Travel Guide of Washington

You should be aware of the heightened security in the area. Cans and bottles, food, sharp objects and large backpacks are not allowed inside memorials and public buildings. Traffic jams rarely occur, but still try to avoid rush hour if you don't want to get stuck in traffic. Also, tours of the White House are now only limited to school groups, veterans, and school-age groups. Even walk-in tours of other public buildings are not anymore allowed. Instead, they now must be arranged by a Congressman or a Senator and tours must now also be taken in groups of ten or more participants.