We were very fortunate to be on a visit to the nations capital when the spring garden tour was happening at the White House. This is a once a year event for only two days that is free to the public that allowed us to get an up close look at the White House Gardens /grounds and the outside of the White House to include a chance to see the presidential limousine "the beast". The grounds were absolutely beautiful and it was a real treat, possibly once in a lifetime, to be so close to the White House. NICE!!! As this trip was with our grandkids it gave us a great deal of satisfaction of being able to share such a memorable and lifelong memory with them. it is truly nice to see times like this when our government offers up such unique viewing opportunities to the general public. read more

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Came here with Steven and hate that it was fenced off. I had to edit this photo to remove the black fence in the way of the White House view, haha! A lot of vendors here to sell trinkets and souvenirs that are not badly priced. If you are using Google Maps to navigate, it will take you to roads that do not exist or closed off, so do not expect that the navigation will take you directly to the front of the White House when you go. Surprised that the grass was not super duper green because I figured that there would be staff that made sure everything outside looked perfect to public eye. Couple of security guards sprinkled around the vicinity who do 100% ID card checks if you try to enter. I forgot the name of the art museum, but it is right by the White House, which I thought made for a beautiful stroll if you want to appreciate the downtown city more than the historical significance that the White House offers, but the cultural valuables that populate Washington DC, too! Thank you for the welcoming staff here who were so passionate about the artworks that it made you excited to learn all about them, too read more

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White House When I was a young man the first time I laid eyes on the White House, you could walk right up and slip your hand through the iron gates. No towering barricades, just a quiet moment with history. I remember taking the tour, wandering those rooms where presidents once paced and pondered. They tell you not to touch anything... but I'll admit, I brushed the curtains, felt the walls, and thought, my goodness, this is the very house where history calls. The grounds are trimmed like a king's garden, the view wide and grand, and the feeling you get standing there is hard to explain it's not just a house of stone and beams, it's the heart of a nation stitched together with dreams. Built beginning in 1792 and first lived in by President John Adams in 1800, the house has seen its share of fire and repair even burned by the British in 1814 before being rebuilt and standing proud again by 1817. Later, the inside was rebuilt again in the late 1940s when the old bones needed strengthening, proving this old house can bend but never break. And when you stand there today, gazing across the lawn so wide and free, it rhymes in your heart like a piece of history: not just a place to roam, but America's home. Touch the gates, take in the sight past and present shining bright and you'll feel it too, that patriotic spark... a little piece of the nation stamped forever on your heart. read more

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It's hard to describe what it felt like seeing the White House for the first time. Simply breathtaking. Magical. Seeing it (and the nearby monuments and historical buildings) illuminated at night was an absolutely incredible experience and I recommend every American make an effort to visit at least once in your life. We metro'd into the city on a whim from Alexandria on a Friday evening a few weeks ago. DC was buzzing! We heard so much laughter and joy as couples strolled down the sidewalks, groups of middle school-aged kids on field trips, people dressed up in ballgowns and tuxedos entering fancy hotels for galas, even a handful of protestors. I've visited/lived in a lot of cities across the country, but never have I felt as alive and inspired as I did in DC. One logistical thing to mention, it is VERY dark on the north side of the White House and the sidewalks and pathways leading up to the boundary fence are uneven. I used my phone flashlight to ensure my mom could safely navigate it. Be careful!! Safety in the area is a hot topic, but I'll share our non-political experience as first-time tourists. Our small group consisted of my elderly mom, my teen daughter, and myself. As mentioned, we'd never been to the area (complete tourists, clearly trying to learn how to navigate the area/public transportation, etc.), and by the time we arrived on the metro to Federal Square (a couple of blocks from the White House), it was pretty much dark outside. We felt totally safe walking around. We also felt very safe on the metro, which we rode around all over the place. I would absolutely feel comfortable coming back and exploring the city on my own or with friends/family. Of course, always keep your head on a swivel and exercise caution as you would anywhere else. read more

The White House - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Was there traveling when I was younger, a person walked up to the people I was with when I was younger when we were near the building and was begging for money. It was an awfully bad experience honestly. I was in the area recently The area smells horrible, There is terrible things going on there and people with horrible attitudes read more

I did the self-guided tour of the White House in 2024. It's definitely a unique experience walking through such an iconic place and seeing the rooms you usually only spot on TV. The staff keeps things moving smoothly, and the history on display is fascinating. That said, there was still a lingering stench of Trump in the halls--hard not to feel the echoes of the chaos years. Definitely worth doing and it is on many people's bucket list to see the inside of America's most famous house. I would recommend not visiting from 2025-2029 because Trump is stupid and stinks up the place. He is wasting millions of taxpayer dollars making it gold and tacky. Embarrassing. Might want to wait until a real president gets elected. read more

