Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next President's Park (White House) adventure.
The White House serves as the focal point of the Executive Branch of government. It's also a national park. Citizens and tourists can view the grounds surrounding the White House (without a security clearance).
President's Park is more than just the White House. It's also Lafayette Park and the Ellipse. Lafayette Park pays tribute to the French contribution to the American Revolution. Without Gen. Lafayette's troops, America might still be a British colony. The Ellipse is a massive open space that was once a parade ground for military troops.
The visitor's center is where everything starts if you're not the commander-in-chief. There are more than 100 historical artifacts related to the president here. Prepare for a security screening before entering the place.
See statues that memorialize the history of the nation after you depart the visitor's center. During the winter holidays, the national Christmas tree dominates the yard with its massive light display.
Sherman Park marks the spot where Gen. William T. Sherman reviewed troops returning from the Civil War. Imagine looking over columns and columns of soldiers standing at attention and awaiting your command. It's okay to have a bit of a power trip here.
If you want to go inside the White House, you must schedule a tour. This means contacting your representative to Congress. You also need to get past the Secret Service for this one.
Chances are slim that you'll run into the president of the United States while inside. However, you can see historic rooms, paintings, and statues that pay homage to the office of the president.