Editor’s note 8/31: This story has been edited throughout.

How many times do students pass the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum without even considering stepping foot inside?

Presidential centers may not sound all that exciting to students, but the Bush Presidential Center attracts 340,000 visitors per year for
good reason.This semester is no exception.

Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will be making an appearance at the Bush Center this year, in addition to President Bush’s daughters, Barbara Bush and Jenna Bush Hager.

Galleries, exhibits, events and so much history are packed into the beautiful building.

The Bush Center hosts two exhibits every year: one temporary and one the
Christmas collection. The current exhibit is titled “Portraits of Courage,” featuring former President Bush’s own artwork. If you’re interested in the Bush administrative era, the library contains a rich history of his time in office, including detailed archives.

The galleries are a must-see attraction, including the 9/11 gallery, which is a highlight of the museum. The gallery holds a number of artifacts, including steel from the World Trade Center and the bullhorn which President Bush used to address the crowd at Ground Zero.

Finally, if you don’t have time to visit D.C., check out the full-size replica of the Oval Office.