Things To Do
in White House

The White House is the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States, located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW in Washington, D.C. It is an iconic symbol of the U.S. government and has been the residence of every American president since John Adams in 1800. The neoclassical design of the building, with its distinctive white facade, has made it one of the most recognizable structures in the world.

The White House complex includes the Executive Residence, West Wing, East Wing, and the Rose Garden, serving both functional and ceremonial purposes.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of D.C.
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the White House Visitor Center to learn about the history of the building and its significance.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll through Lafayette Park, then visit the nearby National Museum of American History to explore exhibits related to the nation's past.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill, a historic restaurant known for its oysters and classic American cuisine, followed by a walk around the National Mall to see the monuments illuminated at night.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the National Gallery of Art to see an impressive collection of art from various periods and styles.

afternoon
:

Explore the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, where you can learn about the history of aviation and space exploration.

evening
:

Dine in Georgetown and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, then take a scenic boat cruise on the Potomac River for stunning views of the city skyline.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Slice of Pizza$3
Coffee$4
🍔Burger Meal$12
🍷Glass of Wine$9
🚖Taxi Fare (within D.C.)$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural experiences.
  • Diverse culinary scene.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Traffic congestion can be a hassle.
  • Higher cost of living compared to other cities.
  • Crowds at popular tourist spots, especially in peak season.

Places to Visit in White House

Visit one of these nice places.

The White House

Capture iconic shots of the White House from Lafayette Park, especially during sunrise or sunset for stunning lighting.

Lincoln Memorial

A magnificent location for photography, with its grand structure and reflective pool providing a beautiful backdrop.

Tidal Basin

Famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, the Tidal Basin offers picturesque views and serene landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in White House

Washington, D.C. boasts a diverse culinary scene that reflects its multicultural population and political history. From food trucks to fine dining, there's a variety of local dishes to try.

White House Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Half-Smoke

This iconic sausage is made of pork and beef, typically served with chili and onions, and is a must-try local delicacy.

Must-Try!

Jumbo Slice Pizza

Known for its enormous slices, this pizza style is a favorite among late-night diners in the Adams Morgan neighborhood.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Eastern Market

This historic market offers fresh produce, local meats, and artisanal goods, along with food stalls serving everything from tacos to baked goods.

Union Market

A trendy food hall featuring a variety of vendors offering gourmet street food, local delicacies, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Washington, D.C. experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are typically hot and humid, with average highs in the 80s and 90s °F (27-37°C), while winters can be cold, with lows often dipping below freezing. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rain is common year-round, so visitors should be prepared for occasional showers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Using 'please' and 'thank you' is important in social interactions, reflecting respect for others.

Personal Space

People in D.C. value personal space, so maintain a respectful distance during conversations.

Queueing

Always wait your turn in lines, whether at restaurants or public transport, as this is considered courteous.

Safety Guide

Safety

Washington, D.C. is generally safe for tourists, but common sense precautions should be taken. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and keep personal belongings secure. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night, and to use reputable taxi services or rideshare options when traveling after dark.

Tipping in White House

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip service workers, with 15-20% being the standard for restaurants. Tipping taxi drivers is also expected.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a lovely time to visit, with cherry blossoms in bloom and pleasant temperatures ranging from 50 to 70°F (10 to 21°C).

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 85°F (29°C). Expect crowds at tourist attractions.

Fall

Fall offers mild weather and beautiful foliage, making it a great time for outdoor activities with temperatures ranging from 50 to 75°F (10 to 24°C).

Winter

Winter can be cold, with temperatures ranging from 30 to 50°F (-1 to 10°C). Snow is possible, especially in January and February.

Nightlife Guide

White House at Night

Washington, D.C. has a vibrant nightlife scene, from trendy bars in neighborhoods like U Street and Adams Morgan to upscale lounges and live music venues. The city caters to varied tastes, whether you're looking for a quiet pub, a lively dance club, or a spot to enjoy live jazz. Many bars offer happy hour specials, making it an affordable option for socializing after dark.

Hiking in White House

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Great Falls Park

Located about 15 miles from downtown D.C., this park features stunning waterfalls and scenic trails for both hiking and photography.

C&O Canal Towpath

This historic towpath runs along the Potomac River and offers a flat, scenic trail perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach White House by plane.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

Located just 3 miles from downtown D.C., this airport offers convenient access to the city and numerous domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Washington, D.C. is highly walkable, especially in areas like the National Mall and downtown. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. Public transportation options, including the Metro, complement walkability and make it easy to explore different neighborhoods.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Government Workers

A significant portion of the city's population consists of federal employees and contractors who work in various government agencies.

Students

The city is home to several universities, including Georgetown and George Washington University, contributing to a vibrant student community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

The Washington Wizards are the city's NBA team, and games at Capital One Arena draw enthusiastic crowds.

Football

The Washington Commanders, the local NFL team, have a passionate fan base, and games are a major event during the fall and winter seasons.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in D.C. can be heavy, especially during rush hour on weekdays. Public transportation, including the Metro system, buses, and bike-sharing options, are popular alternatives to driving. It's advisable to plan for extra travel time during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting White House.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants in D.C. offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, making it easy to find suitable options.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free menus or can modify dishes to accommodate dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

D.C. boasts a robust healthcare system with numerous hospitals and clinics. Emergency services are available, and many facilities cater to tourists. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance, as healthcare can be expensive without it.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide