capitol tours today

How Do I Tour the U.S. Capitol and See Congress in Session?

Learn all you need to know about visiting and touring america’s center of democracy..

UPDATE: The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. All tours are free and are led by professional tour guides and do not include the Senate and House Galleries. The tour route is subject to change. Note that advance reservations are required for a tour. Visitors enter through the Capitol Visitor Center, located underground on the east side of the Capitol. Please leave time to go through security and review the U.S. Capitol’s prohibited items list before your visit.

The U.S. Capitol Building is one of the most recognizable buildings in the world and the center of American democracy. The world-famous domed building is home to the United States House of Representatives and Senate; where America’s congressmen and congresswomen conduct business, debate laws and pass bills on behalf of the American people. The U.S. Capitol and U.S. Capitol Visitor Center  is also one of DC’s most popular monuments and museums and welcomes millions of visitors each year.

Tour groups in United States Capitol Building Rotunda - Attractions and landmarks in Washington, DC

How do I arrange a tour of the United States Capitol Building?

Plan your visit in advance! A public tour of the U.S. Capitol is free and open to anyone who makes an advanced reservation, although there are some same-day tickets available by standing in line at the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center (note that lines will be long during spring and summer).  We recommend reserving a  reserving a tour date and time .

All tours begin and end at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, open Monday-Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day and Inauguration Day).  Tours typically take about 90 minutes and are  fully accessible for people with disabilities.

What will I see on a Capitol tour?

Guided tours begin with a 13-minute intro film, followed stops in the Capitol Rotunda, where guides point out the center point of the District of Columbia, as well as demonstrate the unique acoustical effect where a speaker several yards away can be heard more clearly than a speaker close to the listener. The Capitol Dome is encircled by murals, and the fresco on the eye of the ceiling is called The Apotheosis of Washington showing President Washington rising to the heavens in glory with Liberty and Victory/Fame beside him. Below, on the walls of the Rotunda, are large paintings depicting significant events in American history: The Signing of the Declaration of Independence, The Baptism of Pocohontas, The Embarkation of the Pilgrims, The Landing of Columbus and General George Washington Resigning His Commission. Other stops on the 45-minute walking tour include the Crypt, National Statuary Hall and connecting corridors of the U.S. Capitol, where you’ll see statues representing every state.

Can I see Congress in session?

The guided tour doesn't include the Senate and House galleries. However, visitors can obtain free passes through their congressmen to view both chambers when Congress is in session. International visitors can ask about gallery passes at the House and Senate Appointment Desks on the upper level of the Capitol Visitor Center. When Congress is not in session, the galleries are open to the public Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. However, viewing hours are subject to change and are not always the same for the House and Senate galleries. You can check the schedules with your Congressional office when requesting gallery passes. Read more information about  watching Congress in session  and viewing the House and Senate galleries.

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What’s in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center?

You’ll find a cafeteria and gift shop in the Capitol Visitor Center. The gift shop carries merchandise inspired by the art and architecture of the U.S. Capitol. The restaurant is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. for continental breakfast and lunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you haven’t printed your tour reservation, bring along the number you were assigned. There are free listening devices in multiple languages for international visitors.

How do I get to the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center?

Because there is very little parking, it is best to travel via the  Metro or the DC Circulator. There are three Metro stops within walking distance of the U.S. Capitol: Union Station (Red Line), Capitol South and Federal Center SW (Orange, Silver and Blue lines). The Capitol Visitor Center, which serves as the main public entrance, is located beneath the East Front plaza of the U.S. Capitol at First and East Capitol streets.

Looking for more in the neighborhood? Take advantage of  our guide to Capitol Hill .

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Capitol tours resume after 2 years Covid hiatus

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Capitol will reopen to the public on Monday for guided tours for limited groups of people who have registered in advance, congressional officials said, two years after the coronavirus pandemic prompted the cessation of such visits.

