can i visit the white house

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

I remember visiting the White House for the first time during former President George H.W. Bush's time in office.

A friend with a friend who worked in the Washington, D.C., landmark at the time — if that isn't a quintessential D.C. thing to say, I don't know what is — was couch surfing at my place and wanted to "pay" me with a tour of the presidential mansion.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.

I happily accepted the offer and, not long after, found myself exploring the iconic building. In addition to checking out the usual rooms included in the tour, my friend scored us a peek inside the Oval Office, an experience I'll never forget.

Like many sites in D.C., the White House paused tours of its interior due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But after 14 months, the Biden Administration announced that tours will resume on Friday and Saturday mornings starting April 15.

As was the case before the pandemic, you can't just show up and ask for tickets. Instead, you'll need to plan your visit weeks in advance.

Before you finalize your itinerary, here's everything you need to know about White House tours, plus suggestions for where to stay nearby.

Although the White House is managed by the National Park Service, you can't reach out to the agency to get tickets. Instead, you'll need to request them from your member of Congress (or your embassy, if you're not a U.S. resident). You can do this between three months and 21 days in advance.

Tours are limited to Friday and Saturday mornings (excluding federal holidays or unless otherwise noted) from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis, so you'll want to request your tickets as early as possible.

When you submit your request, be sure to include three potential dates for your tour, as well as the number of individuals in your party. Try to avoid the Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Veterans Day and Christmas holidays, as tickets are a lot harder to come by during these busy times.

While you'll have a set tour time when you receive your tickets, know that unexpected events may occasionally cause your tour to be canceled at the last minute. If this happens, you'll need to submit a new request for a tour.

On the day of your tour, all members of your group who are 18 and older will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or military ID (or a passport, if they're from another country). Each person's name, date of birth, city and state given for the reserved tickets must exactly match the government-issued photo ID presented.

While face masks are not required during the tour, they will be available on site should you want to wear one. Items you're welcome to bring on the tour include:

• Compact cameras with lenses shorter than 3 inches long.
• Umbrellas without metal tips.
• Small personal items like wallets and cellphones.
• Items needed for medical purposes, such as wheelchairs (which you also can request at the Visitors Entrance), medications and mobility aids.

Keep in mind, though, that the White House's strict security protocols mean certain items are not permitted inside. These include:

• Video cameras, cameras with detachable lenses, tablets, iPads, tripods, monopods and cameras sticks.
• Bags of any kind (handbags, purses, book bags, backpacks, diaper bags and camera bags).
• Any pointed object, including pocket knives.
• Food, liquids, aerosols, tobacco products and personal grooming items (makeup, lotion, etc.).
• Guns, ammunition, fireworks, electric stun guns, mace, martial arts weapons and devices, toy weapons and knives of any kind.

There is no storage available at the White House or the White House Visitor Center, so plan on keeping any prohibited items in your hotel safe or leaving them with a companion who isn't taking the tour.

What you'll see

After you've made your way through security, you'll embark on an hourlong tour that includes stops at several well-known spots in the building, including the family theater, the East Room (which you may recognize from press conferences and special events), the State Dining Room (a banquet hall and ceremonial chamber for official events) and the Blue Room (a reception room famous for its decorations during the holiday season).

Depending on what's going on during your visit (or who you know), you may also have the chance to see other spaces like the Oval Office and the South Lawn, where Marine One (the presidential helicopter) lands and departs.

To supplement your White House tour, check out the adjacent White House Visitor Center . 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 and the official White House Christmas ornament.

Where to stay

Washington, D.C. is home to many chain, independent and boutique hotels, and luckily, some of the best ones happen to be within walking distance of the White House. Here are some of my personal favorites — and their current room rates for October 2022.

Related: Best hotel credit cards

The Hay-Adams

This historic hotel located between the White House and Lafayette Park regularly shows up on lists of the best hotels in D.C., and for good reason. If you play your cards right, you can snag a room with White House and Washington Monument views.

Speaking of views, the property's top-floor Top of the Hay has French doors that open onto a wraparound balcony with panoramic White House and city skyline vistas. It has a full-service rooftop kitchen, making it a terrific space for meetings and special occasions.

Since The Hay-Adams is a boutique hotel, it does not participate in any major brand's loyalty program. As a result, you'll need to pay cash for your stay. Standard superior rooms start at $439 a night.

Hotel Washington

For a while, this 105-year-old hotel was known as the W Washington DC, but it reverted back to its original name in August 2021.

The chic property is known for the Vue, an open-air space regularly touted as one of the city's best rooftop bars. You'll also find a mix of rooms and suites, including some with jaw-dropping city views.

Cash rates for a standard queen room at this independently operated hotel start at $337 per night, but if you're looking for a show-stopping view, consider upgrading to one of the Monument suites. You'll enjoy sweet views of the Washington Monument for a minimum of $580 a night.

JW Marriott Washington, DC

One of Marriott's flagship hotels just happens to sit right on Pennsylvania Avenue, less than two blocks away from the White House and next door to the National Theatre.

Like other hotels on this list, the JW Marriott Washington, DC boasts rooms with incredible views of downtown and the city's popular monuments. You'll also find a moody bar and an American-inspired restaurant on site, should you crave a cocktail or bite to eat after sightseeing.

While standard rooms do not come with a Washington Monument view, for a slight price increase, you can reserve a king bedroom that overlooks the monument starting at $359 a night. If you have a stash of Marriott Bonvoy points, you can apply 50,000 to 60,000 points per night to cover a stay here.

Willard InterContinental Washington DC

The history of this hotel, which opened in 1818, almost goes back to the start of the republic. As such, it was the place to see and be seen for centuries.

When I moved to D.C. in 1978, the iconic Willard had been closed for 10 years and was just a decaying building on Pennsylvania Avenue. That same year, a team was chosen to redevelop the hotel into the stunning property it is today.

Ever since reopening in 1986, the IHG-affiliated hotel has drawn visitors with its ornate lobby and classically-styled rooms.

To book a king room with a premium view, expect to spend at least $517 per night or apply a minimum of 53,000 to 94,000 IHG Rewards points per night.

Kimpton Banneker Hotel

Located on a tree-lined avenue with a view down 16th Street Northwest to the White House, this Kimpton outpost is slightly off the beaten path ... in a good way.

The property's Lady Bird rooftop bar features a bird's-eye view of D.C., including an unobstructed look at the White House, and a centerpiece U-shaped bar. Rooms and suites feature modern, eye-catching designs with colorful local art and bold accent walls.

Because this property participates in the IHG Rewards program, you can use either cash or points to pay for a room here. A standard room with two queen beds starts at $315 or 53,000 points per night.

White House

White House public tour requests are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis and must be submitted through a Member of Congress and their Congressional Tour Coordinator. Consistent with prior practices, public White House tour requests must be submitted a minimum of 21 days in advance and no more than 90 days in advance of the requested tour date(s). Reservations cannot be accepted for tour dates outside this 21 – 90-day window.

Public tours are typically available from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, excluding Federal holidays or unless otherwise noted. If your tour is confirmed, please note that you will be assigned a specific time. All White House tours are free of charge. The White House tour schedule is subject to change, with little notice, based on inclement weather or official use.

If you are a citizen of a foreign country, please contact your embassy in Washington, D.C. for assistance in submitting a tour request.

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

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market.  See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our  credit card rating methodology .

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

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

816 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

38 Published Articles 3343 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 48 U.S. States Visited: 28

Director of Operations & Compliance

6 Published Articles 1187 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 10 U.S. States Visited: 20

Table of Contents

History of the white house, getting to the white house, how to schedule a tour of the white house, the white house experience mobile app (virtual tour), white house garden tour, the white house easter egg roll, white house visitor center, president ’s park, best place to take pictures of the white house, 20 facts about the white house, hotels near the white house, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

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.

