The White House and President's Park

The White House President's Park is a national park in Washington, D.C., just south of the White House. Open to the public year-round, the park encompasses over 80 acres of land, including the famous White House, the Ellipse, and numerous other monuments and memorials.
There are several landmarks and attractions within the park, including the White House Visitor Center, the National Christmas Tree, and the Washington Monument. You can also take guided tours of the White House or explore the park on your own.

Other notable attractions within the park include the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The park also features several statues and sculptures, including a statue of President Andrew Jackson on horseback and a bust of President John F. Kennedy.

Related tours:

Why should you go?

  1. Experience American history. As the home of the President of the United States, the White House is one of the most iconic buildings in the world. Take a guided tour of the White House or simply marvel at its beauty from the outside.
  2. Pay tribute to the veterans. The park features several memorials dedicated to the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. military. The World War II Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial are all must-see attractions.
  3. Enjoy the great outdoors. With over 80 acres of land, the park offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature. Take a stroll around the Ellipse, have a picnic on the lawn, and enjoy the scenery.
  4. Attend a special event. Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of events and celebrations, including the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, the White House Easter Egg Roll, and the Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration.
  5. Learn something new. The White House Visitor Center is a great place to learn about the history of the White House and the American presidency. Exhibits include artifacts from past presidential administrations, interactive displays, and a replica of the Oval Office.
  6. See the National Christmas Tree. During the holiday season, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland. The National Christmas Tree, located on the Ellipse, is a must-see attraction and is surrounded by dozens of smaller trees decorated with handmade ornaments from each of the 50 states.
  7. Explore the monuments and memorials. The park is home to several impressive monuments and memorials, each with its own unique story to tell. From the towering Washington Monument to the solemn Vietnam Veterans Memorial, there is something for everyone to see and appreciate.

Best places to visit near the White House and President's Park

  • The National Mall is a long, open park area that runs from the U.S. Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial. It is home to several monuments and memorials, including the Washington Monument and the World War II Memorial.

  • Smithsonian Museums is a group of museums and research centers in Washington, D.C., that cover a wide range of topics, including American history, art, culture, and science. Some of the most popular museums include the National Museum of American History, the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of Natural History.

  • The White House Visitor Center is a museum located near the White House that offers an inside look at the history and traditions of the presidential residence.

  • The National Gallery of Art is an art museum that features a collection of over 150,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The museum is located on the National Mall and is free to the public.

  • The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum is located near the National Mall and is dedicated to preserving the memory of the Holocaust. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the Holocaust and its impact on the world.

  • Ford's Theatre is a historic theater located in downtown Washington, D.C., that is famous for being the site of President Abraham Lincoln's assassination. Take a guided tour of the theater and learn about its history.

  • The National Archives Museum is a museum located near the National Mall that is home to some of the most important documents in American history, including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.

  • The National Museum of African American History and Culture is a museum located on the National Mall that explores the history and culture of African Americans in the United States.

  • The National Portrait Gallery is an art museum that features portraits of famous Americans throughout history, including presidents, athletes, and artists.
FAQ
  • 1
    What's the best way to see the White House and President's Park?
    • White House tour. The White House offers free public tours, including a visit to the President's Park. However, these tours need to be booked in advance through your member of Congress. Make a reservation at least three months in advance, as spots fill up quickly.

    • Walking tour. You can take a self-guided walking tour of the President's Park, which includes the White House, the Ellipse, and the National Christmas Tree. The park is open to the public 24/7, with no admission fees.

    • Guided tour. You can also take a guided tour of the park, which is offered by various tour companies in Washington, D.C. These tours typically include a visit to the White House, as well as other popular attractions in the area.

    • Bike tour. Another way to see President's Park is to take a guided bike tour. Many tour companies offer bike tours of the National Mall, which includes the park and other popular attractions in the area.
  • 2
    What are the most interesting and unique facts about the White House and President's Park?
    • Throughout its history, President's Park has served multiple functions, including as a racetrack, a graveyard, a zoo, a slave market, and a military encampment.

    • The park includes a variety of gardens, including the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, the Rose Garden, and the South Lawn.

    • The park is home to many famous trees, including the Jackson Magnolia, which has been a fixture of the White House grounds since the 1800s.

    • The park is also home to many animals, including squirrels, rabbits, and a variety of birds. In fact, there is even a beehive on the grounds!