Officials said that the resumption would occur in phases, beginning on Monday for school groups and other groups of up to 15 people who would be led by lawmakers or their aides. Congressional offices would each be limited to leading one tour weekly.

The move, announced Wednesday, marked Congress’ latest relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions as Washington, D.C., and the world struggle to return to normalcy as the omicron variant wave wanes in the U.S. Mask requirements inside the Capitol were relaxed weeks ago in a gradual easing that has been colored by politics, with Republicans pushing for more aggressive easing of restrictions than Democrats.

A health screening form for all visitors was being “recommended," according to the statement by House Sergeant at Arms William J. Walker and Brian P. Monahan, the Capitol's attending physician.

The Capitol Visitor Center, an adjacent underground complex that has exhibits and a restaurant, would tentatively reopen to limited numbers of visitors on May 30, officials said.

Walker and Monahan said the renewed tours would be monitored with an eye to revamping the new restrictions if needed. They also said they would be guided by how widespread COVID-19 is in the Washington area.

“We appreciate your continued patience and cooperation as we work together to resume public tours of the Capitol for the American people in a way that protects the health and safety of visitors and institutional staff alike,” they wrote.

The two officials said the decision to renew limited tours was made by congressional leaders, the Capitol's medical and visitors services staff, the U.S. Capitol Police and the board that oversees that force.

In normal times, around 3 million people visit the Capitol every year.

The Associated Press

Explore the Capitol's Rich History

Discover our Capitol’s vast history as you explore the magnificent building where some of the most pivotal moments in American history took place. Led by our knowledgeable and passionate volunteers, this captivating experience offers an insider’s look at this world-famous building. You’ll have the unique opportunity to hear the secrets and stories that have shaped America’s political landscape with fascinating anecdotes and insider knowledge at every turn. 

Iconic Landmark of Democracy

From the intricate workings of Congress to the historic architecture and symbolism woven throughout the structure, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the democratic values that underpin our great nation. Book a tour with one of our historically trained tour guides now and experience history with a personalized and immersive tour tailored to your interests and curiosity.

Join Our Community​

The Society offers historian-led Capitol tours exclusively as a benefit of our membership program.  Become a member today and enjoy a Capitol tour led by one of our expertly trained historical guides, providing you with a fascinating glimpse into the U.S. Capitol’s history, its people, and the surrounding grounds.

Experience the Capitol with a trained historical guide.

Experience Olmsted’s vision during Cherry Blossom season!

Celebrate the cherry blossom season with an historic tour of the Capitol Grounds, led by the U.S. Capitol Historical Society staff and volunteers. Discover the history of the U.S. Capitol’s first landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted, explore his designs, and enjoy the cherry blossom beauty. This exclusive tour is a must for history, nature, and design enthusiasts. After the tour, join us for a mixer to mingle and enjoy refreshments inspired by the season.

200 Maryland Avenue NE, Washington, DC 20002

Thursday, March 21, 2024 | 5:30 p.m. ET

Temple of Democracy: History Made Here

Take a step back in time and join the expert staff and historically trained volunteers of the U.S. Capitol Historical Society for an exclusive walking tour of the Capitol Grounds. Delve into the fascinating history of this iconic building, as you gain unique insights and perspectives about Congress, the origins and construction of the Capitol, and the broader concepts of democratic government.

Discover the secrets behind the nearly 40-year construction of the original Capitol Building and gain a deeper understanding of why and how it has been expanded and changed over the years. Hear about famous – and infamous – incidents that took place within its walls and pivotal turning points in the history of the republic that shaped the course of our nation.

With a focus on the daily activities that take place within this monumental complex, you’ll gain a unique perspective on how our government works and how it continues to shape the course of our nation.

This tour is a different, more historically inclined, experience that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s no wonder it has been named “Best Specialty Tour” by Washingtonian Magazine.