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.

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.

Planning Your Visit

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.

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. 

On the Day of Your Tour

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What to See at the Visitor Center

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.

When to Visit

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.

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.

The Northern Trail

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.

Other Landmarks and Buildings

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

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.

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.

The North Side From Pennsylvania Avenue

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Was this page helpful?

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.

Discover the exact steps we use to get into  1,400+ airport lounges worldwide, for free   (even if you’re flying economy!) .

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's  privacy policy  and  terms of service  apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation  calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

A family travel blog

Visiting the White House- How to Get a White House Tour and What to Expect

Visiting the White House is the opportunity of a lifetime. The White House tour is one of my most memorable experiences from all of my trips to Washington, DC. It requires a bit of planning to schedule a tour of the White House. Trust me when I say that it is well worth the effort!

Table of Contents

How to Schedule a Tour of the White House

The National Park Service no longer schedules tours of the White House. Instead, in order to secure a public tour, you must reach out to a Member of Congress ( find your representative here ). Requests must be made at least 21 days in advance, and up to three months out. We suggest submitting your request as early as possible since a limited number of spaces are available.

Tours are typically available from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM Tuesdays through Saturdays excluding federal holidays. The tours are free of charge.

At this time, embassies are not scheduling tours for international visitors.  

After contacting your Congressperson, you’ll receive an email letting you know whether or not there are any White House tours available during your visit to Washington, DC. You will receive an email 2-3 weeks before your requested dates indicating whether or not the date is available.

If there are time slots available during your visit, you are assigned a specific day and time for your White House tour. Weirdly, when we requested our tour we received an email telling us there were no tours available. A couple of days later, I received a second email confirming our visit. At this time, I submitted our social security numbers and full names to the White House.

Once we received clearance, we received a “Boarding Pass” that we had to present to the Secret Service Agents, along with our IDs.

Required Documentation

In order to gain access to the White House, you’ll need to bring a copy of the letter of approval (a digital copy is okay) and a government-issued photo ID.  Acceptable forms of identification include driver’s license, passport, military ID.

Items Prohibited on the White House Tour

• Aerosol sprays
• Bags of any kind (including backpacks, purses, diaper bags, fanny packs, etc).
• Cameras with detachable lenses
• Weapons of any kid
• E-cigarettes, lighters, matches, tobacco products, drugs
• Foods and drinks
• Liquids of any kind
• Monopods & Tripods
• Toy weapons
• Video Cameras
• Pointed objects
• Any item determined to be a potential safety hazard

There are no storage facilities available during the White House tour.  There are also no restrooms available for public use.  We suggest using the restroom at the White House Visitor Center prior to your tour.

So... what can you bring...?

Honestly, you should plan on bringing as little as possible.  We brought our boarding pass, IDs, a credit card, a camera, a metro card, and an inhaler.  

Visitors will have to pass through strict security prior to entering the White House.  You’ll need to present your boarding pass, and ID cards (twice).

• Baby carriers worn on the body
• Breast pumps
• Cell phones
• Compact cameras with lenses less than 3 inches
• Umbrellas without metal tips
• Necessary medications

Remember, there is no storage available at the White House for guests.  If your hotel is nearby, we suggest leaving your belongings in your room.  If your hotel is far away, you can get a locker at Union Station.  The lockers are located near Gate A and are available from 6 am until 10 pm.  You’ll need a photo ID to get a locker.  The cost is $3-6 per hour depending on the size of your bag.

Arriving for the White House Tour

Parking around the White House is limited, so we strongly suggest using public transportation. The White House is easily accessible via the metro.

The closest metro stations are Federal Triangle (Blue/Orange lines), Metro Center (Blue/Orange/Silver/Red lines), and McPherson Square (Blue/Orange/Silver lines).

If arriving via rideshare , use the White House Visitor Center as the drop-off address. The White House Visitor Center is located at 1450 Pennsylvania Avenue NW.

The White House Tour entrance is located in Sherman Park at 15th Street NW and Alexander Hamilton Place NW.  We suggest stopping by the White House Visitor Center prior to your tour to use the restroom since there are no restrooms available for public use at the White House.

Know Before You Go

• Tours are self-guided and last about 45 minutes.
• Dress for the weather – you’ll need to wait outside until your tour beings.
• Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time . Late arrivals may be turned away.
• A National Park Ranger will help ensure you’re lined up with the proper group and will have Junior Ranger booklets available.
• All guests must be previous registered via the RSVP link provided by the White House (via email).
• No flash photography or videography is permitted (there will be Secret Service agents in every room)
• Although the tour is self-guided, the Secret Service Agents can be a wealth of knowledge about the items found in each room.

What Rooms Will I See on the White House Tour?

Prior to our trip I did a lot of research on what rooms we’d be able to see during our White House Tour.  Every website I checked listed the Blue Room, Red Room, Green Room, the State Dining Room and a view of the White House Rose Garden.

Much to my surprise, we actually got to see additional rooms!  One our tour, we toured both the State Floor and the Ground Floor.  We saw the movie theater, library, the East Room, Vermeil Room, China Room, State Dining Room, Green Room, Blue Room, and Red Room.

The White House tour was interesting.   Walking into the White House, I expected it to be just as opulent as  the Biltmore House and palaces such as the Tower of London and Versailles in Europe.  I was rather surprised to find that the rooms were much less stately.  The vibe felt a little more like going to visit your grandparents house, rather than the head of a country’s home.

That being said, it was really cool being able to marvel at the historical artifacts that decorate the White House.  We got to see Shikler’s portrait of JFK along with other portraits of past presidents, first ladies, and influential Americans like Benjamin Franklin.  It was very cool walking through the halls of the White House and retracing the footsteps of our nation’s leaders.

Secret Service agents are posted in each of the rooms.  Although the tour is self-guided, the Secret Service agents are a wealth of knowledge and will happily tell you about the history of the rooms and even give you the background information the art (and even artists!) and decor in each room.  Don’t be afraid to ask them questions- these ladies and gents are much more approachable than the guards at Buckingham Palace. 

Having the privilege of taking a tour of the White House is a once in a lifetime opportunity.  It is definitely something every American should do at least once in their lifetime!

What is There to do Nearby?

• The White House Visitor Center
• Ford’s Theatre
• National Children’s Museum
• National Archives Museum
• National Portrait Gallery
• National Museum of African American History
• Museum of Natural History
• National Museum of American History
• National Air and Space Museum
• National Gallery of Art
• National Museum of the American Indian
• Library of Congress
•  US Holocaust Memorial Museum
• Washington Monument
• World War II Memorial
• Lincoln Memorial
• Korean War Veterans Memorial
• Vietnam Veterans Memorial

FAQ About the White House Tour

Can you visit the white house as a toursit.

Yes! You do not need an invitation for the White House tour.  You do, however, need to request a tour via a Member of Congress. 

Who is allowed to take a White House tour?

All U.S. citizens 18 years and older are able to request a tour of the White House.  Visitors 18 and older need to present a valid, government-issued ID.  At the time of publication, only American citizens are able to visit the White House.

Are kids allowed in the White House?

Yes!  This is a great place for kids to experience.  When we visited our twins were 4 and our daughter was 8.  This is a great way for kids to develop background knowledge for things they’ll learn in school!

Fun Fact:   While we were in the White House, we had to remind one of the boys not to touch anything.  In response, he made a face at Ashley behind her back. One of the Secret Service Agents laughed and said, “Man, you should have seen the face he gave you.”

Is there a dress code for the White House?

