In planning another visit to Washington, D.C., I wanted to attempt a visit to the historic White House. I was happy to secure tickets through our representative. I recommend planning ahead of time if you plan to visit the inside of the U.S. White House. It is recommended to secure dates about 3 months, but no later than 21 days from your scheduled visit. Explore Whitehouse.gov for more details on how to schedule a self-guided White House tour.
The self-guided White House tours security checks begin front and just to the right as you are facing the Tecumseh Sherman Statue in Sherman Square. You will find a gate with a small white booth with two uniformed Secret Service guards and someone with a blue vest here to check your tickets and IDs. If you have purse or bag, these will be searched as well. Please read Whitehouse.gov as to what is allowed and not allowed in the White House. We witnessed a couple that was turned away because they attempted to bring an item that was not permitted. You will walk behind the statue and go through another ID check and then, airport style security and two more security checks prior to entering the East Wing of the White House. It took us about 25 minutes to go through this process. Please plan your schedule accordingly.
East Wing
Painted Presidents and First Ladies
As you explore the East Wing of the White House, the painted eyes of presidents and first ladies watch over you. It is a tradition to select an artist and have a portrait made to be placed in the White House. Enjoy the view of as you explore our famous landmark during your self-guided tour.
Painted Presidents
The Painted Ladies
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