Modified on October 15, 2026
When you're visiting Grand Rapids, it's easy to fill your days with great restaurants, live music, art, shopping, and beautiful gardens. But if you're looking for an experience that connects our city to an important president during a turbulent time in America, be sure to visit the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.
Located along the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids, the museum tells the story of Gerald R. Ford, the 38th President of the United States, and his wife, Betty Ford. More than simply a presidential museum, it offers visitors a fascinating look at the people, events (including Watergate), and challenges that shaped America during the 1960s and 1970s.
A President with Deep Grand Rapids Roots
Gerald Ford wasn't born in Grand Rapids, the city that became the center of his life and political career. Before becoming president, Ford represented Michigan in the U.S. House of Representatives for nearly 25 years and eventually became Vice President before assuming the presidency in 1974.
Today, the museum traces the path from a young man in Grand Rapids to the highest office in the nation.
Step Inside the Oval Office
One of the museum's most memorable experiences is an exact replica of the Oval Office. Visitors can see the setting where President Ford worked and made decisions during a particularly challenging period in American history, namely Watergate and the Nixon pardon.
The permanent galleries take visitors through Ford's life, his presidency, domestic issues, international affairs, and the 1976 presidential election. Interactive exhibits, photographs, artifacts, films, and other displays help bring this period of history to life.
Believe it or not, the museum also features a reproduction of the White House Cabinet Room, where visitors can explore several major decisions from the Ford administration, including the pardon of Richard Nixon, the rescue of the crew of the SS Mayaguez, and New York City's financial crisis.
Don't Miss Betty Ford's Story
The museum also shines a spotlight on First Lady Betty Ford, whose life and influence extended far beyond her role in the White House.
Betty Ford became known for her openness and willingness to speak publicly about issues that were often considered private. Her story provides another fascinating perspective on the Ford presidency and the changing social landscape of America during the 1970s.
Together, the stories of Gerald and Betty Ford make the museum feel personal as well as historical.
A Beautiful Setting Along the Grand River
The museum's location is part of the experience. Situated along the Grand River and next to Ah-Nab-Awen Park, it's easy to combine your museum visit with a walk along the riverfront and a look at some of downtown Grand Rapids' other attractions.
The grounds also include the final resting place of President and Mrs. Ford. Their memorial gravesites can be viewed daily, providing a quiet place for reflection.
Plan Your Visit
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is located at 303 Pearl Street NW in downtown Grand Rapids, just minutes from The Leonard at Logan House. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Admission is currently $17 for adults, with reduced admission for seniors, military members, college students, and youth. Children under five are free, and parking is free for museum visitors.
The museum recommends allowing approximately 1½ to 2 hours to comfortably experience the exhibits, although history enthusiasts may want to spend considerably longer.
Make It Part of Your Grand Rapids Getaway
A visit to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is an excellent addition to a weekend in Grand Rapids. After an incredible breakfast, spend the morning exploring the museum and riverfront, enjoy lunch or coffee downtown, and then continue your day with shopping, a visit to Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, or dinner at one of Grand Rapids' outstanding restaurants.
And after a day of exploring the city, there's nothing quite like returning to the comfort and hospitality of the Leonard at Logan House Bed and Breakfast.
Whether you're a history buff, a political enthusiast, or simply curious about one of America's most unusual presidential journeys, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum offers a fascinating look at our nation's past—and an experience that's right here in the heart of Grand Rapids.