Visit The White House and the Washington Monument

Any first-time visitor to Washington, D.C. should make time to see the White House and Washington Monument, two marbleized representations of the free world, even if they are only in town for a short period. And today, you may take a glass-enclosed elevator up to the monument's top observation deck to take in 360-degree views of the city. The attraction's exterior can be explored for free all day long, but National Park Service rangers are only accessible to answer inquiries from 9:30 am to 10 pm. Every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., people can see the monument itself.

The White House is situated next to the Washington Monument to the north. If you decide to take a tour of the building, you can go to the State Floor, which has the East Room, Green Room, and Blue Room. You must make arrangements with the office of your senator or House representative at least 21 days in advance to take part in a tour, and keep in mind that last-minute cancellations sometimes occur. Tuesday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and Friday and Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., are the hours for self-guided tours. Recent tourists advise coming at least 15 minutes early because security lines can be lengthy (particularly during the summer). The Blue, Silver, and Orange lines' Farragut West, McPherson Square, Metro Center, and Federal Triangle stops, as well as those on the Red Line's Farragut North and Metro Center, are all close to the White House. Consult the White House's official website to arrange your visit. The best bus tours and a number of the city's top guided excursions include stops at the White House and the Washington Monument.

• Ranking: #14 in Best Things To Do in Washington, D.C.

Location: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Price & Hours: Free & 24/7 daily

Website:https://www.whitehouse.gov/