There is no set dress code for the White House.  Since we were visiting multiple places on the day of our tour of the White House, we wore jeans.

Visitors should plan on waiting in a line outside of the White House, prior to their tour, and should plan to dress for the weather outside.

How long does the White House Tour take?

Since the White House tour is unguided, you can take as much time as you need to see everything.  Most people spend about 30 – 45 minutes.

Can you take photos in the White House?

Photography is permitted so long as it does not interfere with other guests tour experience.  Phones and cameras with lenses no longer than 3 inches are allowed inside the White House.

Can I meet the President on the White House tour?

No, tours are limited to the East Wing.  The West Wing, and the Oval Office, are reserved for VIPs or guests of the President.

Save Our Info on Scoring a White House Tour

For future reference, be sure to save our post on getting a tour of the White House!   Pin one of the images below to Pinterest.  Go ahead and follow 5 Suitcases on Pinterest  while you’re at it!

If you’re planning a trip to Washington, DC, check out our 4 day itinerary and our list of 15 Must See Places in Washington, DC .  

Be sure to give us a like on  Facebook  or follow us on  Instagram   and  Twitter   for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

You May Also Like

Ford’s Theatre: Where Lincoln’s Remarkable Legacy Lives On

Top 10 Things to Do at Biscayne National Park

7 Spectacular National Parks in South Carolina

Hello, thank you for the post about how to visit the White House! I was happy to find something beyond just the official government website. When you requested a tour via email, did you have to do anything besides ask? Do they pick and chose based on why a person is visiting? Just wanting to know how much information to put into my email request! Thanks!

Elle MacRae

Hey, Casey! In my initial email, I just sent the dates that we would be in DC and listed the names of each person in my group. Most states will send out a form for you to fill out with any specific information needed.

Dear _____,

My name is _____________. My family will be visiting Washington, DC between _______ and _______. We are interested in touring the White House and hope you could help us facilitate this. The following people will be traveling with me: ________________. Please let me know what further details you need in order to set up a tour during our visit.

Respectfully,

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

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

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.

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

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 .

More About DC

You may also like..

60+ Things to Do This July 2024 in Washington, DC

Free Things to Do: Fall 2024 in Washington, DC

Things to Do October 2024 in Washington, DC

Visitor's Guide to The White House

Visitors from around the world come to Washington, DC to tour the White House, the home, and office of the U.S. President. Built between 1792 and 1800, the White House is one of the oldest public buildings in the nation's capital and serves as a museum of American history. George Washington selected the site for the White House in 1791 and chose the design submitted by Irish-born architect James Hoban. The historic structure has been expanded and renovated many times throughout history. There are 132 rooms on 6 levels. The decor includes a collection of fine and decorative arts, such as historic paintings, sculpture, furniture, and China.

Public tours of the White House, located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, are limited to groups of 10 or more and must be requested through a member of Congress. These self-guided tours are available from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Tours are scheduled on a first come, first served basis, Requests can be submitted up to six months in advance and no less than 21 days in advance. To contact your Representative and Senators, call (202) 224-3121. Tickets are provided free of charge.

Visitors who are not US citizens should contact their embassy in DC about tours for international visitors, which are arranged through the Protocol Desk at the State Department. Visitors who are 18 years of age or older are required to present a valid, government-issued photo identification. All foreign nationals must present their passport. Prohibited items include cameras, video recorders, backpacks or purses, strollers, weapons, and more. The U.S. Secret Service reserves the right to prohibit other personal items.

Transportation and Parking

The closest Metro stations to the White House are Federal Triangle, Metro Center and McPherson Square. Parking is very limited in this area, so public transportation is recommended.

Visitor Center

The White House Visitor Center has just been renovated with brand new exhibits and is open seven days a week from 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Watch a 30-minute video and learn about many aspects of the White House, including its architecture, furnishings, first families, social events, and relations with the press and world leaders.

Lafayette Park

The seven-acre public park located across from the White House is a great spot to take photos and enjoy the view. It is a prominent arena often used for public protests, ranger programs, and special events.

Garden Tours

The White House Garden is open to the public a few times a year. Visitors are invited to view the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, Rose Garden, Children's Garden, and South Lawn. Tickets are distributed the day of the event.

How to Travel From BWI Airport to Washington, DC, by Train, Taxi, and Shuttle

Explore Historic Eastern Market in Washington, DC

What to See and Do on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

Bureau of Engraving and Printing in Washington, D.C.

Two Days in Washington DC: A 48 Hour Itinerary

Smithsonian's Discovery Theater in Washington, DC

Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC

October Festivals and Events in the Washington, DC, Area

The National Mall: What to Know Before You Go

May in the Capital Region: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Library of Congress: Research, Exhibits, Concerts & More

Travel Guide to Visiting Washington, D.C. on a Budget

Williamsburg, Virginia (A Visitor's Guide)

Tips for Visiting the United States Mint in Denver

White House Visitor Center

National Arboretum in Washington, DC

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 24 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

Best Views of the White House

Many tourists to Washington, D.C., who plan to visit the White House wonder, "How close can you get to the White House?"

Our local tour guides know all the best spots to see the White House from the outside, and we're here to share that knowledge with you!

We also include tips from locals and tourists from our Washington D.C. Travel Tips Facebook Group. The group has over 75,000 members, including locals, regular visitors to D.C., and newcomers to the city.

TIP: If you want to tour the inside of the White House, you'll need a reservation from your congressperson. Find out how from our article, How to Visit the White House on a Public Tour .

Where to Park to Visit the White House

• Tips from Locals and Tourists

White House Neighborhood

The best way to view the White House is to join us for a tour - so we can tell you all about it!

It is a featured stop on many of our tours: National Mall (from afar), Lincoln Assassination , Secrets & Scandals and White House Ghost Tours .

North Lawn vs South Lawn & Front vs Back of the White House:

If you are wondering if you can see the White House from the street, the answer is YES! There is no official front or back to the White House (though the official entrance is the East Wing).

But when you're at the White House, you can see it from the North (Pennsylvania Ave NW) or the South (the National Mall).

You can get closer to the North Lawn than the South Lawn, with fewer fences on the North side. However, if you're short on time and already on the National Mall, you can also see it from there!

Here are the best views of the White House, including views from street level and high up.

BEST VIEW OF THE FRONT OF WHITE HOUSE #1: Lafayette Square (North Lawn)

Technically, there is no front or back to the White House, but many people consider the north side to be the front.

Lafayette Square is on the North side of the White House. You can access it by H St NW or 15th and 17th St NW, which intersects with Pennsylvania Ave NW.

This is as close as you can get to the White House without taking a tour. Because it is within the security perimeter, there may be times that the Secret Service closes the park.

This is usually for only 30 minutes while the President arrives or departs or they check a security threat.

Even when the park is closed, you can view it from 16th and H St NW on the park's north side.

On foot, you can get up to the fences on the North lawn, meaning you can take a photo between the fence bars that look as if you're on the grounds of the White House, with no fence in sight.

You can drive by the north side of the White House by going westbound on H St NW.

It is one way here, and the White House will be right to you. The view is blocked by trees until you get to the intersection of 16th St.

If you're in a car, the Andrew Jackson statue in the center of the square will partially block the White House.

You'll be high enough to see over the statue if you're on the top of a double-decker bus.

BEST VIEW OF THE BACK OF THE WHITE HOUSE #2: The Ellipse 

The South Lawn of the White House is the Ellipse. You can access it on foot from Constitution Ave NW, 15th and 17th. Again, they may close the area at times, but it is temporary.

Because this side has more of the residential parts of the structure, you cannot get as close to it as you can to the north side.

