White House Visitor Center

The basics

Gain insight into many aspects of the White House, including its architecture, furnishings, social events, and the lives of the first families. Start with the 14-minute film White House: Reflections from Within. Go on an interactive touchscreen tour of the White House, supplemented by informative panels. See and touch 3D models of the White House. In addition to anecdotes, photos, and archival footage, there are nearly 100 historical artifacts, many displayed for the first time.

Things to know before you go

• It’s free to visit the White House Visitor Center.
• All visitors must undergo a security screening to enter the center.
• There’s a well-stocked gift shop and restrooms on-site.
• The center is wheelchair accessible.

How to get there

The White House Visitor Center is located inside Baldridge Hall of the Department of Commerce Building. It’s best to use public transportation as parking is limited in the area. The closest metro stops are Metro Center and Federal Triangle.

When to get there

The White House Visitor Center is open Wednesday through Saturday, with closures on regular holiday days such as Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Most visitors spend around 30 to 45 minutes here. Visitors going on a White House tour may find it helpful to visit the center first.

Touring the White House

Those who wish to tour the White House must plan well in advance. Requests must be made through your member of Congress (for US residents) or embassy in Washington DC (for foreign visitors), and must be made at least 21 days and up to three months in advance. Tours usually cover select rooms in the East Wing. Tours of the West Wing are by invitation only.

Ways to explore

The White House Visitor Center is a popular attraction along hop-on, hop-off bus tour routes in Washington DC. Stop here to learn more about the White House—including its architecture, furnishings, and social events—and the lives of the first families. Start with the short film “The White House: Reflections from Within,” which features interviews with former presidents and their families, then take in the interactive exhibits. Highlights include a touchscreen tour and 3D models of the White House, as well as a collection of archival photos and footage, and nearly 100 historical artifacts.

Accessibility

Fully accessible

Age limits

Interactive, tactile exhibits make the visitor center engaging for all ages.

What to pack

Camera and battery pack, cash or credit card for the gift shop

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layers

Not allowed

Food or drinks, large bags, glass bottles

Amenities

Restrooms, gift shop, information point, water fountain

Address 

The White House Visitor Center is located inside Baldridge Hall, within the Department of Commerce Building. It’s best to walk from one of the nearby attractions or use public transportation, since there’s a lack of parking available.

Driving

Due to limited parking in the surrounding area, the National Park Service recommends using public transit to reach the White House Visitor Center.

Public transportation

Take Metrobus 30, 32, 34, 35, or 36 to the stop on the corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and 14th Street. The closest metro stops are Federal Triangle (Blue/Orange/Silver lines) and Metro Center (Blue/Orange/Red/Silver lines)

Best times to visit

Stop by just as the Visitor Center opens in the morning to see the exhibits before the midday crowds arrive.

Best days to visit

The space is busiest on weekends and during the summer school holidays, so visit on a weekday morning to avoid the throngs.

Best months to visit

Fall through spring are the least crowded months at the Visitor Center, when you can take in the galleries at a relaxed pace.

Special events

The White House Visitor Center holds temporary exhibits themed around the White House and its historic occupants.