Olmsted's Stunning Capitol Landscape

Embark on a one-of-a-kind journey through the stunning Capitol Grounds, led by the U.S. Capitol Historical Society staff and trained volunteers. This exclusive walking tour is focused on the life and work of the legendary Frederick Law Olmsted – the Father of Landscape Architecture – who Congress commissioned to design the new Capitol grounds after its expansion.

Explore the incredibly elaborate and stunning beauty of Olmsted’s careful design, and gain a deeper understanding of how he achieved this monumental undertaking. As you walk through the grounds, you’ll hear captivating stories about Olmsted’s remarkable life, from his early days as a merchant seaman to his later roles as a gentleman farmer, journalist, and landscape architect. Considered a local favorite, this exclusive tour is a must for anyone with a passion for history, nature, and design. 

Members of the Society gain access to a world of historical knowledge and exciting opportunities.  To book your tour, please email: tours@uschs.org o r complete the Tour Request form.

All tours offered are subject to availability. To ensure an exceptional tour experience, we kindly request that tours be scheduled at least one week in advance. This advance notice allows us to arrange for knowledgeable guides for your tour.

For large group tours (exceeding 15 guests), please email tours@uschs.org , addressed to Vincent Gonzalez, for personalized assistance with your booking.

Please note our tour schedule:

• From March 1 through Memorial Day (excluding Federal Holidays): Tours start at 5:30 PM.
• From Memorial Day through September 30: Tours start at 7:00 PM.
• From October 1 through November 30: Tours begin at 5:30 PM.

Meeting Place: Garfield Circle (at the intersection of First Street and Maryland Avenue Southwest)

Public Transit: Easily accessible via Metrorail. If you’re traveling on the Red Line, exit at Union Station. For those on the Blue, Orange, or Silver Lines, the nearest stops are Capitol South or Federal Center Southwest. 

Parking: Public parking facilities are conveniently available at Union Station.

Note: Please provide at least one email and cell phone number from an individual in the tour group. 

Tour Request Form

In addition to our exterior walking tours, the U.S. Capitol Historical Society is happy to recommend the following visitor experiences (Please note: these experiences may be subject to availability):

• Constituent Tours: Many Congressional Offices provide interior Capitol Tours for constituents. These offices may also reserve public tours through the Capitol Visitor Center. You can find and contact your Senators at senate.gov , or your Representative at house.gov .
• Public Tours: Public interior tours of the U.S. Capitol are available through the Capitol Visitor Center, open Monday through Saturday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. Visit their website here for more information and to reserve a tour in advance.
• Seeing Congress in Session: Most sessions of Congress are open to the public. Visitors may see the Senate and House of Representatives when they are in session by obtaining Gallery Passes through the offices of their Senators or Representative. You can find and contact your Senators at senate.gov , or your Representative at house.gov .

United States Capitol Historical Society

200 Maryland Avenue NE Washington, D.C. 20002 p. 202-543-8919 p. 800-887-9318 f. 202-525-2790

All Rights Reserved © 2024

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• Washington, D.C.

9 Best US Capitol Tours Showcasing Washington DC’s Iconic Landmark

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There are so many spectacular things to do in Washington DC that it would take a lifetime to see them all – but let’s face it, the political sites top the list!

And if you want to really understand the big business of this town, then you’ll want to mosey along on some of the best US Capitol tours!

Take in the bustling world of Washington DC from the vantage point of Capitol Hill and the US Capitol itself, and explore the architecture, food, and amazing cultural offerings of this fascinating city.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Capitol Hill tours

1 – Small-Group Guided Tour inside US Capitol & Library of Congress

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 667 reviews )

“Very informative walking tour that started outside the Library of Congress, went inside the Capitol and then ended inside the LOC. It was nice to be able to skip the lines while inside and proceed directly to the tour without booking a timed slot.” Morgan. Viator

With this awesome excursion from Guided Tours DC , you’ll get to know some of the country’s most powerful spaces as intimately as your own home – complete with some cool anecdotes!

