Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum - New York

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Much to See at Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum

Franklin Delano Roosevelt, commonly known as FDR, was the thirty-second president of the United States. Many know FDR as saying, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself," in his inaugural address. He took office during the height of the Great Depression and was the only president ever to serve four terms. He was in charge of the nation during some of our hardest times, including World War II.

A very popular place for tourists to visit is the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum. It is located in Hyde Park, New York, just north of Poughkeepsie and alongside the Hudson River. Guests to the Library and Museum will find a number of interesting exhibits.

First Fifty Years Gallery

This exhibit details the early life of Roosevelt and is located on the main floor. You can see FDR’s baptismal gown, as well as letters he wrote to his mother.

The White House Desk

This is the actual desk used by FDR. It contains memorabilia, books, and even a pack of cigarettes. It is set up to look as it did on his last visit to the Oval Office.

The Presidential Years

This gallery takes people through the four terms of the FDR’s presidency, both the triumphs and the tribulations.

World War II

You can see the map room FDR used during World War II. This was a center for military information and communication.

Other exhibits in the museum include FDR’s Ford Phaeton, his study, which is located on the main floor. You can also see a gallery dedicated to the life and accomplishments of Eleanor Roosevelt.

The museum is open 9 AM to 5 PM from November through April, and then from 9 AM to 6 PM from May through October. The museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

The National Park service offers tickets to the Franklin Roosevelt Home, which includes admission to the Library and Museum, for $14. Children under 16 are free. If the tours to the Roosevelt Home are sold out, you can get a ticket to the museum for $7.

Don’t forget to visit the New Deal Museum Store as well. You can find a number of different souvenirs here, including clothing, mugs, books, posters and more. The store closes 15 minutes before the museum closes each day, so you should head there before it gets too near closing time.

You will find no better place to learn about the history of one of the most interesting Presidents in the United States. If you are traveling through the area, you should definitely stop by and see everything it has to offer.

The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum is located in historic Hyde Park, New York.  There are several hotel accommodations available in the area on HotelsCombined.com at reasonable rates.