John F Kennedy Hyannis Museum

Popular Restaurants In Hyannis

Plan Your Next Event At The John F Kennedy Hyannis Museum

The museum offers several distinct spaces for your event: three exhibit galleries and lobby on the main floor, the outdoor JFK statue courtyard, or the Scudder Family center for civic engagement on the second floor.

Located on Main Street Hyannis, in a historic brick building built in 1926, the JFK Hyannis Museum is dedicated to the legacy of President Kennedy, his family and their deep connection to Cape Cod. As of April 2022, the McQuade Family Foundation Gallery features the exhibit Presidential Summers: The Kennedys on Cape Cod, while west gallery features the JFK Legacy exhibit and the east gallery is dedicated to Robert F. Kennedy. These three galleries can accommodate 75 guests for standing receptions.

The outside courtyard can accommodate a maximum of 100 guests for standing receptions or 48 guests seated at round tables. We have a tent vendor who can cover the courtyard for weather and sun protection.

The Scudder Family center can accommodate a maximum of 48 guests seated theater-style or standing reception-style, while 36 seated guests can be served at six round tables of six.

Violet Creative Catering is the museums caterer of choice, and can assist with building logistics and food, beverage, entertainment and more.

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John F Kennedys Rocking Chair Ca 1962

On loan from Waldorf Astoria New York

The JFK Hyannis Museum is honored to be the temporary home of President Kennedys Rocker during the renovation of The Towers of the Waldorf Astoria. In 1962 President Kennedy gave one of his iconic Kennedy Rockers to the Waldorf Astoria to find its pride of place in the presidential suite.

Waldorf Astoria New York, which just celebrated its 90th anniversary on Park Avenue, is currently undergoing a restoration that will also deliver a collection of contemporary residences above the legendary hotel known as The Towers of the Waldorf Astoria. When the hotel reopens, the rocking chair will return as a permanent exhibit in a gallery celebrating the hotels rich history.

We know that our visitors from all corners of the world, as well as our local community, will find the Kennedy Rocker to be an exciting and fascinating addition to our museum.

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How To Get There

The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum is at 397 Main Street in Hyannis Port, Cape Cod, Massachusetts. If driving from Boston and points north, take Route 3 across the Sagamore Bridge and then follow Route 6 and local roads to Hyannis Port. Bus services run to Hyannis Port from New York, Providence, and Boston, while local routes connect Hyannis with nearby towns.

Spankys Clam Shack And Seaside Saloon

Seafood is a common craving on Cape Cod, and Spankys Clam Shack and Seaside Saloon makes some of the best on the Cape. Resting on Hyannis Harbor, the restaurant serves broiled, fried, and grilled shellfish and fish. But, its clam chowder is award-winning.

Spankys has a raw bar and serves chicken, pasta, and steak dishes as well.

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Explore Things To Do In Hyannis

The JFK Hyannis Museum and Kennedy Legacy Trail are just two of the many attractions that you can experience in this Cape Cod town. We recommend checking out some other things to do while youre there.

Cape Cod Central Railroad

The Cape Cod Central Railroad offers scenic train rides through the Cape. The train passes cranberry bogs, dunes, marshes, and some places that are only accessible via train. Some of the rides are narrated with historical information, while others include Sunday brunch, lunch, or dinner.

Cape Cod Melody Tent

For more than 60 years, the Cape Cod Melody Tent has presented concerts, comedy acts, and special entertainment during the summer. Theres always something for everyone to enjoy.

Pirate Adventures Hyannis

If you want to spend some time on the water during summer, why not hunt for treasure with Pirate Adventures Hyannis? Aboard the Sea Gypsy ship, children are face-painted to be official crew members and participate in crew duties hoisting flags, blasting water cannons, and reading maps.

Things To Know Before You Go

• Entrance to the museum is via paid ticket.

• Discounts are available for students, seniors, and youths. Children under 5 go free.

• Active military can visit for free with up to five guests, from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

• Private tours can be arranged outside of the usual opening hours.

• The museum is wheelchair accessible.

• Free parking is available on-site.

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Summer Authors Series 2022

Join us at the JFK Hyannis Museum as we host Patricia Sullivan Ph.D.author of the book Justice Rising Robert Kennedys America in Black and White.

History, race and politics converged in the 1960s in ways that indelibly changed America. In this landmark reconsideration of Robert Kennedys life and legacy, Patrcia Sullivan draws on government files, personal papers and oral interviews to reveal how he grasped the moment to emerge as a transformational leader. He helped shape the 1964 Civil Rights Act, reaching out to prominent Republicans for support, but he knew no law would end racism. On the night of Martin Luther Kings assassination, RFKs anguished appeal captured the hopes of a turbulent decade: In this difficult time for the United States, it is perhaps well to ask what kind of nation we are and what direction we want to move in. It is a question that remains urgent and unanswered.

$25 per person

About The Kennedy Legacy

Members of the Kennedy family have been prominent figures in business, politics, and public service since the early 20th century. In 1928, industrialist and politician Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and wife Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy purchased a summer home in Hyannis Port.

Situated on the waterfront, the home was a getaway for the family, which included nine children Edward M. Kennedy, Eunice Kennedy, Jean Kennedy, John F. Kennedy, Joseph Jr. Kennedy, Kathleen Kennedy, Patricia Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, and Rosemary Kennedy.

Over the years, the family held positions in Londons U.S. Embassy, WWII, the U.S. Senate, and the White House. However, the home didnt become known as the Kennedy Compound until after John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy purchased two nearby homes in the early 1960s.

The compound is less than 3 miles from Main Street, where the JFK Hyannis Museum tells the familys story.

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Popular Types Of Attractions In Hyannis

Cape Cod Melody Tent Show

One of only two continuously operated tent theaters in the US, the Cape Cod Melody Tent has been delighting audiences since 1951. With a capacity of 2,300 people, every seat is within 50 feet of the rotating stage, guaranteeing a great view of the show. The theater hosts music and comedy performers, and theatrical shows.

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An Overview Of The Jfk Hyannis Museum

Prominent members of the Kennedy family still use the Kennedy Compound, so the main property isnt open to the public. However, you can learn everything possible about the family and their contributions to the country at the JFK Museum in downtown Hyannis.

Opened in 1992, the museum is overseen by the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum Foundation, which preserves and promotes president John F. Kennedys and his familys legacy and deep connection with Cape Cod.

Helpful Tips About Jfk Hyannis Museum For Your Next Cape Cod Adventure

Cape Cod has a rich history, and the Kennedy family has been a big part of it. Over nearly 100 years, the family has spent time on the Cape and developed what has become known as the Kennedy Compound. The JFK Hyannis Museum shares this history and the Kennedy family legacy.

The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum is just one component in Cape Cods Kennedy Compound, a property that is still occupied by members of the prominent Kennedy family. Though you cannot tour the main property, you can learn more about one of the most beloved presidents in American history at the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum. And you can also stroll the Hyannis Kennedy Legacy Trail of the compound with informative displays about the famous family. Discover more about these Hyannis points of interest and test your JFK knowledge during your Brewster, MA, vacation!

The Hyannis Kennedy Compound is just one of many attractions you can experience during your stay on Cape Cod! The Maritime Museum in Hyannis is another popular place to explore local history. And the Hoxie House will also take you into the past when you walk through the oldest house in Cape Cod.

For even more fascinating things to do on Cape Cod, !

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John F Kennedy Hyannis Museum

The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum is a historical museum located at 397 Main Street Hyannis, Massachusetts. The museum includes a thematic panorama of photographs, archival films, artifacts, text panels, and oral histories of John F. Kennedy and his family.

