George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

Are you interested in learning more about the American presidency, the history of the 21st century, and the values of freedom and democracy? If so, you should visit George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum in Dallas, Texas. This amazing institution is part of the George W. Bush Presidential Center, including the George W. Bush Institute and George W. Bush Foundation. In this article, you will learn everything about this fascinating place, from its background and purpose to its features and attractions.

What’s the Project About?

The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum is one of 15 presidential libraries administered by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). It preserves and makes available the official records and artifacts from the George W. Bush Administration, which spanned from 2001 to 2009. The library and museum also promote an understanding of the American presidency, examine the specific time in history during which President Bush served, and provide educational programs and resources for all ages.

Who Developed the Project? What’s Their Background?

The project was developed by former President George W. Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush, along with a team of architects, designers, historians, and educators. The project was funded by private donations raised by the George W. Bush Foundation, which owns and operates the museum. The library and museum opened to the public on May 1, 2013, after a dedication ceremony attended by President Barack Obama and all living former presidents.

The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum Ecologically Sustainable?

Yes, it is! The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum is one of the most environmentally friendly presidential libraries in the country. It has achieved Platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program, which is the highest level of recognition for green buildings. Some of the features that make it eco-friendly include:

A 15-acre native Texas prairie that reduces irrigation needs and provides habitat for wildlife
A geothermal heating and cooling system that uses underground water to regulate temperature
Solar panels that generate 10% of the building’s electricity
Rainwater harvesting that collects and reuses water for landscaping and toilets
Low-flow plumbing fixtures that reduce water consumption by 40%
Energy-efficient lighting and windows that reduce electricity use by 20%

What Amenities Does George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum Have?

The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum has much to offer to visitors of all ages and interests. Some of the amenities include:

A 14,000-square-foot permanent exhibit that showcases President Bush’s life and legacy through artifacts, documents, photos, videos, interactive displays, and a full-scale replica of the Oval Office
A 20-foot-tall LED screen that displays a montage of images from President Bush’s presidency
A special exhibit gallery that features rotating exhibits on various topics related to President Bush’s policies and initiatives
A research room that provides access to digital copies of presidential records for scholars and researchers
A classroom that hosts educational programs for students and teachers
A museum store that sells souvenirs, books, apparel, and gifts
A café that serves snacks, beverages, and light meals

Transportation in George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum is located on the campus of Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas. It is easily accessible by car, bus, bike, or train.

Points of Interest Near George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

If you want to explore more of Dallas after visiting the library and museum, you will find plenty of points of interest nearby. Some of them are:

The Meadows Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of Spanish art outside of Spain
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, which features 66 acres of beautiful gardens and seasonal events
The Dallas Museum of Art, which showcases more than 24,000 works of art from various cultures and periods
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which chronicles the life and assassination of President John F. Kennedy
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science, which offers interactive exhibits and activities on science, technology, engineering, and math

Fun Places to Visit Near the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

If you are looking for some fun and entertainment near the library and museum, you will not be disappointed. Some of the fun places to visit are:

The Klyde Warren Park, which is a 5.2-acre urban park that hosts free events, concerts, games, and food trucks
The Reunion Tower, which is a 561-foot-tall observation tower that offers panoramic views of the city and a revolving restaurant
The American Airlines Center, which is a multipurpose arena that hosts sports games, concerts, and shows
The Dallas World Aquarium, which is a large aquarium that features marine life from around the world and a rainforest exhibit
The Dallas Zoo, which is the oldest and largest zoo in Texas and home to more than 2,000 animals

FAQs—George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

Open Hours

The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum is open from Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sunday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. You can buy tickets online or at the entrance. The last ticket is sold at 4 p.m.

Why Do People Visit George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum?

People visit the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum for many reasons. Some want to explore eight years of American history, the American presidency, and important issues of public policy.

What Can You Do in the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum?

There are many things you can do in the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. You can:

Watch a short introductory film that gives an overview of President Bush’s life and presidency.
Visit the Oval Office replica, where you can sit behind the Resolute Desk and take a photo.
Explore the 9/11 exhibit, where you can see a twisted steel beam from the World Trade Center and hear President Bush’s personal account of that tragic day.
Learn about President Bush’s domestic and foreign policies, such as No Child Left Behind, Medicare Part D, PEPFAR, Freedom Agenda, and more.
Participate in the Situation Room Experience, an immersive, role-playing simulation that transports you into a high-stakes, fast-paced, decision-making environment where you face a national crisis based on historic facts.
Enjoy the beautiful grounds and gardens of the George W. Bush Presidential Center, which features native Texas plants and sustainable design.

What Are the Areas of George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum?

