Planning a Trip to the White House - Everything You Need To Know

Planning a trip to the White House? Visiting the White House is a unique opportunity to explore the historic home and workplace of the President of the United States. Tours are free of charge and are typically available from 8:00am to 12:30pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (excluding Federal holidays). Here are some steps you can take to plan your visit:

1. Submit a tour request: To visit the White House, you must submit a tour request through your Member of Congress. Requests can be submitted up to three months in advance and no less than 21 days prior to your desired visit date.

2. Gather necessary information: When submitting your tour request, you will need to provide the full names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers of all attendees. Additionally, you will need to provide the names and contact information of the group leader.

3. Wait for confirmation: Once your tour request is received, it will be reviewed and you will be notified of the status of your request. Confirmations are typically sent out about two weeks before the tour date.

4. Arrive on time: Arrive at the White House Visitors Center at the designated time on your confirmation. Late arrivals will not be admitted.

5. Have a valid ID: Visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID at the White House Visitors Center.

6. Go through security: All visitors will go through security screening at the White House Visitors Center.

7. Enjoy your tour: Enjoy your tour of the White House and its historic rooms, including the East Room, the Blue Room, the Red Room, and the State Dining Room.

Citizens of foreign countries should contact their embassy in Washington D.C. for assistance with submitting a tour request.

Even if you don't get the chance to take an actual tour, be sure to check out the White House Visitor Center. It has interactive exhibits, a touchscreen tour of the White House photos, videos, and gift shop items, regarding 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW.

If you’re looking for a way to explore the most iconic sites and monuments of Washington, DC, then taking a DC tour is the way to go. Check out this guided tour and make sure to see all of what Washington DC has to offer!