The Association's underwriting of the architectural planning, exhibit design and fabrication, and media production have made possible a state-of-the-art visitor experience that includes interactive exhibits, a large-scale model of the White House, numerous tactile elements, a new permanent museum gallery, a temporary exhibit area, retail shop, visitor information facilities, and numerous opportunities for children and families to connect to the history of the White House and President's Park.

Included in the nearly 16,000 sq. ft. remodeled space is a new retail store run by the Association that supports the upkeep of the visitor center and the Association’s mission. The completely transformed visitor center affords an outstanding stand-alone experience, and provides an enhanced experience for those who take a self-guided White House tour. All new exhibits tell the story of the White House as a home, office, stage and ceremonial space, museum, and park.

Before 1995, the National Park Service distributed White House tour tickets and provided visitor information at a location on the Ellipse. The White House Visitor Center first opened in March 1995. After the tragic events of September 11, 2001, White House tour tickets became available through Congressional offices and embassies. No longer a center for ticket distribution, the White House Visitor Center evolved to serve visitors' educational and informational needs. As time passed, the static exhibits became outdated and, in the late 2000s, planning began for a new facility that would include engaging, interactive exhibits.

Nearly 100 artifacts from the White House Collection are on view, some for the first time, including items like President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Desk, an Eagle Finial that topped the White House flagpole in the late 19th Century, and the Chief Usher's Desk from 1902 – 1948. Visitors will find artifacts enhanced by hundreds of images of the White House as Office, Home, and Stage. Integrated into the museum gallery are screens highlighting additional imagery and stories from the White House.

A beautiful theater space offers a new film commissioned for the visitor center, "The White House: Reflections from Within," which features personal stories from presidents, first ladies, and other members of first families across the years.

The visitor center was designed with a strong focus on accessibility for all visitors, and the project team worked closely with the National Center for Accessibility to achieve a fully accessible experience.

To learn more about the White House Visitor Center and to plan your visit, please visit the National Park Service website.

Members of the media are encouraged to visit our Press Room.