Field Trips

Park rangers lead guided tours of historic buildings, including Herbert Hoover's birthplace.

NPS Photo

Fees and Reservations

School groups may visit Herbert Hoover National Historic Site and the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum free of charge.

April, May, September, and October are the busiest months for field trips. Please schedule early in the year to ensure your preferred date and time are available. Reserve your school tour by calling the Presidential Library and Museum at [phone] or by e-mailing Kathy Meyer. Once your reservation is confirmed you will receive a confirmation package.

Guided Tours

Most field trips last about 3 hours and 45 minutes, including:

• a one-hour guided tour in the Presidential Library and Museum, including the Hoover Galleries and the temporary exhibit;
• a one-hour guided tour of National Historic Site, including the Birthplace Cottage, Blacksmith Shop, Schoolhouse, and Friends Meetinghouse;
• a 30-minute film on the life of Herbert Hoover;
• a 15-minute visit to the gravesite of Herbert and Lou Henry Hoover;
• a 15- minute visit to the Museum gift shop;
• 45-minutes for lunch in one of the picnic shelters.

You may substitute a 30-minute self-guided prairie walk for the 15-minute gravesite visit. The prairie walk follows trails through the 81-acre tallgrass prairie and ends at the Hoovers' gravesite.

You may choose to participate in all of these activities, or omit any based on your preference or time constraints. Guided tours are available Monday through Friday starting at 9:00 a.m.

Self-guided Tours

School groups are welcome to visit the National Historic Site and the Presidential Library and Museum for self-guided tours, but are encouraged to make advanced reservations to avoid conflicts with other groups.

Be Prepared

Most school tours involve both indoor and outdoor activities. See the Plan Your Visit section for directions, operating hours, and things to know before you come.

Curriculum materials may help you and your class make the most of your field trip. HEHO! Activity Worksheets and Activities (PDF file), for elementary school classes, and Herbert Hoover: From Iowa to the World (PDF file), for middle school classes, have suggested activities for before, during, and after your visit.