Visiting the inside of the White House — the iconic home and workplace of the U.S. President — is a bucket-list experience for travelers from around the world. But because it’s also a working government building with high security, you must plan ahead and follow specific procedures to get inside. In this guide, you’ll learn how tours work, step-by-step tips to secure a visit, what to expect on the day of your tour, plus essential travel advice.
1. How White House Tours Work
Tours of the White House are free and are offered by the U.S. government to the public. They take you through many of the historic public rooms on the White House’s State Floor, including the famous Blue Room, Red Room, Green Room, State Dining Room, Entrance Hall, and Cross Hall.
✅ Key Points:
- Tours are self-guided and typically last around 45 minutes.
- Tours run Tuesday through Saturday during morning and early afternoon hours.
- They are scheduled first-come, first-served and can fill up quickly.
2. Tour Requirements & How to Get Inside
📌 Step 1: Request a Tour Through Congress
If you are a U.S. citizen, the standard way to request a White House tour is through your Member of Congress (House Representative or Senator). Congressional offices coordinate with the White House Visitor Office to secure tour spots.
For international visitors, you should contact your home country’s embassy in Washington, D.C. — they often help with tour requests.
📌 Step 2: Submit Your Security Information
Once your congressional office secures a potential spot, you will receive an email from the White House asking you to submit security information — including full names, dates of birth, citizenship information, and photo ID details.
📌 Step 3: Identification on Tour Day
As of May 7, 2025, all visitors must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or a passport to be admitted.
Minors under 18 usually don’t need ID if accompanied by an adult.
3. Practical Tips Before You Go
🕐 Plan Well Ahead
Tour requests must typically be submitted 21 to 90 days before your desired date.
Because spots are limited and often fill up quickly, it’s best to apply as early as possible.
🚆 Get There Early
There is no public parking at the White House, so visitors are encouraged to use public transit or ride-share services.
The closest metro stations are Federal Triangle, Metro Center, and McPherson Square.
📱 Bring Essentials Only
Security is strict. Items such as bags, food, drinks, tripods, liquids, and cameras are prohibited on tours.
Only small personal items like phones (turned off or silenced) and wallets are usually allowed.
4. What You’ll See Inside
During the tour, you will walk through historically significant rooms like:
- The Blue Room — famous for portraits and elegant décor.
- The Red Room and Green Room — richly decorated chambers used for receptions.
- The State Dining Room and Entrance Hall — where official functions are held.
Although tours are self-guided, Secret Service staff stationed along the route are available to answer questions about the history and art you’ll see.
5. On the Day of Your Tour
- Arrive at least 15 minutes early — late entry might be denied.
- Dress comfortably — part of the waiting and touring is outdoors.
- Restrooms are located at the White House Visitor Center (1450 Pennsylvania Ave NW) — not inside the tour route.
6. White House Visitor Center (Optional Visit)
Even if you don’t secure a tour slot, the White House Visitor Center offers an excellent alternative. You’ll find interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, films, and displays that help you appreciate the White House story.
7. Important Note About Tour Availability
In recent years, many congressional offices have reported that regular public tours have been paused or suspended indefinitely due to ongoing renovations and construction plans at the White House. This means that getting an interior tour is currently much harder than in the past and may not be possible during your travel dates.
Because official Tour Office announcements may lag behind posted congressional updates, check with your Member of Congress and the White House Visitor page before planning your trip.
📌 Final Thoughts
Visiting the inside of the White House is a unique and rewarding experience — one that requires planning, patience, and preparation. Start your request early, follow all security rules, and enjoy a rare glimpse inside one of the world’s most famous residences.