You can drive by the south side of the White House on Constitution Ave NW. If you go eastbound, the White House will be on your right, and you won't be blocked by oncoming traffic.

If you're driving westbound, it is on your left, but you might find your view blocked by buses!

BEST VIEW OF THE WHITE HOUSE #3: Washington Monument

If you stand on the north side of the Washington Monument, you can see the south side of the White House from afar. We use this spot for our National Mall tours to discuss the White House.

It is a view from afar, so it's not the best view if you want to get up close. However, if you're short on time and cannot get up close, you can still take good photos while you're visiting the memorials.

If you can get tickets to go up to the top of the Washington Monument , you can also see a great view from there!

TOUR GUIDE TIP:  This is a great place to be when Marine One takes off or lands because the helicopter flies right over you! You can watch it land or take off from the South Lawn of the White House!

BEST VIEW OF THE WHITE HOUSE #4: VUE Rooftop Bar at Hotel Washington

Check out some rooftop bars nearby if you want a bird's eye view of the White House!

Hotel Washington's VUE Bar is an upscale bar and restaurant, so there is a dress code, and no one under 21 is allowed after 7 p.m.

It's just across the street from the Treasury Department, next door to the White House. From here, you'll get a great panoramic view of Washington, D.C., and the east side of the White House.

The White House does not have visitor parking.

You'll need to find street parking in nearby areas, but pay attention to the street signs like parking anywhere downtown. Some streets don't allow parking during rush hour.

You can park on 15th, 17th, and Constitution Ave, which line the White House perimeter, but you cannot park too close to the White House, as the areas nearest to it are restricted.

The easiest way to get around DC is using our public transportation, the Metro .

The closest Metro Station to the White House is McPherson Square (White House exit)(Blue, Orange, Silver Lines) but it's also an easy walk from Farragut North (Red Line).

There are also a few buses that stop at Lafayette Square.

Walking to the White House

Because the White House is located downtown, you can easily walk here from:

• National Mall— The south side of the White House (which some people consider the back) is viewable from the Mall, so it's an easy walk. If you want to continue up 17th Street NW or 15th Street NW from the National Mall, you can easily access the front of the White House on the north side.
• US Capitol - it is a mile down Pennsylvania Ave NW. Walking to the White House from the Capitol will take you past the National Gallery of Art, the National Archives, US Navy Memorial, and Freedom Plaza.
• Dupont Circle - if you're in the Embassy Row neighborhood, the White House is a 15-minute walk down Connecticut NW.
• Georgetown - it's doable, but I wouldn't recommend it.

Tips From Locals And Travelers

Here are some thoughts on seeing the White House from the street from members of our Washington DC Travel Tips Facebook group.

Again, you don't have to join the group to read the posts, comments, and recommendations.

We asked our group members where the best location is to see the White House from the street.

Here are the most common replies, which echo our answers.

Don’t forget that a great way to see the White House from the outside is to take one of our walking tours that stop there. Not only will you get an excellent photo, but you will also learn about it in the process!

The White House is in downtown DC. The official address is 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW (be sure to put in Northwest!).

The White House perimeter is essentially the block between Constitution Ave. NW, 15th St NW, 17th ST NW, and H St NW. Pennsylvania Ave NW by the White House is pedestrian-only, and you cannot drive down it.

The area north of the White House is Lafayette Square, and the area south is called the Ellipse (this is where the National Christmas tree is located)

There is a lot of history and stories about the White House Neighborhood—so much so that we offer a self-guided tour!

SELF-GUIDED TOUR OF WHITE HOUSE'S NEIGHBORHOOD

For a self-guided tour of the White House neighborhood, allow approximately 1.5 hours to have a brisk walk and explore some of the following:

• Lafayette Park
• Treasury Building
• St. John’s Episcopal Church
• Decatur House
• Eisenhower (Old) Executive Office Building
• The Blair-Lee House
• Renwick Gallery
• Octagon Museum
• First Division Monument
• Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Headquarters & Constitution Hall
• Organization of American States
• Second Division Memorial
• National Christmas Tree
• The View from the W Hotel
• White House Visitor Center

Map of the White House Area

Self-Guided Tour of White House & Lafayette Park

Lafayette Square & The Andrew Jackson Statue:

This park in the center of the Washington, DC metropolis boasts of the best view of the White House.

When you have had a chance to walk around this lush seven-acre park and take those momentous pictures, have a little rest on one of the park benches or on the grass and reflect on all that this park has witnessed.

In the past, Lafayette Park has served as a racetrack, a graveyard, an encampment for soldiers and even a zoo. Needless to say, it has been the location of many political protests and historical celebrations.

The most well-known protest is still in progress today. Protesting for nuclear disarmament, Concepcion Picciotto has been manning the Peace Vigil since 1981.

Originally, the square was called the “President’s Park.” In 1824, the park was renamed to honor Marquis de Lafayette and his contribution to the American Revolutionary War. The Southeast corner of the park features a statue of Lafayette.

In fact, all four corners have statues of foreign generals who assisted the colonies in the Revolutionary War: Thaddeus Kosciuszko, Poland, in the northeast corner by the Dolley Madison House; Jean de Rochambeau in the southwest corner of France, and Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben, Prussia, on the northwest.

In 1853, an equestrian statue of President Andrew Jackson was installed in the center of the Park. This statue of Jackson on a rearing horse is the first equestrian statue in the United States.

Absorb DC life in this park as you notice the diversity of the tourists, and learn more about the demonstrators and their cause or simply hope that the Presidential motorcade will pass by.

Tip : At any given moment the Secret Service may close the park. This is done for many reasons and doesn't always indicate that the president will be leaving.

It can last anywhere from 10 minutes to the entire day. Be prepared to follow Secret Service instructions.

U.S. Department of the Treasury:

The Main Treasury Building is located immediately to the left of the White House when you are looking from the Andrew Jackson statue in Lafayette Square.

This is the third oldest building in Washington, one of immense architectural and historical significance.

The building houses the Treasury Department which is responsible for the economic affairs of the country, more specifically, the federal finances, matters of tax and currency and the national trade and finance policy.

This impressive architecture features 36-foot-tall columns carved out of a single piece of granite and any first-time visitor to DC can immediately sense the contemporary significance of this office through a first glance at the building’s exterior.

On the north side of the Treasury Building that you're facing, you'll see a statue of Albert Gallatin, who was the longest-serving Secretary of the Treasure (1801-1814).

Gallatin was born in Switzerland so was much criticized during his tenure for his French accent.

Inside the building are the highlight galleries such as the Burglar-Proof Vault and the marble Cash Room, not to mention the offices used by past presidents.

Guided public tours of the building are available at no cost; however, they require prior reservations. To learn how to book a tour, visit the Treasury Building Website .

If you are interested in seeing the production of United States currency, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing offers separate tours in its own office located just one block south of the Washington Monument.

It’s a not-to-miss stop on your White House Neighborhood tour!

St. John’s Episcopal Church:

Every sitting president has attended this “Church of the Presidents” since James Madison.

The Church serves as the chapel to the White House and is happily situated across from Lafayette Square. It was completed in 1816 making it one of the oldest buildings in the neighborhood.

The bell in the tower is an original Revere bell, one of two in DC and the only one still in use. It was cast by Joseph Revere, son of Paul Revere.

The church is often open outside of services to the public. The President's Pew, today numbers as Pew 54, is reserved for any US President who wishes to visit.

Decatur House:

The Decatur House is a historic Washington home and also the primary center of for the White House Historical Association, a fitting location as this is one of the oldest houses in the district.

Built in 1818, it was a creation of noted architect Benjamin Latrobe, who helped design the Capitol dome.

The house is located at the northwest corner of Lafayette Square and H Street.

