Explore History at The Wilson House in Washington DC
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness level needed; most of the tour is walking with some stairs involved.
Overview
Experience American history like never before with a private tour at the Woodrow Wilson House, exploring the lives of those who worked closely with the President and his family in 1920s Washington, DC.
Under One Roof: Living & Working at The Wilson House
75 Minute | Specialty Guided Tour
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Discover the hidden lives of those who served Woodrow and Edith Wilson in this unique 75-minute tour. Explore the "backstairs" of their home, revealing the intricate dynamics of race, class, and wealth in 1920s America. Experience history through the eyes of cooks, butlers, and personal servants in an intimate setting.
Envision the daily lives of the people who lived and worked in this house
Rates
Admission: $24.99
Duration
75 Minutes
About
Explore the lives of the employees who lived and worked “Under One Roof” with Woodrow and Edith Wilson — from Wilson’s private secretary, chauffeur, and male nurse to the couple’s personal servants, Isaac and Mary Scott. Learn about the duties of cooks, butlers, and laundresses while touring the “backstairs” parts of the house that raise important issues of race, class, and wealth in 1920s America.
Note: no elevator access is available to the basement or 4th floor. You must be able to climb a flight of stairs to experience the full tour.
This tour is offered once a week on Tuesdays or by emailing wilsonhouse@savingplaces.org and requesting a private tour.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early to Maximize Experience
Arriving 10-15 minutes before your scheduled tour time ensures a smooth check-in and time to explore the outdoor surroundings.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
The tour involves walking through historic interiors and staircases, so comfortable shoes will enhance your visit.
Photography Restrictions
Photography inside the house is generally prohibited to preserve artifacts, so check with guides before taking photos.
Respect the Historical Setting
This is a preserved historic home; please avoid touching displays and follow all museum guidelines during your tour.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern gray squirrels frequent the residential neighborhood
- Various migratory songbirds found in nearby green areas during spring and fall
History
The Wilson House served as the residence of President Woodrow Wilson after his presidency, providing unique accounts of early 20th-century domestic life.
Conservation
The museum actively preserves the historic structure and promotes sustainable practices by encouraging visitors to use public transit and minimizing environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Washington, DC
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive footwear is important for navigating the home’s staircases and walking nearby streets.
Light jacket or sweater
Ideal for cooler fall weather when temperatures can vary during outdoor portions of the visit.
fall specific
Umbrella or rain jacket
Helpful for sudden spring showers common in Washington, DC during the season.
spring specific
Portable phone charger
Ensures your devices stay charged for maps, tickets, or sharing your experience.