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.

Photograph of 2024 season staff in front of JFK birthplace home with tree and sign in foreground.
JFK Birthplace Home Reopens May 29, 2025

John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Historic Site reopens for our visitation season on May 29, 2025! Learn more about our schedule here.

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 Tour

Take a virtual tour of 83 Beals Street, the neighborhood where the president grew up, or the Boston community that shaped his ancestors!

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.

Volunteers in training at a table
Come Volunteer with Us in 2025!

Interested in a Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP position) or unpaid student internship? We currently have two opportunities available - apply today!

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: April 30, 2025

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

83 Beals Street
Brookline, MA 02446

Phone:

617 566-7937

Contact Us