hoover building tour

Can I Tour FBI Headquarters in Washington, DC?

Yes, you can tour the fbi education center, but visits require up to a month of advanced notice..

Seeing the J. Edgar Hoover Building, or FBI HQ (as some in the know might call it), is a pretty great way to experience the increasingly important work the FBI does to protect this city – and this country.

You must arrange your visit through your Congressional office. Visit this website to find out the name and contact information for your Congressional representative. The FBI requires up to a month for advance notice from Congressional offices prior to your visit; this is because the FBI will perform a security check on all visitors. The visit itself will take about two hours.

The FBI Headquarters  is located between 9th and 10th Streets NW. The closest Metro subway stops are Federal Triangle on the Orange, Blue and Silver lines, Gallery Place/Chinatown and Metro Center on the Red Line, and Archives/Navy Memorial on the Yellow and Green lines.

Matt C via Flickr

More on the FBI Building and Tour

The tour of the FBI is actually one of the oldest ones around. It started in 1937, when headquarters was in the Department of Justice building. In 1975, the FBI moved to its current location, the J. Edgar Hoover Building, on Pennsylvania Avenue NW.

After Sept. 11, the tour closed for security reasons. Never fear, sleuths of all ages. It’s now back open and, we’d say, better than ever. The tour was modernized and updated in 2008, as the FBI created a full-fledged Education Center to assist in teaching the public the importance and central role of the FBI in law enforcement and national security.

But what does the FBI actually do?

Surely, you’ll learn just a bit more about that on the tour, but we can clue you in on a couple things. The FBI’s mission is to protect the United States from internal and external threats, whether clear and imminently dangerous, or more metaphysical and long-term, all with the goal of improving the security of our nation. The FBI has grown and changed since its inception, now incorporating both intelligence and law enforcement in its mandate. That means it works to uphold local and national laws, but also investigate those hard-to-define threats. And, OK, since you probably aren’t a special agent, we can tell you some of the things these important people, stationed all over the world, look into: domestic and international terrorism, counterintelligence, cyberwarfare, corruption, civil rights, organized crime (the “mob”), white-collar crime and more.

There are so many great tours and sightseeing opportunities in Washington, DC. Discover your next tour adventure .

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Inside Look: Touring the FBI Headquarters in Washington DC

I’ve always been fascinated by the inner workings of the FBI. So when I learned that they offer public tours of the J. Edgar Hoover Building in Washington DC, their headquarters, I knew I had to find a way to visit.

Planning a trip to DC can be a bit of a juggling act. You gotta align your visit with when things will actually be open. So, when I was putting in my White House Ticket request three months in advance and saw that you could tour the FBI too, I jumped.

The tour was on the top of my son’s wish list. When we told him about it, I didn’t want to get his hopes up.

The thing is, you can do everything right, pass a background check, but still not get in. The wait was agonizing, but it ended up being the highlight of the entire trip!

How to get tickets to tour the FBI in Washington DC?

Obtaining tickets for the FBI tour requires careful preparation and perseverance. Unlike most tourist attractions, you can’t simply book online. Instead, you need to request tickets through your state representative’s office.

I contacted my congressman’s office 3 months before my visit. They submitted the request to the FBI, and about 3 weeks later, they called to verify my identity and background information.

After completing a basic background check, it became a waiting day. That’s because they don’t confirm your visit until 1 week beforehand.

My hunch is that they need to keep things flexible in case high profile events are going on. And in the fall of 2023, there are a few.

Arriving at the FBI

When the big day arrived, I made sure to arrive 30 minutes early at the Pennsylvania Ave address. We actually went there 45 minutes early and took a quick side trip to Ford Theatre just a few blocks away.

When it comes to the FBI, they are a very secure locked down building. We showed up to find a few others waiting outside the building and a few others walking out.

They had just been turned away for walking 31 minutes early.

We decided to give it a try right on time and had a little pushback before they realized it was the right time.

We showed them our Drivers Licenses, and they gave us our lanyards and visitors passes. There are no official tickets, just a reservation.

One rule in the FBI is no cameras in the main part of the building. You also have to have your phones in Airplane mode.

I went through a security screening and proceeded down to the waiting area. The tour actually starts in the gift shop where I picked up a few souvenirs. My group and I were then escorted to the engaging FBI Experience. This is where the real fun began!

