LBJ Ranch
Explore the sprawling Texas home and ranch of President Lyndon B. Johnson, a place where history and working ranch life intertwine.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Wildflowers bloom beautifully
LBJ Ranch
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom beautifully

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the sprawling Texas home and ranch of President Lyndon B. Johnson, a place where history and working ranch life intertwine.
"A must-visit stop for history lovers, offering a deep dive into LBJ's life and presidency."
Check Construction Status
Confirm Texas White House access before visiting, as it's often under renovation.
Free Entry to State Park
LBJ State Park offers beautiful grounds and historical sites with no admission fee.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Texas White House
LBJ Ranch
Step into the former "Western White House" where LBJ conducted presidential business.

Air Force One-Half
Texas White House Complex
See the unique JetStar aircraft LBJ used for presidential travel.

Birthplace and Family Cemetery
LBJ Ranch
Visit LBJ's humble birthplace and the final resting place for him and Lady Bird.

Working Ranch Experience
LBJ Ranch
Witness a still-functioning ranch with bison, cattle, and deer.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Texas White House
Explore Beyond the Main House
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Construction Status
Confirm Texas White House access before visiting, as it's often under renovation.
Free Entry to State Park
LBJ State Park offers beautiful grounds and historical sites with no admission fee.
Permit for Driving Tour
Get a free permit to drive through the working ranch property.
Dog-Friendly Grounds
Pups are welcome on the grounds, but not inside buildings.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Construction Status
Confirm Texas White House access before visiting, as it's often under renovation.
Free Entry to State Park
LBJ State Park offers beautiful grounds and historical sites with no admission fee.
Permit for Driving Tour
Get a free permit to drive through the working ranch property.
Dog-Friendly Grounds
Pups are welcome on the grounds, but not inside buildings.
Visit the Gift Shop
Find unique souvenirs at the quaint gift shop at the Visitor Center.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the LBJ Ranch for its rich historical significance and the opportunity to explore President Johnson's life and legacy. The working ranch elements and the adjacent State Park are also highlighted as enjoyable aspects. However, ongoing renovations can sometimes limit access to key buildings like the Texas White House, which is a recurring point of disappointment for some.
"The LBJ Presidential Library is a well-curated and fascinating museum that offers a deep dive into both Texas and Lyndon B. Johnson’s history. The building itself is stunning—modern, spacious, and easily accessible. There are multiple thoughtfully designed exhibits that showcase LBJ’s life, presidency, and legacy in an engaging way.
We spent about 1.5 hours exploring and felt it was absolutely worth the price of admission. Don’t miss the quaint gift shop—perfect for picking up a unique souvenir. A must-visit stop in Austin for history lovers!"
Tamara Schwarting
"I did the driving tour of the state park after visiting the boyhood home and visitor center in Johnson City. Personally I preferred the walking trail in Johnson City as there was more to see at the time when I came here. The Texas White House and surrounding area is currently under construction, so there wasn't much to see other than the ranch, but there was also no activity at the time I arrived. I'm sure once the buildings are restored and access to them is possible again it will be an interesting sight."
Jacob Herper
"Awesome experience. 4 Stars because the Western White House is being repaired and all views are blocked. The Visitors Center is clean and nice & has a cute little gift shop with a friendly Ranger. Get the permit (free) before you can drove through the property. Beautiful!"
Nadine Kirkpatrick
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The LBJ Ranch is located in Gillespie County, Texas, near Johnson City. It's part of the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park. While the main visitor center and historical sites are accessible, some users have reported difficulty finding entrances to the broader LBJ grasslands area.
It's best to use GPS coordinates for the specific visitor center or historical sites you wish to visit.Yes, there is parking available at the visitor centers and designated areas within the LBJ Ranch National Historical Park.
You can drive your own car on many of the roads within the LBJ Ranch National Historical Park. A free permit is required to drive through the working ranch portion.
Many visitors opt for a driving tour to see the various historical sites, including the birthplace, cemetery, and the Texas White House.
Guided tours may also be available depending on current renovations.Public transportation options directly to the LBJ Ranch are limited. It is generally recommended to have your own vehicle for the best experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the LBJ National Historical Park, including the grounds and most historical sites, is generally free.
However, specific tours or access to certain buildings might require advance booking or a fee, especially if renovations are ongoing.The operating hours for the LBJ National Historical Park and its visitor centers can vary. It's essential to check the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation for specific sites.
