How Can I Tour the White House in Washington, DC?

Everything you need to know about planning a visit to the country’s most famous house., requesting a white house tour.

Touring the White House requires some advance planning. Public tour requests must be made through your member of Congress ( find your member of Congress and contact information ) and submitted up to three months in advance and no less than 21 days prior to your visit. If you're an international visitor and wish to schedule a tour, please contact your home country’s embassy in Washington, DC.

You are encouraged to submit your tour request as early as possible as tours fill up quickly and a limited number of spaces are available. Tours are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. All White House tours are free. Please note tours are subject to last-minute cancellations based on the official White House schedule.

Public, self-guided tours are 45 minutes and are run between 8 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays unless otherwise noted. For complete details on White House tours, visit the White House tours and events page or call the White House Visitors Office 24-hour information line at (202) 456-7041. The White House is located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW.

Touring the White House - Washington, DC

Touring the White House - Washington, DC

What to expect on a White House tour

If there is a tour slot available during your visit to DC, you will be given a specific date and time to arrive and be instructed on where to check in. All guests over 18 years old will be required to present a valid, government-issued photo ID upon check-in. Foreign nationals must present their passport. Please bring as little as possible (avoid backpacks, food, large handbags, bottled water, etc.). Note that smartphones and compact cameras with a lens no longer than 3 inches are permitted on the public tour route, but video recording devices and flash photography are not allowed inside the White House. Visitors will go through security prior to entering the White House. There are no restrooms available at the White House. The closest restroom is located at the Ellipse Visitor Pavilion nearby.

Public tours of the White House include the public rooms in the East Wing, which includes the Blue Room, Red Room and Green Room; the State Dining Room; the China Room; and a view of the White House Rose Garden. Secret Service members are stationed in each room and are available to answer questions about the history and architecture of each room.

You can also visit the White House Visitor Center   before or after your tour.

The White House - North Lawn and Entrance - Washington, DC

Stephen Melkisethian

How to get to the White House

The closest Metro stations to the White House are Federal Triangle (Blue and Orange lines), Metro Center (Blue, Orange and Red lines) and McPherson Square (Blue and Orange lines). Please note there is NO PARKING near the White House. Public transportation is strongly encouraged.

@abroadwife - View of National Mall from South Lawn during White House Garden Tour - Free activities in Washington, DC

@abroadwife

How to tour the White House Garden

Another opportunity to visit the White House is to attend either its fall or spring garden tour. Check whitehouse.gov in early October and April. The announcement of the garden tours is usually made within a week or two of when they take place. Garden tours generally run for two consecutive days. They may be canceled due to poor weather. A ticket is required for all attendees (including small children). Usually, tickets are distributed by the National Park Service at the Ellipse Visitor Pavilion on 15th and E streets NW on each tour day beginning at 9 a.m. Review the announcement for specific details.

Will I still be able to see the White House without going on a tour?

While visitors are not allowed entry to the White House without requesting a tour through your congressional representative, you will still be able to see the White House from Pennsylvania Avenue NW at Lafayette Square and view the White House and the South Lawn from the Ellipse. Please note that a new fence is currently under construction at the White House, as the current 6-foot fence is being replaced by a stronger, wider fence that will be 13 feet.

Where can I store my belongings during the tour?

It is important to note that security at the White House is extremely high. If your hotel is nearby, we suggest leaving your belongings in your room during the tour. If this is not possible, there are a few other options. You can designate one member of your tour group to hold everyone’s belongings. That person can take the self-guided tour once his or her group has finished the tour.

If you're a ticketed Amtrak customer, you may be able to check luggage in advance at  Union Station . These are located near Gate A. Lockers are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. A photo ID is required and lockers must be paid for via cash or credit in advance. Rates are $3-$6 per hour per bag depending on the size of your bag. For questions on bag storage, please call 202-906-3000.

Catch up on White House history with the free podcas t The 1600 Sessions and enhance your trip with the  White House Experience app  from the White House Historical Association. The app offers three tour experiences, including a virtual tour of the White House (with rooms you normally don't see on the tour), a neighborhood walking tour and a room-by-room guide for visitors on an in-person tour of the White House.

Now that you have read up on the White House, explore DC’s other awesome  monuments and memorials .

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The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the White House in Washington, D.C. [Includes Virtual Tour]

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The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the White House in Washington, D.C. [Includes Virtual Tour]

History of the White House

Planning your visit, on the day of your tour, the white house experience mobile app (virtual tour), white house garden tour, the white house easter egg roll, what to see at the visitor center, when to visit, the northern trail, the southern trail, other landmarks and buildings, the north side from pennsylvania avenue, 20 facts about the white house, hotels near the white house, final thoughts.

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As the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States, the White House is one of the most easily recognizable and iconic buildings in the world. Home to every U.S. president since John Adams in 1800, the White House is a historically and culturally important building that attracts millions of visitors all year round.

The site for the White House was selected by George Washington back in 1791, with the cornerstone laid by Irish-born architect James Hoban 1 year later. The extensive and ambitious build took 8 years to complete, and although it was Washington that commissioned it, he sadly died before it was completed.

Originally known as the President’s House, it was the second President of the United States, President John Adams, and his wife that were the first to take up residence there . However, much of the original building was destroyed by a fire set by rampaging Brits in 1814. The newly built house was completed some 4 years later, and it has been called home by a succession of presidents and their families ever since.

During the early 20th century, various additions were made to the building, including the iconic West Wing that houses the Oval Office, the Cabinet Room, the Situation Room, and the Roosevelt Room, among others. During the Great Depression, the White House suffered neglect as a result of dwindling funding, and urgent renovations were needed during the 1940s.

Now one of the most well-cared for and loved buildings in America, the White House as we know it today is home to 132 rooms, 35 bathrooms, and 6 levels in residence , as well as 412 doors, 147 windows, 28 fireplaces, 8 staircases, and 3 elevators. Anyone visiting the capital city of Washington, D.C., should definitely try to pay a visit.

White House Illustration

Getting to the White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is probably one of the most famous addresses in the world. Taking a trip to visit the sprawling presidential home and offices is easy using almost any route.

There is a Metrobus stop located on the corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and 14th Street, which is the closest stop to the White House Visitor Center. Pennsylvania Avenue Line numbers 30, 32, 34, 35, and 36 all stop there.

Union Station is around 1.5 miles away from the Visitor Center. Heading northeast along Massachusetts Avenue, you can take in the city as you walk there, or hop on the shuttle bus that leaves from outside the station every 10 minutes.

The Blue, Silver, and Orange lines stop at Farragut West, McPherson Square, or Metro Center stations, all of which are within easy walking distance of the Visitor Center.

There are several parking lots that are located close to the White House Visitor Center, but spaces can be difficult to find and expensive. Downtown D.C. is also rated as one of the worst cities for traffic in the U.S. , so it may be quicker to walk or use public transport than try to undertake the journey by car.

How to Schedule a Tour of the White House

The White House is one of the most popular landmark attractions in the world. Every year, demand for tours outstrips the available places, so before your head off, make sure you know the best ways to maximize your chances of getting a tour inside the world-famous White House.

In order to visit the rooms that are available for public inspection at the White House, you will need to book a tour in advance . Tours are free of charge and self-guided , but you must request permission to visit at least 3 weeks in advance of your arrival in order to receive clearance from the U.S. Secret Service.

You can request tours up to 3 months in advance via your member of Congress , but there is no guarantee that your request will be accepted.

The self-guided tours run from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, but these timings can be subject to change depending on the White House schedules and events. Tours can also be canceled without prior notice, so be prepared.

Tours run in groups of 10 , and you will be placed in a group with other visitors before arrival if there are not enough in your own party. You will need to submit information about every member of your party, including their address, phone number, date of birth, Social Security number, and country of citizenship.

You will need to show your ID upon arrival, and your ID must exactly match all of the information you submitted in your application . A valid U.S. government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or military ID, is acceptable for U.S. nationals, as are valid U.S. passports.

Overseas Nationals

If you are planning on visiting the White House from overseas, you will need to contact your home country’s embassy in Washington, D.C. to submit a tour request before your departure. Foreign nationals must present their passport — no other forms of foreign ID will be considered as acceptable.

update:  The Trump administration has put tour requests for overseas nationals on hold until further notice.

Disabilities

If you or anyone in your group is hearing, visually, or mobility impaired, their needs can usually be catered for through your member of Congress, or via your embassy. There is also a TDD (Telephone Device for the Deaf) at the Visitor Center, which can be contacted at 202-456-2121. Guide animals are permitted in the White House.

If you need the use of a wheelchair during your visit, you can request the loan of a wheelchair at the Visitor Entrance upon arrival. Unfortunately, reservations are not possible , but if you are able to secure one, there is a ramp to allow access to the entrance on the ground floor, and an elevator to take you from the ground floor to the State floor.