In addition to a lovely store, there is a museum, which features a range of temporary and permanent exhibits, while the gardens offer themselves to many shows and concerts dedicated to jazz and the arts, with an effort to explore African American history.

The historic home is open to the public for tours on most Mondays at 11am, 12:30pm and 2pm. For more information, visit their website.

Eisenhower (Old) Executive Office Building:

The Eisenhower Executive Office Building has previously been called the Old Executive Office Building and the State, War, and Navy Building.

It is located to the right of the White House and presently houses several offices of the White House staff and the Office of the Vice President of the United States.

This massive architecture has 566 rooms and about ten acres of floor space.

This style of architecture was not favored at the turn of the 20th century and the building was slated to be torn down.

It was saved by the Great Depression when the city could not afford to tear down buildings unnecessarily.

The Blair-Lee House:

The Blair-Lee House is part of the President’s Guest House complex. This stunning house steps away from the White House is where foreign dignitaries and diplomats are put up during their official visits to Washington.

If you find yourself facing the building blocked by temporary fences a visiting head of state or official is likely staying there.

You will see an American flag flying most of the time but that is replaced by the flag of the country of the official guest.

When looking at the complex it looks like three separate homes but the inside has been renovated to provide one large residence.

So large in fact that it has more square footage than the residential part of the White House!

The Blair House was home to President Truman when the interior of the White House was under renovation. While he was staying here, Puerto Rican nationalists attempted to assassinate him.

You'll find a plaque outside to commemorate this event and the loss in the line of duty of White House police officer Leslie Coffelt.

Renwick Gallery:

Located across from the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, the Renwick Gallery is a part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

A visit is free and requires no tickets, though expect a lengthy line!

This beautiful building was designed by James Renwick (famed for St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City) as the Corcoran Art Gallery making it one of the oldest buildings designed specifically as an art museum.

After many years of renovation, the Gallery is now open. It focuses on craft and decorative arts and is considered one of the most art-filled rooms in Washington.

As with most Smithsonian Museums, it is open 10am-530pm every day but Christmas Day. For more, visit their website .

Octagon Museum:

Octagon House is named such due to its unique architectural style. One of the oldest buildings in Washington DC, it was built between 1798 and 1800 by William Thornton, the first architect of the Capitol.

It was the home of the Tayloe's and for a short while, of President James Madison and his wife Dolley.

The museum is open for visitors and we highly recommend checking out the building. It is free to visit the Octagon House on a self-guided tour Thursday-Saturday 1pm-4pm.

Private guided tours are available by appointment for groups of 5 or more. Tours last approximately 45 minutes and are $10/adults and $5/students.

They require 24 hours' notice to schedule a private tour. Schedule a guided tour at [email protected] or 202-626-7439

First Division Memorial:

No federal funds were used to create this memorial to the men who served in the First Division. It was created to honor the service during WWI, with later additions for WWII, Vietnam and Desert Storm.

The memorial was designed by Cass Gilbert, who also designed the Supreme Court building, and Daniel Chester French, who sculpted Lincoln at the Lincoln Memorial.

Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Headquarters & Constitution Hall:

Daughters of the American Revolution Headquarters has a museum, library and the renowned Constitution Hall.

Every president since Calvin Coolidge has attended an event at the concert hall. Constitution Hall is the city's largest concert hall and was built in 1929.

In addition to attending an event at Constitution Hall, visitors can explore the DAR Museum, dedicated to preserving artifacts from pre-industrial America.

The  DAR Museum  is open Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4:00 pm and Saturday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm. It is closed on Sundays and federal holidays. A visit has no admission charge, but larger groups can reserve a tour for $3 per person.

Organization of American States:

This beautiful building was built in 1910 and houses a diplomatic organization to serve American nations.

The 35 member nations are from North and South America to foster cooperation and solidarity and were founded in 1948.

Out front, you will see a statue of Queen Isabella of Spain. This artwork was donated by Spain in 1966 to honor the Spanish royalty who sent Christopher Columbus to the West.

On either side of the doors to the building, there is a bald eagle (associated with North America) and a condor (associated with South America) forming a bond between the two continents.

Visitors can tour the building and attend a briefing by the Director of the Department of International Affairs and senior specialists from the various departments of the organization.

Briefings and tours do have a cost of $100 for a group, with increasingly higher rates for larger groups. You can book a tour or briefing here .

Nearby, however, you can find a free art museum dedicated to work from across the Americas. The Art Museum of the Americas is open 10am-5pm Tuesday through Sunday.

It is the oldest museum of modern and contemporary Latin American and Caribbean art in the United States.

Second Division Memorial:

Similar to the First Division Monument above, this was originally dedicated in 1936 to honor the men who served in the 2nd Division of the US Army.

A later dedication in 1962 honors those for WWII and the Korean War.

National Christmas Tree:

It’s the season to be jolly, so why not include some holiday sparkle during your time in Washington, DC!

Every year, the sitting president lights the tree in early December marking the beginning of the festive season.

The energy-efficient design of the lighting system ensures that only one-fifth of the energy is used to light the tree from dusk to 11 pm as compared to a traditional lighting design.

The tree is located in the northeast quadrant of The Ellipse near the White House and becomes a holiday event throughout December.

Read more about the National Christmas Tree in our post!

The View from the Hotel Washington:

If you are looking for a break from historical explorations and want to see and be seen in the Washington glamour circle, ascend to the rooftop lounge of the Hotel Washington, VUE Rooftop Bar. It boasts of the best view of the capital, and the experience is worth the slightly pricey drinks.

Sip your cocktail as you take in the breathtaking views of the Washington Monument, the White House and the heart of downtown DC.

It’s a perfect way to wind up your self-guided tour or to create an unforgettable DC visit memory.

You can find the hotel bar at 515 15th St NW

TIP: There is a dress code

• Please no athletic wear, baseball caps, flip flops, tank tops, casual/athletic sneakers or tattered/worn clothing.
• Collared shirts are preferred.
• No bags, other than handbags, are allowed in after 9 pm.

White House Visitor Center :

Learn more about visiting the White House Visitor Center in our post.

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

Canden Arciniega

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Tour Requests and Tourist Info

