Public tours of the historic residence will resume on Feb. 25.
First Lady Melania Trump has announced that the White House will reopen to public tours on Feb. 25.
“The President and I are excited to reopen the White House to those interested in the extraordinary story of this iconic and beautiful landmark,” the first lady said in a statement released by her office on Feb. 12.
“There is much to learn about the American Presidency, the First Families who have lived here, and our Nation’s rich history from a firsthand experience at the White House.
“This opportunity is unique among nations around the globe—a tradition we are honored to continue for the hundreds of thousands of visitors who come each year.”
The White House has been the official residence of all sitting U.S. presidents except the first. Although President George Washington helped choose the site for the house and oversaw its construction, he never lived in it.
The original building, completed in 1800, was burned by the British army 14 years later when they invaded the city during the War of 1812. The house was restored shortly after and survived another fire in 1929 under President Herbert Hoover.
As executives have come and gone, each has left their mark on the historic home, decorating and redecorating as they see fit. Since moving back into the White House, President Donald Trump has already made a few design changes, including reinstalling a rug designed by former First Lady Nancy Reagan and a portrait of President Andrew Jackson in the Oval Office.
First opened to public viewing by President Thomas Jefferson, the White House has remained available for tours—except during wartime—ever since. Tours are self-guided and free of charge, though they must be requested in advance through the visitor’s U.S. representative or senator.
The public rooms in the East Wing and the residence are open to tours. These include the Vermeil Room, Library, China Room, Blue Room, Red Room, Green Room, and State Dining Room. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of the Kennedy Garden. Secret Service officers stationed along the tour route are available to answer questions about each room’s art, history, furnishings, and uses.
White House tours typically last 45 minutes and are generally available from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friday through Saturday, excluding federal holidays.