The Nixon Library offers a fascinating walk through America’s modern history and that of this controversial native son of Orange County (1913–94), who served as president 1969–74. Noteworthy exhibits include a full-size replica of the White House East Room, recordings of conversations with Apollo 11 astronauts on the moon, access to the ex-presidential helicopter – complete with wet bar and ashtrays – and excerpts from landmark TV appearances including the Kennedy-Nixon debates and Nixon's famous self-parody on the Laugh-In comedy show.
You'll learn about Nixon's childhood in nearby Whittier, his early life and political career as senator and vice president under Dwight Eisenhower, and moments that defined his presidency: the moon landing, Vietnam War and Cold War, the Clean Air Act and the opening of the US to China.
All that said, it's the exhibits about Watergate, the infamous scandal that ultimately brought down Nixon's administration, that will probably be of the most interest. The story unfolds like a spy thriller from many perspectives: conspiracy thinking to political dirty tricks, cover up and congressional investigations. It's a bold exhibit, considering that "Tricky Dick" and First Lady Pat Nixon lie buried just outside, near Nixon's birth house.
The library is in the rolling-hilled residential community of Yorba Linda in northeastern Orange County, about 10 miles northeast of Anaheim. To get here, take Hwy 57 north and exit east on Yorba Linda Blvd, then continue straight and follow the signs.
