Located 10 miles southwest of downtown St. Louis in Grantwood Village, Missouri, the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site spans 9.65 acres. Also known as White Haven, this site commemorates the life, military career, and presidency of Ulysses S.
Grant. Originally an 850-acre plantation operated by enslaved people, you can explore five historic structures preserved on the property, including the childhood home of Grant's wife, Julia Dent Grant. Visiting provides deep insight into Grant's life between 1854 and 1859, when he lived here managing the farm alongside enslaved people, an experience that shaped his later roles as a Union general and U.S. President.
On-site, you will learn about the daily labor, personal lives, and household responsibilities of the enslaved adults and children—such as cook Mary Robinson and Old Bob—who maintained the estate. You can also trace the history of the land, from its early residents to its acquisition by William Henry Vanderbilt, Adolphus Busch, and eventually the National Park Service. It offers an engaging, honest look at American history and Civil War-era farm life.
What to see at Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site
- Five preserved historic structures including Julia Dent Grant's childhood home
- The main house at White Haven featuring seven fireplaces
- Exhibits detailing the lives and labor of enslaved individuals like Mary Robinson
- Historic agricultural grounds where Grant worked alongside enslaved people
- Historic site designated as a National Historic Landmark managed by the NPS
Visiting tips
Look out for details on how enslaved individuals managed household tasks, such as maintaining the main house's seven fireplaces.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site is easy to reach on St. Louis’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Cahokia and Gateway Arch. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our St. Louis travel guide.
See the full St. Louis travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.