Hot Tip: While no tour company can get you access to the White House, you can take the popular hop-on, hop-off tour of Washington, D.C . on the red loop which takes in the White House, U.S. Capitol, and many more landmarks. 

The White House

If you are successful in your application to book a tour of the White House, there are further instructions and guidelines to consider on the day.

Firstly, you should plan to get to President’s Park 15-30 minutes before your tour is due to start . This will allow plenty of time for presenting your ID to officers, taking toilet breaks, and ensuring that you don’t have prohibited items in your bag. Better still, if you arrive an hour or so before your allocated tour time, you can take in the exhibits and watch a video of the White House at the Visitor Center.

You will enter the White House by the south side of East Executive Avenue near the Southeast Gate , where National Park Service rangers will be on hand to assist you.

As you would expect, security is tight in and around the White House. Visitors must adhere to strict rules about what they can and can’t take with them during the tour.

Prohibited items include, but are not necessarily limited to:

  • Video cameras and cameras with detachable lenses
  • Tablets and iPads
  • Tripods, monopods, selfie sticks, and camera sticks
  • Any bags, including handbags, purses, book bags, backpacks, diaper bags, and camera bags
  • Any pointed object or sharp objects
  • Food and liquids
  • Aerosols and personal grooming items such as makeup or lotion
  • Guns, ammunition, fireworks, electric stun guns, and mace
  • Martial arts weapons or toy weapons

You should also note that there are no storage facilities at the White House , so if you accidentally bring prohibited items with you, there is nowhere to leave them, and you will be denied entry to the tour. Leave everything on the above list back at home or in your hotel room.

There are certain items that you can take with you on your tour, but they may be subject to usage limitations. These include:

  • Compact cameras (can be used for still photography only, no video recording or streaming, and all lenses must be less than 3 inches long)
  • Umbrellas without metal tips
  • Cell phones (remember, though, that talking or texting is not allowed, and phones must be on silent)
  • All items needed for medical purposes will be permitted, including wheelchairs, electronic scooters, glucose tablets, EpiPens, medication, etc.)

Hot Tip: Before and during the tour, you are at the mercy of government officers. In some circumstances, the U.S. Secret Service reserves the right to prohibit any other personal items that you may be carrying.

The White House Experience Mobile App

In these tech-friendly times, smartphone users will be delighted to know that there is a White House Experience Mobile App that you can download to enhance your experience during your visit.

Available on both iOS and Android , this is a useful tool for visitors who have not been successful in finding a place on an official tour, as well as those who have. Users can enjoy a virtual tour of the White House and the surrounding President’s Neighborhood, as well as taking a tour through the history of the White House and how its customs have evolved.

There are also a number of fun features to raise a smile. Snap a selfie with the Presidential Lookalike feature, or take the opportunity to virtually pilot the presidential helicopter around Washington, D.C., using the Fly Like Ike feature.

The Virtual White House tour offers visitors a glimpse of the interiors of the public areas including the East Wing, Family Theater, Library, Vermeil Room, China Room, Diplomatic Reception Room, Map Room, State Floor, as well as the famous rooms of the West Wing such as the Oval Office, Cabinet Room, and Press Room.

You can also sneak a peek into some of the upper floors, including the Treaty Room, the Lincoln Bedroom, the Queen’s Bedroom, and the President’s Dining Room.

While you are out and about, why not try the White House Neighborhood Walking Tour that provides turn-by-turn navigation of the President’s Neighborhood.

This tour stops at a range of historic landmarks, including Decatur House, Lafayette Square, St. John’s Church, Treasury Building, North Lawn, Blair House, Eisenhower Executive Office Building, South Lawn and Ellipse, and the White House Visitor Center. The app also provides information on points of interest at each of these locations.

Melania Trump White House Kitchen Garden

During the spring and fall, the White House opens its stunning and extensive gardens to visitors. With the sun shining on Washington, D.C., garden lovers can stroll through the White House Kitchen Garden, the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, the Rose Garden, and South Lawn of the White House, while taking in the tranquil surroundings just outside the home of democracy.

The Spring Garden Tour usually takes place on a single weekend in April, while the Fall Garden Tour will is held over a weekend in September. Both White House Garden Tours are free and open to the public, but they are only open to ticket holders.

Tickets can only be obtained on the day , but there are often long queues of people waiting to get hold of them. Every member of your group must wait in-person to receive their ticket, and tours are timed throughout the day. Children are welcome to join you on your tour, but they will need their own ticket, and there are plenty of plaques and information points to take in during your self-guided tour of the gardens.

The White House Gardens are home to over 50 different kinds of vegetables, as well as berries, herbs, and even a beehive . In 2009, first lady Michelle Obama planted the Kitchen Garden in conjunction with her Let’s Move! Initiative that focused on health and well-being in America. To this day, the White House cooks still use fresh fruit, vegetable, and herbs that are grown there when cooking for the first family and their guests.

The Rose Garden is famous for the lush green lawn often seen in outdoor press conferences, and it can be found just outside the West Wing in view of the Oval Office. The Jacqueline Kennedy Garden is dedicated to the former first lady herself, and the wide-open lawns and gorgeous borders are often used for parties, teas, and awards ceremonies.

The South Lawn is where the president departs and lands on the official presidential helicopter, Marine One, and is also where the famous annual Easter Egg Roll is held. It is also home to a range of magnolia trees that were first planted by President Andrew Jackson back in the 1800s.

Hot Tip: Visitors are welcome to take photos during the tour and are encouraged to share them on Instagram using the #WHGARDEN hashtag to share the beauty of the White House Gardens with the world.

white house easter egg roll

Often drawing as many as 35,000 parents and children on the South Lawn, the world-famous White House Easter Egg Roll is one of the most exciting events of the White House calendar.

This time-honored tradition was first established by President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1878 . What initially started as a few local families rolling eggs outside the White House on the first Monday after Easter , was extended when the growing crowds convinced President Hayes to invite young children to roll eggs inside the grounds of the White House Lawn instead.

If it hadn’t have been this kind gesture by the then president, the Egg Roll might never have happened, as members of Congress had already passed an Act banning egg rolling outside the White House as they deemed it be too disruptive.

The White House Easter Bunny holds celebrity status, and the giant 6-foot bunny suit has often worn by members of Congress, first wives, and a range of famous celebrities.

Anyone wanting to come and join in the fun must enter a lottery for a place. Children under 13 years are encouraged to attend, and the event is designed to promote healthy and active living. The lottery is usually held during February , and winners are notified via email the following month. There is no charge to enter the lottery , and attendance is literally by the luck of the draw.

Hot Tip: Commemorative White House Easter eggs can be purchased from the White House Historical Association online store and feature the president’s and the first lady’s signatures.

White House Visitor Center

White House Visitor Center

Located at 1450 Pennsylvania Ave., the White House Visitor Center is a great place to visit to find out about the history of the building itself, as well as discovering the customs and events that the White House is so famous for.

Offering just shy of 1,600 square feet of museum-quality exhibits and galleries , there is always something new to see at the Visitor Center. There are nearly 100 famous historical artifacts on display, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s desk and a host of other interesting pieces, many of which have never been on public display before.

The Visitor Center is also home to a large-scale model of the White House and a number of interactive exhibits , including a touch screen tour of the interior.

One of the biggest highlights is a 14-minute film, “White House: Reflections From Within,” that is shown every 20 minutes. It features Presidents Barack Obama, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Ronald Reagan, and a few first ladies and other family members reminiscing about their time in the White House. This is a popular attraction within the Visitor Center and a must-see whether you have managed to secure a place on a White House tour or not.

The White House Visitor Center is operated by the National Park Service . It is housed in historic Baldrige Hall in the Department of Commerce building. In 2014, the center was renovated to offer extra space in which to house a permanent museum gallery, a temporary exhibit area, an improved book sales area, and further visitor information facilities.

The White House Visitor Center is open every day from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day . It is free to enter and can be visited in conjunction with a White House tour if you are lucky enough to get on one, or as a stand-alone attraction.

President ’s Park

White House Aerial View

Located at the heart of downtown Washington, D.C., President’s Park offers 82 acres of stunning open space that includes the parkland and gardens surrounding the White House . The park is home to some of the most famous statues, memorials, and structures in Washington, D.C., and the park is open to visitors all year round.

Throughout the years, the President’s Park has played host to many important events in history. These include marches and rallies held by suffragettes, freedom fighters, and anti-war protestors, as well as welcoming thousands of visitors to enjoy the annual Easter Egg Roll and the lighting of the National Christmas Tree.

The National Park Service promotes 2 very distinct sides of the park for visitors to explore.

Beginning at the White House Visitor Center, visitors can proceed up to 15th Street to Lafayette Park on the Northern Trail . First opened in the 1820s, and redesigned in the 1960s, the park has been used as a race track, a slave market, an encampment for soldiers, and many other things along the way.

