Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home

The Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home in Dixon, Illinois, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the formative years of America’s 40th President. This beautifully restored house stands as a testament to the humble beginnings and small-town values that shaped Ronald Reagan into one of the nation’s most influential leaders.

A Window into Reagan’s Youth

The Reagan family resided in this home from 1920 to 1923, during Ronald Reagan’s youth. These were crucial years in young “Dutch” Reagan’s development, when he was forming the values and character traits that would later define his presidency. The home has been meticulously restored to its 1920s appearance, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the environment that shaped the future president.

The Tour Experience

Your visit begins at the adjacent Visitor Center, where you’ll watch an engaging introductory film that provides context about Reagan’s family, their life in Dixon, and the community environment of the 1920s and 30s. This 15-20 minute documentary sets the stage for understanding the significance of what you’re about to see.

Following the film, knowledgeable docents lead guided tours through the boyhood home. These hour-long tours are intimate and informative, with guides sharing:

• Detailed descriptions of each room and its historical significance
• Personal stories about the Reagan family’s daily life
• Anecdotes about young Ronald’s personality, interests, and early experiences
• Historical context about life in small-town America during the 1920s
• Insights into how these early years influenced Reagan’s later political philosophy

Period-Authentic Details

Every detail in the home has been carefully researched and restored to reflect the 1920s era. From the wallpaper patterns to the furniture styles, from the kitchen appliances to the children’s toys, the house tells a story of middle-class American life a century ago. These authentic touches help visitors understand not just Reagan’s personal story, but the broader American experience of that era.

The Dixon Connection

While the Reagan family lived in several homes during their time in Dixon, this particular residence holds special significance as it represents a stable period in young Ronald’s life. Dixon itself played a crucial role in Reagan’s development—he attended Dixon High School, worked as a lifeguard at Lowell Park (where he famously saved 77 lives over seven summers), and formed many of the friendships and values that would stay with him throughout his life.

Visitor Center & Gift Shop

After touring the home, return to the Visitor Center to explore additional exhibits about Reagan’s life and legacy. The gift shop offers a thoughtfully curated selection of books about Reagan, presidential memorabilia, historically themed items, and unique souvenirs that make perfect gifts for history enthusiasts and political science buffs.

Free Admission, Priceless Experience

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home is that admission is completely free. Managed by Young America’s Foundation, the site’s mission is to educate and inspire visitors with Reagan’s story. This commitment to accessibility ensures that anyone interested in American history and presidential heritage can experience this important landmark.

Planning Your Visit

The home is open Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., from April through December. The site is closed during the winter months (January-March). Tours accommodate small groups to maintain an intimate, personal experience, so visiting during weekday mornings often provides the most relaxed atmosphere.

Perfect for Lodge Guests

Located just approximately 8 miles from East of Yellowstone Lodge, the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home is the closest major attraction to our property, making it an ideal quick excursion or a stop on your way to or from other area attractions. The short distance means you can easily visit during a morning or afternoon while still enjoying all the amenities and relaxation our lodge offers.

Ideal For:

• Presidential history enthusiasts
• Families teaching children about American history
• Political science students and professionals
• Anyone interested in 20th-century American life
• Visitors seeking free, educational activities
• Reagan admirers and researchers

The Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home offers a moving and educational experience that reminds us that even presidents start as ordinary children in ordinary American towns. The values of hard work, optimism, and community that young Ronald Reagan absorbed in Dixon would later resonate with millions of Americans and help define an era in American politics.

Come discover the small-town roots of a big-time president, and gain a deeper appreciation for how humble beginnings can lead to extraordinary achievements.