The FBI Experience covers two floors. The tour starts on the second floor. You’ll be outside in their atrium and climb a flight of stairs. You’ll exit the tour at the back of the building.

Touring the FBI Headquarters in Washington DC

The FBI Experience has a series of exhibits and activities that provides an insider’s view of FBI operations. Now that we were in the experience, we were allowed to take photos and document our visit. Some of the highlights included:

• Shooting range – No photos here, and it was being remolded. But you can see agents in action!
• Bank robbery investigative experience – I had to study the evidence and catch the suspect.
• Computer forensics lab – I analyzed data just like computer forensic teams.
• Hidden camera room – I searched for tiny hidden cameras with my phone flashlight. Found both. There is a video monitor on the other side of the room to help guide you. If you want a hint, make sure to ask an agent.
• Spy equipment from different operations.
• Historical artifacts – I saw the Unabomber’s journal, items from 9/11, John Dillinger’s Tommy gun, and more.
• FBI’s Most Wanted Wall – The infamous top 10 list with photos/descriptions of fugitives.

Throughout the experience, there were FBI agents on hand that provided additional details and answered all of your questions. It was great getting an insider’s view.

The agents were super friendly. I think part of it was in my head, but the agents around the outside of the building were a little more intimidating.

The tour took about 1 hour and 30 minutes total. You don’t have to stay with your group and can take as much time as you need.

Each admission group had around 30 people. If you don’t get a tour, that’s probably why. Unless you were flagged in your background check.

At the end, we all took a fun quiz to find out what FBI job we would be best suited for. I got forensic scientist! The kids are both suited to be Special Agents.

We got to leave with a sevener, our security badges.

Frequently Asked Questions about FBI Headquarters Tours

How do i get tickets to tour the fbi.

You need to request them through your state representative or congressperson’s office. The FBI does not handle public ticket bookings.

How far in advance should I request tickets to Tour the FBI?

You can request tours up to 5 months in advance and no later than 4 weeks before. Tickets are limited and the background check process takes time. The earlier the better!

What are the hours and days that tours take place?

Tours run Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., excluding federal holidays.

What is the cost?

The tours are free.

What should I bring To the FBI Tour?

Bring yourself, your photo ID, wallet, and your phone. That’s it!

The list of prohibited items includes bags larger than 8 ½” x 11”, cameras (point and shoot, SLR, video records), strollers, food, drinks, tobacco, aerosols, and weapons.

Bring a printed ticket, photo ID, and leave any other personal items (including cell phones and cameras) secured off site.

Would I recommend the FBI Experience Tour in Washington DC?

I highly recommend taking the FBI tour if you ever get the chance. It provides a one-of-a-kind look at the storied history and fascinating operations within the bureau.

Just be prepared for the detailed planning required to secure tickets. The early effort pays off for this rare experience!

If you really love the spy parts of the tour, check out the Spy Museum!

Minnesota native and Midwest travel expert Jennifer provides insider tips and budget-friendly trip ideas for families looking to explore the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Through her travel blog DayTripper28, she draws on first-hand experience to recommend the best hidden gems, outdoor adventures, road trips, and weekend getaways around Minnesota and the Midwest. With her passion for uncovering local flavors and culture along the backroads, Jennifer shares affordable itineraries for creating memorable experiences across the region.

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Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 24 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

Tour the FBI Building in Washington DC

This post is about how to visit and take a tour of the FBI Experience at the FBI Headquarters in Washington, DC.

We include tips on how to plan your visit, and what you will see. 

• How to Book a Tour
• Getting Here
• FBI Experience Museum
• About the Building
• Things to Do in DC

Can I Tour the FBI Building Headquarters?

The FBI building is technically closed to the public. However, with advance planning and help from your Congressperson, you can still tour the FBI Education Center.

Originally created as a way to introduce new employees and other government officials to the workings of the FBI, in 2014, it was opened to the public.

Like arranging a visit to the White House , you must go through your Congressperson. The tours can be scheduled for business days 9 am - 3 pm. The building is closed on federal holidays.

(You can find out who you Member of Congress is here ). 

This must be done no less than four weeks in advance. All applicants for a tour of the FBI Education Center will be vetted and subject to a background check. You will need to provide your:

• date of birth
• social security number

For groups of 20 or more, you can submit a request directly here. Don't try to request a tour with this link if you have less than 20 people, as it will be ignored.

