LITTLE WHITE HOUSE WARM SPRINGS, GEORGIA

A Place of History, Healing, and Presidential Legacy

The Little White House in Warm Springs, Georgia, is one of the state’s most treasured historic landmarks and 

one of the most significant presidential sites in the United States. Best known as the personal retreat of President Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR),

 the Little White House served as a place where the president could relax, recover, work, and make important decisions during one of the 

most challenging periods in  American history.Constructed in 1932, the modest white cottage became Roosevelt’s home away from the 

White House. Warm Springs was already famous for its naturally warm mineral waters, which Roosevelt believed helped improve the effects 

of the polio that left him unable to walk without assistance. His visits to Warm Springs inspired him to establish a rehabilitation center 

that would help thousands of people living with physical disabilities.

A Personal Retreat for President Franklin D. Roosevelt

Unlike the grandeur of the White House in Washington, D.C., the Little White House was intentionally simple and comfortable.

 It allowed President Roosevelt to escape the pressures of national politics while continuing to conduct government business. 

During his visits, he met with advisors, welcomed guests, reviewed important documents, and planned policies that would shape the future 

of the United States. Many of the ideas that influenced the New Deal were discussed while Roosevelt stayed in Warm Springs. 

The peaceful setting gave him an opportunity to focus on leadership while enjoying the quiet beauty of rural Georgia.

A Place of Healing

Warm Springs became internationally known because of Roosevelt’s commitment to helping others living with polio. 

The naturally warm waters provided physical therapy that improved strength and mobility for many patients.

Inspired by his own experiences, Roosevelt founded what later became the Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute for Rehabilitation, 

transforming the community into a world-renowned center for medical treatment and hope.

His dedication forever connected Warm Springs with compassion, determination, and medical advancement.

Historic Significance

The Little White House holds a special place in American history. On April 12, 1945, President Franklin D. Roosevelt passed 

away while staying at the cottage, only a few weeks before the end of World War II in Europe. His death marked the end of one of the 

longest and most influential presidencies in U.S. history. Today, the room where he spent his final moments has been carefully

 preserved, allowing visitors to experience an authentic piece of American history.

What Visitors Can Experience

Guests visiting the Little White House can explore many fascinating exhibits and original artifacts, including:

• The historic cottage where President Roosevelt lived during his visits.
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• FDR’s private office, preserved much as it appeared during his lifetime.
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• Original furniture, personal belongings, and memorabilia.
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• Roosevelt’s famous 1938 Ford automobile.
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• Beautiful gardens, walking paths, and peaceful grounds.
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• Museum exhibits highlighting Roosevelt’s life, presidency, and connection to Warm Springs.
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• Educational displays about the history of polio rehabilitation and the Warm Springs community.

Why the Little White House Is Special

• Personal retreat of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
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• Built in 1932 in Warm Springs, Georgia.
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• One of Georgia’s most visited historic landmarks.
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• Closely connected to the history of the New Deal.
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• Symbol of hope, perseverance, and leadership.
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• Home to original furnishings, artifacts, and presidential memorabilia.
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• Features FDR’s private office and historic 1938 Ford automobile.
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• Located near the Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute for Rehabilitation.
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• Offers educational tours, exhibits, and beautiful historic grounds.
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• Preserves the legacy of one of America’s greatest presidents.

Featured Highlights

• Historic Interiors
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• FDR’s Private Office
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• FDR’s 1938 Ford
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• National Historic Landmark
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• Beautiful Grounds
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• Museum Exhibits
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• Original Furnishings
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• Historic Presidential Artifacts 

Plan Your Visit

The Little White House Historic Site welcomes visitors from around the world who want to learn about President Franklin D. Roosevelt, experience an authentic presidential retreat, and explore one of Georgia’s most important historical attractions. Whether you are interested in American history, presidential heritage, architecture, or the inspiring story of perseverance and leadership, the Little White House offers an unforgettable journey into the past.

Preserving History. Honoring Leadership. Inspiring Future Generations.

LITTLE WHITE HOUSE • WARM SPRINGS, GEORGIA