First Lady Melania Trump makes announcement about the White House

The White House is opening its doors for public tours. First Lady Melania Trump announced on Wednesday that the public tours will resume at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue starting on Feb. 25. 

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“The President and I are excited to reopen the White House to those interested in the extraordinary story of this iconic and beautiful landmark," the first lady said in a statement shared by her office on Feb. 12 "There is much to learn about the American Presidency, the First Families who have lived here, and our Nation’s rich history from a firsthand experience at the White House. This opportunity is unique among nations around the globe—a tradition we are honored to continue for the hundreds of thousands of visitors who come each year."

Melania graced the cover of digital editions of HOLA! USA and HELLO! earlier this month. In the exclusive, interior designer Tham Kannalikham, who was appointed to the Committee for the Preservation of the White House in 2019, said, "Both Mrs. Trump and I were not born in America, yet we share a profound sense of attachment and responsibility to this country. We felt a deep obligation to give the White House the respect it deserves, understanding our role as stewards of this historic home." 

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Ahead of her husband President Donald Trump's inauguration last month, the first lady was asked by Fox & Friends co-host Ainsley Earhardt where she would be spending most of her time. "I will be in the White House," Melania answered. "And when I need to be in New York, I will be in New York. When I need to be in Palm Beach, I will be in Palm Beach."

"But my first priority is, you know, to be a mom, to be a first lady, to be a wife," she added, "and once we are in on January 20, you serve the country."

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Before planning your visit to the White House, here is everything to know about the public tours:

When will the White House public tours begin?

The White House will open for public tours on Tuesday, Feb. 25.

Do the White House public tours have a tour guide?

The tours are self-guided, according to the Office of the First Lady, but Secret Service officers stationed along the tour route will be available to answer questions about each room’s history, art, furnishings and more!

How long are the White House public tours?

The tours "typically last 45 minutes."

What time are the White House public tours?

The public tours will be available Tuesdays through Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m—excluding federal holidays.

What much are the White House public tours?

The White House tours are free!

How to request a White House public tour?

Per the Office of the First Lady, the tours must be requested through members of Congress, and are scheduled on a first-come-first-served basis.

For more information, visit Whitehouse.gov/Visit.