FBI Tours are open to US citizens and green card holders only.

If you are cleared to enter the FBI Building, you will be notified two weeks prior to your confirmed date.

If you are granted a tour, plan on 2 hours for the tour itself and arriving 15 minutes early. The tours operate on weekdays during normal business hours.

SECURITY AT THE FBI HEADQUARTERS

There is no storage at the FBI Headquarters. If you're looking for bag storage before your tour, check out our post on luggage storage in DC .

The following items are  strictly prohibited  and may  not  be brought into FBI Headquarters: 

• Backpacks, diaper bags, fanny packs, briefcases, luggage, computer and camera bags, or bags and purses larger than a clutch
• Point-and-shoot cameras, SLR cameras, or video recorders; cell phone cameras are permitted but must be on airplane mode during the visit.
• Food, beverages, tobacco products, personal grooming items (e.g. makeup, lotion, etc.)
• Any pointed objects
• Aerosol containers
• Guns, ammunition, fireworks, electric stun guns, mace, martial arts weapons/devices, or any knives.

Can you take photos on the FBI Tour?

Yes! You may take photos inside the FBI Experience exhibit only. You will not be able to take photographs at all in the screening process

HOW TO GET HERE

Conveniently located downtown Washington, DC ( map ), it is very easy to get to the FBI Building.

Metro: The FBI Building is about a five-minute walk from four different Metro stations. Read our guide on how to use the DC Metro (subway).

• Federal Triangle: Blue/Orange/Silver
• Archives/Navy Memorial: Yellow/Green
• Chinatown: Red/Yellow/Green
• Metro Center: Blue/Orange/Silver

It is also on Pennsylvania Ave NW, and a direct walk from the White House or the US Capitol Building , an easy walk from the Smithsonian Museums on the National Mall, and you can see it from Ford's Theatre .

Parking: You will find street parking in the area surrounding the FBI Building, just not directly in front of the building. If you need a parking garage, the closest is on 10th St NW between E and F Streets NW, just next to Ford's Theatre.  

We recommend booking convenient and affordable parking in advance through SpotHero, the nation’s leading parking reservation app.

To reserve your parking spot, visit the SpotHero Parking Page and book a spot with rates up to 50% off drive-up.

New to SpotHero? Click here to download the SpotHero app.

The FBI Experience Museum

Once through security, an escort takes you to another secure area, across the courtyard (they have workout equipment, an outdoor running track, tables, etc.) and into the FBI Experience Museum.

Your escort gives you an intro but then the museum is self-guided.

Visitor services reps are stationed throughout to answer questions - all are FBI or former FBI agents or employees and are very knowledgeable.

Some of the highlights of the tour are:

In the exhibit on surveillance, find the hidden camera in the painting - it’s the period in the signature!

You can check out the desk of infamous FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover, who the headquarters building is named for.

There are also some artifacts on display that take your breath away, like this case with ephemera collected from the World Trade Center on 9/11.

The J. Edgar Hoover FBI Headquarters

The FBI moved into this building in 1975 from the Department of Justice building across the street.

It was immediately criticized and remains unloved by most to this day. In fact, the FBI will be moving soon - the building has reached the end of its lifespan.

It is not yet public knowledge where the FBI Headquarters will relocate or what will happen to this building or plot of land.

The FBI wanted a building that was bomb-proof for the first few levels and had secured access points throughout.

The design firm of Murphy & Associates were hired to design the structure.

The building includes theaters, classrooms, auditoriums and three levels below ground, as well as:

• An automobile repair shop
• A two-story basketball court
• Cryptographic vault
• Developing laboratories for both still photography and motion pictures
• Exercise rooms
• A film library
• A firing range
• 80,000 square feet (7,400 m 2 ) of laboratory space
• A medical clinic
• A printing plant
• A test pattern and ballistics range

Despite its immense size, not all of the FBI's holdings are kept inside the Hoover Building in downtown Washington DC.

The FBI Laboratory is located in Quantico, Virginia at Marine Base Quantico. It is one of the largest crime labs in the world.

FBI Building Flags

As you walk along the Pennsylvania Ave side of the building, you'll notice many American flags along the FBI Building.

Look closely, they are each different. Starting at 10th St NW, you'll notice 10 different flags flanked by our current 50-star flag.

