Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Gives Visitors Glimpse Of Past
Go back in time to the era of Teddy Roosevelt at the newly opened Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, N.D.
Visitors can experience the story of Theodore Roosevelt’s life across more than 40,000 square feet of immersive exhibits designed by Local Projects, a first-of-its-kind digital archive unifying TR’s papers from institutions across the country, a 121,000-square-foot accessible green roof and a 0.6mile boardwalk through restored native prairie.
The library held its offi cial grand opening July 4, with a dedication ceremony that morning amid celebrations of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
“There’s no better place to honor Theodore Roosevelt than the arena that shaped him, and no better time than our nation’s 250th year,” said Edward F. O’Keefe, CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, earlier this year as plans were underway for the grand opening. “We are thrilled to open our doors and invite the world to experience the landscape and the legacy that made our 26th president.”
The TRPL goes beyond traditional displays. Visitors step directly into Roosevelt’s life through galleries that use AI, holograms and immersive storytelling. Timed-entry general admission tickets limit the number of guests entering each hour, keeping visitor numbers manageable and enhancing the experience for everyone inside.
Each visitor receives a “Trailblazer Compass” — a wearable key that unlocks their journey through the library. Visitors scan the compass at stations throughout the building, and the exhibits come alive. Animals hidden throughout the library can also be found and scanned, adding to a personal Trailblazer profi le. Visitors can try their hand at herding cattle, designing a cattle brand, building a campaign poster and making the kinds of decisions a president is required to make. Each visitor’s Trailblazer profile is unique, saving their activities at the library to create a keepsake of the visit.
The TRPL was designed by the international architectural firm Snøhetta and is the only carbon-neutral presidential library, according to the TRPL website. The building functions in harmony with the surrounding ecology, serving as a model of self-sufficiency. The main structure is defined by its earthen roof rising from the butte, echoing the landforms of the surrounding Badlands.
Visitors can ascend the accessible rooftop for commanding views of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Medora by day and for stargazing by night.
Inside, large windows frame views of historically significant landscapes and complement the rhythm of the interactive exhibits within. A large covered porch overlooks the valleys.
Guided walking tours, led by a library expert for small groups of 15 to 20 people, are available. Each tour explores a specific theme, gallery or aspect of Roosevelt’s life in greater depth, offering visitors a chance to ask questions and experience the library with an expert leading the way.
The on-site restaurant, Salt+Scoria, features wood-fired, Native and seasonal fare. The menu is built on partnerships with Native growers and local ranchers and includes items such as TR’s venison and beef chili, cedar-smoked chicken kebabs and a sourdough sandwich with grilled bison. Sweet treats include a sea salt chocolate chip cookie, Sagamore Hill sand tarts and ginger snaps. The full menu can be found at www.saltandscoria. com/menu. Go to www.trlibrary. com to learn more about the library and to schedule a visit.