The park is also home to St. John’s Church, often referred to as the “Church of the Presidents,” and the whole area became a designated National Historic Landmark in 1970.

Statues and Monuments

The park is home to a number of statues that commemorate the many heroes who helped America during times of war. These include:

General Sherman Statue

Civil War General William Tecumseh Sherman has his very own bronze statue that features a square platform with a bronze soldier at each corner. These represent the 4 branches of the U.S. Army: infantry, artillery, cavalry, and engineers.

General Lafayette Statue

Located at the southeast corner of Lafayette Square, this bronze statue was erected in 1891 and portrayed the Marquis de Lafayette petitioning the French National Assembly for assistance to the Americans in their fight for independence. On an adjoining pedestal, there is a bronze female figure, symbolizing America, turning toward him and imploringly lifting a sword.

General Kosciuszko Statue

Commemorating Polish patriot Thaddeus Kosciuszko and his life-long dedication to fighting for freedom in America and Poland, this bronze memorial is located in the northeast corner of Lafayette Park.

General Jackson Memorial

Located in the center of Lafayette Park, this statue portrays General Andrew Jackson reviewing his troops at the Battle of New Orleans. Depicting the general and his horse, the statue was dedicated on January 8, 1853, on the 38th anniversary of the Battle of New Orleans.

General von Steuben Statue

Portraying Baron Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben (1730-1794) as he inspects American troops during the American Revolution, this statue recognizes not only his leadership but his commitment to raising the standards of sanitization for soldiers during the war.

General Rochambeau Statue

This French general commanded 5,500 Royal French Expeditionary Forces to help with the American forces during the war. The statue depicts Rochambeau directing his troops, as well as a female figure, Liberty, who raises 2 flags in her left hand, symbolizing the unity of the U.S. and France.

Blair-Lee House

Serving as the official guesthouse for the president, Blair-Lee House was built in 1824. Various presidents and foreign dignitaries have stayed at Blair-Lee House throughout the years, and even today, many foreign heads of state are invited to stay there while visiting with the president.

Baruch Bench of Inspiration

Bernard Baruch was a wealthy financier from New York City who also served the country as an economic advisor during both World War I and World War II. Legend has it that he hated been driven to the White House and preferred instead to sit on a bench and wait for a signal that the president was ready to meet him.

In his honor, a commemorative bench with a bronze plaque set in granite block was dedicated on August 16, 1960, Baruch’s 90th birthday.

Navy Yard Urns

These huge ornamental bronze urns were cast using a melted cannon from the Civil War. They sit on giant pedestals at the center of Jackson Place and are a reminder of the hard-fought battles undertaken by Americans during the Civil War.

The Southern Trail begins at the White House Visitor Center and proceeds onto the Ellipse grounds, following a clockwise route around the parkland.

Monuments and Memorials

Butt-millet memorial fountain.

This tranquil fountain was erected to commemorate the deaths of Major Archibald Wallingham Butt and Francis Davis Millet. They both lost their lives on the RMS Titanic in April 1912. The fountain was also designed to double as a water fountain for the horses ridden by U.S. Park Police while on patrol.

Second Division Memorial

Erected to honor the 17,660 dead who served in the U.S. Army during World War I, this memorial was later extended to include a memorial to some of the most significant battles in World War II and the Korean War. It serves as a place of quiet contemplation and remembrance.

Original Patentees Memorial

This simple granite shaft was erected to remember the original 18 patentees whose land grants embraced the site of the federal city. Each side of the monument contains a relief panel carved with a symbol of the early pioneers’ agricultural pursuits, and the names of the original landowners are inscribed on the base.

Boy Scout Memorial

Dedicated to the Boy Scouts of America, this statue stood on the site of the first-ever Boy Scout Jamboree in 1937. The bronze statue consists of 3 figures that represent the aspirations of all past, present, and future Scouts throughout the world. There is also a female figure that symbolizes enlightenment with the love of God and fellow man, justice, freedom, and democracy.

The Zero Milestone

This 4-foot-high shaft of pink granite is the official starting point for the measurement of highway distances from Washington, D.C. It was built to mark the starting point of the first transcontinental military motor convoy that traveled from Washington, D.C. to San Francisco.

First Division Monument

This was built in remembrance of the heroism of the soldiers of the First Division of the American Expeditionary Forces who gave their lives during World War I. Further additions were made to also commemorate those who died in both World War II and the Vietnam War, as well as the Gulf War.

Bulfinch Gatehouses

Both of these gatehouses were build to oversee the U.S. Capitol grounds, and since 1889 they have weathered several floods, water, and the effects of acid rain.

The Ellipse

As perhaps one of the most famous areas of President’s Park, the Ellipse is a large open area surrounded by an oval drive. Over the years, the site has been used as a trash dump, horse pens, and even a slaughterhouse, but it is now often the meeting place for demonstrations and celebrations.

The National Christmas Tree

Every Christmas, local public schools erect a Christmas tree on the Ellipse. This age-old tradition is a highly anticipated event, and each succeeding president has participated in since 1923.

Best Place to Take Pictures of the White House

A visit to Washington, D.C. would not be complete without taking a series of snaps of the White House. There are various ways to capture awesome images of one of the world’s most iconic buildings, even if you can’t get right up close to it.

White House North Side

This view of the White House is one of the most famous images in the world. There is a fair distance between the sidewalk and the White House (as you would expect), but it is not impossible to get great pictures.

If you want to pass off the impression that you are inside the grounds of the White House, find a gap in the fence that is big enough to slip your digital camera through. Taking a picture of the White House straight on can make it look like it leans backward slightly. This is because there are no parallel vertical lines in the historical building.

You can either go with it and enjoy its imperfections or if you want your images to look super fancy, use the lens correction tool in Photoshop to fix this.

If you don’t mind seeing the fencing in your photographs, there are also some awesome images to be captured from Lafayette Park, where you can add stunning seasonal flowers into the foreground, too.

The South Side and E Street

White House South Side

On the south side of the White House, there are lots of trees that line the South lawn, which can be prohibitive to your view. There are, however, 2 walkways on E Street that offer you some excellent photographic opportunities.

You can take images through the fence on the north side of the street, or cross over to include people and bustling street scenes to add a sense of perspective.

Taking a short walk further away from the building itself, the Ellipse offers the opportunity for some excellent shots, and if you are lucky, you may be able to get Marine One in there, too. The base of the Washington Monument on Constitution Avenue offers some interesting viewpoints as well, as it has a slightly elevated position.

When to Take Pictures

Different seasons and times of the day offer different opportunities to capture the perfect picture. During the holiday season, the National Christmas Tree is bright and festive, with the White House providing a beautiful backdrop to great Christmas images, while the gardens around the White House look fantastic in both spring and fall.

Summer is the busiest time of year for visitors, so capturing images without bystanders is nearly impossible, but they can add an extra layer of perspective to your finished shots. Early morning and early evening shots add atmosphere, as the building looks magical lit up at night.

Bottom Line: No matter where you find yourself in the surrounding streets and parklands, you should still be able to take photographs that will keep your memories alive.

George Washington Never Lived There

Although he was responsible for commissioning the construction of the White House, his term ended 3 years before the building work was completed, and a year after he died. He is the only U.S. president never to have lived in the White House during their term in office.

He Was Responsible for the Design of the Oval Office, Though

The Oval Office was first used in 1909, and the oval shape was inspired by Washington’s love of unusually shaped rooms. He was believed to have preferred rounded shaped rooms at his home in Philadelphia, as he felt it made them more suitable for hosting formal gatherings.

The White House Was Built by Slaves

Controversial, but true, White House records show that the house was built by African American slaves who were trained as quarrymen, bricklayers, and carpenters to help complete the building project. This fact was brought to the attention of the American public by former first lady, Michelle Obama.

The White House Had No Electricity for Almost 100 Years

The White House was lit by gaslight right up until 1891 when the electricity system was first installed. The idea of electric lighting was still pretty novel at the time, and President Benjamin Harrison was worried about the dangers of touching a light switch. To protect himself throughout his time in office, he always had someone else switch the lights on and off for him.

It Didn’t Have Indoor Bathrooms for Decades, Either

Indoor plumbing systems were not part of the original design of the White House back in 1800. In fact, it wasn’t until 1833 that any kind of indoor plumbing was installed, and even then, not all of the bathrooms had hot and cold running water until some 20 years later in 1853.

It Was, However, One of the First Accessible Government Buildings

President Franklin Delano Roosevelt was responsible for ensuring that the White House was and still is, entirely wheelchair accessible. Having suffered from polio, FDR was paralyzed below the waist and spent his time in office bound to a wheelchair.

Because of this, he took it upon himself to add elevators and ramps throughout the White House, making it one of the first wheelchair-friendly buildings in Washington, D.C. and possibly the U.S.

