Trump travelled to North Dakota on Wednesday to dedicate the new Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, using the occasion to promote a message of American greatness as Independence Day celebrations got under way ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary.
The visit forms part of a broader programme marking the 250th anniversary of American independence, which Trump has made central to his political messaging ahead of November's midterm elections.
The trip also marked the first official flight of a refurbished Boeing 747 gifted by Qatar to serve as Air Force One.
The aircraft, featuring a red, white, dark blue and gold livery selected by Trump, has attracted scrutiny over both the speed and cost of its refurbishment, as well as the acceptance of a luxury aircraft from a foreign government.
Speaking before boarding the aircraft, Trump defended the arrangement.
"Qatar treated us very well," he said, describing the country's leader as "very nice".
Responding to questions about taxpayer costs, Trump argued the aircraft had cost "very little relative to what it would cost if we did it a different way".
"We're very proud of this, the country is very proud of it," he said, adding that the previous Air Force One "didn't look appropriate for our country."
The new presidential library officially opens on Saturday in Medora, western North Dakota.
Built into the landscape overlooking Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the 96,000-square-foot facility celebrates the life of Theodore Roosevelt, who served as president from 1901 to 1909.
Roosevelt is remembered for expanding the U.S.'s global influence, promoting conservation, and establishing numerous national parks and protected areas during his presidency.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said Roosevelt believed "America's greatest work was always still ahead", adding that Trump shares "that conviction in American greatness".
Trump's North Dakota visit is one of several high-profile appearances planned around the Fourth of July holiday.
On Friday, he is expected to visit Mount Rushmore, where Roosevelt's likeness is carved alongside those of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln.
He is also scheduled to deliver a campaign-style speech in Washington on Saturday as part of Independence Day celebrations, which will culminate in a 35-minute fireworks display over the Potomac River.
The patriotic events have become a central part of Trump's political strategy as he seeks to rally supporters ahead of November's midterm elections.
The celebrations come at a time when the U.S. remains politically divided, with public debate focused on issues including the cost of living and the administration's approach to the conflict involving Iran.
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