Presidential Libraries in New York: A Surprisingly Short List
So, you're thinking of a presidential library vacay in the Big Apple, huh? Well, I’ve got some news for you: New York City might be the center of the universe, but it’s not exactly a hotspot for presidential memorabilia. In fact, there’s only one presidential library in the entire state. Yep, you read that right. Just one.
The Lone Ranger of Presidential Libraries
The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum is the sole representative of presidential libraries in New York. And trust me, it's not in Manhattan. It's nestled in the charming town of Hyde Park, upstate New York. Now, Hyde Park might not be Times Square, but it's got its own kind of charm. Plus, you know, presidential libraries and all that.
FDR: The OG of Presidential Libraries
It's kind of ironic that the first-ever presidential library is in New York, but it’s also fitting. FDR was a New Yorker, after all. The library is actually built on the grounds of his family estate, Springwood. So, you can basically feel like you're hanging out at FDR's backyard. How cool is that?
So, No Presidential Libraries in NYC?
Nope, nada, zilch. Sorry to burst your bubble. But hey, maybe that's a good thing. It means less competition for the pizza and Broadway shows. And who needs presidential libraries when you can have a slice of New York pizza, am I right?
How to... Presidential Library Edition
- How to get to the FDR Presidential Library: It's about a two-hour drive from New York City, or you can take a train to Poughkeepsie and then bus to Hyde Park.
- How to spend a day at the FDR Presidential Library: Plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the exhibits, watching films, and taking in the history.
- How to impress your friends with presidential library trivia: Learn some fun facts about FDR or the library itself.
- How to make the most of your upstate New York trip: Combine your visit to the FDR Presidential Library with other attractions in the Hudson Valley, like the Walkway Over the Hudson or the Vanderbilt Mansion.
- How to avoid disappointment about the lack of presidential libraries in NYC: Remember, New York City has plenty of other amazing things to offer!