At Least 10 People Have Died in the White House

With such a high turn over of residents, it should come as no surprise that several people have passed away within the confines of its walls, too. Famous demises include Presidents William Henry Harrison and Zachary Taylor, as well as first ladies Letitia Tyler, Caroline Harrison, and Ellen Wilson, too.

It Is Said to Be Haunted

Many residents, staffers, and guests have all claimed to feel the power of the paranormal during their time at the White House. To this day, rumor has it that the ghost of Abraham Lincoln still walks the hallowed halls and corridors, and there have been many reported sightings of him throughout the house.

There Is a Secret Entrance

The White House has a secret entrance that is only used by the president and secret visitors. This is not unusual in high-profile buildings, but to enter via the secret entrance at the White House, visitors must go through 2 tunnels and an alleyway before reaching the basement.

This intricate entrance system was originally designed during World War II when there was an underground bomb shelter that sat beneath the White House.

There Is Also an Underground Swimming Pool

The White House has an outdoor pool that is enjoyed during warmer months, but it also has an interior pool hidden beneath its floors. First opened in 1933 for use by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the pool still exists today and can be found directly under the Press Briefing Room.

And a Dentist’s Office

If the president suffers from a sudden toothache, a lost crown, or a broken filling, there is a dentist on-site to deal with that. The basement of the White House is home to a dedicated dentist’s office, as well as plenty of other useful services, including a chocolate shop and a florist.

Tom Hanks Gifted Coffee Machines for the Press Briefings at the White House

During a tour of the White House back in 2004, the actor was surprised to see that there were no refreshment services for reporters who attended press briefings at the White House. Hanks immediately sent a coffee machine to be used in the Press Briefing Room and has upgraded the original machine twice since then.

In 2017 he sent a $1,700 espresso machine along with a note that read, “Keep up the good fight for truth, justice, and the American way. Especially for the truth part.”

The White House Nearly Fell Apart

During the Great Depression, there was very little money in the kitty for much-needed maintenance and repairs. Creaking floorboards, a leaking roof, weakened wooden beams, and swaying balconies all put the White House at risk of collapse, but the ongoing damage to the structure was not fully discovered until much later in 1948 when it was fully renovated.

The Current White House Is Not the Original One

During the invasion in 1814, the British burned the White House down, just 14 years after it had been completed. While the modern-day building has stood for hundreds of years, much of the original building was lost to the fire, and the rebuild was not completed until 4 years later.

The West Wing Wasn’t Always There

Home to some of the most famous rooms within the White House, the West Wing wasn’t actually even built until the early 20th century.

In 1902, Teddy Roosevelt called to have an executive office building built alongside the residence. President Taft doubled the wing’s size in 1909, which included the Oval Office, making President Taft was the first-ever president to use it.

It Has Been Home to a Wide Variety of Animals

Each new presidential resident and their families are welcome to bring their pets with them when they move into the White House.

This means that over the years, it has been home to lots of cats and dogs, as well as a variety of more unusual animals. These include a raccoon, opossums, and even a pair of tiger cubs that were gifted to President Van Buren.

It Is Also Home to a 7-Seat Hot Tub

Former President Bill Clinton was gifted a 7-seat hot tub that is installed near the South Lawn next to the swimming pool.

Due to rules and regulations on “gifting” items to members of Congress, the hot tub had to be donated as a legitimate therapy appliance. A spokesperson for President Clinton said at the time that the hot tub did indeed help with his injured knee.

It Wasn’t Always Called the White House

Over the years, the building we know as the White House has had a number of different names. Originally known as the President’s Palace, its name was later changed to Executive Mansion sometime around 1810.

It wasn’t actually until 1901 that President Theodore Roosevelt officially adopted the name White House and it has been known by that name ever since.

Nothing Comes for Free

It may surprise you to know that even the presidential family doesn’t get fed for free in the White House. While they don’t have to pay rent or bills while they live there, they are responsible for the costs of their personal food, dry cleaning, toiletries, and even the wages for waiters and other members of staff they employ for private events.

These costs are usually just deducted from their salary.

The Famous Resolute Desk Was Found on an Abandoned Ship

The Resolute Desk in the Oval Office was originally part of an abandoned British Navy vessel found off Baffin Island in the Arctic.

When the ship was decommissioned by the U.K., its oak timbers were used to create a desk weighing more than 1,000 pounds that Queen Victoria later gifted to President Rutherford Hayes.

To this day, we still see the presidents sign orders from behind this fabulous piece of furniture.

Many visitors choose to stay close to the White House during their visit. Here are some of the best to choose from.

Willard InterContinental Washington

Willard InterContinental Washington

This historic hotel is located on the world-famous Pennsylvania Avenue and has been a D.C. landmark for over 200 years. Offering executive suites and luxurious guest rooms, this 5-star hotel has stately interiors and is just a short walk the White House itself.

Stay in style surrounded by city or courtyard views, Keurig coffeemakers, and suites with separate living areas, whirlpool tubs, and even their own foyers. All guests are invited to enjoy the use of the beauty and wellness treatments available at the Mynd Spa and Salon.

You can dine at the authentic French brasserie, Cafe Du Parc, or take advantage of the full concierge service who can help you to make the most of your trip to one of America’s oldest cities.

The Hay – Adams

The Hay Adams

This luxury hotel offers unparalleled White House views from its position on the National Mall, and it is as popular with visitors as it is with Washington, D.C. insiders. Elegant interiors paired with first-class service and facilities make this 5-star hotel one of the most sought after in the city.

Bedrooms are upscale and very well appointed, with many offering fabulous views out across the National Mall. The wood-paneled walls, ornate fireplaces, and chandeliers found in the communal areas give the hotel an incredibly grand feel, and visitors may even recognize The Hay-Adams from television shows, including House of Cards and Homeland.

With a busy bar, a fitness center, and one of the city’s best restaurants all on-site, this hotel offers an authentic taste of upscale D.C.

JW Marriott Washington

JW Marriott Washington DC

Brilliantly located for visiting the White House and numerous other political and cultural landmarks in D.C., this renovated hotel offers luxurious lodgings on Pennsylvania Avenue. This is a modern hotel that has a bright and airy feel, with contemporary bedrooms and plenty of minimalist touches.

Guests love the large windows with fabulous views out across the city, as well as spacious bedrooms and bright and practical communal spaces. The hotel is also home to The Avenue Grill that serves up casual American fare, as well as a lively bar with a daily happy hour and a Starbucks coffee shop. This hotel offers affordable 4-star accommodation in the heart of D.C.

Sofitel Lafayette Square

Sofitel Lafayette Square Washington DC

This glamorous Art Deco style hotel sits just 1 block away from the White House and adds a touch of European flair to this most American of cities. With opulent interiors and seductive French flair, this 5-star hotel is located at the heart of the finest shops, restaurants, and landmarks the city has to offer.

Bedrooms are plush and well-appointed with tall windows and luxury linens, while the communal areas feel decadent. Guests are welcome to enjoy the great-tasting fare at the ICI Urban Bistro or join fellow guests for a cocktail or 2 at the bar. There is also a large basement fitness center, and spa treatments can be ordered to your room.

Club Quarters Hotel

Club Quarters Hotel in Washington DC

This mid-range hotel offers comfortable and affordable accommodation just 2 blocks from the White House and right next to Farragut West Metro station, therefore affording easy access to the entire city. Designed very much with business travelers in mind, this hotel offers collaborative workspaces with super-fast Wi-Fi, wireless printing, and Mac and PC workstations.

Bedrooms are bright and airy and offer sleek interiors complete with yoga mats and resistance bands, while suites add kitchenettes and separate living areas. The hotel is also home to the Cafe Soleil that serves up fun, French-inspired food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Hot Tip:  Looking for even more hotels? Explore our best hotels in Washington, D.C. to book with points. 

No visit to Washington, D.C. would be complete without a trip to see one of the most famous buildings in the world. Home to presidents for hundreds of years, the city is steeped in history.

If you are lucky enough to secure a place on an official White House tour, you will not be disappointed. But even if you are unable to get inside the building itself, there is still a wealth of attractions, landmarks, exhibitions, and open spaces for you to enjoy in the world-class parks and open spaces around the White House.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i get tickets to visit the white house.

You can get tickets to visit the White House through your member of Congress only. These tickets have to be requested a minimum of 3 weeks in advance and can be requested as early as 3 months prior to your tour date.

Is it free to visit the White House?

Yes, White House tours are free of charge and self-guided. The tours run from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. You must request tickets through your member of Congress.

Can you tour the Oval Office?

White House tours do not include the Oval Office and tours of the West Wing are usually reserved for VIPs or guests of the president.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Request tickets now: How to visit the White House at Christmastime

Buddy Smith

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

We have a long (and always growing) list of trips we want to take, from which we create and build our travel dreams. One dream that had been shining at the top of the list for quite some time was a Christmas visit to the White House. We love the holidays, and -- politics and partisanship aside -- admire the elegance and importance of the White House. We knew visiting while it is decked in its holiday finest would be a memorable treat.

