The People's House

Worth the visit no matter who's president

Back in the fall, the White House announced a new type of tour that would give visitors a more fulsome view of the building than what had mostly been a stroll through a bunch of empty reception rooms. I tried to make a reservation but failed to follow through on contacting my congressional representative (excuse me, nonvoting delegate) so it didn’t happen. And trust me, I’m not going to try again until Mr. Trump leaves the premises.

Thankfully, there is another option just across the street that offers an interesting and engaging (albeit virtual) tour of the White House. Operated by the White House Historical Society, The People’s House provides a free* immersive experience with attention to the furnishings, First Families, and staff who keep everything running.

This is a museum with something for everyone and lots of buttons to push to keep the elementary age set happy. There are tons of photos and videos plus all manner of interactive exhibits, and surprisingly few photos of Trump. (Perhaps that will change?)

The first floor focuses on the building itself with one room that morphs into several (East, Blue, Red, Green, and State Dining Room), a mock Oval Office where you can sit behind the Resolute Desk, and even the Rose Garden. Upstairs, you’ll find the movie theater where you can play presidential trivia, objects that featured in the lives of the First Families, and a gallery of White House staff past and present including butlers, cooks, groundskeepers, and even one guy whose entire job is maintaining the light fixtures. You can also participate in a cabinet meeting and make your own decisions about key moments in history, or attend a state dinner.

I spent a solid two hours at The People’s House and could have stayed longer so plan accordingly. And if your visit coincides with the lunch hour, I highly recommend Immigrant Food just across the street — same great menu and mission as offered at the location at Planet Word.

The People’s House

1700 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Open daily (with exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day) from 9 am to 5 pm. I would definitely reserve in advance. When I checked late last week, there were plenty of entries available for this week but better safe than sorry.

*There is a suggested donation of $15 with options to give $5 or $25 or nothing at all.