Gerald R. Ford Museum Tours

Gerald R. Ford Museum featuring a fountain and street scenes as well as a small group of people
Gerald R. Ford Museum showing a city
Gerald R. Ford Museum which includes interior views as well as a small group of people
Gerald R. Ford Museum showing interior views as well as a small group of people
Gerald R. Ford Museum showing interior views and heritage elements

Take a holographic tour of Ford’s White House and see a piece of the Berlin Wall in this tribute to the 38th president in the town where he was raised.

The Gerald R. Ford Museum offers a fascinating insight into the lives of a former president and his family. It lies in the heart of his hometown of Grand Rapids, shedding light on his presidency, his wife Betty Ford and democracy in general. Stroll through the quiet halls of this large museum and enjoy quiet contemplation in the peaceful setting.

The main exhibit covers the lives of 38th President of the United States Gerald R. Ford and his wife Betty Ford. Join a guided tour with a docent for all the background information on the presidential family.

Online tours through the building and its displays are also available. Inspect photos of the former president with his family and enter the replica of the Oval Office, decorated as it was during Ford’s presidency.

Learn the conditions under which Ford took over the post following President Nixon’s resignation. A Watergate gallery reveals how his predecessor’s scandal and downfall occurred, leaving a space for Ford as the leader of the country.

Enter the Betty Ford exhibit and consider how she in some ways created the modern first lady. Among the museum’s highlights is a section of the Berlin Wall.

Temporary exhibits bring intriguing artifacts from around the country to these halls. Attend one of the talks and events that take place in the museum, which first opened in 1981. Browse the items in the gift shop, with Ford memorabilia as well as themes covering other presidents and first ladies.

The site opens daily from morning until late afternoon, but starts a little later on Sundays. Fees offer discounts for kids, seniors and students. Young children enter for free.

The Gerald R. Ford Museum straddles the western bank of the Grand River in the core of Grand Rapids. Free parking is available if you decide to drive.

While in the vicinity, stop at other landmarks including the Grand Rapids Public Museum, Grand Rapids Children’s Museum and Calder Plaza.

Plan a trip to see Gerald R. Ford Museum

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Sheraton Grand Rapids Airport Hotel

Sheraton Grand Rapids Airport Hotel

4 out of 5
per person
Nov 7 - Nov 10
found 20 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Nashville (BNA) to Grand Rapids (GRR)
8.8/10 Excellent! (425 reviews)
The only staff member I saw was ok. Property and grounds seems tattered and in need of maintenance. Shabby. Carpet felt old. Outdoor areas just need care. Room was large and clean. Bathroom was large and clean. Provided toiletries were very nice and felt luxurious. Parts of the interior were well designed and nicely decorated. Weird beeping all night like a smoke alarm needed a battery? Unsettling. No information in room with facility info like ice locations or times for restaurants. No answer from guest services after multiple attempts. Pool was very nice. Clean. Well maintained. Grounds around pool looked weathered and in need of care.

Reviewed on Aug 16, 2025

Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown

Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown

2.5 out of 5
Midtown
per person
Oct 2 - Oct 5
found 22 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Grand Rapids (GRR)
9/10 Wonderful! (1,001 reviews)
Clean, courteous, close to downtown

Reviewed on Aug 16, 2025

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Grand Rapids Airport

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Grand Rapids Airport

4 out of 5
Kentwood
per person
Oct 2 - Oct 5
found 22 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Grand Rapids (GRR)
8/10 Very Good! (957 reviews)
It was clean and quiet if in need of a serious update. The pools were closed due to maintenence and the elevator was broken. The staff were helpful and kind and the ride to the airport was right on time.

Reviewed on Aug 4, 2025

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Best Lodging Options Near Gerald R. Ford Museum

Radisson Hotel Grand Rapids Riverfront

Radisson Hotel Grand Rapids Riverfront

3 out of 5
270 Ann Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI
Radisson Hotel Grand Rapids Riverfront
Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown by IHG

Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown by IHG

3 out of 5
310 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI
Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown by IHG
Residence Inn by Marriott Grand Rapids Downtown

Residence Inn by Marriott Grand Rapids Downtown

3 out of 5
40 Louis St NW, Grand Rapids, MI
Residence Inn by Marriott Grand Rapids Downtown
Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton

Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton

4 out of 5
187 Monroe Ave Nw, Grand Rapids, MI
Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton
Hyatt Place Grand Rapids Downtown