But, as we have discovered in the past, wanting to visit the White House and getting to visit the White House are two very different things. Before we get to the holiday magic we saw inside The People's House, let's look at what it takes to get in the door.

how to tour the white house reddit

How to visit the White House

To arrange a White House visit , you need to contact the office of your congressional representative. Requests can be submitted up to three months in advance of your anticipated travel dates, which means you may be booking your trip to DC before you know if you will get approved for a White House visit. However, the sooner you apply the better, because the tours only allow a limited number of people each day. If you want to take a tour at Christmastime, send in your request in September.

Your chances of securing a tour spot will be better if you can designate multiple days on your trip when you would be available for a tour. Once the request is submitted by the office of your representative, White House Tours will contact you for security information. Unfortunately for advance planners, the outcome of your request won't be known until 10 to 14 days before your date(s). If the White House visit is only a part of a planned DC visit, then it may not be a big deal. But if a White House tour is the sole or primary reason for your trip, that late notice could create some last-minute adjustments to your plans. Tours are typically scheduled for Tuesday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tours are free, but subject to change due to White House scheduling and events that cannot be foreseen.

Planning our holiday White House visit

The official White House Christmas tree is usually delivered the day after Thanksgiving, when decorating the property for Christmas is in full swing. The seasonal décor is ready for public viewing a few days after Thanksgiving. Our request for a Christmastime tour was submitted on Sept. 10 for a Dec. 11, 12 or 13 visit. We found out via email on Friday, Nov. 30 that we were approved and accepted for our visit.

how to tour the white house reddit

With that approval in hand, we found a cheap Spirit Airlines flight into Baltimore for $64. Normally, we would have used 5,000 Spirit miles to cover the fare, but because we were so close to our travel date, reward booking fees were more than the actual cost of the flight, so that strategy didn't work. Thankfully, there are plenty of affordable hotels in Baltimore using points or cash. Since we arrived pretty late in the evening, we just booked a decent cash rate at the Aloft BWI Baltimore Airport and rested for the night. The same hotel (a Category 3 Marriott property) can be booked for 17,500 Marriott points.

Once we headed to Washington, DC, we stayed at to the Hyatt Place White House, which we have visited in the past. It is within easy walking distance to the White House, includes free breakfast and only costs 15,000 World of Hyatt points per night. The nearby Grand Hyatt Washington is also a good choice at 15,000 World of Hyatt points per night, especially if you have access to its club lounge (which our daughter, Mommy Points, has scored for us on some trips). Either could be booked with a Hyatt Category 1–4 award from the World of Hyatt Credit Card, though we just used points earned from that card on this trip.

To avoid spending extra time, money and an additional night in the DC area, we ponied up $200+ each for a United nonstop evening flight home from Washington National directly to our home airport in Houston. It wasn't a great deal financially, but maximized our time and energy during the busy holiday season.

Visiting the White House at Christmas

As the precious few days passed from our approval to our departure, we held our breath that our tour would not be affected by a Christmas cancellation. Even as we approached the tour entrance, we kept one eye out for unusual Secret Service movement and the other eye scanning our phone looking for breaking news that might bear bad tidings. Fortunately, we were greeted by an open gate and a welcoming gesture and into the line we went.

how to tour the white house reddit

The Secret Service officer checked our IDs and cross-checked the master list to verify if we were indeed on "the nice list." Three additional screenings later and we were ready to enter the White House.

The tour enters from the East Wing, where we passed through a hallway that led to the first of many grand Christmas trees. The initial tree was dedicated to the Gold Star families of our armed forces and was decorated in red and blue ribbons and rich gold ornaments.

how to tour the white house reddit

As we turned the corner, we came up the East Colonnade, which was lined on both sides with bright red berry trees of varying heights naturally lit by the multiple large windows that look out into the Kennedy Garden. The trees had received some unfavorable reviews when first introduced, and we were curious as to what our impression would be in person. When standing in front of the trees, we found them to be colorful, festive and appropriate for the season. A muted green carpet provided a seasonal balance to the somewhat narrow walkway. Judging by the number of photos being taken of the trees, they seem to be a hit with the crowd. Fortunately, cameras (with some limitations) are permitted on the White House tour.

how to tour the white house reddit

The next interesting encounter was the display of official White House Christmas cards from presidents over the past 91 years. Sixteen administrations were covered; their choices reflected not only each president's personal style and attitude, but also graphically illustrated the number of Christmases each experienced as the leader of our country. Eisenhower, Reagan, Bush 43, Clinton and Obama all had eight cards. Johnson and Nixon had five, Carter and Bush 41 had four, Ford had three, Kennedy only two and Trump also had two. We found this exhibit to be a poignant and educational history lesson with a direct seasonal correlation.

how to tour the white house reddit

After this point we physically entered the White House proper and enjoyed rooms with familiar names: the China Room, the Vermeil Room and the Library. Of these three, the Library was my personal favorite. The room emitted a warm and comfortable glow, and one could easily imagine a classic Christmas carol playing quietly in the background.

how to tour the white house reddit

Next, we ascended to the state floor via a significant wooden stairway to the East Room, the largest and most utilized room in the Executive Mansion. It has been the site of press conferences, Medal of Honor presentation ceremonies, entertainment, weddings, funerals and even a senior prom. Large chandeliers, grandiose garlanded mirrors and gold-hued drapes elegantly highlighted the room while two 14-foot fir trees flanked a traditional Nativity scene that was in its 51st year of display. The East Room traditionally is quite spacious and open with few furnishings.

how to tour the white house reddit

After exiting the East Room, the famous Red, Green and Blue rooms were only steps away. The Green Room now serves as a parlor for small receptions. Its decorative theme for the holidays illustrated and highlighted the great work ethic of American farmers and the fruits of their labor. Harvested produce, grains and nuts were found in the garland on the mantle, the boughs of the tree and as accents on the tables.

how to tour the white house reddit

The oval-shaped Blue Room is an elegant, handsome and inviting space that most would love to have in their own homes. It occupies the center of the White House, and its windows look out onto the South Lawn and toward the Washington and Jefferson monuments. The Blue Room is often used by the president to receive guests, but during Christmastime, this room proudly plays host to the official White House Christmas tree. When viewing the White House from outside, the 18-foot North Carolina-grown Fraser fir is easily seen through the South Portico.

how to tour the white house reddit

The Blue Room just feels like what I think of when I envision the best of America, and the tree there was decorated to enhance this ambience. A long continuous blue velvet ribbon curled itself throughout the tree with the names of all the states and territories proudly embroidered with a rich gold thread. Red and gold ornaments filled the green branches that reached toward and touched the ornate ceiling medallion.

how to tour the white house reddit

(As an aside, the Blue Room, due to its shape and position in The White House, might lead an outsider to assume this is where the Oval Office must be located. In reality, the Oval Office is not in the White House proper, but down in the West Wing in an area not visible to the public.)

The Red Room's bold color grabs your total attention as you enter its doorway. The centerpiece tree was adorned with ornaments depicting popular activities of American youth ranging from sports to drama to music. The contrast of the white Italian marble fireplace and mantle with the red, green and white garland spray was simply stunning and, in keeping with the spirit of the tree, fun.

how to tour the white house reddit

A meal is sadly not included in the White House tour, but, if it was, the State Dining Room would be the logical place for it to be served. It can accommodate over 100 guests, but my blue jeans likely would have needed a serious upgrade. Eagles support the furniture and topped the trees in homage to one of our national symbols. A large edible gingerbread creation sat under one of the classic White House mirrors and depicted famous monuments and structures on the National Mall. The piece was made with almost 400 pounds of ingredients by the pastry team.

how to tour the white house reddit

And, if the White House had not already impressed you enough with its Christmas trappings, when we passed the Kennedy portrait into the Entrance and Cross halls, we came upon an indoor forest of Christmas treasure.

how to tour the white house reddit

Thousands of red ornaments lined the hallway and graced the trees' deep green branches. The scene was so rich with Christmas spirit that we fully expected Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney to come out from behind the trees singing "White Christmas" at any second. The projected light on the ceiling added sparkle and pizzazz to a room that was already a full holiday palette. The presidential seal rising above the multilayered décor was a popular photo op for all.

how to tour the white house reddit

This space was about 2,500 square feet of elegance and color. It was hard to absorb it all in the time allotted, but easy to love. We were the last two to leave for the day, and we lingered and looked as much as we could. We could have easily spent longer reflecting on all we had seen, but the business of the White House had to go on.

how to tour the white house reddit

It was such a privilege and thrill to tour "The People's House" at Christmas. Even though we are very common people, we felt special because we had this opportunity. It was a great Christmas gift, indeed.

