Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the US Senate

The Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate is designed to bring the history of the United States Senate alive – using technology to engage and inspire like never before. The Institute features a representation of the United States Senate Chamber, interactive exhibits, and a reproduction of Senator Kennedy’s office. Visit the full-scale representation of the United States Senate Chamber, see a replica of Senator Kennedy's Washington office, and use digital tablets to engage with our exhibits.

Great Senate Debates:
This live, audio-visual augmented theater experience will capture some of the Senate’s most dramatic debates and pivotal speeches in a 20-minute program. The inaugural topic of this new program is the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and includes reenactments of pivotal speeches by legendary Senators Edward M. Kennedy, Robert Byrd, and Everett Dirksen.

The Great Senate Debates: Civil Rights Act of 1964 program will coincide with our exhibits’ content focusing on Civil Rights. Visitors to the Institute will have the chance to learn more about the history of Civil Rights Legislation in the Senate and do debate this issue in our representation of the Senate Chamber.

Junior Senator Experience:
Especially designed for our youngest visitors, Junior Senator (ages 5-8) includes activities and programs that make the work of the Senate fun for kids. Backpacks filled with activity sheets and themed books are available for families to borrow as they enjoy the exhibits.

In addition, the Institute offers a special Junior Senator program, featuring WGBH's Ruff Ruffman. In this program, families can hear about and research a topic they care about, debate it on the Senate floor, and vote on the bill. Please see our daily schedule for specific times.

To experience the Senate Chamber, Chamber Surround, temporary exhibits and Senator Kennedy’s office, please plan for a 1.5 to 2 hour visit.