And whether you’re a bookworm or a policy wonk, you’ll find plenty to love on your stroll.

Step inside the U.S. Capitol, where the laws of the country are developed and debated.

Then explore the endless stacks of the Library of Congress, which holds millions of documents and books – and as the largest library in the world, it’s certainly got a lot to offer!

Between the excellent information, personalized atmosphere, and in-depth glimpses of famous spots, this is the perfect way to really dive into the Capitol!

You’ll be able to ask all the questions you want, and explore all the little details of these remarkable sites.

• Library of Congress tours

Read more: Best Tourist Attractions in Washington DC

2 – Best of DC Plus US Capitol and National Archives Reserved Entry

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1904 reviews )

“This was an amazing trip and our tour guide Nick was so knowledgeable and funny. I couldn’t ask for a better trip I definitely suggest!!” Theresa. Viator

It’s one thing to hear history… it’s quite another to see it!

And when you’re exploring the Capitol, be sure to save time for some National Archives Museum tours , where you can see some of the country’s most incredible documents up close!

Join USA Guided Tours on a journey into this remarkable resource, home to over 700,000 different documents and files.

And of course, you’ll get plenty of time to visit the archives’ most famous residents: the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence!

As an added bonus, you’ll get to explore the nearby Congressional halls as well.

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You can’t go wrong with this tour, because you’ll see just about everything!

The daylong trip to all sorts of monuments and famous buildings certainly makes this one of the best US Capitol tours for ambitious types, giving you all of the highlights in one exciting day.

Read more: Best Museums in Washington DC

3 – DC Monuments and Capitol Hill Tour by Electric Cart

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1938 Reviews )

“Great way to see the entire group of main monuments & sights up close without having to navigate or park. Comfort of your own cart & driver who provides great history & stories as you zip from one to the next.” Jenifer. Viator

This is both good for the brain and good for the earth, and a fascinating way of getting around!

Electric carts are still fast enough to get around lots of different areas, but also give you the chance to enjoy these iconic spots at closer range.

Hop aboard your Red Roadster and see all that the Capitol Hill area has to offer, with detours to the Smithsonian museums, the FDR and MLK memorials, and more.

Get to know the city inside and out, and enjoy some unique transportation along the way, with Intrepid Urban Adventures – USA !

This zippy little trip is great for visitors of all ages, stopping at the major spots and providing an easy route around the city.

While the views are great, it’s the endless wealth of insider knowledge that makes it such an exciting journey!

Read more: Best Washington DC Monuments Tours

4 – Capitol Hill Food Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 35 reviews )

“So much fun walking around and seeing this re-vitalized area of DC. Enjoyed everything from the sparkling sangria to the home made pop-tarts.” Deborah. Viator

This is one tour where your stomach will be as full as your brain!

Along with all of its other attributes, this part of town is famed for its amazing food scene, and you can nibble and nosh your way through it as you enjoy the nuances of the neighborhood.

Thanks to decades of cultural diversity, you can sample a pretty amazing selection here, with pit stops in India, El Salvador, and different parts of the U.S.

Learn about the different nations and their unique mixes as you savor the flavors!

While this tour offers a great slice of local history, it’s the slices (and bowls, and bites) that make it a sensational adventure!

It’s the perfect way to indulge your taste buds, while also getting to know one of D.C.’s most vibrant communities!

• food tours in Capitol Hill

Read more: Best City Tours in Washington DC

5 – Haunted DC Walking Tour on Capitol Hill

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 142 reviews )

“With a full moon just before Halloween, a ghost tour was a natural fit. We enjoyed our guide, and the opportunities for photos on Capitol Hill were a big bonus feature. A pleasant evening walk.” David. Viator

The buildings around here aren’t just active parts of the present… they have their fair share of spooky remnants from the past!

