President's Park

The White House

Recently, I heard one tourist tell another that it was no longer possible to see the White House. Not true at all! Self-guided tours of the inside are only available when arranged in advance via members of Congress or foreign embassies, but it’s still easy to take a stroll through Lafayette Square and check out what was originally referred to as “the Presidential Palace” from the outside. It’s definitely worth the trip for one of the best photo ops in Washington.

Did you know the White House stands within 82 acres of park lands featuring many significant statues, monuments and memorials in DC? On Saturday, September 10^th, you can also attend a free guided tour of the area called “President’s Park” and owned by the National Park Service. If you’d rather show yourself around, there are two trails which originate from the White House Visitor Center (where you can also pick up a free trail map).

...you won't be the only one taking photos!

Civil War buffs will want to choose the Northern trail which winds through Sherman Park, named for the general himself. My favorite is the Southern trail which features a stop at Haupt Fountains, commissioned by Lady Bird Johnson to “frame the White House in water” and sweeping views of the South Lawn. The easiest way to get there is via Metro. Take the Red Line to the Farragut North stop; Lafayette Square is about two blocks away. The area is often referred to as “America’s Front Yard,” so when you go, make yourself at home!