White House Tours and Activities

White House
White House
White House
White House
White House


Explore the home and workplace of the president of the United States. See entertainment areas and state rooms and learn about the history of this famous building.

Walk the corridors of power and see where presidents entertain heads of state at one of the most famous residences in the world, the White House. The neoclassical-style mansion has been the home and office of every U.S. president since John Adams in 1800.

Start your tour in the Visitor Centre. View exhibits and films covering the history of the White House and its famous occupants. Make your way to the mansion’s magnificent Entrance Hall and the Grand Staircase where presidents and their guests descend prior to state dinners. They pause for press photos at the foot of the stairs while the United States Marine Band plays Hail to the Chief. See busts of presidents and portraits of first ladies lining the Ground Floor Corridor.

Step into the East Room, the largest room in the mansion, used for state dinners, press conferences and concerts. Observe the famous full-length portrait of George Washington by Gilbert Stuart. Look over the Steinway grand piano with gilt American eagle supports it was given to the White House by the manufacturer in 1938. Just off the East Room is the Green Room where Thomas Jefferson hosted dinners and James Monroe used to play cards. Among the other rooms included in the tour are the State Dining Room, the Library and the Blue Room.

The White House is located at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW in Washington D.C. There is no on-street car parking near the mansion. The White House advises visitors to come by public transportation. The nearest metro stations are Federal Triangle, Metro Centre and McPherson Square.

Free self-guided public tours of the White House are available from Tuesday through Saturday, except federal holidays. Tour requests must be made through a U.S. resident’s member of Congress, three weeks to six months in advance of an intended visit. Non-U.S. residents will need to contact their embassy in Washington D.C. for help in submitting a tour request. All visitors aged 18 and over must bring valid proof of identification. A passport is the only acceptable form of ID for foreign nationals.

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Things to do near White House

When visiting the White House, explore the vibrant arts scene, indulge in some retail therapy, or catch a show at a nearby theatre. Don't forget to make tour reservations in advance. For a bit of relaxation, consider pampering yourself at a local spa. Embrace the outdoors with activities in the surrounding parks. Remember to check for expert tips to enhance your experience while you enjoy the unique charm of Washington, D.C.

Shopping

CityCenterDC is a vibrant shopping centre located 966m from the White House, perfect for family-friendly fun. Union Market, a bustling public market just 3.2km away, offers a mix of local businesses and city vibes. If you're up for a drive, check out Union Station Shopping Center, also 3.2km away.

Recreation

At Capital One Arena, immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of live sports events, just 1.3km from the White House. Audi Field, located 3.2km away, offers an exhilarating experience with its vibrant sports culture. RFK Stadium, 6.4km away, is another excellent venue for sports enthusiasts.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of playing tennis at East Potomac Tennis Center, located 1.6km from the White House. For a scenic hike, head to Soapstone Valley Park, 6.4km away, where you can enjoy beautiful outdoor views. Rock Creek Tennis Center, also 6.4km away, offers another exciting tennis adventure.

Nightlife

In Washington, the Kennedy Center and The Anthem, both a mile from the White House, offer vibrant performances and cultural experiences. Closer at 966m, Ford's Theatre presents history and entertainment, perfect for a romantic evening out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near White House

Exploring the White House in Washington, D.C., offers a rich cultural experience for all types of travellers. You can visit iconic attractions like the Washington Monument and various museums and memorials. For convenience, consider staying at hotels near the White House, including discount options. Whether you're after family-friendly activities or a deep dive into history, there's plenty to see and do in this vibrant city centre.

  • National Mall: A stunning national park located 1.3km from the White House, the National Mall offers a unique blend of adventure and outdoor experiences. Stroll along its expansive grounds, surrounded by iconic monuments and scenic views, making it perfect for a leisurely day of exploration.
  • Smithsonian Institution: Situated 3.2km away, this renowned natural history museum is a cultural treasure trove. Ideal for families, the Smithsonian Institution boasts fascinating exhibits that celebrate the wonders of our world, ensuring an educational and enjoyable visit.
  • Walter E. Washington Convention Center: Just 1.4km from the White House, this event venue is a hub of business activity. Hosting various conferences and exhibitions, it showcases the dynamic atmosphere of Washington, D.C., making it a vibrant spot for networking and learning.

Best time to go to White House

The best time to visit White House is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September71.1°F (21.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for White House

To save money on your visit to the White House, consider travelling between December and February when accommodation prices are generally lower, with Fridays being the cheapest day to book. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and eco-certified options. Combine your hotel stay with flights and activities through package deals for additional savings. Also, explore free attractions around the area and utilise public transport, which is an economical way to get around Washington, D.C., ensuring you make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around White House are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to June, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around White House is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around White House is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and so much more. You can sort your results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, making it easy to find the most affordable accommodation options first. Additionally, you have the ability to refine your search by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you’ll be shown sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay near the White House with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.