out these posts!
Reagan Library Secrets of WW II Exhibit: Secret Tips for A Successful Mission!
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