Discover the Enchanting White House Gardens

The White House grounds are beautifully landscaped with a variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers. The garden has been redesigned and expanded throughout America’s history. In 1913, Ellen Wilson, the first wife of Woodrow Wilson, had a rose garden planted just outside of the Oval Office. It has been known as “the Rose Garden” ever since. Mrs. Wilson also brought the landscape designer Beatrix Farrand to the White House to landscape the East Side of the garden, which remains in almost exactly the same form today.

The White House grounds are maintained by a garden crew consisting of 13 regular staff including a chief horticulturalist who is on the executive residence staff. The other 12 are National Park Service staff—three foremen, eight gardeners, and one maintenance operator.

Enjoy the following photos and get a glimpse of the White House Gardens. Public tours are given two weekends per year, in the spring and in the fall.

White House Rose Garden in Spring

The White House Rose Garden is especially beautiful during the spring and summer months. John F. Kennedy had the Rose Garden redesigned during his administration to use it as a venue for outdoor ceremonies. Events that are held in the Rose Garden today include the annual pardoning of the turkey, among other presidential ceremonies and speeches.

Pergola in the East Garden of the White House

A pergola covered with Concord grapes terminates the west end of the East Garden.

Tulips in the Spring Rose Garden

Tulips bloom beautifully in spring within the Rose Garden. Other notable plants include magnolia trees, Katherine crab apple trees, and a variety of roses.

East Garden in Fall

The White House East Garden is vibrant with its autumn display of chrysanthemum topiaries and American holly, showcasing seasonal beauty.

White House South Lawn

The South Lawn of the White House is beautifully landscaped with an abundance of green shrubs and plants. It is prominently used for the annual Easter Egg Roll and other large-scale events.

White House Rose Garden

Visitors especially enjoy their time in the Rose Garden on the White House grounds, taking in the beauty of the vibrant flowers.

White House Garden

The White House Garden provides picturesque views and photo opportunities for many visitors.

Stairway

The entryway to the White House is inviting and impressive, showcasing the grandeur of the residence.

White House Grounds

The grounds surrounding the White House are beautifully landscaped, featuring vibrant flowers such as tulips, hyacinths, and chrysanthemums in the East Garden.

White House Walkway

A few times a year, the public is invited to explore the captivating White House grounds and picturesque walkways.

White House Fountain

The fountain in front of the White House adds a charming touch, beautifully landscaped with colorful flowers.