In the United States, as of December 2025, public tours of the White House have resumed following a pause caused by construction work for a new ballroom. This construction, initiated in September and involving the leveling of the East Wing in October, has changed the visitor experience considerably. Guests now enter through a different door, and the tour itself has been significantly shortened, restricted to the State Floor, which includes a limited number of rooms like the East Room, Green Room, Blue Room, and others, excluding historic areas that were previously accessible, such as the China Room and Vermeil Room. Visitors who took the self-guided tour noted that it felt rushed compared to previous years. Amiah Henry, a student from Sulphur High School, reflected on how last year's tours provided a more extensive experience. The loss of the East Wing, a section that offered much beauty and history, is greatly felt among tour-goers. Sounds of ongoing construction were a reminder of the changes occurring at the historic site. Kevin Heins, a retired service member, acknowledged the shorter tour but expressed optimism about the future benefits of having a ballroom for hosting events at the White House. The Red Room, featuring over 10,000 blue butterflies as decorations, was a highlight for some, linking it to Melania Trump's initiative aimed at supporting young people. Some visitors shared personal stories connected to these butterflies, showcasing the emotional impact of the decorations. Susan Bare's sentiment about the butterflies serving as a remembrance of her late son highlighted the personal connections that visitors make during such tours. While some guests were pleased to witness the White House decorated for Christmas, others lamented the restricted access to previously available spaces. The construction and its resultant changes to historical access represent a shift in the presentation of the White House. This perceived transformation in the visitor experience raises questions about the impact this will have on future tours and public engagement with a site deeply rooted in American history.