Herbert Hoover called his humble birthplace "physical proof of the unbounded opportunity of American life."
Photo: NPS Photo/John Eicher
About
Orphaned at age nine, Herbert Hoover left West Branch never to live here again. In later years, he returned to his humble birthplace to celebrate his long career of public service. A memorial landscape remains to tell his story: how community, hard work, honesty, and usefulness to others opened a world of opportunity— and the presidency of the United States— to a child of simple beginnings.
Location
110 Parkside Drive
West Branch, IA 52358
Hours
wednesday9:00AM - 5:00PM
monday9:00AM - 5:00PM
thursday9:00AM - 5:00PM
sunday9:00AM - 5:00PM
tuesday9:00AM - 5:00PM
friday9:00AM - 5:00PM
saturday9:00AM - 5:00PM
Activities
Arts and CultureCraft DemonstrationsFoodPicnickingGuided ToursSelf-Guided Tours - WalkingHikingFront-Country HikingJunior Ranger ProgramWildlife WatchingBirdwatchingPark FilmMuseum Exhibits
Directions
Take exit 254 off Interstate 80 to West Branch, Iowa. The Visitor Center is 0.3 mile north of Interstate 80.
Get directions →Weather
Spring and fall are mild with moderate temperatures. Average high temperatures in the spring and fall are between 50° and 60° F, with lows from 40° F to 50° F. Summer is hot and humid with average highs around 85° F. Winter can be cold, windy, and snowy with highs averaging 30° F or lower. Rain and thunderstorms are most frequent in the spring and summer.