Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museums
Explore the historic estate, home, library, and museum of President Rutherford B. Hayes in Fremont, Ohio.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museums
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historic estate, home, library, and museum of President Rutherford B. Hayes in Fremont, Ohio.
"The Hayes house and adjacent walks on Spiegel Grove are worthy of a visit, especially if you have any affection for presidential history."
Book Home Tours Ahead
Tours of the Hayes Home are popular and can fill up. Book online in advance to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and inside the historic home. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hayes Home Tour
Spiegel Grove Estate
Step back in time with a guided tour of President Hayes's beautifully restored Victorian home. Learn about his family and era.
Spiegel Grove Estate
Grounds surrounding the museum
Explore the serene 25-acre arboretum with historic trees and walking paths. A peaceful escape with presidential history.
Presidential Museum Exhibits
Museum Building
Discover fascinating exhibits on Rutherford B. Hayes's life, presidency, and the Civil War era.
Presidential Library
Library Building
Delve into the archives and learn about the research opportunities available. A treasure trove for history buffs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for a Richer Experience
Embrace the Grounds and Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Home Tours Ahead
Tours of the Hayes Home are popular and can fill up. Book online in advance to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and inside the historic home. :athletic_shoe:
Explore Spiegel Grove
Don't miss the beautiful 25-acre arboretum. The Mystic Giants Tree Tour is a unique experience. :evergreen_tree:
Discover Unique Teas
The gift shop features exclusive loose-leaf teas from The Summer Kitchen Girls. Perfect souvenir! :tea:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Home Tours Ahead
Tours of the Hayes Home are popular and can fill up. Book online in advance to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and inside the historic home. :athletic_shoe:
Explore Spiegel Grove
Don't miss the beautiful 25-acre arboretum. The Mystic Giants Tree Tour is a unique experience. :evergreen_tree:
Discover Unique Teas
The gift shop features exclusive loose-leaf teas from The Summer Kitchen Girls. Perfect souvenir! :tea:
Autism-Friendly Environment
The site is a Certified Autism Center, offering a welcoming experience for all visitors. :autism_symbol:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the informative home tours and the beautiful, expansive grounds of Spiegel Grove. Many highlight the knowledgeable and friendly docents who bring the Hayes family's history to life. While the museum exhibits are appreciated, the home tour and the serene estate are often cited as the standout experiences. Some reviews mention fast-paced tours or distractions from other visitors on the grounds.
"This museum is well worth a visit. There is so much history to learn here. The home tour was very informative and gives a lot of insight into the life and times of this family. I guide was a fast talker but very knowledgeable. Could have spent more time here !"
Celeste Lewis-Bradley
"There's no question that the Hayes house and adjacent walks on Spiegel Grove are worthy of a visit, especially if you have any affection for presidential history. The grave is humble, despite the grounds and the property being quite grand. But on my arrival, after driving from Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor, MI (President Ford's Museum/Library), there seemed to be an air of something and someone always out of place, like the man talking into his phone so loudly, on business, that you could hear him anywhere in the grove, including the grave, even as a young girl walked beside him, constantly ignored. Or the other man walking and pumping rap music through headphones as he passed by the grave a few minutes later. It's a public walking area, so it comes with the territory, but it all fed into a larger observation. Because what most gave me pause was our house tour guide, a young man who was clearly (and surprisingly) knowledgeable of the house, the Hayes family, and a wealth of other historically valuable nuggets, but who never once paused to engage with us, to see if we were keeping up, if we had any questions. He spoke a mile-a-minute and checked his phone every time we moved between rooms, hopping through facts like he was in a race to recite a full Wikipedia page before 5pm. At one point, he mentioned that Hayes was the first to host an egg roll at the White House, so I spoke up to mention that Andrew Johnson had actually been the first to do so informally, to which our guide simply deferred to his own belief, insisted he was right, and moved on, prompting me to leave the tour before the second floor. I've been to 25 presidential graves, countless presidential homes, and always appreciate those who give tours with lots of knowledge, as this young man certainly did, but failure to engage with the people on your tour, maybe benefit from or inquire about the knowledge of others, is an unfortunate flaw in this otherwise peculiar marker of worthy history."
Jeremy Lucas
"This has been on our bucket list for awhile and we finally made it there. Tour of the home was very nice and the guides very knowledgeable and friendly. The museum was informative and shows how far our standards have fallen when comparing Presidencies from then and unfortunately now.
Those who truly care about our democracy should visit these sites and become more informed as to what real leaders are and then take those lesson to the ballot box."
Jim Holcepl
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museums is located in Fremont, Ohio. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. If you're coming from out of state, the nearest major airports are in Toledo (TOL) and Cleveland (CLE).
Public transportation options directly to the museum are limited. It's best to plan your visit with a personal vehicle or rideshare service.
