First Steps to the White House

JFK’s parents never expected that their second son would grow up to be president.  Yet in his birthplace home he learned values that inspired a life in public service. His mother, Rose Kennedy, recreated her family’s first home to share her memories of those early years with visitors. We commemorate not only his early life, but the ideas and principles he left behind.

Photo of Park Ranger and SCA intern on the porch of the JFK birthplace for Halloween in 2023.
JFK Birthplace Closed for Off Season

John Fitzgerald Kennedy NHS has closed for the visitor season through late-May 2025. Learn more here about off season opportunities!

A photo of President Kennedy with extended family members in Ireland in 1963.
New Staff-Authored Articles

Explore our new staff-authored articles on JFK and the Space Race, a 1975 firebombing, and the history of Irish immigration in Boston.

A cat sits in front of a television with John F. Kennedy's image displayed. Black and White.
Watch our Site Film

Learn about President Kennedy and the site through our film.

The front of 83 Beals St. The house is dappled with shadows from the trees.
Take a Virtual Audio Tour

Take a Virtual Audio Tour of 83 Beals Street, the birthplace of John F. Kennedy. Check out our kid's tour, "Young Jack Kennedy."

Ranger stands in a wooden scene. a camera on a tripod is to the left.
Specialty Talks and Filmed Presentations

Dive deeper into Kennedy topics.

A park ranger stands in front of a yellow bricked building holding a photograph of a young JFK
Virtual Walking Tours

Take a virtual walking tour from the comfort of your own home.

A pair of hiking boots, a park ranger flat hat, and the JFK NHS Junior Ranger booklet are displayed
Participate in our Junior Ranger Program

A free, fun, and educational activity for youth that can be completed virtually.

Last updated: December 19, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

83 Beals Street
Brookline, MA 02446

Phone:

617 566-7937

Contact Us