Capitol tours capitol tours are free and open to the public. the capitol visitor center is open to visitors from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. monday through saturday except for thanksgiving day, christmas day, new year's day, and inauguration day. tours of the u.s. capitol are conducted from 8:50 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. monday through saturday. visitors with official business appointments may enter the visitor center as early as 7:15 a.m. walk up tours are offered, but passes may also be reserved up to 3 months in advance at http://tours.visitthecapitol.gov . groups of 10 or more are required to create a login and password to arrange a tour at http://groups.visitthecapitol.gov . when traveling by bus, please note possible passenger loading and unloading locations. due to security concerns, buses are only able to drive within a certain radius of the capitol. see capitol bus map here . the closest drop-off location to the house of representatives is at garfield circle on first street and maryland avenue sw. groups of more than 20 people should plan to arrive at the bus drop-off location at least 45 minutes prior to the scheduled tour start time. disabled visitors, or seniors with mobility issues, may take a passenger shuttle to the visitor center entrance which runs every 20 minutes from the corner of first street and maryland avenue sw (near the u.s. botanical garden). visitors needing shuttle service are encouraged to contact the office of congressional accessibility services at 202-224-4048 prior to the day of the tour. the following items are strictly prohibited during tours of the capitol. for a complete list of prohibited items, click here . aerosol containers sharp or pointed objects (knives, knitting needles, letter openers) bags larger than 14" high, 13" wide, and 4" deep. cans and bottles, full or empty food or beverages of any kind in addition to the items listed above, the following objects are prohibited inside the house of representatives and senate galleries. you will have an opportunity to check items so you can enter the galleries while visiting the capitol. battery operated electronic devices (excluding medical devices) cell phones cameras and video cameras creams, lotions, and perfumes strollers constituents can pick up gallery passes from congressman hoyer's office located at 1705 longworth house office building. you must have a gallery pass if you would like to see the house or senate in session. when taking the washington dc metro to congressman hoyer's office, use the capitol south stop, located on the orange and blue lines. click here for a map of capitol hill. a short video is available for students to watch before visiting the capitol at visitthecapitol.gov . the video is also available here . white house tours white house tours are scheduled on a first-come first-serve basis with no way to prioritize requests. unfortunately, submitting a white house tour request does not guarantee a tour request will be approved due to the inability of the white house visitors office to accommodate the high volume of requests received every day from across the nation. the white house tour is not a guided tour and generally takes no more than 45 minutes. following the tour, groups are welcome to visit the white house visitors center, located across the street in the commerce building at 15th and e streets nw. wheelchairs are available upon request. please specify in your request if someone in your group may need a wheelchair during the tour to ensure one is available upon arrival. if you are requesting a tour for a school group, please be sure to read the special notes for school groups at the bottom of the instructions. tours are typically scheduled tuesday to thursday from 7:30a.m. – 11a.m. and friday to saturday from 7:30a.m – 1:30 p.m. how to submit a white house tour request submit a tour request by completing the online tour request form . please include three dates, in order of preference. if you cannot make it to the white house before a certain time of day, please indicate that in your request. having less date and time flexibility in your request may decrease the likelihood that the white house visitors office is able to accommodate your request. if the white house visitors office assigns your group a tour date and time, you cannot reschedule. all guests who plan to visit the white house must provide the following information to the secret service: full name, date of birth, social security number (u.s citizens 18 and older only), country of birth, gender, and city and state of residence. guests are responsible for submitting this information online via the secure rsvp form generated by the white house tours application. all rsvps must be submitted before the rsvp deadline. tour capacity will adjust after the deadline based on rsvps (i.e. if you request a tour for 5 and only 4 guests rsvp by the deadline, the tour will now auto-adjust to a reservation of 4). please note: tour requests cannot be transmitted to the white house visitors office if the requested date is less than a month away. similarly, our office is unable to transmit your request to the white house visitors office if the dates requested are more than six months away. tours may be submitted 3 months in advance and no later than 3 weeks before. after submitting a tour request you will be notified by congressman hoyer's office when the request is received and has been submitted to the white house. if the request is approved and a tour is scheduled by the white house visitors office you will be notified of the assigned tour time. we strongly recommend downloading your confirmation page and reading the white house tour information documents provided. you should hear back approximately 14 days prior to the date of the requested tour. large groups you may request a tour for up to 100 guests. the group size requested must include every child and adult over the age of six months old. you will not be able to add at a later date more people to your group than the number you submit in your request. the larger your group size, the harder it will be for the white house visitors office to accommodate the number of spaces requested. school groups if you are requesting a tour for a school group, there are some things you should know: the white house visitors office schedules tours tuesday-thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and friday-saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. if your school group cannot make it to the white house prior to a given time, please indicate that when you request your tour. white house tours are usually not confirmed more than two weeks out from the requested date. for some school districts, this makes it hard to plan for transportation and gain approval from the school district for the trip. unfortunately, this is something that cannot be changed. no bags are allowed in the white house, nor are food or drink. there are no lockers or storage spaces for people to stow their belongings while they are on the tour..

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, plan your visit.

Last updated: April 27, 2023

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

1849 C Street NW Room 1426 Washington, DC 20240

202 208-1631

Stay Connected

Biden to give a White House address on his decision to exit the race

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden announced he will give a prime-time address from the White House on Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET on his decision to exit the presidential race.

"I will address the nation from the Oval Office on what lies ahead, and how I will finish the job for the American people," he said in a post on X .

In addition to providing a detailed explanation for his withdrawal from the race, Biden also wants to talk about the work ahead in the remaining months of his presidential term, a source familiar with his remarks told NBC News.

Biden issued a letter Sunday saying he would not accept the Democratic nomination and then endorsed his running mate, Vice President Kamala Harris, to replace him atop the ticket. Biden was diagnosed days before with Covid, which delayed him in publicly commenting about the decision.

In his letter, Biden said he believes stepping aside is “in the best interest” of the country and the Democratic Party.

“While it has been my intention to seek re-election, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term,” Biden wrote in the letter, posted on X . “I will speak to the Nation later this week in more detail about my decision.”

Biden is scheduled to depart Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, where he was self-isolating last week to recover from Covid, and return to the White House on Tuesday afternoon.

Biden and his close aides had already begun working on the speech Monday, two people familiar with the matter said. They continued drafting the address while the president was in Rehoboth with the expectation that this will be his first major event after he returns to Washington.

Biden wants his first act when he gets back to be the remarks to the American people, these people said.

Mike Memoli is an NBC News correspondent. 

Monica Alba is a White House correspondent for NBC News.

Summer Concepcion is a politics reporter for NBC News.

President Biden to return to White House after spending days out of public eye

It will be joe biden's first public address and appearance since revealing he had tested positive for covid july 17, by nbc chicago staff and the associated press • published july 23, 2024 • updated on july 23, 2024 at 1:14 pm.

President Biden will soon return to the White House, NBC News reported, after spending days out of the public eye and in isolation at his Rehoboth, Delaware, beach home, following a positive COVID diagnosis.

A source familiar with the matter told NBC News that Biden is scheduled to depart Rehoboth and arrive at the White House Tuesday afternoon. Wednesday evening, Biden will hold a prime-time address from the Oval Office on his decision to drop out of the 2024 presidential race.

📺 24/7 Chicago news stream: Watch NBC 5 free wherever you are

"Tomorrow evening at 8 p.m. ET, I will address the nation from the Oval Office on what lies ahead, and how I will finish the job for the American people," Biden said in the tweet.

Tomorrow evening at 8 PM ET, I will address the nation from the Oval Office on what lies ahead, and how I will finish the job for the American people. — President Biden (@POTUS) July 23, 2024

The address will be the first from Biden since he announced in a statement Sunday that he would not seek reelection for a second term. It will also be Biden's first public appearance in nearly a week.

The speech, scheduled for 7 p.m. CT Wednesday, will be streamed in the video player above once it begins. It will also air live on NBC 5 and on the NBC Chicago streaming channel .

July 17 , Biden announced he had tested positive for the virus and was receiving Paxlovid treatment. Since his diagnosis, Biden has been in isolation at his Rehoboth, Delaware, beach home.

1 in custody after shootout with off-duty police officer following attempted carjacking in Morgan Park

Chicago Air & Water Show: How you can get a preview of this year's performances

During a speech at the White House Monday, Vice President Kamala Harris said Biden was continuing to recover.

"Our president, Joe Biden, wanted to be here today. He is feeling much better and recovering fast, and he looks forward to getting back on the road," Harris told the crowd at an event celebrating NCAA champion athletes.

329 medal events. 32 sports. Endless drama. Catch all the action at the Paris Olympics. Sign up for our free Olympics Headlines newsletter.

Tuesday afternoon, Biden's doctor released a letter saying the President's symptoms "have resolved."

"Over the course of his infection, he never manifested a fever, and his vital signs remained normal, to include pulse oximetry," the letter read. "His lungs remained clear."

The letter went on to say that as of Tuesday, Biden's rapid COVID test was negative, and that he will continue to be monitored.

"The President continues to perform all of his presidential duties," the letter said.

Biden’s decision to bow out came after escalating pressure from his Democratic allies to step aside following  the June 27 debate , in which the 81-year-old president trailed off, often gave nonsensical answers and failed to call out the former president’s  many falsehoods .

