5 Reasons to Visit the Reagan Memorial Library
Regardless of political preference, visiting the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library is a must for anyone living in the Southern California area. Offering a library, along with rotating and permanent exhibits, there are a ton of activities to do at this Simi Valley museum.
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum
40 Presidential Dr
Simi Valley, CA 93065
(805) 522-2977
www.reaganfoundation.org
1.) See The Berlin Wall
As one of the more popular permanent exhibits, visitors to the Reagan Library & Museum can experience a piece of the historically significant Berlin Wall. On June 12, 1987, Reagan challenged Gorbachev to go further, saying "General Secretary Gorbachev, if you seek peace, if you seek prosperity for the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, if you seek liberalization, come here to this gate! Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate! Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!" From that point on, Reagan was linked to the Wall.
2.) Step Inside The Real Air Force One
Millions of Americans have wondered what it would be like to step on to the president's personal airplane. At The Reagan Library, guests can do just that. This Flying White House, tail number 27000, served seven U.S Presidents from 1973 to 2001, including Presidents Nixon, Carter, Ford, Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Clinton and George W. Bush. For Ronald Reagan, this was the plane in which he hand-wrote many of his speeches, signed important legislation and even officially started the Daytona Beach, Florida NASCAR race via phone. Aside from viewing the plane, guests will get to view Reagan's presidential limousine, secret service suburbans, and Marine One helicopter at the Air Force One Pavilion. Or, experience the actual Irish pub from Ballyporeen, Ireland that Reagan visited on his 1984 diplomatic trip. Amazingly, it now sits within the Pavilion and serves as the snack shop!
3.) Stand Inside The Oval Office
Known around the world as the president's formal workspace, at the Reagan Memorial Library, guests are invited to see what the room is like up close. Each president decorates the Oval Office and Reagan was no different. Inspired by the West, Reagan added earthy colors, western art like bronze saddles, and more. While at the library, view the full-scale replica of the Oval Office, and make sure to notice the desk, which was made from timbers from the H.M.S. Resolute. It was an abandoned British ship discovered by Americans and returned to The Queen of England as a token of friendship. Known as the Resolute Desk, it has been used by every president since Hayes.
4.) Stunning Views
Located in Simi Valley, the Library is set on beautiful grounds. There is a calming effect that happens when you are surrounded by beauty. From the café patio you can see for miles from mountain top to mountain top and all of Simi Valley below.
5.) Sunset Dinners
Twice a month the Ronald Reagan Library holds theme dinners. Upcoming and past dinners have included a Tribute To The Beatles and Beach Boys as well as an Eagles Tribute Band and Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band, where guests enjoy entertainment and dinner. Find out about upcoming dinners here.
