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President's Park (White House)North view of the White House (NPS Photo by Michael D. Moreno)
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President's Park (White House)
Explore President's Park
 

President's Park, which includes the park lands surrounding the White House, is composed of approximately 82 acres and is home for many significant statues, memorials and structures which give context to our lives today.

 
 

Trails Information

President's Park has two trails - one north and one south of the White House. On either trail you have the opportunity to learn about some of the individuals and events which have shaped our nation's history.

Both trails start at the White House Visitor Center, located at 1450 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, where a free guide for both trails is available. 

The northern trail takes you to Sherman Park, where the famous general once reviewed the troops returning from the Civil War, then north to Pennsylvania Avenue and Lafayette Park and ends at the majestic First Division Monument.

The southern trail leaves the visitor center and winds its way around the magnificent open parade ground known as the Ellipse, past monuments, memorials and fountains and ending at the fence surrounding the White House South Lawn.

On both trails you will have views of the White House, the home and office of the President of the United States. Just as the White House is the home of our nation's president and first family, President's Park is our nation's front yard!

Sherman Park
Northern Trail
See Sherman Park, Pennsylvania Avenue, Lafayette Park and First Division Monument
more...
Butt Millet Fountain
Southern Trail
View the Ellipse, monuments, memorials and fountains
more...
William McKinley, 25th President: 1897-1901  

Did You Know?
The first President to ride in an automobile was William McKinley. He was shot during the Pan American Exposition in Buffalo, NY. President McKinley was taken to the hospital in a 1901 Columbia electric ambulance.

Last Updated: August 26, 2006 at 08:14 EST