In his first post-debate interview, Biden said he was convinced that he is the best person to take on Trump, adding that he could only be persuaded to step down "if the Lord Almighty comes out and tells me that."

But as his resolute posture failed to quell the  unrest in his party , Biden suggested he could be moved to withdraw in other ways. Biden is already the country’s oldest president and had insisted repeatedly that he was up for the challenge of another campaign and another term.

Concerns over Biden’s age have dogged him since he announced he was  running for reelection , though Trump is just three years younger at 78. Most Americans view the president as  too old for a second term , according to an August 2023 poll from  The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research . A majority also  doubt his mental capability  to be president, though that is also a weakness for Trump.

Biden often remarked that he was not as young as he used to be, doesn’t walk as easily or speak as smoothly, but that he had wisdom and decades of experience, which were worth a whole lot.

In a BET interview that aired Wednesday during the Republican National Convention, Biden said he might reconsider his decision to stay in the race "if I had some  medical condition that emerged ."

On the day that interview was set for broadcast, Biden  tested positive for COVID . The president was last seen exiting Air Force One that Wednesday and heading in a motorcade toward his Delaware home.

Biden previously said he would address the nation later this week to provide “detail” about his decision.

In addition to his planned speech, Biden still intends to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House Thursday. Netanyahu is scheduled Wednesday to deliver an address to Congress and he is also expected to meet with Harris while in Washington.

This article tagged under:

Mobile Menu Overlay

The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500

Statement from Press Secretary Karine   Jean-Pierre

Earlier today following his first event in Las Vegas, President Biden tested positive for COVID-19. He is vaccinated and boosted and he is experiencing mild symptoms. He will be returning to Delaware where he will self-isolate and will continue to carry out all of his duties fully during that time. The White House will provide regular updates on the President’s status as he continues to carry out the full duties of the office while in isolation.   Note from the President’s Doctor:   The President presented this afternoon with upper respiratory symptoms, to include rhinorhea (runny nose) and non-productive cough, with general mailaise. He felt okay for his first event of the day, but given that he was not feeling better, point of care testing for COVID-19 was conducted, and the results were positive for the COVID-19 virus. Given this, the President will be self-isolating in accordance with CDC guidance for symptomatic individuals.  PCR confirmation testing will be pending. His symptoms remain mild, his respiratory rate is normal at 16, his temperature is normal at 97.8 and his pulse oximetry is normal at 97%. The President has received his first dose of Paxlovid. He will be self-isolating at his home in Rehoboth.

Stay Connected

We'll be in touch with the latest information on how President Biden and his administration are working for the American people, as well as ways you can get involved and help our country build back better.

Opt in to send and receive text messages from President Biden.

FACT FOCUS: A look at false claims around Kamala Harris and her campaign for the White House

Multiple false claims and conspiracy theories have surfaced since Vice President Kamala Harris announced her plans to replace Joe Biden as the Democratic nominee for the White House

The announcement that Vice President Kamala Harris will seek the Democratic nomination for president is inspiring a wave of false claims about her eligibility and her background. Some first emerged years ago, while others only surfaced after President Joe Biden's decision to end his bid for a second term.

Here’s a look at the facts.

CLAIM: Harris is not an American citizen and therefore cannot serve as commander in chief.

THE FACTS: Completely false . Harris is a natural born U.S. citizen. She was born on Oct. 20, 1964, in Oakland, California, according to a copy of her birth certificate, obtained by The Associated Press.

Her mother, a cancer researcher from India, and her father, an economist from Jamaica, met as graduate students at the University of California, Berkeley.

Under the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, anyone born on U.S. soil is considered a natural born U.S. citizen and eligible to serve as either the vice president or president.

“All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside,” reads the amendment.

There is no question or legitimate debate about whether a citizen like Harris is eligible to serve as president or vice president, said Jessica Levinson, a professor at Loyola Law School.

“So many legal questions are really nuanced — this isn’t one of those situations,” Levinson told the AP on Monday.

Still, social media posts making the debunked assertion that Harris cannot serve as president went viral soon after Biden announced Sunday that he was dropping out of the race and would back Harris for president.

“Kamala Harris is not eligible to run for President,” read one post on X that was liked more than 34,000 times. “Neither of her parents were natural born American citizens when she was born.”

False assertions about Harris’ eligibility began circulating in 2019 when she launched her bid for the presidency. They got a boost, thanks in part to then-President Donald Trump , when Biden selected her as his running mate.

“I heard today that she doesn’t meet the requirements,” the Republican said of Harris in 2019.

CLAIM: Harris is not Black.

THE FACTS: This is false. Harris is Black and Indian . Her father, Donald Harris, is a Black man who was born in Jamaica. Shyamala Gopalan, her mother, was born in southern India. Harris has spoken publicly for many years, including in her 2019 autobiography , about how she identifies with the heritage of both her parents.

Despite ample evidence to the contrary, social media users are making erroneous claims about Harris’ race.

“Just a reminder that Kamala Harris @KamalaHarris isn’t black,” reads one X post that had received approximately 42,000 likes and 20,400 shares as of Monday. “She Indian American. She pretends to be black as part of the delusional, Democrat DEI quota.”

But Harris is both Black and Indian. Indeed, she is the first woman, Black person and person of South Asian descent to serve as vice president. This fact is highlighted in her biography on WhiteHouse.gov and she has spoken about her ethnicity on many occasions.

Harris wrote in her autobiography, “The Truths We Hold: An American Journey,” that she identifies with the heritage of both her mother and father.

“My mother, grandparents, aunts, and uncle instilled us with pride in our South Asian roots,” she wrote. “Our classical Indian names harked back to our heritage, and we were raised with a strong awareness and appreciation for Indian culture.”

In the next paragraph, she adds, “My mother understood very well that she was raising two black daughters.” Harris again refers to herself as a “black woman” in the book’s next chapter.

CLAIM: Harris got her start by having an affair with a married man, California politician Willie Brown.

THE FACTS: This is missing some important context. Brown was separated from his wife during the relationship, which was not a secret.

Brown, 90, is a former mayor of San Francisco who was serving as speaker of the California State Assembly in the 1990s when he and Harris were in a relationship. Brown had separated from his wife in 1982.

“Yes, we dated. It was more than 20 years ago,” Brown wrote in 2020 in the San Francisco Chronicle under the article title, “Sure, I dated Kamala Harris. So what?”

He wrote that he supported Harris’ first race to be San Francisco district attorney — just as he has supported a long list of other California politicians, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, former Sen. Dianne Feinstein and Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Harris, 59, was state attorney general from 2011-2017 and served in the Senate from 2017 until 2021, when she became vice president. She has been married to Doug Emhoff since 2014.

Harris’ critics have used the past relationship to question her qualifications, as Fox News personality Tomi Lahren did when she wrote on social media in 2019: “Kamala did you fight for ideals or did you sleep your way to the top with Willie Brown.” Lahren later apologized for the comment.

Trump and some of his supporters have also highlighted the nearly three-decade old relationship in recent attacks on Harris .

CLAIM: An Inside Edition clip of television host Montel Williams holding hands with Harris and another woman is proof that Harris was his “side piece.”

THE FACTS: The clip shows Montel with Harris and his daughter, Ashley Williams. Harris and Williams, a former marine who hosted “The Montel Williams Show” for more than a decade, dated briefly in the early 2000s.

In the clip, taken from a 2019 Inside Edition segment , Williams can be seen posing for photographs and holding hands with both women as they arrive at the 2001 Eighth Annual Race to Erase MS in Los Angeles.