And there’s nothing like a trip with Scary DC to get to know the supernatural lore of the area, which often includes more than a few former presidents.

And of course, the Capitol itself is said to be one of the most haunted buildings on the planet, making it the perfect place to base your adventure around.

From the troubled spirits of assassins to congressional representatives that took their battles beyond the grave, you’ll find plenty of great anecdotes… and maybe even a mysterious curse or two!

With unique stories, great photo ops, and the intimate atmosphere of a small group, you can be sure of a memorable night of learning and delving into the city’s bizarre legends.

Plus, the guides sport period-appropriate costumes,adding an extra dash of fun to the evening!

• ghost tours in Capitol Hill

Read more: 15 Best Night Tours in Washington DC Showcasing Iconic Monuments

6 – Iconic Capitol Hill Architecture Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 21 reviews )

“Thanks for a great tour. Sam was personable, informative, and fun! Especially enjoyed the historical nuggets along with the architectural info.” Michelle. Viator

These buildings aren’t just places where laws are passed and history is made… they’re awfully pretty to look at!

This is one of the best US Capitol tours if you want to get to know the ins and outs of these iconic structures, from the soaring ceilings of Union Station to the mysterious emblems embedded in the Library of Congress,

Join DC Design Tours for a delightful dive into these jaw-dropping structures, and learn all about the intricate planning process that helped the capital come to life.

History, design details, and a healthy dash of humor make this tour a must, no matter your level of architecture expertise.

You can enjoy some wonderful stories, and get to admire some of the city’s most beautiful buildings from a totally new vantage point.

7 – Bike Tour: Capitol Hill, Lincoln Memorial, National Mall

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 48 reviews )

“Everything was perfect – the bikes; our guide, Beth; the tour route; even the weather. Best way ever to get an overview of the DC Capital area to start our vacation.” PENNY. GetYourGuide

A little bit of cardio, a little bit of steady cruising, and a lot of great views… that’s the recipe for fun with Unlimited Biking Washington DC !

Pedaling past museums and memorials, you’ll get a sense of the city that differs greatly from the norm, combining the up-close views  of walking with the greater distance capacity of a vehicle.

While you’ll get ample time at all of the big sites, you’ll also have the opportunity to really savor the rhythms of daily life, as you roll along the city’s many excellent bike paths.

This is the perfect way to soak up the sights and sounds of the area – ands with a 7 mile route, it’s great exercise too!

It’s open to all sorts of ages and biking abilities, and it welcomes you to the city in a whole new way!

• bike tours in Capitol Hill

8 – Castle to Capitol: Museums of the National Mall Architecture Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 7 reviews )

“Fascinating history. Easy walk. Great value. I’ve recently gotten interested in architecture and decided to take the “Castle to Capitol” tour while I was in town for work. Absolutely fantastic.”  Jesse. Tripadvisor

Museum nerds, rejoice!

This lively trip with DC Design Tours will sweep you up in the amazing stories of the Smithsonian, from the unique construction of the buildings to the treasures that they hold within.

With an emphasis on the actual buildings themselves, it’s also a unique opportunity to learn about the diverse and dazzling structures that hold some of the country’s greatest collections.

You’ll even get to step inside the magnificent Smithsonian Castle, which anchors the whole complex.

It’s ideal for curious minds of all ages, and with a smaller group, you can really get to know the ins and outs of these beloved spots!

Not only is this tour packed with cool cultural tidbits, but it also lets you dip into the often untold stories behind these legendary museums.

It’s an especially good deal for architecture fans, as it takes a nice long look at the buildings themselves – a truly unique vantage point!

9 – Private Tour with US Capitol Or Archives Or Washington Monument

Rating: ⭐️ 3.5/5 ( 3 reviews )

“We had a great time. Sally and our driver were excellent leaders. Sally worked with us to ask what we wanted to see and do and she adjusted her comments at the monuments for the different ages of our group” Victoria. Viator

This is one of the best US Capitol tours if you want to really get to know the city; because not only will you be visiting some particularly important spots, but you’ll be the only ones on the tour!