Other holiday sights in Washington, DC

The White House tour was the reason for the trip, but since we were there, we also took full advantage of some other DC Christmas traditions and offerings that we would recommend to others, including visiting the trees at the US Capitol, the Supreme Court and Union Station.

how to tour the white house reddit

The United States Botanic Garden had a beautiful display of scale model monuments made entirely of plant material. The same artistic skill and methods were used to build the famous American train depots that were central to the garden's themed "All Aboard" model train exhibit.

how to tour the white house reddit

We spent part of one evening at the National Christmas Tree located on The Ellipse between the White House and Washington Monument. The tree is surrounded by 56 smaller trees that border a winding walkway and represent each state and territory. Trains are also an integral part of the National Tree display, with multiple sets surrounding the tree's base. Live entertainment is frequently offered, and at dusk, the atmosphere is magical as the red and green lights of the tree glow in the foreground with either the lights of the White House or the evening sky in the background.

how to tour the white house reddit

Overall, we were blessed with good weather, grand sights and memorable moments. We departed for the trip full of Christmas spirit and came back with even more.

And as an epilogue, our congressman was, coincidentally, on our Thursday evening flight home and our window seat paid dividends as we witnessed two shooting stars as we looked to the north. Or perhaps it was Santa making some practice runs before the big day? Anything is possible.

how to tour the white house reddit

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How should I dress up for the White House tour? - Washington DC Forum

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How should I dress up for the White House tour?

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' class=

Normal is perfectly fine. No reason for a tie or anything formal.

Dress normal +1.

how to tour the white house reddit

Have you been invited to take a tour as part of some event? That would make a difference as to how you dress. If you are applying for the regular tour, there is no dress code. But you can bring almost nothing with you. No purses or fanny pack, for instance. Your odds of getting approved for a tour are not good, but you can try.

Note that you cannot just show up at the White House and expect to get on a tour. You have to request a tour of the White House in a specific manner and your request has to be granted before you will be allowed on a tour. Based on your location of “El Salvador”, I will assume you are not a US citizen. That does not prevent you from requesting a tour and you should look at Post #79 on the Top Question, “How Does One Tour the White House as a Foreigner” (full site, not mobile) for guidance. The number of tours requested far exceed the number that can be accommodated, so don’t get your hopes up too high that your request will be granted.

how to tour the white house reddit

I went yesterday to the tour that I requested through my state congressman. Everyone wore whatever they were wearing that day. Shorts, typical slogging around in the heat clothing. Bring your disposable water bottle to drink while you wait in line at least an hour to get in. My time slot was !2:30. We got in at 2.

' class=

Evergreen, did you park or take the metro? My family has an 9:00 am tour in a couple of weeks. Any tips or suggestions for parking? We also have an 11:30 timed entry to the national archives, you think we can make that? Thanks

If you decide to drive in and park, the parking garage at the Ronald Reagan Building (just a few blocks from the WH) has 2000 parking spaces so you can be assured of finding a space there. The rate is $25 for 4-15 hours, which is very good for downtown DC.

Expect to wait awhile to get through security for the WH but once you get in, the tour is self-guided and you will likely be done in 45 minutes.

https://itcdc.com/parking/

Dress the way that you want to look in your pictures and as others said, you have to request these tours well in advance.

Yes you should make your archives tour as walking thebehitehouse takes less than an hour. Show up at 8 to be at the beginning of the security line to make sure that you get in close to on time

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how to tour the white house reddit

White House resuming full slate of public tours after more than a year of disruptions

WASHINGTON — Public tours of the White House will return to a full operating schedule next month, after nearly a year and a half of disruptions due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Self-guided tours of the executive mansion were suspended when President Joe Biden took office, as officials tightened virus protocols in line with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

They resumed on a limited basis on April 15, being held only Friday and Saturday mornings, and will return to their normal schedule from Tuesday through Saturday, excluding federal holidays, beginning on July 19.

The White House said Monday it will “continue to closely monitor the COVID-19 situation with guidance based on recommendations from the CDC, and other public health officials and medical experts, and reserves the right to adjust availability of the public tours as necessary to adhere to the latest health guidance.”

'WHERE HISTORY HAPPENED': Inspiring destinations that touch America's past

COVID EXPOSURE ON PLANES?: I took a CO2 detector on a flight. It showed me when I was most likely exposed to COVID.

What COVID safety measures are in place for White House t?

Anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or has had any virus symptoms within 10 days of a scheduled tour is urged to “stay home.”

The same goes for people who've been in close contact with someone who is suspected of having the virus.

Face masks will be made available for visitors who want them, though use will be optional.

How much does it cost to tour the White House?

White House tours are free, but require reservations.

How do I get a tour of the White House?

Tour requests must be made through a member of Congress between 21 to 90 days in advance. 

International visitors may submit requests through their respective embassy in Washington, D.C.

Contributing: Eve Chen, USA TODAY

clock This article was published more than  5 years ago

Is a White House tour worth the wait?

how to tour the white house reddit

According to the White House website, all you have to do to get a tour of the building is to request one through your congressional representative. Since I live in D.C., I don’t really have a representative — though I do have Eleanor Holmes Norton, a non-voting member of Congress. So I called up her office and requested a White House tour. “I live here, so I can go anytime,” I said. “I’m totally flexible.”

That was two years ago. I called back. I emailed. I phoned some more. But no matter how hard I tried, I was not able to get on a White House tour. Giving up on going as a regular D.C. citizen, I decided to play my media card — I emailed the White House Historical Association from my Washington Post address and got my invitation the very next day.

I arrived at 15th Street NW and Pennsylvania an hour early, with all my belongings stuffed into the pockets of my cargo shorts. (There’s a strict “no bags” rule for this tour.) Thus began a strange, 40-minute security odyssey that included a pass through a metal detector and walking past fans that blew my scent to police dogs that were hidden behind a screen. (At least that’s how the guards explained it to me when I asked.) As someone who often wears cat-themed accessories, I’m glad the Secret Service ensures their bomb-sniffing dogs aren’t swayed by appearances.

Unlike the tightly packed queues of airport security, the White House security process scatters people across a sprawling area. Alone for most of the time, I wandered down poorly marked paths, through tents and, at one point, into what appeared to be a cubicle-filled office. When I finally walked through an unremarkable door into what turned out to be the White House, I thought it was just another security pavilion.

“Where am I?” I asked the security guard. “Am I supposed to be here?”

Apparently used to these kinds of existential questions, the guard assured me that I had finally made it to the actual, real White House.

I never really got over that initial sense of confusion. This is, in part, because the White House tour isn’t really a tour at all. After you clear security, you’re let loose to wander the bottom two floors of the East Wing at your own pace. I and my fellow tourists reacted to this unexpected freedom with bovine unease. We formed small herds and shuffled around slowly, hoping for someone, anyone, to show us around.

As it turns out, you have to be your own guide at the White House. The officials stationed around the building are there, primarily, to keep you off the furniture. They’ll answer your questions, but if you’re feeling shy, or don’t know enough to even ask good questions, I recommend downloading a new app called White House Experience .

“OK, so before Roosevelt, this room was the White House’s laundry room,” I said, reading from the app for the benefit of the assembled herd. We peeked into a small room known as the library, and one astute tourist noticed that the evenly spaced books and stiff chairs seemed more like a backdrop for televised interviews than an actual reading nook.

In fact, this wing of the White House feels more like a Hollywood set than a place where people actually live and work. It’s just too orderly, formal and small. Even the flower arrangements, so symmetrical and perfect, seem made-for-TV. Other people apparently felt this uncanny vibe, too. I overheard several people asking whether the rooms on the tour are actually used for anything.

“This is where state dinners take place,” answered one guard who was stationed in a handsomely decorated, but rather small, dining room.

“Really?” I said. “I mean, I’ve lived in houses with bigger dining rooms.”

“Believe it or not, 140 people can fit in here,” he replied.

He added that Thomas Jefferson once used the state dining room as an office, and it’s also where Lewis and Clark planned their expedition.

“Wow, Thomas Jefferson,” a gray-haired woman said to her grandkid. “Can you imagine?”

We stood there for a few more moments, picturing the explorers poring over maps and drafting up lists of supplies. Even the kid seemed impressed. There’s something undeniably magical about being in a place where so much history has transpired.

I also enjoyed chatting up the guard in the aptly named Red Room, the very spot where Dolley Madison held her famous salons (though, back then, it was painted sunflower yellow). Later, Eleanor Roosevelt held informal press conferences for female reporters there, the guard said.

“She would tell the women reporters the same information the men were getting, but she would add a little color to it, so the women reporters’ stories were always better than the dry stuff the men were putting out,” the guard said.

Toward the end of the tour, people lined up for selfies beneath a doorway bearing the presidential seal. I took that opportunity to ask my fellow tourists if they’d had as much trouble booking a White House tour as I had. Visitors from Colorado, Oklahoma, Florida and Texas all told me they had simply contacted their representatives and gotten their invitations without a hitch. A group from Chile told me they requested their invitation through their local embassy. Perhaps unsurprisingly, I didn’t run into anyone else from D.C.

