Lyndon Baines Johnson Library & Museum, Austin

One of 13 presidential libraries in the U.S., the LBJ Library & Museum is a fascinating look not just into Lyndon Baines Johnson's life and achievements, but also gives visitors a historical perspective into the 1960s, the Kennedy assassination, civil rights and the impact of these volatile times on today’s society. In short, it’s the kind of exhibit that will have even the most bored, iPod-listening teenager ripping off the headphones. The library houses more than 45 million pages of documents, and its interactive exhibits will hold sway for even the most bored tourist in your entourage. Call ahead during the school year to avoid the inevitable crush of huge groups. Don’t miss the collection of LBJ and Lady Bird’s personal objects—such as clothes, 1964 inauguration artifacts and the desk used to sign the Voting Right Act—and the First Lady’s Gallery. Skip the photo exhibit of the White House unless you’re a true buff—you can see that in D.C.

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