The Ellipse Washington DC
Expansive green space offering iconic views of the White House South Lawn and a hub for national events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the National Christmas Tree or Menorah.
The Ellipse Washington DC
Best Time
Experience the National Christmas Tree or Menorah.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Expansive green space offering iconic views of the White House South Lawn and a hub for national events.
"Beautiful open space with a great view of the South Lawn of the White House."
🚶♀️ Walkable DC
Park outside the city and take the Metro to the Smithsonian station for easy access.
📸 Iconic Views
Get great photos of the White House from The Ellipse, but be aware of barriers.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
White House South Lawn View
South side of The Ellipse
Capture stunning, unobstructed views of the White House's South Lawn. A quintessential DC photo opportunity.
National Menorah
Center of The Ellipse
During Hanukkah, witness the impressive National Menorah, a symbol of the holiday.
Zero Milestone Marker
Near The Ellipse
Discover this historic marker, once the starting point for U.S. highway distances.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating The Ellipse
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walkable DC
Park outside the city and take the Metro to the Smithsonian station for easy access.
📸 Iconic Views
Get great photos of the White House from The Ellipse, but be aware of barriers.
📅 Event Check
Check for seasonal events like the National Menorah or Christmas Tree.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walkable DC
Park outside the city and take the Metro to the Smithsonian station for easy access.
📸 Iconic Views
Get great photos of the White House from The Ellipse, but be aware of barriers.
📅 Event Check
Check for seasonal events like the National Menorah or Christmas Tree.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Ellipse for its stunning, unobstructed views of the White House South Lawn and its role as a peaceful green space in the heart of D.C. It's a popular spot for leisurely strolls and capturing iconic photographs. Some note that direct access to the White House is restricted and parking can be challenging.
"Beautiful open space with a great view of the South Lawn of the White House. The Ellipse is a peaceful park located just south of the White House and is open to the public. It’s a great spot for walking, relaxing, or taking photos. Nearby, you’ll also find the Zero Milestone, a historic marker once intended as the point from which all U.S. highway distances were measured. A quiet, scenic stop in the heart of D.C."
Dana Davis
"I would never image that I was close to the White House. Reservation is required to visit inside. I felt satisfied with seeing the White House far away from there."
Vincent Lam
"White House from far and behind barriers. Anyway it's amazing to be there."
Mostafa Dargahi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ellipse is easily accessible via the DC Metro, with the Smithsonian station being a convenient stop. Many visitors opt to park outside the city and take the Metro to avoid parking hassles.
Direct parking at The Ellipse is restricted and usually requires special passes. It's recommended to use public transportation or park in garages further out and walk.
Yes, The Ellipse is a central part of President's Park and is within walking distance of many major attractions on the National Mall, including the Washington Monument.
The Ellipse itself is best explored on foot. For surrounding areas, consider walking or using the DC Circulator bus system.
Yes, there are numerous bike paths throughout President's Park and the National Mall, making it a great area for cycling. You can rent bikes from various stations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Ellipse is a public park and generally does not require tickets for entry. However, access to specific areas or events held there might require reservations or tickets.
The Ellipse is typically open to the public from dawn until dusk. Specific event hours will vary.
No, there is no admission fee to enter and enjoy The Ellipse as a public park.
While the park itself is open, some reviews mention needing reservations for certain experiences, possibly related to White House proximity. It's best to check official NPS guidelines.
As it's adjacent to the White House, expect security presence and potential checks, especially during special events or heightened security periods.
📸 📸 Photography
The Ellipse offers fantastic vantage points for photographing the White House South Lawn. The Zero Milestone marker also makes for a unique historical shot.
Yes, you can capture images of the White House from The Ellipse, though you'll be viewing it from a distance and behind barriers.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited in Washington D.C., especially near sensitive government buildings like the White House.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but still provides clear views of the landmarks.
Generally, personal cameras are fine. Professional photography setups might require permits, especially for commercial use. Always check NPS regulations.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
The Ellipse is perfect for leisurely walks, relaxing, picnicking, and enjoying the expansive views of the White House and Washington Monument. It's also a site for major public events.
While it's an open space, it might not be ideal for focused work due to potential crowds and lack of amenities. Other DC locations are better suited for studying.
Restroom facilities are available in President's Park, though their exact location relative to The Ellipse may vary. Plan accordingly.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at The Ellipse. It's a great spot to enjoy a meal with a view. Remember to clean up after yourself.
The Ellipse is a historic part of President's Park, serving as a ceremonial space and a site for national celebrations and protests. It offers a unique perspective on the White House.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring comfortable shoes as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking around President's Park.While The Ellipse itself is open, be mindful that some areas near the White House may have restricted access. Restroom facilities are available within President's Park, but it's always a good idea to locate them upon arrival. The sheer scale of the park can be awe-inspiring for children, offering a sense of freedom and wonder in the heart of the capital.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To save money, avoid pricey downtown parking by utilizing the DC Metro. Park your car outside the city and take the train to a central station like Smithsonian.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ellipse: A Hub of National Events
These events transform the open space into a vibrant hub of activity, showcasing the park's role in American public life. Planning a visit during these times offers a unique cultural experience, though it also means higher crowd levels.Beyond holidays, The Ellipse has historically been a site for significant public gatherings, including protests and rallies. Its proximity to the White House makes it a focal point for national discourse and demonstration. Understanding its role as a public forum adds another layer to appreciating this iconic Washington D.C. landmark. Visitors can often find information about upcoming events on the National Park Service website.
The Zero Milestone marker, located near The Ellipse, adds a historical dimension. This monument was intended to be the starting point from which all U.S. highway distances were measured. While its original purpose evolved, it remains a testament to the nation's infrastructure planning and a point of interest for history buffs exploring the area.
Capturing Iconic Views: Photography at The Ellipse
Beyond the White House, The Ellipse itself is a picturesque setting. The vast green lawn, bordered by trees and the oval drive, creates a sense of scale and grandeur. It's an ideal spot for landscape photography or even portraits with the Washington Monument subtly in the background.
It's crucial to be aware of photography restrictions, particularly concerning drones. Drone usage is strictly prohibited in Washington D.C. airspace, especially around federal buildings like the White House, due to security regulations.
Best Times for Photography
* Sunrise/Sunset: For soft, warm light and fewer crowds.
* During Holiday Events: For unique seasonal backdrops like the National Menorah or Christmas Tree.
* Weekday Mornings: For a more serene and less crowded experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit