John F. Kennedy National Historic Site preserves the birthplace in 1917 and boyhood home of the 35th President of the United States. The modest frame house in suburban Boston was also the first home shared by the president's father and mother, Joseph P. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy, and represents the social and political beginnings of one of the world's most prominent families.

Shortly after President Kennedy's assassination in 1963, his family repurchased the birthplace and restored it as a memorial to him under the close supervision of Rose Kennedy. The John F. Kennedy National Historic Site was established in 1969 following the family's donation of the home to the National Park Service.

Park Rangers present guided tours of the birthplace, as well as the nearby neighborhood including homes, schools, and church associated with the Kennedy family.

 Directions 

Plane - Park is located approximately 7.1 miles from Boston Logan International Airport. Estimated driving time is 20 minutes.

Car - From I-90/Massachusetts Turnpike: Exit at Allston/Brighton/Cambridge toll station. From Allston/Brighton off-ramp, merge onto Cambridge Street. Follow 3/4 mile. At second stoplight, turn left onto Harvard Street. Follow 3/4 mile across a major intersection with Brighton Avenue & another with Commonwealth Avenue. After several blocks, turn left onto Beals Street. Follow 3/4 block to #83.

From I-95/Rt. 128: Exit at Route 9/Brookline East. Follow Route 9 (Boylston Street) approximately 5 miles. Follow signs for Harvard Street & continue 1 mile across a major intersection with Beacon Street (Coolidge Corner). After 4 blocks, turn right onto Beals Street. Follow 3/4 block to #83.

Public Transportation - From Downtown Boston by MBTA/Subway: Take Green Line ("C" - Cleveland Circle) train. Exit at the intersection of Beacon & Harvard Streets