President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden recently hosted a dinner to commemorate the unveiling of a reimagined public White House tour. The first lady spearheaded the update of the White House public tour, with the official reveal scheduled for Monday.
During the event, President Biden emphasized the importance of inspiring future generations to contribute to the ongoing history of the White House. Referring to himself and the first lady as 'temporary renters' of 'the People's House,' he acknowledged the symbolic role they play in the nation's heritage. The president's term is set to conclude in a few months, following his decision not to seek re-election.
Jill Biden expressed her enthusiasm for the revamped White House tour, stating that while the dinner marked the culmination of one phase of their work, it signaled the beginning of a new chapter in White House public tours. She described her tenure as first lady as 'the honor of my life.'
The updates to the White House tour coincide with Washington, D.C.'s shoulder season, the transitional period between peak tourism and off-season. Additionally, preparations are underway for the upcoming presidential election, which will bring about a change in administrations.
Notably, a new tourist attraction offering visitors a glimpse into the White House has emerged in the past year. A replica of President Joe Biden's Oval Office was unveiled in September at The People's House: A White House Experience. While the actual Oval Office is not part of the standard White House public tour, this new stop provides a unique opportunity for guests to explore a simulated version of the iconic space.
White House tours remain a popular and cost-free activity for visitors, who can request tours through the White House or their congressional representatives.