The White House: contact both of your U.S. Senators and your representative -- now -- and see if they can get you on a tour of The White House. This is pretty late notice for summer 2010 but they might be able to. This would save you standing in line for a public ticket.

Best not to take anything to the White House other than your wallet, phone and car keys. They do allow umbrellas. Pretty much everything else is forbidden.


Prohibited items include, but are not limited to, the following: handbags, book bags, backpacks, purses, food and beverages of any kind, strollers, cameras, video recorders or any type of recording device, tobacco products, personal grooming items (make-up, hair brush or comb, lip or hand lotions, etc.), any pointed objects (pens, knitting needles, etc.), aerosol containers, guns, ammunition, fireworks, electric stun guns, mace, martial arts weapons/devices, or knives of any size. The U.S. Secret Service reserves the right to prohibit any other personal items.

Umbrellas, wallets, cell phones and car keys are permitted.

Please note that no storage facilities are available on or around the complex. Individuals who arrive with prohibited items will not be permitted to enter the White House.