Though it takes some historical knowledge (or a handy app) to fully appreciate the White House walk-through, I totally recommend it. But if you’re a D.C. resident like me, you may need to move to a proper state — or get a job at The Washington Post — first.

More adventures with the Staycationer

D.C.’s secret Navy museum is amazing — if you can figure out how to get in

A paranoid visit to the DEA museum

D.C. bus tours: The good, the bad and the just plain weird

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Politics latest: 'Thumping defeat' for government over Rwanda - as Galloway borrows Trump slogan during fiery address

Jeremy Hunt is hinting at tax cuts in Wednesday's budget, as the Tories bid to shift the dial as they languish in the polls. Meanwhile, George Galloway is back in Westminster after being sworn in as Rochdale's MP - and Jeremy Corbyn is starting legal proceedings against Nigel Farage.

Monday 4 March 2024 17:35, UK

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

  • Combative Galloway sworn in as MP
  • Tamara Cohen: Galloway's fiery claims a sign of things to come
  • Corbyn begins legal action against Farage
  • Lords deal blow to government's Rwanda plan
  • Jon Craig: Thumping defeat won't stop bill passing
  • Chancellor hints at 'responsible' tax cuts
  • Budget 2023 : What announcements to expect  | How and when to watch it  | Podcast: Are tax cuts a vote winner?
  • Live reporting by Ben Bloch and (earlier)  Faith Ridler

During a news conference earlier this afternoon, George Galloway launched a vigorous defence of his decision to make the Israel-Hamas war a centrepiece of his Rochdale by-election campaign ( read more in the 15.54 post) .

During that statement, he made a Holocaust comparison, saying: "If the by-election had been in February of 1940 or 41, would anyone seriously have condemned me for putting the crimes of the Holocaust at the centre of my election campaign?"

The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's working definition of antisemitism lists "drawing comparisons of contemporary Israeli policy to that of the Nazis" among its examples.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Campaign Against Antisemitism hit out at the new Rochdale MP, saying he "knows exactly where the line is and purposely strides over it".

They added: "Diminishing the Holocaust through this appalling comparison is repulsive, although at this point we should expect nothing less from Britain's newest MP."

Parliament's newest MP – who points out he has done more time on the green benches than most of his other colleagues – has been making fiery remarks to journalists outside parliament ( see 15.54 post )

George Galloway, who declared on Friday when he won the Rochdale by-election that his win was "for Gaza", vowed he would have plenty more to say about the international situation, as well as his new hometown of Rochdale, at the first opportunity.

With customary modesty, he predicted he would "add to the political intelligence" in the Commons.

But you could see in this exchange - even as he ridiculed journalists' questions and threw accusations at all quarters - why he is viewed with deep apprehension as a charismatic speaker who other parties fear will sow division at an already fragile time.

He started with an offensive comparison between the war in Gaza, triggered by the 7 October attacks, and the Holocaust, saying he would not have been condemned for "putting the crimes of the Holocaust at the centre my election campaign" in "1940 or 1941" – ironically, years before those atrocities were recognised by parliament.

Challenged on that assertion by Sky News, he doubled down.

Galloway accused Rishi Sunak of trying to "whip up Islamophobic, racist fervour" as an election tactic, and called his speech on tackling extremism outside Number 10 on Friday evening an "embarrassing impromptu performance".

He claimed Keir Starmer would be unlikely to "defend the democratic rights of the British people, including its religious and ethnic minorities".

"The next election will be about Muslims and will be about the taking away of civil liberties in this country," he said. "It's Sunak's last hope. I pray for social peace of our country that it's a forlorn hope."

He suggested this tactic would allow independent candidates like himself to pick up "potentially millions of votes" in other diverse constituencies such as that of Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner – to "make sure Keir Starmer doesn't win".

Given Labour's commanding position in the polls, and the fact the party could not stand a candidate against him in Rochdale, most Labour figures will see this as hot air.

But Galloway is determined to use the Palestine issue to put as much pressure as possible on the Labour leader – and there will be a lot more of this sort of rhetoric to come.

As the country gears up for the general election, Wednesday's budget may be the last before the voters go to the polls.

Hailed as "a budget to save the Tory party", speculation has been mounting that the chancellor will cut taxes as a last-ditch attempt to boost the Conservatives' plunging support.

To afford the move, funding to public services could be slashed - but Jeremy Hunt has insisted any cuts will be done "responsibly".

On today's episode, Sophy Ridge looks ahead to the budget. She's joined by deputy political editor Sam Coates and pollster Scarlett Maguire to unpack whether cutting taxes really is the way to a Conservative election win.

Click to subscribe to the Sky News Daily wherever you get your podcasts

We've just been hearing from our chief political correspondent Jon Craig  on the Lords inflicting a defeat on the government over the Rwanda bill (see previous post).

Asked how significant this defeat is, he replied: "What's significant is the size of the defeat because it's a thumping defeat."

He pointed to the majority of 102 in favour of the amendment that would mandate that the bill, if passed, maintain "full compliance with domestic and international law".

Jon explained that there will be a series of votes today and over the coming days on amendments to the bill, and that at a certain point, Labour will throw up its hands up and let it pass.

"They're not going to block it altogether in the long term," he said.

"But for now, the government is getting a real spanking in the House of Lords."

Watch Jon's full analysis here:

The government has just suffered a sizeable defeat in the House of Lords on its bill to rescue the embattled Rwanda scheme.

Peers are voting on a series of amendments to the government's legislation this afternoon.

This one was proposed by Lord Vernon Coaker, a former Labour MP, and it would mandate that the bill, if passed, maintain "full compliance with domestic and international law".

It would effectively kill the central purpose of the bill to limit the impact of international law and allow appeals against deportation to Rwanda to be severely limited.

The result was: 

  • Content: 274
  • Not content: 172

The means a majority of 102 voted in favour of the amendment.

This does not mean the amendment will make it into the final bill that passes into law, as there will be a parliamentary "ping-pong" between the Lords and the Commons to come up with a final version.

Peers in the House of Lords are currently debating a series of amendments to the government's Rwanda bill, and many have made speeches this afternoon.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Justin Welby, has said the point of international law was to stop governments doing things "that are wrong".

He said: "The government is challenging the right of international law to constrain our actions. And the point of international law is to stop governments going ahead with things that are wrong."

Tory peer Lord Tugendhat, whose nephew is security minister Tom Tugendhat, accused ministers of behaving like the ruling party in George Orwell's dystopian novel 1984, in its move to legislate that Rwanda was safe.

"This country is no dictatorship, it is a democracy," he said.

"Nevertheless in this bill it is seeking to achieve by Act of Parliament what in 1984 the ruling party and its apparatchiks sought to achieve by torture."

He added: "If this bill goes on to the statute book in its present form, Rwanda will be a safe country regardless of reality until the statute is repealed."

But former Tory leader Lord Michael Howard said the government is "fully entitled" to declare Rwanda a safe country to remove asylum seekers.

He said the Supreme Court had been "trespassing" on the government's responsibilities in their November ruling that Rwanda is not a safe third country.

There will be debates on a series of amendments to the bill throughout this afternoon and evening - will bring you the results in full here in the Politics Hub.

By Faye Brown , political reporter

The spring budget on 6 March is likely to be the last major fiscal event before the next general election, expected later this year.

The Tories have been hinting at further tax reductions in a bid to woo over voters as the party continues to languish behind Labour in the polls.

But as the country enters a recession, questions remain over whether there is enough so-called fiscal headroom in the Treasury's coffers to make such a move.

An income tax cut, a National Insurance cut, vape duty, fuel duty, help for first time buyers, ISA overhaul and child benefit reform have all been talked up in recent weeks.

Read more about what has been discussed below...

After his news conference, George Galloway took questions from journalists, including what issues he intends to raise when he speaks in the House of Commons.

The new Rochdale MP told journalists that although he disagrees with the SNP's main aim of independence for Scotland, he will "certainly" work with them to "try and force a proper vote on a proper ceasefire" in the Israel-Hamas war.

Sky News has approached the SNP to see if it would be willing to work with Mr Galloway.

He also said he feels "sorry" for Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle, saying the "double-dealing" Labour leadership should be held responsible for the Commons chaos over the ceasefire vote two weeks ago.

Asked what he will say first in the Commons, Mr Galloway replied: "It'll be about Gaza because there's a genocide going on."

He said that when "the highest court in the world finds that there is a plausible case that Israel is committing crimes of genocide and sends Israel for trial on genocide charges, it doesn't get much more serious than that".

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) did not rule on allegations of genocide, but ordered Israel to take all measures to prevent it happening, without ordering it to stop the military offensive against Hamas.

Mr Galloway went on to make a Holocaust comparison, saying: "If the by-election had been in February of 1940 or 41, would anyone seriously have condemned me for putting the crimes of the Holocaust at the centre of my election campaign?"

