White House tour 2025

Question

Has anyone had any luck with schedule a tour of the White House since the change in administration?

We tried right when the 90-day window started and was told by our representative that due to the change in administration, that everything was on hold until after inauguration. After inauguration we were told that they do not have anything set up yet for scheduling but keep on trying. We are now right up against the 21-day minimum.

I don't want to annoy the representative by trying every day, but I'm starting to get a bit anxious. I also know that there is no guarantee in being chosen for the tour.

Answer

Hi there,

Scheduling a White House tour in 2025 has indeed been more complicated than in past years due to the transition between administrations and updates to the tour process. Here’s what is helpful to know and some strategies for trying to secure a tour:

Current Situation:

White House tours are coordinated through your Congressional representative for U.S. residents. For international visitors, contact your embassy or consulate in DC.
The tour system typically opens 90 days in advance, but transitions between administrations can cause delays in posting schedules. This year, as you noted, tours were on hold until after inauguration.
Even once tours open, availability is extremely limited, and submitting a request does not guarantee a spot.

Practical Tips for Booking:

Contact your representative’s office as soon as possible, ideally once the 90-day window is open. Mention that you are aware of previous delays but are still eager to be considered.
Be polite but persistent. Checking in once a week is reasonable; daily calls or emails are not necessary and could be seen as excessive.
Have flexible dates ready. The more open you are to available times, the higher your chance of being accommodated.
Keep in mind that tours are often assigned randomly if demand exceeds availability.
Consider alternative options such as private or guided walking tours of the White House exterior and surrounding grounds if interior access does not work out.

Other Considerations:

Security protocols require all visitors to undergo background checks, so make sure you submit all personal information accurately when requested.
Even if your representative cannot confirm a tour, staying on their waiting list is important because cancellations often open spots at the last minute.
Plan other DC activities around the National Mall and nearby museums so your day is still full if a White House tour doesn’t materialize.

In short, the current approach is to remain patient, maintain polite communication with your representative, and be flexible with dates. Being near the 21-day minimum is typical, and many people do get tours through this process despite the delays from administrative transitions.

White House tour 2025

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