• The Flag of 1777 , which had no official arrangement for the 13 stars. It was flown by John Paul Jones on the USS Ranger and was the first American flag to be recognized by a foreign power.
• The Betsy Ross Flag , 13 stars, designed by George Washington, Betsy Ross, and Francis Hopkinson. Although rarely used, it was adopted by Congress on June 14, 1777--the official date of today's Flag Day.
• The Bennington Flag , 13 six-pointed stars, allegedly flown August 16, 1777, over military stores at the Battle of Bennington, Vermont, when the Vermont militia beat back a superior British force.
• The Star Spangled Banner , 15 stars and 15 stripes, immortalized by Francis Scott Key in our National Anthem during the bombardment of Ft. McHenry, Maryland, in September 13, 1814.
• The Flag of 1818 , 20 stars, commissioned by a Congressional Flag Act that returned the design to 13 stripes and stipulated that stars be added for each new state.
• The Great Star Flag , 20 stars, designed by Captain Samuel Chester Reid, U.S. Navy, at the request of New York Congressman Peter Wendover and flown over the U.S. Capitol on April 13, 1818.
• The Lincoln Flag , 34 stars, raised by President Lincoln on February 22, 1861, over Philadelphia's Independence Hall to send a message to Southern states, which were preparing to secede from the Union.
• The Iwo Jima Flag , 48 stars, which was commissioned in 1912 but came to symbolize our Nation on February 19, 1945, when U.S. Marines raised it on Mount Suribachi after fearful fighting in World War II's Pacific campaign.
• The 49-Star Flag , commissioned in 1959 when Alaska achieved full Statehood. It flew for only one year, until July 4, 1960, after Hawaii achieved its Statehood and when today's 50-star flag became official.

Related Content:

• How to Get Tickets to the Washington Monument
• How to Get Tickets to the Holocaust Museum
• How to Visit the White House on a Public Tour
• Can I tour the Pentagon?
• Free Tours by Foot

Check out our DC Tourism Guide , with budget advice, travel guides, and information about local Washington DC attractions, including Free Things to Do in DC .

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The FBI Experience

935 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

202-324-3000

The FBI Experience is a self-guided tour at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C. Open to the public, the tour features interactive multimedia exhibits, content, and artifacts — including a number of items from notable cases on display for the very first time — that help illustrate the importance of the Bureau’s work to protect the nation.

Visitors to the FBI Experience will learn how the Bureau operates in the field, at headquarters, and within communities across the country. They will also gain a rare look inside the organization’s investigative divisions, laboratory resources, professional occupations, and more.

Admission:   Visits to the FBI Experience must be scheduled no later than four weeks in advance of your desired visit date.

Visit the FBI Experience website for more information.

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Office of Security

• Hchb Security

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All visitors to the Herbert C. Hoover Building (HCHB), including federal employees that are not Ronald Reagan Building occupants must go through security screening upon their arrival.  

Non-Federal Visitors are required to present a valid, non-expired, accepted government form of photo identification. The visitor’s information is documented on a visitor access log and their sponsor is required to escort them while in the HCHB.   

Federal Visitors are required to present a valid, non-expired, federal form of photo identification and are allowed access without an escort once they have been through security screening. Federal visitors must be escorted during HCHB security hours. 

Non-Government Visitors and Contractors Without Department-Issued ID

• Must enter through the main entrance on 14th Street and tunnel entrance unless previous arrangements have been made with OSY.
• Must pass through the magnetometer and/or be scanned with handheld screening devices.
• Must have all packages, briefcases, purses, etc. scanned or searched.
• Access to HCHB requires any person desiring entry to possess one of the following forms of photo identification: official government ID, law enforcement badge and credentials, a DOC employee ID, DOC contractor ID, and/or DOC visitor pass and must sign the visitor’s log.
• Will receive and must display a Visitor’s badge, which will be visible at all times while in the building, located on the front of the outside garment at chest-level.
• The visitor must provide the name and phone number of the Department employee or organization they wish to visit to the receptionist, who will contact that person or organization.
• Must be escorted by a Department employee while inside the building.
• Visitors must be escorted to an exit by a Department employee and return the assigned visitor badge upon completion of the visit.
• Regardless of which Department employee escorts the visitor out of the building, the employee who initially sponsored the visitor is responsible for the visitor’s badge and the visitor’s conduct while on the HCHB campus.
• Unescorted guests will be referred to the HCHB Special Police and employees who fail to escort assigned guests will be referred to their supervisor and may lose authorization to escort.
• Must have vehicles inspected if requiring access to the North and South courtyards or garages.
• Individuals accessing any area of HCHB must possess and continuously display one valid form of identification discussed above on the upper torso of the front part of the body.