Mr Galloway also refused to say whether Hamas should be allowed to run Gaza after the war, triggered by the 7 October attack on Israel, saying: "The people of Palestine must pick their own governments."

He added that he himself would not have previously voted for Hamas.

Parliament's newest MP, George Galloway, has been sworn in once again ( see 14.34 post ), and he has just been giving a news conference outside parliament.

He started by saying that he is "very grateful to all the staff of the House of Commons", some of whom he said he has known for "some decades".

The Rochdale MP said he was first sworn in as the MP for Glasgow Hillhead 37 years ago, which means he has "served longer than [Sir Keir] Starmer and [Rishi] Sunak put together".

"My entry has been well received by the staff, if not by the members of parliament," he said.

He went on to say that he did not bring his children with him today because he did not want them to see parliament's "decline".

Mr Galloway hopes to speak at PMQs or the budget debate on this week, and has "plenty to say" about Rochdale, Britain, and the "international situation" - presumably a reference to the Israel-Hamas war.

He declared Britain stands "at a very dangerous crossroads", adding it's "perhaps as dangerous as since the summer and autumn of 1940/41, and there's no Mr Churchill in this picture" to "unite our people".

Furthermore, he referenced solving poverty, particularly in his constituency, and appropriated a Donald Trump slogan by declaring he wants to "make Rochdale great again".

Saving the local football team is a key aim of his, he said, as well as giving the town its own postcode.

Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has announced legal action against Nigel Farage, accusing him of making "a highly defamatory statement".

The Islington North MP, who sits as an independent, said on X he has asked his lawyers "to take the first steps in commencing legal proceedings" against him.

"We are a movement for peace — and we cannot stand by and let these disgusting and malicious lies go unchallenged," he added.

It's not known what statement Mr Corbyn is referring to, but it comes after Mr Farage suggested he believed a "madcap conspiracy theory that Jews run the world".

He made the comment on GB News as he responded to criticism from Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, who made several digs at Mr Farage during PMQs last week.

Read more on that below:

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how to tour the white house reddit

IMAGES

  1. The White House Tour Experience

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  2. How To Tour The White House

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  3. Photo Essay: A White House Tour

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  4. How To Visit the White House & Get A Tour [+ Virtual Tour]

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  5. White House Tour

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  6. How to Tour the White House: A Comprehensive Guide

    how to tour the white house reddit

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COMMENTS

  1. Have you ever went to a tour in the White House? Did you like it?

    No I went up in New England. I have been a tour of all three of the branch's. White House, Capitol, and Supreme Court. The White House had a lot of history in the museum portion, the Capitol was cool, and the Supreme Court was awesome.

  2. Are White House tours impossible to get? : r/washingtondc

    Typically you don't get a tour for the days you're coming to DC, you come to DC for the day you got a tour. That being said, I got a West West tour by a West Wing employee so maybe check LinkedIn for friends of friends who are on staff. This does not get you into the main house tour. That still needs advanced flexible planning.

  3. The White House Announces 2022 Public Tours starting 4/15

    The White House Announces 2022 Public Tours starting 4/15. Have any DC residents had luck scheduling a tour? You have to hop the Whitehouse fence and sprint across the lawn to ask the guy in the security booth to hook it up.

  4. How do I arrange a tour of the White House? : r/NoStupidQuestions

    Generally when you have a change of address most licenses and ids are invalid). You can call the white house visitor center ( (202) 456-7041) if you have questions about dates and who you should contact. here is a bit more information about scheduling a tour and what you can and cannot bring with you. You need to schedule your tour no more than ...

  5. r/travel on Reddit: Visiting Washington D.C. and want to know how long

    The White House tour may require a lot of waiting but doesn't take long at all. So 4-5 for these things. Personally I would recommend skipping the White House and seeing some of the art museums. The Hirshon, American Art, Portrait Gallery, East and West Wing of the National Gallery of Art. [deleted] • 1 yr. ago.

  6. Going to DC Aug 29th => impossible to get a White House tour ...

    That takes some time. You could try to call your Rep's or Senator's office to see if they have spots on official tours, but that requires the member to go too and that's almost impossible for a Senator. With the House being out of session, that's a long shot too. Look at tours of the Capitol, the library of Congress, and the Supreme Court instead.

  7. White House Tour : r/washingtondc

    1. Texasforever1992. • 3 mo. ago. It doesn't necessarily have to be your representative's office to book the tour, just a representative's office. Our office has even gotten tours approved for international visitors so even if you can't get a response from your representative just ask around. Ideally your parent's representative would be best.

  8. White House tours are back: Here's what you need to know

    Open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the center is home to roughly 100 historical artifacts and offers an interactive touchscreen tour of the White House. There's also the nearby White House Historical Association retail store, which sells a great selection of souvenirs, including history books, jewelry, cherry blossom items ...

  9. How to Book White House Tours When Visiting Washington DC

    Pick a date or date range for your visit. Contact your state representative (Congressman or Congresswoman, or state senator) to submit a request for tour tickets. All public tour requests must go through your congressional office. Wait for confirmation of your ticket request for public tours of the White House.

  10. Visit The White House

    The White House Tour entrance is located in Sherman Park at 15th Street NW and Alexander Hamilton Place NW. If arriving by rideshare, use the White House Visitor Center (WHVC) as the drop-off address.

  11. How Can I Tour the White House in DC?

    Public, self-guided tours are 45 minutes and are run between 8 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays unless otherwise noted. For complete details on White House tours, visit the White House tours and events page or call the White House Visitors Office 24-hour information line at (202) 456-7041. The White House is located at 1600 ...

  12. How to Visit the White House: A Local's Guide

    You'll want to arrive at the White House around 15-30 minutes before your tour is set to start. That will most likely be between the self-guided tour hours of 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. from Tuesday to Thursday, and 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Friday or Saturday. Luckily, the White House is near the centerpoint of DC public transportation, so ...

  13. How To Visit the White House & Get A Tour [+ Virtual Tour]

    The White House Visitor Center is open every day from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. It is free to enter and can be visited in conjunction with a White House tour if you are lucky enough to get on one, or as a stand-alone attraction.

  14. The White House Announces 2022 Public Tours

    Tours. Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is pleased to announce public tours of the White House will begin on Friday, April 15, 2022. Public tours will initially be available from 8:00 AM to ...

  15. How to visit the White House at Christmastime

    The official White House Christmas tree is usually delivered the day after Thanksgiving, when decorating the property for Christmas is in full swing. The seasonal décor is ready for public viewing a few days after Thanksgiving. Our request for a Christmastime tour was submitted on Sept. 10 for a Dec. 11, 12 or 13 visit.

  16. How to tour the White House

    Tours are scheduled on a first come, first served basis. Requests can be submitted up to three months in advance and no less than 21 days in advance. You are encouraged to submit your request as early as possible as a limited number of spaces are available. The White House tour is free of charge. Please note that White House tours may be ...

  17. If you've been granted/declined a White House tour recently

    45 reviews. 21 helpful votes. 1. Re: If you've been granted/declined a White House tour recently. 8 years ago. Save. From what I have read on this forum, some people do not find out until 10 days or so before the date of their tour. It is not always exactly two weeks before.

  18. How should I dress up for the White House tour?

    If you have been invited to do a private White House tour as part of some sort of event, you very well may be expected to dress in a suit. The organizers of the event should be able to tell you what the expected dress is. If, on the other hand, you have applied for and been granted a spot on a public tour, then normal tourist attire is acceptable.

  19. White House tour schedule to resume in full in July; what to know

    WASHINGTON — Public tours of the White House will return to a full operating schedule next month, after nearly a year and a half of disruptions due to the coronavirus pandemic. Self-guided tours ...

  20. How to Tour the WHITE HOUSE

    Find out how to make a White House tour reservation; learn which rooms you get to see when you visit; and a few other practical tips for your White House vis...

  21. Is a White House tour worth the wait?

    According to the White House website, all you have to do to get a tour of the building is to request one through your congressional representative. Since I live in D.C., I don't really have a ...

  22. Plan Your Visit

    Plan Your Visit. Your visit to The White House and President's Park will be a truly unique national park experience. As you stroll along historic Pennsylvania Avenue you may witness our First Amendment freedoms in action through an organized protest. While posing for a photo on the south side of the White House you may be surprised to see the ...

  23. Virtual Tour

    The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500 To ... We invite you to put yourself in the center of living history and experience the White House through a virtual tour.

  24. Inside the White House Program to Share America's Secrets : r ...

    1 subscriber in the declassification community. A place to discuss government secrecy and how to (legally) reduce it

  25. Politics latest: Speculation mounts over pre-election budget; Labour to

    Chancellor Jeremy Hunt will deliver the budget statement in the House of Commons. The announcement usually starts at 12.30pm - directly after Prime Minister's Questions - and lasts about an hour.