Hyatt Place Grand Rapids Downtown

3 out of 5
140 Ottawa Ave, Grand Rapids, MI
Hyatt Place Grand Rapids Downtown
JW Marriott Hotel Grand Rapids

JW Marriott Hotel Grand Rapids

4 out of 5
235 Louis Campau Promenade Nw, Grand Rapids, MI
JW Marriott Hotel Grand Rapids
Embassy Suites by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown,MI

Embassy Suites by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown,MI

3.5 out of 5
710 Monroe Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, MI
Embassy Suites by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown,MI
Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown

Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown

4 out of 5
131 Ionia Avenue SW, Grand Rapids, MI
Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown
Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown

Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown

2.5 out of 5
433 Dudley Place NE, Grand Rapids, MI
Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown
See all 1,348 properties in Gerald R. Ford Museum
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Gerald R. Ford Museum

At the Gerald R. Ford Museum in Grand Rapids, Michigan, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including live music, guided tours, and nearby attractions. Don't miss the annual ArtPrize event celebrating local artists, and consider a fun trip to a waterpark in Frankenmuth for a family-friendly deal. Additionally, catch a baseball game to immerse yourself in the local sports culture while exploring this vibrant city.

Food and drinks

Enjoy a delightful experience at Robinette's Winery, located 6 miles from the Gerald R. Ford Museum, where you can savor local wines in a romantic setting. For more dining options, explore the vibrant food scene in downtown Grand Rapids.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is Downtown Market, just 1 mile from the Gerald R. Ford Museum, offering a vibrant public market experience. Woodland Mall is 6 miles away, featuring family-friendly shops. If you're up for a drive, RiverTown Crossings Mall is 7 miles away, providing entertainment and shopping options.

Recreation

LMCU Ballpark offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts, located 5 miles from the museum. For relaxation, visit the Walker Ice and Fitness Center, also 5 miles away, which promotes wellness and rejuvenation. Indulge in luxury at Watermark Country Club, situated 8 miles from the museum.

Adventure

Experience thrilling skiing at Cannonsburg Ski Area, located 10 miles from the Gerald R. Ford Museum, offering vibrant sports vibes. For adrenaline-pumping action, visit Grattan Raceway, 18 miles away, where motorsport enthusiasts can enjoy exciting races. Explore the scenic Musketawa Trail, 9 miles from the museum, perfect for hiking adventures.

Nightlife

After visiting the Gerald R. Ford Museum, enjoy a show at DeVos Performance Hall, just 0.2 miles away, for a cultural evening. For family fun, head to Craig's Cruisers, 7 miles away, or catch a movie at Celebration! Cinema and IMAX Theater, 5 miles away, for a memorable night out.

Find the best attractions near Gerald R. Ford Museum

During your visit to the Gerald R. Ford Museum in Grand Rapids, Michigan, explore local attractions such as the Grand Rapids Public Museum and the scenic Detroit Riverfront. Enjoy outdoor activities in nearby parks and lakes, perfect for a romantic getaway or a leisurely stroll. Don't miss the opportunity to delve into presidential history at the Ford Museum, celebrating the life and legacy of Gerald Ford.

  • Van Andel Arena: Just a half-mile from the Gerald R. Ford Museum, this vibrant arena hosts a variety of family-friendly events, including concerts and sports. Its lively atmosphere makes it a great spot for entertainment lovers.
  • Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park: Located five miles away, this stunning outdoor space combines beautiful gardens with impressive sculptures. It’s perfect for families seeking a relaxing day in nature while enjoying artistic masterpieces.
  • Grand Rapids Art Museum: Also a half-mile from the museum, this cultural gem features contemporary and classic art exhibits. Engage with the local art scene and explore diverse collections that inspire creativity.

Best time to go to Gerald R. Ford Museum

The best time to visit Gerald R. Ford Museum can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Gerald R. Ford Museum falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Gerald R. Ford Museum falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January24.3°F (-4.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February24.8°F (-4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March35.2°F (1.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April45.5°F (7.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
May58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
July71.8°F (22.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
August70.3°F (21.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November39.7°F (4.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
December31.3°F (-0.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Gerald R. Ford Museum

To save money during your visit to the Gerald R. Ford Museum, take advantage of nearby free attractions like Downtown Market and Calvin College. The cheapest months for accommodation are November to January, while April to May and August see higher prices. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels by filtering for "Eco-certified" options and arranging prices from low to high. Consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can unlock exclusive discounts and help you earn cash for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Gerald R. Ford Museum are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Gerald R. Ford Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.