Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum

The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum at 441 Freedom Pkwy NE in Atlanta's Inman Park neighborhood is operated jointly by the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library — a federal facility managed by the National Archives and Records Administration — and the Carter Center, a non-governmental organization founded by President Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter in 1982. The complex sits on a landscaped hilltop east of downtown Atlanta, surrounded by Japanese-style gardens, reflecting ponds, and cherry trees.

The museum explores the life and presidency of Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, who served from 1977 to 1981 and is the only US president from Georgia. The permanent exhibition begins with galleries on Carter's upbringing in Depression-era Plains, Georgia, and follows his career from state senator to governor to the White House. The centerpiece is a full-scale replica of the Oval Office as it appeared during the Carter administration, furnished with period-accurate details including Carter's desk and the artwork he selected.

Additional galleries cover the major events of his presidency: the Camp David Accords of 1978 in which Carter brokered peace between Egypt and Israel; the Iran hostage crisis; the energy crisis; and the Panama Canal treaties. A concluding gallery addresses Carter's post-presidential work — international election monitoring, Habitat for Humanity construction projects, and disease eradication efforts through the Carter Center. The library's archival holdings, not generally accessible to the public, contain approximately 27 million pages of administration documents.

Admission is $12 for adults. The surrounding Japanese garden is freely accessible without purchasing a museum ticket. The museum sees far fewer visitors than Atlanta's major downtown attractions, offering an unhurried and reflective experience. Free parking is available on site.