This year’s spring White House Garden Tours were originally scheduled for this Saturday, April 5, and Sunday, April 6. However, due to security concerns regarding a planned demonstration near the White House, the Saturday tours are cancelled. Tours will be given on Sunday only.
Walk Through History
According to the National Park Service, The White House grounds are the oldest continually maintained landscape in the country. Visitors have the opportunity to see the two formal gardens: the Rose Garden near the West Wing, and the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden near the East Wing.
The current Rose Garden reflects a 2020 renovation initiated by first lady Melania Trump. The original design was created by Rachel Lambert “Bunny” Mellon in 1962 at the request of President John F. Kennedy. Three of the four original saucer magnolias planted in the corners commemorate President Kennedy.
Mellon also designed the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, which was completed during the Lyndon B. Johnson administration. Visitors can see Mellon’s French-inspired elements as well as a pergola designed by famed architect I. M. Pei.
You can also tour the Kitchen Garden, which was established in 2009 on the lower South Lawn by first lady Michelle Obama. The garden provides locally grown vegetables, fruits, and herbs for the first family and White House guests. Jill Biden added a floral cutting garden in 2021 to continue her tradition of bringing fresh cut flowers as gifts when she traveled.
Along with the gardens, visitors can view many of the ornamental trees planted by former presidents.
Ticket Information
Free, timed tickets will be distributed from a tent outside the White House Visitor Center at 8:30 a.m. on April 6. The visitor center is located at 1450 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW.
All attendees, regardless of age, must have a ticket. The tickets specify a time on the hour or half hour to enter the grounds for your tour.
Be sure to check the official site to see the many items that are prohibited on the White House grounds.
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