Foreign National Visitors

• Sponsors of Foreign National Visitors (FNVs) are required to contact the Security Service Center (SSC) at least 24 hours prior to arrival of their visitors to coordinate access.
• Employee sponsors of FNVs must complete the Foreign National Visitor and Guest Departmental Sponsor Briefing , sign the acknowledgement page at the end of the briefing, and email it to [email protected] .
• All visits to the Department by FNVs must be coordinated at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled visit. Sponsors must provide the personal information of their FNVs by using the FNV Request Form , sending it via encrypted email to [email protected]  or providing the SSC with a hard copy. FNVs will not be admitted to the facility without the completion and approval of this form. 

Federal Bureau of Investigation Tours and Information

The FBI Experience

The FBI Experience is a self-guided tour at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C. Open to the public, the tour features interactive multimedia exhibits, content, and artifacts—including a number of items from notable cases on display for the very first time—that help illustrate the importance of the Bureau's work to protect the nation.

The FBI tour became the public face of the FBI in 1937, when FBI Headquarters was located in the Department of Justice building in Washington, D.C. After the J. Edgar Hoover FBI Building opened in 1975, the tour quickly became a highlight for visitors to the nation's capital. However, due to security concerns following the events of September 11, 2001, the tour was closed.

Repurposing artifacts and information from the old tour, the FBI opened the Education Center in 2008 to provide an opportunity for new employees and law enforcement partners to learn more about the Bureau and its work. In 2014, the FBI launched a pilot program that opened the Education Center to the public. This allowed the Bureau the opportunity to tell its story—including its history, capabilities, and ideas for the future—to a wider audience.

The Education Center closed in 2016 so the FBI could make way for a new, revitalized tour that explores the FBI and its mission to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution of the United States. The FBI Experience opened its doors to the American people on July 10, 2017 and has quickly become a popular site for visitors to Washington, D.C.

Visitors to The FBI Experience will learn how the Bureau operates in the field, at Headquarters, and within communities across the country. They will also gain a rare look inside the organization's investigative divisions, laboratory resources, professional occupations, and more. The rich experience tells the story of the FBI's internal operations and history, as well as how its cooperation with local, state, federal, and international partners helps further its unique role in national security and law enforcement.

What do you need to know?

All visitors to The FBI Experience must be U.S. citizens or valid green card holders (permanent residents).

Operating hours are Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., excluding federal holidays.

You can schedule a visit to The FBI Experience up to five months in advance but no later than four weeks prior to the desired visit date.

All visitors age 16 and older must present a government-issued photo ID upon entrance. School IDs will also be accepted.

No storage facilities are available at FBI Headquarters. Individuals who arrive with prohibited items will not be permitted to enter.

Prohibited Items:  Bags larger than 8 ½" x 11"  Point-and-shoot cameras, SLR cameras, video recorders, and iPads  Strollers  Food or beverages of any kind  Tobacco products  Aerosol containers  Guns, ammunition, fireworks, electric stun guns, mace, martial arts weapons/devices, knives, or any pointed objects  Permitted Items:  Wallets, cell phones, car keys, and umbrellas  Purses and bags that are sized 8 ½" x 11" or smaller  Any items required for medical purposes (e.g. wheelchairs, electric scooters, glucose tablets, EpiPens, etc.)

How do I get scheduled for a tour?

Click here to visit the official Federal Bureau of Investigation's website.

• [email protected]
• 202-600-2488

FBI Building Tour

I’m reminded of just how prominent the FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) is in American popular culture each time I pass the J. Edgar Hoover FBI Building on Pennsylvania Avenue.  On our private tours, people tend to respond with an audible “Ah” and a nod the moment the see the building, remembering the many books, movies, and TV shows that feature the FBI. 

