Ronald Reagan Presidential Library

ENJOY THE REAGAN LIBRARY FOR A WELL ORCHESTRATED TRIBUTE TO A DEDICATED PRESIDENT

Flowers are placed at the foot of Reagan's bronze each day, a docent told us, by an anonymous donor.  During the weeks after Nancy Reagan's death and burial on the site, the number of bouquets grew.

STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS

PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER

"The Carpe Diem Kids"

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the rolling landscapes of Simi Valley, California, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library is a destination where history and travel come together. A visit takes you beyond the headlines and into the life and times of Ronald Reagan, with fascinating exhibits, photographs, personal belongings, historic aircraft, and stories from his years as California governor and the 40th president of the United States. Even for travelers who don't consider themselves history buffs, the library offers an engaging experience and the setting alone makes the drive worthwhile.

The approach to the Reagan Presidential Library is typically "southern California" with a lovely fountain, mosaic tiles and nicely kept gardens.

WE WERE among a recent full house to pay our respects to the colorful and charismatic world leader, spending a pleasant and informative afternoon perusing his 100,000-square foot memorial.

Its 24 wide- ranging galleries include a full-sized replica of the Oval Office as he and Nancy decorated it, and the actual Air Force One aircraft used by Reagan and six other presidents as their "Flying White House."

Keller prepares to board Air Force One, the actual plane which carried Reagan and other presidents around the world.

WE ARE far from die-hard Republicans, but then Reagan himself dabbled a bit in the "pick your party" game.   Raised in a Republican neighborhood in Illinois, by liberal Democrat parents, he was a Democrat himself until age 50.

So his politics was not an issue in our decision to visit this lovely and historic site. (We've visited others of the 13 Presidential libraries, which began with President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This is by far the most impressive.)

You can join Reagan for a horseback ride, as Cookie did, in one exhibit.

Our favorite sentimental parts of the eclectic and well curated display had to do with the relationship between Ronnie and Nancy.  Everyone knows that she was instrumental in grooming his political career, and in influencing decisions large and small that shaped his career both as governor and as president.

The Berlin Wall's history is documented along with Reagan's famous "tear down that wall" appeal.

Visitors number in the millions, but the museum does not feel crowded. Here people cue up to step inside the actual Air Force One Reagan used.

SOME OF THE NOTES he wrote to her are displayed, and many photos of the two together -- dancing at the inaugurals, riding horseback, visiting world figures, including the Pope, and simply spending time together.  Their constant and abiding love and affection is one of the enduring legacies the couple left.  Their amazing partnership is a touching part of the library, which they both helped create and which she refined and enhanced after his death in 2004.  Mrs. Reagan's candor in her long, devoted care of her husband through his 10-year decline is also noted.  And among the famous photos and newsreels are several of the Reagans after the attempt on his life.  

Here, a dummy sits in the Air Force One office, where Reagan worked. Below right, a changing exhibit features the Vatican's Swiss Guards.

Focus on Reagan's International Role as a Successful Ambassador

Our favorite "history" parts of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library had to do with Reagan's international role in forging a path of peace.  

His impassioned appeal to "tear down that wall" echo in the display about Berlin.

There is always another fascinating place to discover, and that is what makes travel so much fun. At WhereIsCookie.com, we look beyond the obvious attractions to share the places, experiences, history, culture, food, and unexpected treasures that can make a trip memorable. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a road trip, or a journey somewhere far from home, follow WhereIsCookie.com for travel stories, personal recommendations, helpful tips, and inspiration for your next adventure.

The Reagan Museum also features lectures and changing exhibits. Currently on show is "Vatican Splendors," a splendid collection of Vatican art.

Come along with Cookie -- we'll show you where to go and why it's worth the trip! 

Remember to explore, learn and live, and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on travel, history, performance, nature and more:

www.whereiscookie.com