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It's my 900th Yelp Review and thought I'd save it for something of significance: THE WHITE HOUSE at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. No matter your political views or affiliation, the White House is a place where history continues to unfold. For me, it is not only about the history, but the importance of government, and the beauty of its architecture. It has been 20 years since my last visit inside The White House. I was and still am in awe. A lot has changed, especially the method of visiting. This time, the website says to contact your Member of Congress via email, who is Representative Susie Lee in Nevada for me. Unfortunately, a 4-week notice was not enough. Luckily, my husband who is a USN Veteran, was able to obtain boarding passes through his former shipmate. After arriving 15 minutes in advance of our 10am tour on April 15, 2025, it was about an hour before the line moved through the multiple security checks. My advice is to watch the weather and dress accordingly, bring a valid ID and mobile phone - no bags! Read and re-read instructions, otherwise you will be stopped and not allowed inside. We made our way into the East Wing and the self-guided tour included the Vermeil Room, the Library, the China Room, the Blue Room, Red Room, Green Room, the East Room, State Dining Room, and a view of the Jaqueline Kennedy Garden. Secret Service Officers are stationed along the tour route and are available to answer questions about each room's history, art, furnishings, current uses, and beyond. There's a kiosk of White House merch for sale. I ended up buying a cherry blossom tea cup, a White House tote, and a Commemorative Easter Egg Roll ornament. Standing inside the Executive Mansion reminded me of when I first saw President Ronald Reagan in San Diego after seeing his portrait, the tragedy of 9/11 due to security, and the reason why I am here - my father enlisted in the U.S. military as a Filipino citizen in the 1960's. I'm a proud American and happy that I was able to visit again. read more

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This was the closest I've ever been to the white house, super fun and interesting to see. The photo I took was very zoomed in because there were 2 more barriers including the black iron fence, blocking anyone from getting any closer Which I'm guessing is due to recent riots on the lawn, the whole lawn was fenced off as well sadly. Which I got the fille experience but maybe for the future, park closed at 8:30 and security with bikes and squad cars clear it out pretty swiftly so don't hang out too long or they will get antsy read more

The White House - View from the North lawn - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I booked a tour of the White House and I'm so glad I was able to get tickets for not only me but for my family as well. A few weeks prior to our trip, I reached out to my state representative and requested tickets. A week or so later, I got a response and a nice invitation in which I gladly accepted. The day finally came and we went through extensive security and secret service checks. Our ID's were checked a few times and we were then finally able to enter the house. Once inside, we were all in a single file line going through the different rooms. The blue room and red room were my favorite as the colors really stood out. There were also many agents inside available to answer any questions. It was a pretty busy tour as there were other families there as well. The tour is at your own pace and it took us about 1.50 hours to go through it all. I definitely recommend this tour! read more

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Primarily because of the November 2025 demolition project, we were unable to easily view the White House due to construction barriers, fencing, and guards. We were able to see some limited views from the adjacent park and nearby buildings. read more

The White House - White House views from adjacent park -- November 2025 - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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You can get two views of the white house: the front and the back. The back is going to underwhelming, so go around to the front right across the National Monument because the lawn is bigger outfront and there's a more "grand" presence there. It's worth the walk. read more

While visiting Washington, DC, I got to see the White House from the outside. It was really cool to finally see such a historic and iconic place in person something I've seen so many times in books, movies, and the news. Even from a distance, the building is impressive, and the area around it is full of interesting sights, beautiful architecture, and lots of photo-worthy spots. Definitely worth a quick stop if you're exploring the city! read more

The White House - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Outstanding experience. Represented the Hindu religion for the community. I was fortunate to be there...12 or 13 years ago. I had some hair read more

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12/6/2025 - White House is smaller than I thought. You can't go up the main perimeter fence for photographs. It's blocked off like a whole street. Bummer. Fun to see where the action happens. 3 stars. read more

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Visiting the White House has been on my bucket list for a while. My husband was able to hook this visit up, and I am beyond grateful he did. So much history and such a cool Place to see in person. There are three check points and you can't bring a purse of any kind. The secret service is everywhere and very friendly. They were in each room and were happy to answer any questions we had. The portraits were beautiful. I love that Uncle Donny has his famous picture on the wall as you exit. We got to see the helicopter, and that in and of itself was very cool. Unfortunately no sign of the President or the gorgeous First Lady. If you have the chance to visit the White House please go! read more

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This is a good few weeks pre-approval and contacting your local congress person is the path. Also we had a mix up of where to meet up so double check and be prepared for weather, if standing in line. you can take your phone and ID only, no purse, no bags. of any kind. I tried and had to toss my bag and put stuff in pockets. I was fine with it, it was an old little bag. This was amazing! We really enjoyed the tour and all the staff were very helpful and friendly! This was a treat didn't know how it all worked but so fun to walk and see History! Thanks for being so knowledgeable and inspiring! read more

