Eisenhower Executive Office Building
1650 17th St. NW, Washington DC, Washington DC, USA, 20500
One of several buildings that make up the White House complex, the Eisenhower Executive Office Building is also one of the most striking. Constructed between 1871–1888, it is known for its French Second Empire-style architecture. Originally built to house the State, War, and Navy Departments, it now holds offices for White House staff.
The basics
More closely resembling a French château than a government building, the 19th-century Eisenhower Executive Office Building offers an aesthetic departure from Washington DC’s neoclassical government headquarters. Located right next to the White House’s West Wing, the building has gone through several evolutions; today, in addition to containing offices for White House staff, it is also home to the Vice President's Ceremonial Office (as well as a basement bowling alley installed by President Truman). In 1969, it was designated a National Historic Landmark.
The Eisenhower Executive Office Building is currently closed for public tours. However, its exterior can be admired during a range of Washington DC sightseeing itineraries, including driving, architecture, and walking tours.
Things to know before you go
Although access is barricaded, getting close enough to the Eisenhower Executive Office Building is possible to capture up-close photos.
Considered one of the country's finest examples of Second Empire-style design, the Eisenhower Executive Office Building is a must-visit for architecture lovers.
As the building can only be viewed from the outside, time your visit for good weather so you can linger to admire its details (or visit at night to see it illuminated).
How to get there
The Dwight D. Eisenhower Executive Office Building is located at 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, next to the White House. It can be reached via the Farragut West and McPherson Square DC Metro stations (both of which are served by the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines) and numerous local bus services.
When to get there
The Eisenhower Executive Office Building is not currently publicly accessible, but its exterior can be admired day and night. The area around the White House is busiest during summer, weekends, and school holidays (as well as select holidays and protest events); visit during alternative times to beat the crowds.
Top government landmarks in Washington DC
Washington DC is home to dozens of important government buildings. In addition to the Eisenhower Executive Office Building—as well as major highlights like the White House, US Capitol, and the Supreme Court—other popular stops include the National Archives, NASA headquarters, the Old Post Office Pavilion, and the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building.
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