White House: How to Schedule a Tour

Dear Flority Wedding Guests,

John and I wanted to provide some information about all the activities in the DC area. Just make sure to leave Saturday free. 😉

First up: the White House! The following website gives some great information about how to secure tickets to the White House should you want to visit. Here is a summary of the steps you need to follow:

(1) How do I submit a request?
For Americans: Submit your request through your Member of Congress. These requests are accepted up to six months in advance.
For non-Americans: Contact your embassy in Washington, DC for assistance in submitting your tour request.

(2) When are the tours?
Self-guided tours are available from
Tuesday to Thursday: 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Saturday: 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (excluding federal holidays).

(3) Can I submit a request now?
Yes! Requests can be submitted up to six months in advance and no less than 30 days in advance.

(4) How much are the tours?
All White House tours are free of charge.

(5) How can I find more information?
Please call the 24 hour line at 202.456.7041. Please note that White House tours may be subject to last minute cancellation.

(6) What can I bring on the tour?
You can bring wallets, umbrellas, cell phones and car keys.

(7) What can I NOT bring on the tour?
The following items are prohibited (and this is not an exhaustive list so be careful, the Secret Service can confiscate whatever they so desire because, well, they are the Secret Service): handbags, book bags, backpacks, purses, food and beverages of any kind, strollers, cameras, video recorders or any type of recording device, tobacco products, personal grooming items (make-up, hair brush or comb, lip or hand lotions, etc.), any pointed objects (pens, knitting needles, etc.), aerosol containers, guns, ammunition, fireworks, electric stun guns, mace, martial arts weapons/devices, or knives of any size.

There you have it! These are some of the preliminary details but we recommend you booking or submitting requests as early as possible if you find yourselves in the district early for the wedding or staying a few days afterwards.

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