Enjoy some personalized attention and explore the innermost workings of the National Archives and the Capitol itself, or the towering Washington Monument – it’s a true choose-your-own-adventure!

Just choose the size of your group and what you want to see, then set off to delight in these national gems, with Signature Tours of DC .

This is the ideal trip if you want to see it all and get the rock star treatment – especially if you have a larger group!

With a flexible itinerary and wonderfully attentive staff, it will give you a full insight into the U.S. Capitol and the surrounding area in style.

• private tours in Capitol Hill

How to book US Capitol tours?

There are plenty of companies that offer US Capitol tours, so you can pick and choose with ease. As an added bonus, lots of travel websites will sell these tours directly online!

It’s worth noting that several of them provide discounts, so the price may vary from one site to the next.

Want to make the whole process easier? Use our search engine to compare a whole range of options, complete with prices and reviews, all in one convenient spot!

• compare Capitol Hill tours

U.S. Capitol to resume dome tours led by members of Congress on Monday

WASHINGTON (FOX 5 DC) - As part of the phased reopening of the United States Capitol to visitors, dome tours led by a member of Congress will resume on April 25.

Download the FOX 5 DC News App for Local Breaking News and Weather

Dome tours will continue to be handled by Capitol Visitor Center Visitor Services and visitor guides will lead all tours into the dome. A member of Congress must personally accompany each dome tour.

Capitol officials note that dome tours are physically challenging and strenuous. The member and tour participants must climb over 300 steps in single file to reach the top of the dome and these steps consist of a series of steep, narrow, spiral, curved and irregularly spaced landings and stairs. 

WASHINGTON, D.C. - APRIL 19, 2018: Tourists enjoy the view of the Rotunda below from the inner dome of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Robert Alexander/Getty Images)

The Office of Attending Physician strongly advises that all persons with heart, back, neck, knee, acrophobia (a fear of heights) or breathing problems, as well as those with difficulty in bending, or with any disability that may prevent them from walking unaided (cane, walker, etc.) should not go on a dome tour. 

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: US Capitol set to partially reopen for guided tours March 28

Capitol Visitor Services will begin taking dome tour reservations on April 11. All dome tours are scheduled on a first-available basis and reservations must be made by calling 202-593-1762.

The maximum dome tour group size is seven guests, plus the member of Congress and a Visitor Services Guide. Dome tours are offered Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. through 3 p.m. with one tour per hour.

No one under the age of 10 years old is an appropriate candidate for participating in a dome tour. In addition, children may not be carried on a dome tour; parents/guardians must have both hands free at all times.

Each member of Congress is limited to no more than one dome tour reservation per day.

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For further questions regarding dome tours, contact Visitor Services at 202-593-1762 or the Office of the Sergeant at Arms at (202) 225-2456.

Moscow Metro Tour

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Description

Moscow metro private tours.

• 2-hour tour $87:  10 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with hotel pick-up and drop-off
• 3-hour tour $137:  20 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with Russian lunch in beautifully-decorated Metro Diner + hotel pick-up and drop off. 
• Metro pass is included in the price of both tours.