My personal favorite is Agent Clarice Starling in  The Silence of the Lambs . The next question often is, “Can we take a tour?” FBI building tours were suspended indefinitely in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on 9/11, but that’s not the end of the story. While the Bureau cited security concerns and costs as the primary reasons for discontinuing the public tour, in 2008 they opened an education center inside the J. Edgar Hoover FBI Building as a source of training for new employees and to instruct its law enforcement partners (state, local, international, etc.). About a year ago on August 25, 2014 the FBI began a pilot program that opened the FBI Education Center to the public.  Now anyone can request a visit to the FBI building in advance.

Here are the requirements: the FBI requires potential visitors to request a tour through on of their members of congress about 3 to 4 weeks in advance.  Advance notice is required so that the Bureau can conduct a security background check for each visitor in advance.  Times are also limited to visits Monday through Thursday during normal business ours. So the good news is everyone can visit the FBI Building if plans are made in advance. And if you pass the background check!  For the most part, people have remained unaware that a visit is possible. Custom Tours of DC is happy to help you plan a private customized tour that includes a visit to the FBI Building.  Please contact us!

Custom Tours of DC – A Private Tour Agency

Custom Tours of DC arranges private tours and plans custom itineraries for individuals and groups.

1030 15th Street N.W., #212 Washington, DC 20005

Book Your Tour

Send us details for your tour. Be sure to include dates, times, number of participants and your tour interests. We’ll contact you as soon as possible.

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President’s Park (White House) | WHITE HOUSE VISITOR CENTER

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White House Visitor Center in the Herbert Hoover Building

GENERAL INFORMATION

The White House Visitor Center is by far the most elaborate visitor center in the National Park system, and at 16,000 square feet, undoubtedly the largest. It’s like being inside one of the Smithsonian museums; even the bathrooms are fancy. Its ornateness can be attributed to the fact that it is located in the Herbert Hoover Building (aka Department of Commerce Building), one of the many government buildings within the Federal Triangle in downtown Washington. Constructed in the early 1930s, the building takes up an entire city block. To get to the Visitor Center, head directly to the corner of 15th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. All guests must pass through a security checkpoint—metal detector, everything out of your pockets—though this has nothing to do with Top Secret exhibits in the museum, it’s just that you are entering a Federal building.

Inside the White House Visitor Center

While this review focuses on the White House Visitor Center, there is another location with visitor services located at the northeast corner of the Ellipse called the Ellipse Visitor Pavilion. If all you need is a park brochure or other information, a restroom, or a place to buy a souvenir, forgo the hassle of the security check and stop in here.

Keep in mind that the White House Visitor Center is open to everyone, not just to those who have tickets for a White House Tour .

OPERATING HOURS

The White House Visitor Center and the Ellipse Visitor Pavilion are open daily from 7:30 AM to 4 PM, except when closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

• Information desk where you can pick up a free park brochure, walking tour map, and information on other attractions on the National Mall and in the District of Columbia area
• White House museum
• Book and souvenir store

White House Visitor Center gift store

Jewelry items on sale at the White House Visitor Center gift store

Located at the far end of the Visitor Center is a small theater that is cordoned off from the main exhibit area. A 14-minute film called White House: Reflections From Within shows every twenty minutes. The film features Presidents Barack Obama, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, George Bush Jr., Ronald Reagan, and a few First Ladies and other family members as they reminisce about their time in the White House. There is no objectionable material, unless you can’t stand one of the above mentioned presidents. The film is suitable for all ages.

White House Visitor Center movie theater

EXHIBIT AREA

The exhibit area at the White House Visitor Center is massive, but the displays are laid out so you never feel smothered by information. What makes this such a fascinating museum to walk through is that it is about people who you’ve heard and read about all of your life. When it comes down to it, the lives of presidents, particularly modern ones whose actions are covered by what amounts to political paparazzi, are as interesting as those of movie and rock stars. (You’ll even find photos of movie and rock stars such as Elvis and Sinatra because many of the top stars have performed at the White House.) As a result, you find yourself reading though the exhibits and looking at the photos far longer than you would at a typical National Park museum.

Information panels cover all sorts of topics and are filled with photos

Information on White House servants and a silver soup tureen purchased by James Monroe

The first exhibit you come to is a model of the White House surrounded by a panel of video screens, all featuring interactive programs. I brought my 10-year-old daughter with me, and this exhibit kept her occupied for some time. You can scroll through a timeline of White House history and see when additions such as the East and West Wings were added, and while you can never see the living quarters of the White House in person unless the President invites you up for a chat, you can take a virtual tour of the rooms, complete with 360° views of everything, even the ceilings and floors.

