One of 15 presidential libraries administered by the National Archives, this museum on the UT Austin campus chronicles the life and presidency of the 36th president. Houses over 45 million documents, artifacts, and a full-scale replica of the Oval Office.
The Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library and Museum stands on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin at 2313 Red River Street. Designed by Gordon Bunshaft of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and opened in 1971, it is one of 15 presidential libraries in the National Archives system. The library houses more than 45 million pages of historical documents, 650,000 photographs, and 5,000 hours of audio and video recordings from Johnson's political career and presidency.
The museum occupies the ground floor and traces Johnson's extraordinary political life: from his early years in the Texas Hill Country and his entry into politics in the New Deal era, through his congressional career, his Senate leadership as Majority Leader, his vice presidency under Kennedy, and his assumption of the presidency following Kennedy's assassination on November 22, 1963. Johnson's presidency (1963–1969) was among the most consequential in American history, marked by the Civil Rights Act (1964), the Voting Rights Act (1965), Medicare, Medicaid, the Great Society domestic program, and the escalating US involvement in Vietnam.
A full-scale replica of the Oval Office as it appeared during Johnson's presidency occupies the 10th floor—one of the most detailed Oval Office reproductions at any presidential library, furnished with period-accurate memorabilia including LBJ's enormous desk, personal photographs, and artifacts. The 10th floor provides views across the UT Austin campus and central Austin skyline.
Special exhibitions rotate regularly in the temporary galleries. Admission is free for all visitors, making the LBJ Library one of the best-value historical museums in Austin. The library hosts frequent public programming including lectures, symposia, and annual events marking civil rights milestones.
Good to know
- Hours
- 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily
- Best time
- morning
- Best for
- history lovers, political enthusiasts, adults
Location
2313 Red River St, Austin, TX 78705
30.2856, -97.7381 View on map
Highlights
- Full-scale Oval Office replica on the 10th floor furnished exactly as during Johnson's 1963–1969 presidency
- Over 45 million pages of historical documents from one of the most transformative American presidencies
- Civil Rights and Great Society galleries documenting landmark legislation including the Civil Rights Act of 1964
- LBJ personal audio recording collection—one of the most extensive presidential audio records in the Archives system
- Free admission on the University of Texas Austin campus, easily combined with a broader campus tour
Tips for visiting
- Replica Oval Office on 10th floor is a highlight
- Check for special exhibitions
- Combine with a UT campus walk
When to visit
Weekday mornings from 9 AM to noon offer the quietest visit with no school group crowds. The 10th-floor Oval Office is busiest between 11 AM and 2 PM on weekends; visiting at opening or late afternoon reduces congestion. The library hosts significant public programming around the November 22 Kennedy assassination anniversary.
Accessibility
The LBJ Library is fully wheelchair accessible. The building has a main-level accessible entrance and elevators to all museum floors including the 10th-floor Oval Office. Accessible restrooms are on each level. An accessible parking area is designated near the library entrance. Staff assist with accessibility needs on request.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an admission charge to the LBJ Presidential Library?
No. Admission to the LBJ Library and Museum is free for all visitors. Parking is available in the adjacent UT Austin garage for a fee. The library is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
What is the most popular feature of the LBJ Library?
The full-scale Oval Office replica on the 10th floor is the most visited feature. Original artifacts include pens Johnson used to sign landmark legislation, his personal Stetson hat collection, and memorabilia from the Great Society era.
Is the LBJ Library appropriate for children?
The museum suits older children (10+) with an interest in American history or civil rights. Younger children may find the document-heavy exhibits less engaging, though the interactive recordings and Oval Office replica tend to hold broader attention. Audio guides help interpret context for all ages.