About
The Lyndon B. Johnson Historical Park is truly a landmark in the city and is not to be missed. The history of this place is not only fantastic and interesting, but it is also a beautiful place to spend some time outdoors.
This huge park is on a loop that you just drive through. And with several stopping points along the way, you'll learn about the history that took place right where you are. It was definitely a cool part of the experience!
There is a lot to see as you drive through the park, so take your time and enjoy it.
For example, you'll see Texas Longhorns grazing gently in open pastures. The grasses themselves, along with the trees, are a vibrant green and unlike anything I've seen before.
The Visitor Center is just as important to visit. This is where you will learn more about the life of President Johnson and his accomplishments as the leader of the country. I encourage you to stop and watch the 25 minute movies (there are two) that are worth spending time on.
In fact, one of them is about Lady Bird, his wife, and also describes all his personal achievements. These two are very interesting people.
There is also a gift shop with some fun items. I suggest spending a bit of time here too, so you can take a piece of this place home with you!
Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park Visitor Center: Fun Facts
This park is where our 36th president was born and raised.
I highly recommend slowing down and really exploring the park, even if you have no idea what President Johnson brought to the country. It is a very interesting history lesson.
Be sure to check out the plane hangar, which still has a plane in it. This is one of the best stops along the way. You can get up close to the plane and wander around the area for more amazing stories!
Another important stop is just around the corner from the plane. That's where the family cemetery is. While I was there, I learned that all the local children affectionately called President Johnson Mr. Jellybean. Apparently, one of his joys was sharing jelly beans with the children.
There is also a short film called “The Home of Our Heart” that is worth sitting down and watching. It gives you a way to listen to phone calls between the president and other people, including Billy Graham and Martin Luther King, Jr. It's pretty cool.
Getting there
It is quite easy to get to this place. Take Highway 290 to LBJ State Park and Historic Site from Johnson City. If you are coming from Fredericksburg, take Highway 290 east about 16 miles.
Local Tips
- Be careful! The local longhorns, though they are sweet, do have free range of the park. Make sure to drive slowly because they are wild animals, and they may approach! I saw one scratching his head on a low-hanging branch as we were driving by. He definitely seemed happy to be there.
- Bring the kids. It’s not a boring history tour but rather a fantastic experience that anyone, even younger kids, can appreciate.
- Check out the memorabilia here. There are two Concrete blocks at the Visitors Center, for example, that are signed by all of the visitors to the Texas White House.
- If you really love planes, you can visit just the hangar and check out the displays and the plane itself.
