George Bush Presidential Library and Museum
George Bush Presidential Library and Museum
George Bush Presidential Library and Museum
5
Speciality Museums • Libraries • History Museums
Read more
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
About
The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum is a research institution and academic environment dedicated to the preservation, research and exhibit of official records, personal papers and memorabilia from the life and career of George H.W. Bush, the 41st President of the United States, with more than 43 million pages of official and personal papers, 2 million photos, 2,500 hours of videotape and 100,000 museum objects. Covering much of U.S. history since 1941, the library and museum features a World War II Avenger Torpedo Bomber, a 1947 Studebaker, a piece of the Berlin Wall, and precise replicas of President Bush's Oval Office, Camp David office and White House Situation Room. The museum also features a temporary exhibit gallery which lends to an ever-changing museum to visit. Museum hours are Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listing
Full view
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience nearby attractions
The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
236 within 3 miles
Attractions
38 within 6 miles
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
1,261 reviews
Excellent
1,004
Very good
210
Average
42
Poor
5
Terrible
1
valcot
Tonypandy, UK122 contributions
Dec 2022 • Couples
Really comprehensive and very informative museum all about President George H W Bush. Really friendly greeting from one of the museum staff who explained about the layout of the museum, and answered any questions. This isn't a museum where everything is behind a cordon, with 'don't touch' signs everywhere. There is lots to explore, buttons to press, doors to open and a lot to learn, without realising you're doing so! We enjoyed seeing the Presidential limousine, the replica of the Oval Office, where you're welcome to sit at the desk and pretend you're the leader of the free world! The situation room was also really interesting and you get to experience the tension there. There's a video about the life of the 41st President and we found this to be a good scene setter. The only negative were the prices in the souvenir shop. It's got a terrific range of merchandise but many of the prices were way above what seems reasonable. However entry to the museum itself is incredibly good value.
Written December 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Susan M
Corpus Christi, TX234 contributions
Feb 2022
I had been wanting to visit for a long time and was able to work it in on the way home from a trip up north. Right now you have to buy your ticket online ahead of time and only so many people are allowed in at once, which I loved as it wasn't too crowded. I only had to wait twice to see a particular exhibit. I knew a lot about Bush but still learned a few things and loved the visuals. Actually seeing an exhibit for each of the hats he wore during his career was awe-inspiring! I walked around the pond and over to pay my respects at the graveside. In all, I was there two hours (and could have spent a lot more time). The emphasis on public service was notable.
Written March 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MelissaWP
Shorewood, IL436 contributions
Mar 2022
We spent 4 hours here because there was so much to see in this large, beautiful, very well organized and very well appointed space. We started by admiring the sculptures outside and walking the path around the pond out back leading to their gravesites, which was a very moving surprise as we had no idea beforehand they were buried there until we discovered it in our online research for this trip. The exhibits were so well done that we were so fascinated and in awe and not at all bored at any point. We especially appreciated the intimate stories and artifacts from his service as a young man in WWII. Bravo to the GHW Bush Library.
Written May 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
NemoTraveler
Aarhus, Denmark567 contributions
Apr 2022
The Library and Museum is located on the campus of the Texas A&M University in College Station. Free parking is available in front of the museum.
The history of George H. W. Bush is long and fascinating and his presidency includes the fall of the Berlin Wall and the Kuwait/Iraq war. The museum gives a good understanding of his long service to the public with several interesting exhibits such as a WWII Avenger Torpedo Bomber and a replica of Bush’s Camp David room. Also, the museum has a section dedicated to the First Lady.
The Bush Family Gravesite is situated within a short walk in a quiet and beautiful area, and is also worth a visit.
The volunteers were very friendly and helpful and did a wonderful job. The Museum is definitely worth a visit.
The history of George H. W. Bush is long and fascinating and his presidency includes the fall of the Berlin Wall and the Kuwait/Iraq war. The museum gives a good understanding of his long service to the public with several interesting exhibits such as a WWII Avenger Torpedo Bomber and a replica of Bush’s Camp David room. Also, the museum has a section dedicated to the First Lady.
The Bush Family Gravesite is situated within a short walk in a quiet and beautiful area, and is also worth a visit.
The volunteers were very friendly and helpful and did a wonderful job. The Museum is definitely worth a visit.
Written May 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Donald R
1 contribution
May 2021 • Family
Do not be mislead! The $10.00 charge only covers an immigration section with some paintings by Bush. There is no sign or other way to tell the customer that the library and museum are closed. When the elderly employees were questioned about a complete scam they shrugged their shoulders. The old man at the temperature screening desk takes himself far too seriously. This was a huge disappointment and a total deception. Don't waste your time or money!