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I attended a holiday tour. The White House was beautiful at Christmas. Extra rooms were on display this year. The weather was chilly and rainy while I was in line to enter. The passes include prohibited items. Umbrellas without metal tips are allowed. I brought a waterproof pouch, which hung on my neck. That allowed a safe place for my phone & keys. Metro was around the corner. If you use an uber, give the White House Visitor's Center address. read more

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Well, it's not a business, but it is about the people's business. The White House tour is one activity you should attend if you can. Fortunately, we got a morning for availability. You have to book in advance, but it is worth the wait to visit here. You need a valid US issued ID to enter. If you like any of the following topics, even if you hate politics, then you should visit. The history. The political. The atmosphere. The architecture. The art. It's all captured here. Just about an hour to visit, but there is some extensive time to go through security. read more

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What a beautiful piece of American history. We got to tour the East Wing because the West Wing was closed. Lots of things happening in the West Wing the weekend we were there. No matter, being able to experience the White House up close and in person was wonderful. The beauty of the artwork, architecture, landscaping, all of it, was breathtaking. Well worth signing up for a tour. Be sure to read the conditions of identification and what you're allowed to bring with you before going. The line to get in was long, but it moved pretty quickly once our assigned time was allowed to enter. God bless America and President Trump! read more

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Such a disappointment! I should have visited this area many years ago because I've seen many family photos up against the gate where you could put your camera between the rails so the photo isn't obstructed by the fencing. There is so much brush and trees on the property that you can't see shit! Such a major disappointment. I didn't go inside because I'm going to wait until the tyrant that occupies it leaves. read more

The White House - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

There are places of splendor and genuine reverence in America, I am certain of this, and it would be false to give only praise to the stately halls and cathedrals of foreign lands and not include the iconic White House in such company. Since the very start of the 19th century, that iconic building has heard the voices of the most important people in the history of humanity, from Mandela to Mikhail Gorbachev, Bob Dylan to Buffalo Bill Cody, Duke Ellington to Desmond Tutu, and Fredrick Douglas to King Faisal of Saudi Arabia. Important decisions and infamous people have journeyed to its halls to secure peace or stave off catastrophes. Anwar Sadat, Ayatollah Khomeini, Nikita Khrushchev, and Ferdinand Marcos were there. And, without any cost, you can be there as well! To secure a visit, you need to head over to congress.gov and schedule a time with your congressperson. You're going to need to do so weeks, if not months in advance. When your long-awaited appointment arrives, you'll be on your own to walk through a handful of rooms, and peer into a few others, and not see the overwhelming majority of the White House. Sure, the tour doesn't swing by the situation room and see what's got the world so worried. Nor does the tour let you peek into the Oval Office and offer some suggestions to our commander in chief. And you certainly won't overhear a cabinet meeting or cool your heels in the Lincoln bedroom. It's very much a working government building and the six thousand daily visitors have no business eaves dropping, interrupting work, or inquiring about decisions. Still, I had a marvelous time. I was enthralled by the history and the idea of the proximity to those who made it. If you have any interest in history or politics, or maybe you just think porticos are neat, prepare in advance and schedule a visit. read more

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It's the White House! Honestly, what more is there to say. Stop by, take some pics, move along. A necessary stop on any touristy trip to DC. read more

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Spectacular Holiday self guided tour of the People's House! Follow the rules and the screening in process will be uneventful. I applaud the staff responsible for all of the decorations, the attention to detail and the secrete service for safety. The rooms visited were especially appropriate to the theme and history of the room. Make sure you look up and catch the details of classical craftsmanship, moldings, drapes, displays of lights, doves and shiny tinsel. The talented official military band elevated the holiday spirit! The harmony accompanied me throughout the tour. Everyone was courteous, helpful and dressed to impress for holiday photos. There were so many opportunities to create that holiday card! read more

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Nothing much to see unless you get a tour to visit the place. We were passing by and took a few pictures. read more

The White House - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Beautiful rich history. Beautiful architecture. The view is priceless and one can walk freely outside the gate while taking photo's or pay for a guided tour and learn about the history of the surrounding area read more

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No vacation to DC would be complete without visiting the White House. I contacted my local state Congressman to request White House tickets three months (January) in advance of our vacation (March- peak, during the Cherry Blossom festival). See your Congressman/Congresswoman's website for ticket information. I received an email (February) from the White House with a tour invitation (yay!). Make sure to review the prohibited items (no food, no water, no bags of any kind, etc.). There's a lot to see at this historic landmark. Definitely a place everyone needs to visit at least once. Tip: request your free White House tickets EARLY (or else you'll miss your chance). read more