Model of the White House and interactive video screens

Sasha takes a virtual tour of the Lincoln Bedroom

Interactive video on the history of the White House

Just about every White House topic imaginable is covered on the many information panels, and there are nearly 100 artifacts on display.

Marble clock owned by President Ulysses S. Grant

Chair ordered by President James Monroe in 1817

Place setting used to serve Queen Elizabeth during the American Bicentennial celebration in 1976

Exhibit on the favorite dishes of various presidents

In addition to the park film that is shown in the movie theater, a few video screens are built right into the exhibits. These show short presentations, often nothing more than photo montages. There is one screen that actually has a small bench for you to sit and watch the show.

One of many video exhibits at the White House Visitor Center

SCHEDULING YOUR TIME

I spent two hours at the Visitor Center, but I not only watched the film, I read every information panel in the museum. That’s beyond the interest of most people, but I’d still set aside an hour if you want to learn a little about the White House. This gives you time to talk to a Ranger or volunteer at the information desk, see the film, and spend time in the museum. While I haven’t yet been to every National Park, I’ve been to over 200, and the White House Visitor Center is certainly one of my favorites.

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© 2014-2024 Copyright Steven L. Markos . All Rights reserved. Designed by National Park Planner

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An iconic destination on the Stanford University campus for exhibitions, observation deck, and carillon concerts

Upcoming Closures of Hover Tower The Tower will be closed on Saturday, June 29, 2024 , due to the Earthquakes game at Stanford Stadium. On Wednesday, July 4, 2024 , the Tower will be closed due to the Independence Day holiday. Hoover Tower will be closed on July 17, 2024 , due to scheduled maintenance.

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The exhibition galleries open at 10am and close at 4pm, Monday through Sunday, except as noted below.

The Lou Henry Hoover observation deck opens Monday through Friday at 10am and closes at 5pm. It opens Saturday and Sunday at 10am and closes at 6pm. Except as noted below.   Note: The last elevator goes up 30 minutes prior to closing. Please plan accordingly.

The Tower is open on Martin Luther King Jr, Presidents', Memorial, and Labor Day holidays, and closed for other university holidays and campus winter closure ( view holiday schedule ), as well as during Stanford home football games ( view schedule ).

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Please Note: The last elevator goes up 30 minutes prior to closing. Plan accordingly.

What's On View

Un-Presidented: Watergate and Power in America

February 12– August 11, 2024

Examine the unprecedented political scandal that was Watergate and its impact on America in this new exhibition.

In this centennial exhibition, learn the history of the Hoover Institution via a showcase of materials related to the ideas of peace, freedom, and education.

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Face coverings are strongly recommended while inside the historic Hoover Tower.

Visitor and hourly parking is enforced Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., with no enforcement on the weekends. Please visit the Stanford Transportation page to familiarize yourself with their new contactless process options: the ParkMobile app, website, or phone. The closest visitor parking lots are a 15-20 minute walk from the Hoover Tower.

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If you have a disability-related accommodation request, please contact us at least three days before your visit so we can begin working towards accommodating your request.

Contact us in advance for large groups.

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For further questions about the Lou Henry Hoover observation deck and carillon, please contact Stanford Guest Services at 650-723-2053 or  email .

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Hoover Building London Private Guided Tours

The Hoover Building in Ealing's Perivale is a prime example of art deco architecture built in 1933 as the UK headquarters and manufacturing centre for the Hoover Company. As demand for vacuum cleaners grew, the building was expanded over the coming years. At its height over 1600 workers were employed there and the site was considered a model factory regarding the welfare of the workforce.

The building was camouflaged during the war and used to manufacture aircraft parts. A Home Guard unit was even set up by the staff. The factory survived the war and was expanded again shortly after. Supermarket chain Tesco bought the property in the late 1980s and made some alterations to the northern area of the site. IDM Properties now owns the property and it has recently been converted into living accommodation. The building now enjoys Grade II listed status.

Art Deco Architecture

The Hoover Building and site was designed by architects Wallis, Gilbert and Partners who were also responsible for many other art deco styled buildings during the 1920s and 30s including Victoria Coach Station, the Pyrene Building and the General Electrical Company Witton Works in Birmingham.

