White House Visitor Center

The White House Visitor Center provides a good introduction to many aspects of the White House, including its architecture, furnishings, first families, social events, and relations with the press and world leaders. At the Visitor Center, you can see a 30-minute video, entitled "Where History Lives", explore six historical exhibits and purchase souvenirs at the gift shop run by the White House Historical Association.

Tours of the White House are available on a first-come, first-served basis for groups of 10 or more and must be requested through one's member of Congress. If you haven't planned ahead and reserved a tour, you can still sample some of the history of the White House by visiting the White House Visitor Center. The National Park Service offers interpretive programs and special events at various times throughout the year.

Location
1450 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC

The White House Visitor Center is located in the Department of Commerce Building on the Southeast corner of 15th and E Streets. See a map

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.

Hours
7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Daily
Closed Thanksgiving, and Dec 25 and Jan 1

Read more about the White House