When visiting Washington, D.C., one cannot miss the White House. But did you know that there is a souvenir shop near the White House where you can find Washington, D.C.-themed souvenirs?
In addition to the White House, Washington, D.C. is home to many other tourist attractions, each with its own official shop. However, due to their location in tourist areas, these shops often have higher prices, making it difficult for many people to make purchases unless they are determined to buy something specific.
However, both the White House Gifts and the previously mentioned Washington Welcome Center, although located in tourist areas, offer relatively affordable prices compared to official shops. Additionally, they have extended operating hours, allowing you to visit them conveniently on your way back from sightseeing.
If you’re planning a trip to Washington, D.C., please read on until the end.
Souvenir Shops close to the White House
White House Gifts is located on the south side of the block where 15th Street and New York Avenue intersect.
To the west, across 15th Street, you’ll find the Department of the Treasury building, and to the north is Pennsylvania Avenue, which faces the front side of the White House. This location makes it easily recognizable when viewing the White House from its northern side.
The shop has a storefront display, so you’ll immediately recognize it as a souvenir shop. It has extended operating hours from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm, allowing you to conveniently stop by early in the morning before sightseeing or in the evening after your sightseeing activities.
Top 3 Souvenirs to Buy Here
While White House Gifts offers a wide range of Washington, D.C.-themed souvenirs, I’d like to suggest three items that are easy to purchase.
Chocolate with Packaging featuring Washington, D.C.’s Landmarks
When you hear “chocolate,” you might think, “Oh, just chocolate again?” However, don’t underestimate the power of chocolate. It is a consumable item, making it an easy gift for anyone. Additionally, since it’s not a liquid, it’s convenient to bring back to Japan. Although these chocolates may be slightly more expensive than those found in regular supermarkets due to their tourist spot pricing, since you’re visiting Washington, D.C., why not choose chocolates that represent the city?
Bath Amenities
These items are a cross between consumable products and interior decor. White House-themed bath towels, face towels, and soaps are available, allowing you to choose the perfect gift based on the recipient. One particularly recommended item is the soap, which is small in size and doesn’t take up much space. Compared to Japanese soaps, these soaps are more concentrated, providing an excellent washing experience.
Snow Globes
This is a classic souvenir item found in tourist destinations. White House Gifts sells snow globes featuring popular Washington, D.C. landmarks such as the White House and the Lincoln Memorial. They are highly popular and make for a great gift for both snow globe collectors and as a memento of your trip to Washington, D.C.
When You Buy Many Souvenirs at this Shop…
White House Gifts, being a souvenir shop in a tourist area, may be slightly more expensive compared to regular supermarkets. However, if you buy many souvenirs here, you’ll receive a special benefit.
When you make a purchase of $50 or more, you can have a commemorative photo taken at their attached photo studio, and they will print one copy for free. The photo studio is located south of the shop, where you can turn left at the first intersection, G Street, after leaving the store.
Inside the studio, there are sets resembling the Oval Office and the Briefing Room, where you can take two photos. Afterwards, you can choose the best photo using the computer, and they will print it for you on the spot. If you want both the Oval Office and the Briefing Room photos, there is an additional charge of $15. Feel free to choose the option that suits your preference.
Perfect for Both Gift Recipients and Personal Mementos
White House Gifts not only offers Washington, D.C.-themed souvenirs but also provides the opportunity for commemorative photos. This makes it a recommended shop for both gift recipients and for creating personal mementos of your trip to Washington, D.C.
Since it is located near the White House, it is perfect for visiting before or after sightseeing. If your hotel is in close proximity, it’s even more convenient as you can easily stop by multiple times during your stay. So, if you find yourself caught up in sightseeing and are worried about forgetting to buy souvenirs, this shop will come in handy as your go-to souvenir shop.
