Past Exhibits

2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the end of U.S. involvement in Vietnam. This showcase exhibit uses photographs to provide a moving, intimate, and powerful look at the Vietnam War, capturing how presidents grappled with the reality of war and the American public’s changing responses to the conflict. Visitors can explore this panel exhibit to learn more about the conflict and reflect on its lingering impacts.

Visitors can explore some of the key moments of Gerald R. Ford’s Presidency through an exhibition of the works of Pulitzer-prize winning cartoonist Pat Oliphant.

The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Express train display includes many nods to Gerald R. Ford’s life in Grand Rapids, including South High School, Bill’s Place Diner, the Quonset Hut used in his congressional campaign, and a replica of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. Visiting the train is free, but guests will need tickets to visit the galleries.

In celebration of the 175th anniversary of the incorporation of Grand Rapids, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is hosting a mobile museum exhibit featuring 175 photos that highlight key moments of the city’s history. The exhibit is presented by the Grand Rapids Public Museum, and representatives from the Grand Rapids City Archives, the Grand Rapids Public Library, the Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives, the Grand Rapids Historical Commission, and the Grand Rapids Historical Society worked together to develop this exhibit with images from their vast public collections. The exhibit, in the Museum's lobby, will be free to visitors.