When you visit Washington, D.C., one place you should definitely consider visiting is the White House, the political center of the United States. The White House offers guided tours for tourists, so if you have the opportunity, why not take advantage of it? In this tour, you’ll get a glimpse of the Ground Floor of the Residence, which houses various rooms such as the Library, Vermeil Room, and China Room. Let’s introduce them briefly.
The White House is one of the most famous buildings in the world, attracting millions of tourists every year. However,...
What is the Executive Residence?
The Residence is the part of the White House used as the living quarters for the President and First Lady. On the Ground Floor of the Residence, you’ll find various rooms, and the central area is known as the Center Hall. It connects to both the East Wing and the West Wing, resembling a wide underground hallway. The Center Hall has arched ceilings and is decorated with chairs and plant displays, creating an open and inviting atmosphere. However, during public tours, partitions are set up along the hallway, preventing visitors from seeing all the way to the West Wing.
The Library is a room used as an actual study, just as the name suggests. Interestingly, before the 26th President, Theodore Roosevelt, turned it into a study, it was used as a laundry room. Although visitors can’t enter the Library, they can take a peek from the Center Hall.
Vermeil Room and China Room
The Vermeil Room is located across from the Library and features portraits of various First Ladies, including Nancy Reagan. The name “Vermeil” comes from the gold-gilded silver in the room. It houses a collection of vermeil, which was a gift from Mrs. Margaret Thompson Biddle. This room serves as a reception room for women and is characterized by its elegant and chic interior.
Adjacent to the Vermeil Room is the China Room, where various sets of china used during White House dinners and events are displayed. It showcases a collection of china used by different Presidents throughout history. Like the Vermeil Room, visitors cannot enter the China Room but can enjoy a glimpse of it from the Center Hall.
Experience the Attractions of the Executive Residence of the White House
The Executive Residence provides a glimpse into the private side of the White House. Rooms like the Vermeil Room and China Room offer insights into the legacies of past Presidents and First Ladies. Exploring the Ground Floor of the Residence while contemplating the long history of the White House can be a delightful and informative experience.