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Standing before the White House is an experience. In person it's more grand, powerful, and beautiful than I imagined. The history makes it feel larger than life. Seeing it in person is unexplainable, the size, the detail, and the significance are simply unforgettable. A must see landmark that leaves you inspired. read more

The White House - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Pretty cool history. If you get the opportunity, GO! It's not a huge tour but worth it. read more

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It was nice to get a peak before new tenants moved in. Limited access for obvious reasons. Ridiculous security. Again for obvious reasons. It was nice to see the few rooms that get limited use beyond tourist traffic. Certainly worth a visit. read more

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The self guided tour at the White House was a great trip full of history. Recommend anyone that comes to D.C. try to schedule a visit here. Plenty of pictures to take my wife and I loved every second of it. read more

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How can anyone not totally enjoy the History of our great nation while enjoying the White House. We were one of the first tours available which we arranged via our Senator and it was awesome. A lot of security, then more security and more but once you clear it is an amazing experience. Doesn't matter what political party - the White House is our Nations Home. read more

Had a great lifetime experience West Wing Tour in 2006. From the Oval Office to the Press Room. Was inspired by the Roosevelt Room. Enjoyed the beautiful Jacqueline Kennedy Rose Garden. Amazed at the very tiny and cramped briefing room, how anyone large and bulky would have a hard time getting into a seat at the table. The Oval Office was a dignified decor and the President's private dining area, small, clean and tidy. read more

What more can we say, it's The White House! We just passed by as we headed to another spot within DC proper. A tour would definitely be pretty cool so maybe we can make that happen on day. If you're in the area, it's still pretty neat to see even if you are just passing thru. read more

The White House - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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We have toured the White House twice now. I highly recommend doing so! We went in June and again in December. I had to see it decorated. Be sure to listen and read all the rules before visiting. You can look up on the internet on how to get in on the tours. I feel we will tour the White House whenever we can, because it just never gets old. The staff has always been awesome including the security staff. read more

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It is a bit cumbersome to get tickets here (through your congressman) and takes some planning ahead. We had to go through 2 checkpoints, and you have to thoroughly read the rules because you can't bring any bags and you have to be on time. And sure it's crowded and you can only see a few rooms (like you're not getting into the West Wing) but hey, it's still a really cool and unique place to visit. There's an app with audio, but it's the same info that's written out in the rooms. There are guides around to ask questions, but it will bepacked. You do get to see several of the public rooms. It is self-guided, so you can linger as little or as much as needed. Photos are allowed. It probably won't take more than an hour, but it's definitely worth doing once, just takes some advanced planning. read more

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I contacted the Illinois rep about getting a tour of the White House. Initially, it seemed easy with filling out our information and then waiting for the official confirmation email. Nope, I was denied a week prior to the date I wanted. I applied a couple months before, but they said there were too many people. Ridiculous since I've been wanting to go here the past couple times. One star taken off for that. Tickets are free. If you want to get a great view of the outside, don't go on the side facing the National Mall. They pushed the barrier back so you're like zooming in with your cameras. Instead go on the other side of it. You'll get a much better view. Be ready to have annoying people photo bomb your pictures. read more

The White House - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The home of our President. Every four years we get to decide whether to renew the lease of evict the current resident. We are fortunate to live in a country with that opportunity! Although inside tours have to be reserved with some advance notice (and why I'm not making this review 5 stars), the White House is visible from the outside and I had the chance to take pictures and enjoy the beautiful architecture. The Secret Service guards were actually pretty pleasant, and even laughed when I made a "Can I pet that dog" joke about the working K9's. There are fences surrounding the perimeter and you can see all sorts of cool antennae and electronics on the roof. Another beautiful thing about The White House is that people of all stripes - left, right, different religions going to petition and protest. That's another beautiful thing about the US and A. read more

The White House - The next President :) - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Amazing experience during the holiday season. Truly the People's house. Decor was amazing- visited during the Biden administration, very tasteful, very demur. While I thought we'd have a personal guide- we did not, there's was a lot of staff posted in corners and in the halls to answer questions and provide historical perspective and commentary. It takes some gymnastics to get a date to visit, but once you're in, it's a magical experience and I highly recommend at least doing once. read more

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A few weeks or months before your trip, make sure to contact your local congressperson to schedule your visit. Be prepared for extensive security screening, which includes three checkpoints. Remember to bring your ID and avoid bringing a bag. The tour is self-guided, and I wish it had been guided instead, as having a guide would enhance your appreciation of what you're seeing. Additionally, it was quite crowded, making it difficult to navigate. Overall, I still recommend it because you get to visit one of the nation's most famous buildings. read more

The White House - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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It was a wonderful tour and a long time dream. I was holding back tears at every step. I'm glad I went when I did as now, with America choosing an insurrectionist as President, the White House has lost its luster for me. It's spoiled as an emblem of America and democracy. read more

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