The People’s House: A High-Tech Journey Through the Oval Office

The new museum, The People’s House: A White House Experience, invites visitors to step into a lifelike replica of the Oval Office, complete with a chance to snap selfies at the iconic Resolute Desk. Opened on September 23, 2024, this immersive experience, provided by the White House Historical Association, is creating waves for its innovative blend of history and technology.

Visit the Oval Office like never before.

While many tourists yearn to catch a glimpse of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, they often find themselves only able to capture photos from the gates. Now, just a block away, the public can explore the rich legacy, customs, and personalities that have defined this historic mansion. This free-of-charge exhibit spans 33,000 square feet and was crafted with a budget of $85 million.

Merging History with Innovation

Stewart D. McLaurin, the president of the White House Historical Association, encapsulates the mission vividly:

“The White House itself is an accredited museum. We don’t want to create another Washington museum experience with objects under glass and framed things on the wall.”

Instead, the experience is designed to engulf visitors in cutting-edge technology that breathes life into the history of the executive mansion. The
People’s House exhibits transform ordinary tours into interactive adventures. Picture walking into a giant model of the White House, where state-of-the-art projections morph empty spaces into the lavish East, Red, Green, Blue, and State dining rooms.

Engage with history through technology.

Visitors can even participate in a reimagined Cabinet meeting or attend a simulated state dinner, all enhanced by audiovisual storytelling. Scroll through a gallery of interviews featuring the behind-the-scenes personnel—from military aides to florists—who keep the mansion running smoothly.

Education at Its Core

The museum caters not only to tourists but also to locals eager to immerse themselves in history. As McLaurin notes, the initiative aims to provide a modern and engaging way to appreciate the White House’s storied past.

The People’s House is a standout among Washington’s numerous museums, representing a model for contemporary exhibit design. A remarkable transformation from an understated organization, the White House Historical Association, founded on the aspirations of Jackie Kennedy in the early 1960s, is now boldly stepping into the future.

Discover the stories behind the scenes.

After her dismayed observations of the deteriorated state of the White House, Kennedy launched a campaign to preserve it as a living museum. Her vision gave rise to a nonprofit organization that has raised over $100 million to refurbish public spaces, conserve artwork, and acquire historical pieces. McLaurin emphasizes that their commitment to heritage remains nonpartisan, focused on collaboration with every president and first lady while maintaining the museum standards through private donations.

Reliving History

From a detailed design of the Blue Room’s original furnishings to animated discussions during pivotal moments of American history, the People’s House aims to create a tangible connection between visitors and significant events. McLaurin refers to the importance of education, sharing:

“You never know the seed you plant.”

The creative team behind the museum leveraged advanced technology, including touch screens and transparent monitors to enhance the interactive experience. The exhibit commences with an oversized model of the White House featuring digital overlays that tell the story of the 1814 fire that devastated it.

Experience the White House as it has never been shown before.

Once inside, visitors can engage with the replica Oval Office and participate in presidential trivia. They can also explore the lives of the many unsung staff members who work tirelessly behind the scenes, with stories delivered through multimedia presentations.

A Vision for Future Generations

The third floor offers classrooms and a lecture space, fostering educational initiatives aimed at engaging young visitors. As philanthropist Desiree Watson notes:

“We need to meet young people where they are… How can we make this an experience for everyone to enjoy?”

Watson’s goal echoes throughout the exhibit: to illuminate the significance of the White House, not just as a physical structure but as a symbol of democracy and community. Through an interactive exploration of the White House’s legacy, attendees can gain a deeper understanding of their history while kindling a passion for civic engagement.

As McLaurin reminisces about his own fifth-grade trip to Washington, he hopes the People’s House evokes similar sentiments in young visitors, inspiring future leaders:

“Maybe there is a future president of the United States among them.”

Plan Your Visit

If you’re planning to experience this groundbreaking exhibit, here are the details:

• Location: 1700 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
• Hours: Daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day)
• Tickets: Free, with timed-entry passes available for reservation at thepeopleshouse.org. Walk-up passes are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Estimated Visit Time: 75 to 90 minutes, with possibilities for longer visits depending on interactivity.

Engage with history education.

This exceptional endeavor embodies a stepping stone towards understanding democracy and national identity, ensuring the story of the White House continues to resonate for generations to come.