The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum has four main areas:

The Permanent Exhibit: This is where you can see the Oval Office replica, the 9/11 exhibit, and other displays that showcase President Bush’s life and presidency.
The Temporary Exhibit: This is where you can see rotating exhibits that highlight different aspects of President Bush’s work and interests. For example, right now you can see Freedom
Matters, an exhibit that explores how freedom shapes our world and how we can advance it.
The Research Room: This is where you can access the official records and documents from the George W. Bush Administration for research purposes. You need to make an appointment in advance and follow certain rules to use this area.
The Education Center: This is where you can find educational programs and resources for students, teachers, and lifelong learners. You can also book a guided tour or a group visit here.

How Long Is George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum Tour?

The length of your tour depends on how much time you want to spend in each area of the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. However, most visitors spend about two hours exploring the permanent exhibit, which covers most of the museum’s attractions. If you want to see everything, you might need three to four hours.

Where does the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum appear in pop culture?

The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum has appeared in several pop culture references, such as:

The Simpsons: In season 25 episode 9, titled “Steal This Episode”, Homer Simpson illegally downloads movies and shows them in his backyard. One of the movies he shows is “The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum: The Movie”, which is a parody of action films that features President Bush fighting terrorists and saving the world.
Saturday Night Live: In season 38 episode 7, hosted by Anne Hathaway, there is a sketch called “The Ellen DeGeneres Show”, where Ellen (played by Kate McKinnon) interviews President Bush (played by Jason Sudeikis) about his paintings. President Bush shows some of his portraits of world leaders and explains his artistic process.
The Daily Show with Jon Stewart: In several episodes, Jon Stewart made jokes and comments about the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, especially during its opening ceremony in 2013. For example, he mocked the Decision Points Theater as a “choose your own adventure” game that lets you rewrite history.

Is There Anything Not Allowed?

Yes, there are some things that are not allowed in the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, such as

Weapons of any kind, including firearms, knives, pepper spray, etc.
Food and drinks, except for water bottles.
Backpacks, large bags, or luggage.
Smoking or vaping.
Flash photography or video recording in certain areas.

Are Pets Allowed?

No, pets are not allowed in the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, except for service animals that assist people with disabilities.

What Is the Entrance Fee?

The entrance fee for the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum is $26 for adults, $21 for seniors (62+), $18 for youth (13-17), $16 for children (5-12), and free for children under 5. You can also get discounts if you are a student, a military member, a veteran, or a member of the George W. Bush Foundation.

Is It Wheelchair Accessible?

Yes, the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum is wheelchair accessible. There are ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms throughout the facility. You can also borrow a wheelchair at the information desk if you need one.

Driving directions from The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum to Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

Via Mockingbird Ln. 7.0 miles in 17 minutes.

Head east on SMU Boulevard toward Boedeker Dr – 0.1 mi
Turn right onto N Central Expy – 0.4 mi
Turn left onto Mockingbird Ln – Pass by Jack in the Box (on the left in 1.5 mi) – 4.0 mi
Use the right lane to take the ramp to The Dallas Arboretum – 0.3 mi
Merge onto N Buckner Blvd – 1.4 mi
Turn right onto Garland Rd – 0.9 mi
Make a U-turn – 52 ft

Public transport directions from The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum to Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

Through the 105 and 214 buses. Around 1 hour and 3 minutes.

Start at George W. Bush Presidential Center, 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75205, United States
Walk for about 8 min
1. Destination: US 75 at Mockingbird – S – FS
Take Bus 105 Downtown Dallas from US 75 at Mockingbird – S – FS
1. Bus ride for 23 min (31 stops). Stop ID: 32569
2. Arrive at Elm at Harwood – W – NS
Walk to Commerce at Harwood – E – NS
1. Walk for about 3 min
2. Use caution – may involve errors or sections not suited for walking
Take Bus 214 South Garland Transit Center from Commerce at Harwood – E – NS
1. Bus ride for 22 min (35 stops). Stop ID: 31157
2. Arrive at Garland at Whittier – N – NS
Walk northwest on Whittier Ave toward Garland Rd
1. Walk for about 1 min, 305 ft

Driving directions from The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum to Salut Event Rentals

Via US-75 N. 11.2 miles in 21 minutes.

Head east on SMU Boulevard toward Boedeker Dr – 0.1 mi
1. Turn right onto N Central Expy – 0.4 mi
2. Sharp left to stay on N Central Expy – 0.3 mi
3. Use the left lane to take the ramp onto US-75 N – 0.2 mi
4. Merge onto US-75 N – Parts of this road may be closed at certain times or days – 7.4 mi
5. Take exit 24 toward Belt Line Rd/Main St – 0.2 mi
Follow S Central Expy, W Belt Line Rd, and N Bowser Rd to your destination – 6 min (2.6 mi)
1. Merge onto S Central Expy – 0.6 mi
Turn right onto W Belt Line Rd/W Main St – Continue to follow W Belt Line Rd – 1.3 mi
1. Turn left onto N Bowser Rd – 0.7 mi
2. Use the left lane to turn right – 49 ft
3. Turn left – 374 ft
4. Turn right – 125 ft
5. Turn left – 82 ft