Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
10. VISITOR CENTER
The White House Visitor Center has engrossing exhibits on various aspects of the
mansion. It also offers park ranger talks, a souvenir shop, and special events such as
military band concerts.
View photo
Designing the White House
George Washington personally supervised the design and construction of the
White House, although he never lived here. John and Abigail Adams became
its first residents in 1800. At the same time, the seat of government was moved
from Philadelphia to Washington, DC After the British burned the White House
in 1814, it became the responsibility of the James Monroe presidency to redec-
orate. Much of what is seen today reflects Monroe's taste.
Tip:
If you have a telephoto lens or binoculars, the carved floral decorations
on the north entrance and the plantings of the Rose Garden, viewed from the El-
lipse, deserve attention.
Tip:
The White House has no public restrooms. The nearest facilities are at
the Visitor Center and the Ellipse Visitor Pavilion, near 15th and E streets NW.
