Public Tour

Hometown Hero: The Birthplace of Dwight D. Eisenhower
Capacity: 1-10
Timing: 1 hour, Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, noon to 5 p.m., starting on the hour
Cost: Families $12, adults $6, seniors and veterans $5, children $4, ages 5 and under free.

Denison is the home of Dwight D. Eisenhower, our 34th president. Tour the birthplace, get a glimpse of working-class family life at the turn of the 20th century, and learn about Eisenhower’s many accomplishments and connections to this community.  Reservations may be made in advance for tours on the hour; walk-ins available as space permits.

School Tours

Distinctly Denison, Exceptionally Eisenhower
Grades: K-12
Capacity: 5-100
Timing: 1.5-2 hours, Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Cost: $1 per student. Chaperones are free.

What was life like for working-class families in Denison around the turn of the 20th century? Students will explore the birthplace of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, learn about the contributions of our 34th president and his connections to this community, and participate in hands-on activities such as playing croquet, quilting with paper, or using a clothes-washing station from the 1890s. 

Eisenhower’s Era: Homeschoolers at the Home of a Future President
Grades: K-12th Grade Homeschool
Capacity: 5-100
Timing: 1.5-2 hours, Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Cost: $1 per person

Homeschool families and co-ops are invited to Eisenhower Birthplace to learn about life in Denison around the turn of the 20th century. This experience will include a tour of the house, an introductory video, and hands-on activities. Activities can be selected based on current learning level and can be adjusted to meet the needs of a multi-age group.

Adult Group Tour

Dwight D. Eisenhower: A Son of Denison
Capacity: 10-100
Timing: 1 hour, Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., starting on the hour
Cost: $4 per person

Visit a working-class home from the turn of the 20th century, the birthplace of Dwight D. Eisenhower, the pride of Denison. Learn about the accomplishments of our 34th president, Eisenhower’s many connections to this community, and get a glimpse of what life was like in Denison over 100 years ago. Groups will view an introductory video, explore the birthplace, and see an exhibit about Eisenhower’s history with Denison.

Tour Reservations

Tour reservations should be made at least one week in advance by calling 903-465-8908, emailing Eisenhower-birthplace@thc.texas.gov, or completing this tour request form. A tour of Eisenhower Birthplace can be combined with a visit to Sam Rayburn House State Historic Site, 25 miles away.

If your group is looking for a specialized tour experience, contact the site directly to inquire about customizing your tour.

Museum Store 

A museum store is located in the visitor center and offers books, magnets, postcards, replica campaign buttons, and other presidential-themed gifts.  

Accessibility 

Both the visitor center and Birthplace home have wheelchair-accessible ramps. Accessible restrooms are located at the picnic pavilion. It is a short walk from the visitor center to the Birthplace home. 

Parking

Visitor parking is available in our main lot located at the visitor center (Search for 609 S. Lamar Ave.). Please note that Shepherd and Day streets are closed at Crockett Avenue and do not provide access to Lamar Avenue. Lamar Avenue is closed at Day Street. 

Facilities 

Food and drinks are not available for purchase on site. Visitors may bring their own food and drinks to enjoy at the pavilion, but we do not allow food or drinks in the Birthplace home. Water fountains and restrooms are located at the picnic pavilion. Photography is allowed in the visitor center and Birthplace home. Smoking is not permitted on site. 

Nearby Attractions 

While you're in the area, visit these nearby sites: 

For additional travel and history information, see the following resources: