The Richard Nixon Library and Birthplace is a unique destination in the Orange County area, since it is one of only 13 presidential libraries dispersed throughout the United States. I came here last Thursday (01/21/2016) with my boyfriend. We arrived around 12:30 pm and it was pretty quite. For a small admission fee (because we brought our student IDs, we got a discounted admission price), we could get free reign over the entire property. At the beginning, we were kind of disappointed when the ticket seller told us that a half of the exhibit was currently closed. Because we did not see anyone come to us as a tour guide, we decided to discover everything here by ourselves and latterly found it very interesting even though it was our first …show more content…
Continuing our self-discovery, the museum exhibits were quite extensive and included the re-creation of Nixon 's favorite room (East Room). This is a large ballroom that I think was used for weddings or parties at the Nixon’s time. It has a large open space that offers plenty of seating. I could imagine how people were dancing in a classic music background. Leaving this room, we immediately noticed a small lovely white house nearby. We also saw the grave sites of Richard and Patricia Nixon, the beautiful rose garden, the lovely reflecting pool. Seeing a group of tourists ahead, we decided to join in so that we could get more specific information from the tour guide. Our tour guide was friendly and animated which made for a really fun tour. He patiently answered each of our questions throughout the tour and never skipped a beat even with such a large party like ours. From the introduction of our tour guide, we knew this is the home of Nixon 's birthplace and early years. I was happy that we had a chance to visit here. With beautiful flowers decorating the pathway to the front door, this house was so charming. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share their information with us. I appreciate how I was advised to take pictures outside first in the garden and then come back in and enjoy the displays. The rose garden was beautiful and I was able to get some great photos. The house tour was nice as well. Following the line to see Nixon 's actual home that he …show more content…
In conclusion, this library and museum is a really comprehensive look at President Nixon 's personal and political life. The museum looks at his birth, political career at Congressman, Senator, Vice-President and President, and even touches on Watergate. He wasn 't born as rich or powerful political family like many other president, quite similar to President Obama, comes from middle class, took him many career ladder in order for him to become president. Perhaps his hungry desire for political office might be his downfall. This museum really is a great education and entertaining visit for everyone. As I did not get to tour the whole museum, I would like to return some time and take a tour of the entire grounds. This was my first time at a presidential library so I didn 't know what to expect but after visiting, I will try and see all the presidential libraries! Highly recommend to visit here if you