Opened in 1933 by Lord Rochdale the Hoover Factory was a grand palatial structure described by the press as a 'Modern Palace of Industry'. Thomas Wallis said of the factory's design: ’A little money spent in the incorporation of some form of decoration, especially colour, is not money wasted. It has a psychological effect on the worker.'. A prominent geometric feature was the iconic art deco sunburst below the massive 'Hoover Limited' signage and recessed glass bay windows complimented the huge columns of the exterior facade. Interior features included the spectactular entrance and staircase both of which survive and still resonate art deco taste.

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Herbert C. Hoover Federal Building (Department of Commerce)

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White House Visitors Center

Pennsylvania Avenue Entrance Open daily 7:30 am to 4:00 pm Closed on Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year's Day.

1401 Constitution Ave, NW Washington, DC

Tasked with advancing economic growth, jobs, ad opportunities for the American people, the Department of Commerce experienced rapid growth in its first three decades (1903-1933), most significantly under the direction of Secretary Herbert Hoover (1921-1928). Originally housed in a collection of small leased buildings, the Department was scattered between twenty different locations by the time then-President Herbert Hoover laid the cornerstone of the new Commerce building in 1929. Designed by the New York architectural firm of York & Sawyer, the new Commerce headquarters was completed in 1932 and proclaimed the largest office building in the world with over 3,300 rooms and 1.8 million square feet of office space. Today, the building is still one of the largest in Washington DC, covering more than 8 acres and 3 city blocks and boasting 5200 windows, 1.5 million face bricks, 99 acres of plastering, and 25 tons of bronze hardware.

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2050 LONGMEADOW LN

Under Contract

Virtual Tour

Listed By ARC Realty Cahaba Heights , Betsy Carver

2050 LONGMEADOW LN HOOVER, AL 35216

2,046 Sq Ft

Status Active Under Contract

MLS# 21390496

Welcome home to this adorable 4BR/3BA home in the award winning Hoover City Schools! Fenced in backyard! One car garage! Bonus room! Large level lot with plenty of room to play! All appliances remain including washer/dryer/fridge! Convenient location to shopping, restaurants, & interstates! Move in ready and easy to show! Home improvements per Seller include but are not limited to: New water heater, HVAC updates (UV light, ducts cleaned, new freon pipe), Updated upstairs bathroom (flooring, vanity, drywall, light & mirror, new fixtures in bathtub/shower), Updated primary bathroom (shower tile, flooring, vanity, mirror, & light), Interior paint throughout, Gym flooring in basement bonus room, New smoke/gas detectors, New tamper proof outlets/doorknobs/switches, New light fixtures in many of the rooms, Updated laundry room (floor, drywall, light), New light bulbs, Painted fireplace & kitchen cabinets, Kitchen hardware, Landscaping, etc, etc... Electronic lockbox on front door. Must see!

Details for 2050 LONGMEADOW LN

Built in 1972

$159 / Sq Ft

1 parking space

Central (COOL),Electric (COOL)

Central (HEAT), Gas Heat

6 Days on website

0.44 acres lot

Dishwasher Built-In, Disposal, Freezer, Oven-Electric, Refrigerator, Stove-Electric

Bathrooms Full

Bathrooms Total

Bedrooms Total

Fireplace Features

Brick (FIREPL)

Carpet, Tile Floor, Vinyl

Interior Features

Multiple Staircases

Laundry Features

Washer Hookup

Living Area

2,046 SqFt.

Building And Construction

Property Sub Type

Single Family Residence

Property Type

Residential

Exterior And Lot

Exterior Features

Fenced Yard, Storage Building, Porch

Garage Spaces

Lot Features

Interior Lot, Some Trees, Subdivision

Lot Size Acres

Lot Size Square Feet

Parking Features

Attached, Driveway Parking, On Street Parking

Parking Total

Patio And Porch Features

Open (PATIO)

Central (COOL), Electric (COOL)

Area And Schools

County Or Parish

Elementary School

GREEN VALLEY

High School

Middle Or Junior School

SIMMONS, IRA F

Subdivision Name

Financial Info

Buyer Agency Compensation *

* The listing broker's offer of compensation is made only to participants of the MLS where the listing is filed.

Additional Info

F I R E P L A C E L O C A T I O N

Living Room (FIREPL)

Main Level Sqft

Area Information for 2050 LONGMEADOW LN