Washington will be home to a new tourist attraction known as “The People’s House: A White House Experience,” where visitors can immerse themselves in a detailed replica of President Joe Biden’s office. The replica includes Biden’s desk, armchairs by the fireplace, and even the family Bible on a side table. Stewart McLaurin, the president of the White House Historical Association, mentioned that the replica Oval Office will be transformed to mimic the new president’s office once Biden’s successor takes office.
The center features an “Immersive Theater” that utilizes technology to periodically change into various notable rooms within the White House. McLaurin highlighted the opportunity for visitors to sit at the desk in the Oval Office and experience what it might feel like to be the President of the United States, a unique opportunity that is not typically available to the public during White House tours.
All elements within the replica Oval Office, including wallpaper, furniture, and artwork, are exact duplicates of the current Oval Office, down to the weathered family Bible. Technology plays a significant role in the experience, with a “digital column” showcasing the evolution of the physical office over the presidency and even doubling as a mirror for visitors to see themselves in the Oval Office setting.
Furthermore, the center offers visitors a chance to explore replicas of the White House State Floor rooms, such as the East Room and the State Dining Room, allowing for an interactive and educational experience. The exhibition also includes insights into how presidents utilize the White House for official duties, family gatherings, and social events like state dinners.
Additionally, visitors can learn about the various roles within the White House through video features of staff members such as the groundskeeper and florist. The education center incorporates technology across its three floors to provide historical information about the White House, its occupants, and its staff, aiming to enrich visitors’ understanding of this iconic residence.
The White House Historical Association, a nonprofit organization founded by Jacqueline Kennedy in 1961, funded the center’s $60 million construction and operating costs. The association aims to secure a $50 million endowment to ensure sustainable operations. Admission to the center is free, but timed tickets are required for entry, with an expected daily capacity of 800 visitors. First Lady Jill Biden, a community college professor, has lauded the center’s innovative approach to sharing White House history and has been actively involved in its development.
