How to Plan Your Visit to the White House
A trip to the White House offers a rare and exciting opportunity to explore the historic home and workplace of the President of the United States. While tours are free of charge, they require advance planning and security clearance. Here’s everything you need to know to successfully book and enjoy your visit to one of the most iconic buildings in the world.
White House Tour Availability
📅 Days: Tuesday – Saturday (Closed on Federal Holidays)⏰ Hours: 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM💲 Cost: Free
How to Request a White House Tour
1. Submit a Tour Request
All White House tours must be arranged through a Member of Congress.
Requests can be submitted up to three months in advance but no less than 21 days before your desired visit date.
Contact your Senator or Representative to start the process.
📌 International visitors: Contact your embassy in Washington, D.C. for assistance with tour requests.
2. Gather Required Information
When submitting your request, you must provide:
✔️ Full names of all attendees
✔️ Dates of birth
✔️ Social Security numbers (for U.S. citizens)
✔️ Group leader’s name & contact information
This information is used for a background check, ensuring the security of all visitors.
3. Wait for Confirmation
Once your request is submitted, it will be reviewed. If approved, you will receive a confirmation email approximately two weeks before your tour date.
📢 Important: Tour slots are limited, so approval is not guaranteed. Apply as early as possible!
4. Arrive on Time & Bring Proper Identification
📍 Meeting Point: White House Visitor Center (1450 Pennsylvania Ave NW)
🕘 Arrival Time: Follow the designated time on your confirmation email
🆔 Required: A valid government-issued photo ID is mandatory for all visitors (e.g., driver’s license or passport).
⏳ Late arrivals will not be admitted, so plan accordingly!
5. Security Screening
All guests must go through a strict security screening before entering the White House. Prohibited items include:
❌ Bags, purses, backpacks
❌ Cameras, video recorders
❌ Food, drinks, tobacco products
❌ Strollers and pointed objects
📌 Tip: Travel light! You won’t find lockers nearby, and prohibited items will not be held for you.
6. Enjoy Your White House Tour!
Once inside, you’ll walk through historical rooms such as:
🏛 East Room – The largest room, used for receptions and events
🔵 Blue Room – The official reception room of the President
🔴 Red Room – A stunning space for informal events
🍽 State Dining Room – Where official dinners take place
Tours are self-guided, so take your time exploring and soaking in the rich history!
Bonus: Visit the White House Visitor Center
Even if you’re unable to secure a tour, don’t miss the White House Visitor Center, located just a short walk away.
What’s Inside?
🖥 Interactive exhibits about White House history
📸 Virtual tour with touchscreen displays
🎥 Historic videos & photos
🛍 Gift shop with White House memorabilia
📍 Location: 1450 Pennsylvania Ave NW
⏰ Hours: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Daily)
💲 Admission: Free
Final Tips for Your White House Visit
✅ Apply for your tour as early as possible
✅ Check your email for tour confirmation & instructions
✅ Bring only essential items to pass through security smoothly
✅ Plan extra time for security screening and potential delays
Visiting the White House is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering a glimpse into the heart of American democracy. Whether you take an official tour or explore the Visitor Center, it’s a must-see destination when visiting Washington, DC
📢 Ready to visit? Contact your Member of Congress today and start planning your trip to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue!
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!
God Bless America