The White House Experience Center features a life-size replica of the Oval Office

WASHINGTON – The White House Historical Association on Monday opens its new education center, “The People’s House: A White House Experience.”

“This immersive, first-of-its-kind center will tell the story of the Executive Mansion, its residents and the people who have dedicated their careers to its functions like never before,” the group said online.

Located just one block from the White House, this 33,000-square-foot, three-story center features interactive exhibits and galleries. Highlights include a full-scale model of the White House, a recreation of the Rose Garden, and a life-size replica of the Oval Office.

“There’s nothing like The People’s House: A White House Experience in Washington, D.C.,” Stewart McLaurin, president of the White House Historical Association, said in a press release. “It’s a transformative, technology-enabled experience designed to evolve with each presidency. Our goal is to make the history of the White House accessible to all generations.”

“This new immersive education center will take visitors on an incredible journey using technology and innovation to bring the history of the White House to life,” Dr. Biden said.

First lady Jill Biden said she has been involved with the project for two years. “This will be an extraordinary addition to public tours of the White House, and it will be free and accessible to all,” she said in a statement. “I hope school groups and students of all ages will come and enjoy this new center to learn more about life at the White House and those who serve the American people there.”

The following exhibitions are on permanent display throughout the year:

– Watch a 1:5 scale replica of the White House South Facade transform to tell the rich history of the executive mansion, including architectural history from 1790 to the present day.

– Walk in the President’s footsteps and experience the 45-second journey to the Oval Office via the Cabinet Room and Rose Garden.

– Explore the State Floor rooms – the East Room, Green Room, Blue Room, Red Room and State Dining Room – through immersive 360° projection.

– Stroll through a representation of the Rose Garden, take a photo in front of the garden mural, and experience what it’s like to be welcomed onto the South Lawn for a ceremony.

– Take a seat behind the Resolute Desk in a life-size replica of the Oval Office, furnished with reproductions of the artwork, objects and furniture that adorn the president’s office.

– Interact with framed digital portraits of White House staff to hear and see reflections from people who have held positions within the Executive Mansion.

– Experience the White House as a space for government, entertainment and living through three distinct immersive media experiences.

– Interact with objects to uncover the overlooked and extraordinary stories of White House history.

The People’s House will be open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors must reserve passes in advance online at thepeopleshouse.org.