No, the LBJ State Park typically has no admission fee, making it a great free addition to your visit.
Access to certain areas, like the Texas White House, may be restricted or unavailable during renovations. Always check the NPS website for current status.
Most visitors spend 1.5 to 3 hours exploring the main historical sites and grounds.
If you plan to explore the broader park areas or take a leisurely drive, allocate more time.🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see LBJ's birthplace, family cemetery, schoolhouse, the Texas White House, Air Force One-Half, and a working ranch with bison and cattle.
Guided tours may be offered, but availability can be impacted by ongoing renovations. Check with the Visitor Center upon arrival or the NPS website for current tour schedules.
Yes, LBJ Ranch is a family-friendly destination with historical exhibits and open grounds.
Kids can learn about presidential history in an engaging way.Photography is generally allowed in most outdoor areas of the LBJ Ranch.
Be mindful of any posted restrictions, especially inside historical buildings or during special events.Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be exploring grounds and historical sites.
Dress for Texas weather, which can be hot and humid in the summer.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly on the LBJ Ranch. However, you can find dining options in nearby Johnson City and Fredericksburg.
Picnicking is generally permitted in designated areas. It's a good idea to bring your own snacks and water, especially during warmer months.
Johnson City offers local eateries, and Fredericksburg, known for its German heritage, has numerous restaurants and bakeries.
Yes, there is a quaint gift shop at the Visitor Center where you can purchase souvenirs.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic Texas White House, Air Force One-Half, the sprawling ranch landscapes, and the family cemetery.
Drone usage is typically restricted within National Historical Parks for safety and preservation reasons. Check the NPS regulations before flying a drone.
While outdoor photography is generally encouraged, be respectful of historical sites and any posted signage.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most flattering conditions for photographing the ranch and its structures.
You can find many photos by searching for 'LBJ Ranch photos' or specific landmarks like 'Texas White House photos' on image search engines and social media.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks as dining options on-site are limited. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the grounds. The LBJ State Park is also a great addition, offering more historical sites and natural beauty without an admission fee.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the family cemetery and the schoolhouse for a more personal perspective. Be sure to check the National Park Service website for the latest on any renovations affecting access to key buildings, as this can impact the full historical experience.
🚗 Road Trippers
Remember to get your free driving permit to experience the working ranch areas. The LBJ State Park offers additional historical insights and beautiful scenery, often with no admission fee, making it a great value add to your road trip itinerary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Texas White House
Visitors can explore the grounds and, when accessible, the interior of the house, gaining insight into LBJ's life and presidency. The ongoing renovations mean that access can be variable, so checking the National Park Service website is crucial before planning your visit. The site offers a tangible connection to a pivotal era in American history, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of a president.
Adjacent to the White House is the hangar housing Air Force One-Half, a JetStar aircraft that LBJ frequently used for travel. This plane was instrumental in his ability to govern from his beloved Texas ranch, underscoring the ranch's importance as a center of power during his administration.
Exploring the Working Ranch
A driving tour permit (free) allows you to explore these working areas more intimately. It's a chance to see the ranch as LBJ knew it, a place of both personal retreat and national significance. The presence of livestock and the vast, open landscapes contribute to the authentic atmosphere of the ranch.
Beyond the livestock, the ranch also features historical structures like LBJ's birthplace, the family cemetery, and a schoolhouse, all contributing to a comprehensive understanding of his life and the environment that shaped him. These sites offer a more personal and grounded perspective on the 36th U.S. President.
Visiting LBJ State Park
Visitors can explore the birthplace cabin, the family cemetery where LBJ and Lady Bird are buried, and other historical structures. The park also features a visitor center with a gift shop and information about the area. It's a great place to learn about LBJ's early life and his deep connection to the Texas Hill Country.
Beyond the historical sites, the LBJ State Park boasts beautiful natural scenery, including the Pedernales River. It's a place where history and nature converge, offering a peaceful and educational experience for all visitors. Remember that while dogs are allowed on the grounds, they are not permitted inside buildings.
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