Is the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library worth a visit?
The 28th President of the United States, Woodrow Wilson, hails from historic Staunton, VA. Learn about Wilson’s road to the presidency by spending a few hours at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library. The library, which is a short drive from Harrisonburg, VA, offers many great exhibits for history buffs of all ages. Guided and self-guided tours provide an exploratory look back into history.
You can find out about all of the fun things to do near the By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages when you download our free Vacation Guide. It’s full of the best recommendations for things to see and do like enjoying a day at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library.
Historical Exhibits Worth a Stop
Take an inspiring journey through seven galleries that explore Wilson’s early years, his busy presidency, suffrage, prohibition, and World War I. The President’s original 1919 Pierce-Arrow limousine transports you back in time as you venture through the museum’s annals seeing history come to life again. Walk through the state-of-the-art World War I trench reproduction to experience what life was like for soldiers of the Great War. Throughout the museum, you will come upon authentic weapons and uniforms from the era. There you can see what life was like for the doughboys (Marines) of the War. Children even have a chance to learn about the President’s life in the Kids’ Corner!
Woodrow Wilson’s Birthplace Just Next Door
The museum opened in November of 1990 just next door to Woodrow Wilson’s birthplace. This is unique compared to many other presidential libraries. The two buildings join forces to form an entire city block’s worth of history with a beautiful boxwood garden courtyard in between. The museum will guide you through Wilson’s public life taking you from his time at Princeton to his peace efforts during World War I. Various artifacts, photographs, and documents detail his life and presidency.
Wilson’s birthplace is full of furnishings from the period, household belongings, and the boxwood garden outside. Take a guided tour to learn the unique details about Wilson’s childhood and upbringing.
The museum and library are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Get directions and check it out for yourself!
Don’t Forget the Gift Shop
Before you go, commemorate your time at Woodrow Wilson’s Presidential Library by stopping by the gift shop. Featuring an array of gifts and collectibles, you will be sure to find something to take with you. The gift shop also boasts a variety of books covering the life of Woodrow Wilson, World War I, and era-specific nonfiction. All sales from the gift shop help to support the educational programs that the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library facilitates.
Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library Just Minutes Away from the Perfect Accommodations
Staunton, VA, is firmly entrenched in historically-rich Northern Virginia. Just minutes away from Harrisonburg, VA, it’s just one of many things to do in the area. If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay during your Shenandoah Valley getaway, look no further than By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages. We are eager to accommodate you and help you design the perfect getaway, vacation, or romantic stay. For more ideas, download our free Vacation Guide.