The museum is housed in the former Hyannis Town Hall building. The building was occupied by the town until the 1980s, when the town offices were moved to the building that once housed Hyannis State Normal School. From 2008 to 2017, the basement of the museum housed the Cape Cod Baseball League hall of fame and museum.

A Luxurious B& b Fit For A President

Do you want to reside in luxury like a president? You can get a taste of what that would be like at Candleberry Inn in Brewster Massachusetts.

Located on historic Route 6A, our Georgian-style inn is American history preserved and is decorated in stately furnishing and elegant hardwood floors. Our luxurious rooms will make you feel like American royalty, and every morning, you can indulge in a gourmet breakfast.

Best of all, Candleberry Inn is located in proximity to many things to do in Brewster, and nearly all the things to do on Cape Cod are only a 1-hour drive or less away. It takes less than 30 minutes to reach JFK Hyannis Museum!

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Walking With A Purpose Guided Walking Tour Of Hyannis

Join the JFK Hyannis Museum and Cape Cod Camino Way for a guided walk in the village of Hyannis. Starting at the Museum, we will stroll down historic streets, stop at ancient cemeteries, and view public art to reflect on the local history in the context of Wampanoag natives, early European colonial settlers, Otis

Visitors Share Their Experience

Barbara C. Suffolk, England 11/8/16

A trip to the Cape is not complete without visiting this museum and bringing back memories of my youth seeing the Camelot years. Both smiles and tears. Beth and Steve G. 9/7/15

I remember clearly the day the teacher walked into my kindergarten classroom and announced we were all going home, school was going to close early, and the President of the United States had been shot. I arrived home, found my mother sobbing in tears, glued to the black and white TV screen. I didnt fully comprehend but it was a day frozen in time 9/6/15

I have followed the Kennedy Family, since the Presidency of John F. Kennedy. This museum in its simplicity truly gives one a feeling of the hospitality and principle values of the Kennedy Family as well as the ambience of the Cape and the Atlantic Ocean. Thank you. Teresa P. Chicago, IL, 6/2/15

This is a great and such a thoughtful museum! I love how you make a scavenger hunt for the kids so they dont become bored to death! The movie rocked and the pictures were cool! Ally B. 5/15/15

Beautiful exhibit of the Kennedys. Memories that brought tears to our eyes. God bless the family members that carry on this great American legacy. Manuel and Raquel O. Boston, MA 4/8/15

So proud to be here! This is such a nice piece of America. 10/24/14

Such a wonderful tribute! Brings to life the memories we have of the Camelot years. Joanna C., Winthrop, MA 10/24/14

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Kennedys In Hyannis Port How It Happened

In 1926 Joseph P. Kennedy, at age 38 already a millionaire, although not as wealthy as he would become, was living in Brookline and renting a summer home on the south shore in Cohasset. He and his wife Rose both loved to play golf and he was put up for membership in the exclusive Cohasset Country Club. He was blackballed, apparently for being an Irish Catholic. A lot of history was changed by that decision. Instead of settling into the wealthy seaside community much closer to Boston than Cape Cod, Kennedy began looking around.

He found the Hyannisport Club, a golf club managed by an Irish Catholic where he was welcomed as a member. In 1926 he rented the Malcolm Cottage, a large home at the end of Marchant Avenue in Hyannis Port. Two years later in 1928 he bought the house for $25,000.00 and had extensive additions and renovation work performed. Kennedy moved from Brookline to a home in Bronxville, near New York City. He also owned a home near Washington D.C. in Maryland and a winter home in Palm Beach, but Hyannis Port would be his home until his death in 1969. Rose Kennedy lived there until her own death in 1995 at age 104.

Jack bought his own home in Hyannis Port in 1956 at 111 Irving Avenue, behind his fathers home, looking toward Nantucket Sound across a broad lawn next to Joes property, part of 28 Marchant Avenue, owned by Joes son Robert F. Kennedy and his wife Ethel. The three properties comprised the famous Kennedy Compound.