John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston (must see)

Located at Columbia Point, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum offers a captivating window into a recent and historically significant era. It is housed within a striking, glass-fronted, curvilinear building designed by the renowned architect I.M. Pei, who allegedly considered it his favorite commission. The museum's setting provides sweeping panoramic views of Boston Harbor.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by an informative eighteen-minute film that traces Kennedy's political journey up to the 1960 Democratic National Convention, narrated with soundbites from Kennedy himself. As you transition from the auditorium to the exhibition area, you'll explore displays that delve into the 1960 presidential campaign and the key moments of Kennedy's brief administration. These exhibits are set against stylized recreations of his campaign headquarters, the CBS studio where the historic televised debate with Richard Nixon took place, and the main White House corridor. Of particular interest are the campaign exhibits, which showcase television and radio ads that reflect the idealized self-image America held at that time.

The section dedicated to Kennedy's presidency takes a more serious tone and features a gripping 22-minute film about the Cuban Missile Crisis, which effectively conveys the tension of the event, albeit possibly with some embellishment of Kennedy's role. A somber corridor towards the end of this section continuously plays the televised announcement of President Kennedy's assassination on November 22, 1963. In contrast, the Jackie Kennedy exhibits offer a lighter perspective, tracing her journey from a young debutante to First Lady and popular icon. The displays include her outfits, camera, and baby brush.

The museum's highlight may well be its final section: a 115-foot-high glass atrium that overlooks the harbor. Here, a grand American flag presides over excerpts from Kennedy's 'Profiles in Courage,' a moving experience that can even touch the most skeptical JFK critic.

For those interested in research, the library is open to the public by appointment for specific archival requests and houses JFK's extensive papers, totaling around 8.4 million pages from his truncated term in the Oval Office. It's also the repository for Ernest Hemingway's original manuscripts, which were rescued from Cuba with Kennedy's assistance following Hemingway's suicide in 1961.

Tip:
Don't forget to visit the museum's gift store, where you can find books and JFK-themed souvenirs. If you're hungry, the museum cafe offers a delightful dining experience with panoramic views of the city skyline and harbor.