From I-80/90 (Ohio Turnpike), take exit 91 for State Route 53 South towards Fremont. Continue on SR 53 S, which becomes State Street. Turn right onto Hayes Avenue. The museum will be on your left.
Yes, there is free parking available for visitors at the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museums.
Absolutely! Many visitors combine a trip to the Hayes Presidential Library with other attractions in Northwest Ohio. It's a great stop if you're interested in history and nature.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary for adults, seniors, students, and children. It's recommended to check the official website for the most current pricing and any special event ticket information.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets for the Hayes Home tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season or weekends, as tours can sell out.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours of operation for the museum, library, and home tours.
Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and AAA members. Check the official website or inquire at the ticket counter for details.
Yes, you can typically purchase admission for the museum and grounds separately from the home tour. However, a combined ticket often offers the best value.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours to see the home, museum, and grounds. You could easily spend longer if you're deeply interested in the exhibits or enjoy leisurely walks.
Yes, tours of the Hayes Home are guided by knowledgeable docents who provide insights into the history and life of the Hayes family.
The site is a Certified Autism Center and strives to be accessible. The museum and library are generally accessible, but the historic home may have limitations. It's best to contact them directly for specific accessibility needs.
Spiegel Grove is a 25-acre arboretum featuring a variety of trees, walking paths, and the final resting place of President Rutherford B. Hayes and his wife, Lucy Webb Hayes.
Yes, the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museums hosts various events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and historical reenactments like Civil War Winter Camp demonstrations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is no full-service restaurant on-site. However, the gift shop often sells snacks, drinks, and the exclusive 'Summer Kitchen Teas.'
Picnicking is generally permitted on the grounds of Spiegel Grove, offering a lovely way to enjoy the scenery. Please be mindful of keeping the area clean.
Fremont has several local restaurants and cafes offering various cuisines. You can find options ranging from casual diners to more formal dining experiences.
The gift shop offers a selection of snacks, beverages, and unique items like the 'Summer Kitchen Teas.'
While there isn't a dedicated cafe, you can purchase specialty teas and other beverages in the museum's gift shop.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use in most areas, but flash photography may be restricted inside the historic home and certain exhibits. Always check for posted signs.
The exterior of the Hayes Home, the scenic paths of Spiegel Grove, and the grand architecture of the museum building offer excellent photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and national landmarks. It's best to check with the museum directly before attempting to fly a drone.
Professional photography or videography may require special permits or advance arrangements. Contact the museum's administration for their policy.
A standard digital camera or smartphone is perfect for capturing your visit. Consider a wide-angle lens for the home interiors and grounds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for special Civil War Winter Camp demonstrations or other family-friendly events that bring history to life. The site's Certified Autism Center™ status also means it's a welcoming environment for children with sensory sensitivities.
Remember to book home tours in advance to manage your family's schedule effectively. 🏛️ History Buffs & Presidential Enthusiasts
The Presidential Library offers a deeper dive into archival materials, while the Spiegel Grove estate provides context for Hayes's personal life and his love for horticulture. Don't miss the chance to learn about his Civil War service and the complexities of his presidency.
🌳 Nature Lovers & Gardeners
Consider taking the Mystic Giants Tree Tour to learn more about the impressive collection of trees. It's a peaceful and scenic environment perfect for a leisurely walk and appreciating the natural beauty surrounding the historical buildings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Rutherford B. Hayes's Presidency and Legacy
Hayes was also a decorated Civil War hero, wounded multiple times while serving in the Union Army. He was known for his integrity and commitment to civil service reform, advocating for a merit-based system in government appointments. Despite his efforts, his presidency was marked by political challenges and a deeply divided nation.
Visitors to the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museums can explore these complexities through exhibits that delve into his military service, political career, and personal life. The museum aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of his impact on American history.
Exploring Spiegel Grove: An Arboretum's Charm
Visitors can wander along the peaceful walking paths, enjoying the mature trees and serene atmosphere. The estate also includes the final resting place of Rutherford B. Hayes and his wife, Lucy Webb Hayes, a humble grave site amidst the grandeur of the grounds. Special tours, like the 'Mystic Giants Tree Tour,' offer a deeper dive into the arboretum's ecological and historical significance.
This natural beauty provides a tranquil contrast to the historical narratives within the museum and home, offering a space for reflection and appreciation of both nature and history. It's a key part of the overall experience, allowing visitors to connect with the Hayes family's love for their estate.
A Welcoming Space: Autism Certification and Inclusivity
This initiative ensures that the museum provides a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone. Visitors can expect accommodations and a thoughtful approach to their experience, making it easier for all to engage with the historical exhibits and the beautiful grounds.
This focus on accessibility extends to various aspects of the visitor experience, aiming to reduce sensory overload and provide clear information. It's a significant step in making historical sites more approachable and enjoyable for a broader audience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit