Most educators agree that travel is one of the best methods of experiential learning. And one of the most rewarding destinations for travel for both American students and international travelers is our nation’s capital city, Washington, DC. There are many worthwhile museums and historical sites to visit in the city, but the most famous is undoubtedly the White House. This historic structure serves as both the residence and the office of the President of the United States.

On our recent trip to Washington, Dc, my husband and I were fortunate enough to take a tour of the White House. While there, we were able to view many of the beautiful rooms of this historic museum house. On the bottom floor, we toured the Garden Room, the East Colonnade, and the Family Theater. We also saw the Vermeil room, the China Room, and the Library. One floor up, we were allowed to stroll through the appropriately named Green Room, Blue Room, and Red Room. In addition, we got a look at the State Dining Room. Then we viewed the stately Entrance Hall, and finally we exited the house through the famous North Portico.

I would definitely recommend the effort required for educators and students to visit this historic mansion. As you might guess, a visit to the White House requires a good deal of advance planning. A request for a public tour must be submitted through your Congressman. Make the request up to three months ahead, but no less than three weeks prior, to your visit to Washington, DC. Tours are self-guided, and are usually available Tuesday through Saturday, except on Federal holidays. Public tours are scheduled on a first come, first served basis. A limited number of spaces are available, so don’t wait too long! Be prepared for security checks prior to your admission to the building. Like most museums in the capital city, admission is free.

If you and your students are unable to travel to Washington, DC, you can take an unofficial virtual tour of the White House by clicking on the You Tube video below. Either way, happy touring!