But social media users are misrepresenting the clip, using it as alleged evidence that Harris was Montel’s “side piece” — a term used to describe a person, typically a woman, who has a sexual relationship with a man in a monogamous relationship.

Williams addressed the false claims in an X post on Monday, writing in reference to the Inside Edition clip, “as most of you know, that is my daughter to my right.” Getty Images photos from the Los Angeles gala identify the women as Harris and Ashley Williams.

In 2019, Williams described his relationship with Harris in a post on X, then known as Twitter.

“@KamalaHarris and I briefly dated about 20 years ago when we were both single,” he wrote in an X post at the time. “So what? I have great respect for Sen. Harris. I have to wonder if the same stories about her dating history would have been written if she were a male candidate?”

CLAIM: Harris promised to inflict the “vengeance of a nation” on Trump supporters.

THE FACTS: A fabricated quote attributed to Harris is spreading online five years after it first surfaced.

In the quote, Harris supposedly promises that if Trump is defeated in 2020, Trump supporters will be targeted by the federal government: “Once Trump’s gone and we have regained our rightful place in the White House, look out if you supported him and endorsed his actions, because we’ll be coming for you next. You will feel the vengeance of a nation.”

The quote was shared again on social media this week. One post on X containing an image of the quote was shared more than 22,000 times as of Monday afternoon.

The remarks didn't come from Harris , but from a satirical article published online in August 2019. Shortly after, Trump supporters like musician Ted Nugent reposted the comments without noting they were fake.

CLAIM: A video shows Harris saying in a speech: “Today is today. And yesterday was today yesterday. Tomorrow will be today tomorrow. So live today, so the future today will be as the past today as it is tomorrow.”

THE FACTS: Harris never said this. Footage from a 2023 rally on reproductive rights at Howard University, her alma mater, was altered to make it seem as though she did.

In the days after Harris headlined the Washington rally, Republicans mocked a real clip of her speech, with one critic dubbing her remarks a “word salad,” the AP reported at the time .

Harris says in the clip: “So I think it’s very important — as you have heard from so many incredible leaders — for us, at every moment in time, and certainly this one, to see the moment in time in which we exist and are present, and to be able to contextualize it, to understand where we exist in the history and in the moment as it relates not only to the past, but the future.”

NARAL Pro-Choice America, an abortion rights nonprofit whose president also spoke at the rally, livestreamed the original footage. It shows Harris making the “moment in time” remark, but not the “today is today” comment.

The White House’s transcript of Harris’ remarks also does not include the statement from the altered video. Harris’ appearance at the event came the same day that Biden announced their reelection bid .

Find AP Fact Checks here: https://apnews.com/APFactCheck .

US VP Harris to meet Netanyahu this week at White House

• Medium Text

Sign up here.

Reporting by Trevor Hunnicutt and Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Chris Reese and Stephen Coates

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab

Thomson Reuters

Kanishka Singh is a breaking news reporter for Reuters in Washington DC, who primarily covers US politics and national affairs in his current role. His past breaking news coverage has spanned across a range of topics like the Black Lives Matter movement; the US elections; the 2021 Capitol riots and their follow up probes; the Brexit deal; US-China trade tensions; the NATO withdrawal from Afghanistan; the COVID-19 pandemic; and a 2019 Supreme Court verdict on a religious dispute site in his native India.

World breaks hottest day record for second day in a row

Monday, July 22 was again the hottest day on record, according to preliminary data from a European Union monitoring agency, inching past Sunday, July 21 which had just taken the title.

Advertisement

Former White House Doctor Describes Tending to Trump’s Wounded Ear

Ronny Jackson, former President Donald J. Trump’s White House doctor and now a congressman from Texas, replaced the dressing on Mr. Trump’s ear on a flight to Milwaukee on Sunday.

• Share full article

By Jonathan Swan

• July 16, 2024

Representative Ronny Jackson, Republican of Texas, was on Donald J. Trump’s plane on Sunday afternoon, the day after the former president survived an assassination attempt, when he quickly reverted to his role of doctor.

Mr. Jackson, who was Mr. Trump’s White House doctor during his presidency and parlayed their friendship into a successful run for Congress, replaced the dressing on the former president’s ear on a flight to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention.

“The bullet took a little bit off the top of his ear in an area that, just by nature, bleeds like crazy,” Mr. Jackson said in an interview. “The dressing’s bulked up a bit because you need a bit of absorbent. You don’t want to be walking around with bloody gauze on his ear.”

Mr. Trump entered the convention arena in Milwaukee on Monday night wearing a bulky white dressing on his right ear. So far, only Mr. Trump has described his injuries; his team has not provided any formal medical briefing to the public since the shooting.

Mr. Jackson described in the interview the surreal moment when he learned a gunman had tried to assassinate his friend and former patient during Mr. Trump’s outdoor rally in Butler, Pa., on Saturday.

Mr. Jackson was in his bedroom in Amarillo, Texas, on Saturday night, packing his bag for the Republican convention. He was watching the Trump rally on his iPad, but he had stopped the livestream a couple of times, so he lagged behind Mr. Trump’s remarks by a couple of minutes. His wife, Jane, was watching the rally on a television in the living room, and she was speaking to someone on the phone. She suddenly called out to him.

“She said, ‘The president just got shot,’” Mr. Jackson recalled.

“And I said, ‘What? No.’”

“She goes, ‘Are you behind?’ And I was like, ‘Oh, my God.’ And so I fast-forwarded it.”

Mr. Jackson said he could not believe what he was seeing and felt terrible that he was not there “because I’ve prepared my whole career to be there when that happens.”

“I have a really close relationship with him,” he added. “And so, to be in Texas, and he’s there in Pennsylvania and that happens — I feel helpless.”

Mr. Jackson’s phone started ringing, and he began receiving a flood of text messages. Mr. Jackson called his chief of staff and asked him to arrange flights to wherever Mr. Trump would be. A few hours later, Mr. Jackson talked to Mr. Trump.

“He picked the phone up and he goes, ‘I’m not taking a lot of calls, but this is my doctor. I’m taking this one,’” Mr. Jackson recalled.

Mr. Jackson told the former president that he could help in whatever way he needed — medically or with the press. “I would prefer to have you here,” he said that Mr. Trump told him. “And I said, ‘OK, enough said.’”

Mr. Jackson said he told Mr. Trump how proud he was of him. “I said, when they raised him up and he had blood all over his head and he raised his fist up kind of in defiance and was saying ‘Fight,’ I was like, ‘Man.’ I was like — for me, that was just the warrior in him coming out. And I thought it was an incredible power move, and I couldn’t have been prouder of him.”

He jumped on a plane later on Saturday and arrived at Bedminster, Mr. Trump’s private club in New Jersey, around 4:30 a.m. on Sunday morning.

Jonathan Swan is a political reporter covering the 2024 presidential election and Donald Trump’s campaign. More about Jonathan Swan

Our Coverage of the Trump Rally Shooting

The Investigation : F.B.I. officials told Congress that the 20-year-old gunman who tried to kill Donald Trump used his cellphone and other devices to search for images of Trump and President Biden .

Security Blind Spots : Even as investigators continue to examine what happened at the Trump rally, it is already clear that there were multiple missed opportunities to stop the gunman  before the situation turned deadly.

The Gunman : In interviews, former classmates of the suspect described him as intelligent but solitary , someone who tried to avoid teasing by fellow students.

Secret Service Director : Kimberly Cheatle  returned in 2022 to lead the agency she had served for nearly 30 years. Now, the assassination attempt on Trump has thrown her tenure into uncertainty .

Fears of What’s Next : Among voters, there is growing anxiety that America’s political divide is nearly beyond repair, and the shooting only made things worse .