Written May 13, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I believe you actually visited the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum in Dallas, and not the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum in College Station, so this review is on the wrong page.
I'm sorry you had a bad experience. Due to COVID restrictions, capacity and available exhibits have been greatly reduced. I hope you're willing to try them again when everything is back open again.
Written July 6, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Valerie M
Kansas City, MO465 contributions
Jul 2021
Our visit was fantastic and we spent 2 hours going through the exhibits. The family history and accompanying artifacts were interesting and a great segue into President Bush's twelve years in office (8 as VP and 4 as President). For those of us who lined up for hours on college campuses to vote the Reagan/Bush ticket in 1980, the museum is a perfect memory. Well done! Highly recommended! Be sure to take the time to walk through the rose garden to the resting places of President and Mrs. Bush - it was nice to see that Robin was with them.
Written July 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Disneybus
Pittsgrove, NJ770 contributions
May 2022
A great museum in fine tribute to George & Barbara. My wife and I made the trip in quest of visiting the Presidential cemeteries (33 now). When you arrive at the museum, we recommend, before entering the building, visiting the beautiful pond, Barbara's garden, and the cemetery located in the rear of the building. You walk down the side of the building to access the area. You will want to go early to the avoid the afternoon heat. Unbelievable landscape and peaceful reflection. You start your self guided tour inside with a fine movie as a way of introduction on George's legacy. Then you visit the various rooms in chronological order. As with many presidents, there were move events in the presidency than remembered; from Gorbachev, Dessert Storm, and unadvised tax reform, to the humorous side with Dana Carvey and SNL. There's a great review of Barbara's accomplishments as well. The museum is spacious and well designed. Of course the obligatory gift shop is available on the way out. We thought it odd that there were no bookmarks available for purchase, as Barbara's platform was literacy. We left with continued respect for 41.
Written May 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hopalongrving
Mississippi999 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
We cannot recommend this library enough; it truly is the best of the best. For $9 max (discounts for youth, military, students and seniors - children under 5 free) you get to immerse yourself in a chronological history of the Bush family. We left the library with even more respect and admiration for the individuals who make the decision to represent our country. Included in your entrance is an audio tour, each section has a corresponding number and gives a brief overview. Many of the audio files include actual audio from President Bush and Barbara. Hearing them speak of their love as well as the trials and tribulations they endured was beyond powerful. Each display was well thought out; with quotes, informational plaques, interactive displays and a mixture of audio/video there was something for every one. Hands down one of our favorite spots in the museum was in the children’s library where they have 100s of books for children to sit and read as well as humorous videos of George and Barbara. Barbra’s love of literacy for all and desire to make the White House a “home” for her family shine in this area.
If you are just wanting to pay your respects at their gravesites you do not need to pay to enter the museum.
Some things that make this Library stand out:
They did a wonderful job of bridging the gap between then and now (look for “in context” signs) that help people of any age truly appreciate the sacrifices and gravity of even the smallest gestures.
For children they offer a Millie’s Adventures booklet; where children go around the museum looking for small dog houses filled with answers to questions.
Done in chronological order - the museum helps you see the human aspects of becoming president including the pivot times when hard decisions had to be made to continue or quit.
Assuming you are not attending a during football game there is PLENTY of parking in lot 41. There is designated RV/bus parking so vehicles of all sizes will fit.
If you are just wanting to pay your respects at their gravesites you do not need to pay to enter the museum.
Some things that make this Library stand out:
They did a wonderful job of bridging the gap between then and now (look for “in context” signs) that help people of any age truly appreciate the sacrifices and gravity of even the smallest gestures.
For children they offer a Millie’s Adventures booklet; where children go around the museum looking for small dog houses filled with answers to questions.
Done in chronological order - the museum helps you see the human aspects of becoming president including the pivot times when hard decisions had to be made to continue or quit.
Assuming you are not attending a during football game there is PLENTY of parking in lot 41. There is designated RV/bus parking so vehicles of all sizes will fit.
Written February 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stephanie
Houston, TX9 contributions
Feb 2023
Museums are usually chockfull of information impossible to remember and this one is no exception.
It was amazing place to visit. I learned so much more about Pres. George Bush and his accomplishments, and I got to pay my respects as his grave along with his young daughter, Robin and his wife, Barbara are buried together.
In addition, the college is promoted. George HW Bush was a savvy innovative thinker which I was unaware of until this visit.
If you like history and you enjoy others' accomplishments, then this is the place you need to add to your travel to-do list.
It was amazing place to visit. I learned so much more about Pres. George Bush and his accomplishments, and I got to pay my respects as his grave along with his young daughter, Robin and his wife, Barbara are buried together.
In addition, the college is promoted. George HW Bush was a savvy innovative thinker which I was unaware of until this visit.
If you like history and you enjoy others' accomplishments, then this is the place you need to add to your travel to-do list.
Written March 5, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LaurieB7381
Plano, TX83 contributions
Feb 2022 • Couples
We're so glad we made time to visit this museum. We learned so much about George and Barbara Bush! What a career he had! Our visit increased our admiration and respect for an extremely ethical president and family man.
We like to read and watch a lot in museums, so our 2-hour visit felt short. We could have easily spent 3 or even 4 hours here, if we'd had the time, but we were able to get quite a bit of the details and all the high points.
There is a short, beautiful walk to their gravesites, which is also worth the time.
We like to read and watch a lot in museums, so our 2-hour visit felt short. We could have easily spent 3 or even 4 hours here, if we'd had the time, but we were able to get quite a bit of the details and all the high points.
There is a short, beautiful walk to their gravesites, which is also worth the time.
Written February 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CathyC21
Auburn, AL1 contribution
If the museum and library are closed, can you still view the grounds?
BushLibraryPR
College Station, TX2 contributions
Yes, the grounds of the museum are still open to the public.
I am attending the football game and I paid to park at George Bush Library but I forgot to leave my ticket on the dash. Will my vehicle get towed?
shmoracle
Vienna, Austria105 contributions
I do not know, but I do not think so.
Tyler
Bend, OR50 contributions
Is there RV parking nearby? How hard would it be to park a 35 foot fifth wheel if you wanted to see the presidential library? Thank you!
Jamsharj
Sugar Land, United States8 contributions
There is plenty of free parking at the Library. It would be best to call or stop by the admissions desk and ask where they want you to park. Access to the entrance is kind of tight- may be challenging to drive a large RV onto Barbara Bush Drive.
melanieg4881
14 contributions
Do you have to pay admission to the museum in order to see the Berlin Wall piece and the gravesites?
Christine B
Sanger, TX128 contributions
There is a larger piece outside the museum you can see without paying to go in.
paulaY2114JK
Edmond, Oklahoma1 contribution
My husband and I are both seniors and walking is a problem, doe the museum have places to rest areas or benches?
Travelers Voice
Conroe, TX2,025 contributions
Yes, and there are many benches around the pond and to the cemetery.
JEBtravel2018
Minnesota332 contributions
Why is H.W. library closed and W. opened during the shutdown. So disappointed. We want to go to H.W. before the holidays are over,
JEBtravel2018
Minnesota332 contributions
We went to W. His is open because the Bush Foundation is keeping the doors open. All other library’s are closed. Reagan’s is open as well
gerbev2018
Denver, CO
How long does it take to go through the library and museum? Planning to go to Texas to visit both Bush libraries and museums in Dec.
Fran B
Dallas, TX28 contributions
Plan on spending the day. Take a break and have lunch at Cafe 43. Then go back for a bit longer. School groups are there in the morning. So, a nice plan would be an early lunch at Cafe 43 and then the Library in the afternoon. The Christmas special exhibit just opened. It’s Christmas 2006! More to enjoy. Museum closes at 5:00, don’t cut your time short. Well worth the visit. Have fun!
Any suggestions on what we should do with our dog while we visit the museum? We are driving through and will have our dog with us.
TexasLacey
Conroe, TX135 contributions
You might call Bush Library and ask them. They may know of someplace. We were there on 5/27/18 and it was extremely hot. At least 96 degrees- too hot in the car for humans and pets.
TexasQueen11
Kansas City7 contributions
Is there parking for RVs/travel trailers?
dorcasm772
Round Rock136 contributions
Yes plenty of space to park an RV but no hookups.
George Bush Presidential Library and Museum (College Station) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about George Bush Presidential Library and Museum
- George Bush Presidential Library and Museum is open:
- Sun - Sun 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
- Mon - Sat 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
- Hotels near George Bush Presidential Library and Museum:
- (1.18 mi) Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center
- (2.16 mi) Cavalry Court
- (1.73 mi) The Stella Hotel, Autograph Collection
- (2.22 mi) The George
- (2.54 mi) Embassy Suites by Hilton College Station
- Restaurants near George Bush Presidential Library and Museum:
- (0.25 mi) Gate 12 Bar & Grill
- (0.77 mi) Grub Burger Bar
- (2.48 mi) Fuego Tortilla Grill
- (3.09 mi) The Republic Steakhouse
- (2.53 mi) Mad Taco
George Bush Presidential Library and Museum Information
Excellent Reviews | 1,002 |
|---|---|
Very Good Reviews | 209 |
George Bush Presidential Library and Museum Photos | 760 |