Highlight of Metro Tour

• Visit 10 must-see stations of Moscow metro on 2-hr tour and 20 Metro stations on 3-hr tour, including grand Komsomolskaya station with its distinctive Baroque décor, aristocratic Mayakovskaya station with Soviet mosaics, legendary Revolution Square station with 72 bronze sculptures and more!
• Explore Museum of Moscow Metro and learn a ton of technical and historical facts;
• Listen to the secrets about the Metro-2, a secret line supposedly used by the government and KGB;
• Experience a selection of most striking features of Moscow Metro hidden from most tourists and even locals;
• Discover the underground treasure of Russian Soviet past – from mosaics to bronzes, paintings, marble arches, stained glass and even paleontological elements;
• Learn fun stories and myths about Coffee Ring, Zodiac signs of Moscow Metro and more;
• Admire Soviet-era architecture of pre- and post- World War II perious;
• Enjoy panoramic views of Sparrow Hills from Luzhniki Metro Bridge – MetroMost, the only station of Moscow Metro located over water and the highest station above ground level;
• If lucky, catch a unique «Aquarelle Train» – a wheeled picture gallery, brightly painted with images of peony, chrysanthemums, daisies, sunflowers and each car unit is unique;
• Become an expert at navigating the legendary Moscow Metro system;
• Have fun time with a very friendly local;
• + Atmospheric Metro lunch in Moscow’s the only Metro Diner (included in a 3-hr tour)

Hotel Pick-up

Metro stations:.

Komsomolskaya

Novoslobodskaya

Prospekt Mira

Belorusskaya

Mayakovskaya

Novokuznetskaya

Revolution Square

Sparrow Hills

+ for 3-hour tour

Victory Park

Slavic Boulevard

Vystavochnaya

Dostoevskaya

Elektrozavodskaya

Partizanskaya

Museum of Moscow Metro

• Drop-off  at your hotel, Novodevichy Convent, Sparrow Hills or any place you wish
• + Russian lunch  in Metro Diner with artistic metro-style interior for 3-hour tour

Fun facts from our Moscow Metro Tours:

From the very first days of its existence, the Moscow Metro was the object of civil defense, used as a bomb shelter, and designed as a defense for a possible attack on the Soviet Union.

At a depth of 50 to 120 meters lies the second, the coded system of Metro-2 of Moscow subway, which is equipped with everything you need, from food storage to the nuclear button.

According to some sources, the total length of Metro-2 reaches over 150 kilometers.

The Museum was opened on Sportivnaya metro station on November 6, 1967. It features the most interesting models of trains and stations.

Coffee Ring

The first scheme of Moscow Metro looked like a bunch of separate lines. Listen to a myth about Joseph Stalin and the main brown line of Moscow Metro.

Zodiac Metro

According to some astrologers, each of the 12 stops of the Moscow Ring Line corresponds to a particular sign of the zodiac and divides the city into astrological sector.

Astrologers believe that being in a particular zadiac sector of Moscow for a long time, you attract certain energy and events into your life.

Paleontological finds 

Red marble walls of some of the Metro stations hide in themselves petrified inhabitants of ancient seas. Try and find some!

• Every day each car in  Moscow metro passes  more than 600 km, which is the distance from Moscow to St. Petersburg.
• Moscow subway system is the  5th in the intensity  of use (after the subways of Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai).
• The interval in the movement of trains in rush hour is  90 seconds .

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the walking tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

Write your review

Capitol Notebook: Ticketmaster bill heads to Senate, Uber and Lyft halt exit

Welcome back to Capitol Notebook, your weekly round-up on the happenings in the Minnesota statehouse.

With five weeks left of session, legislators are spending less time in committee and more time on the floor working to send legislation to the governor's desk. This week was marked by a short recess for the Muslim holiday Eid-al Fitr and plenty of debate on the floor regarding elections bills, public safety, and more.

Here's what you need to know about this week:

• Democratic Gov. Tim Walz highlighted th e state's child tax credit, the most generous in the nation, on Tuesday, encouraging filers to apply for the credit averaging $2,508 per family. Tax Day is Monday, but if a filer does not owe any money, filing for the credit is open until Oct. 15.
• Ticketmaster has had a rough few years in politics and the Minnesota legislature isn't holding back on cracking down on the company to protect concertgoers. The House passed "The Ticket Fairness Act," a bill aimed at protecting consumers from ticket conglomerates following the Taylor Swift Eras Tour debacle last year. The legislation would ban bots from purchasing tickets, similar to Arizona's law passed just yesterday , and passed with bipartisan support. It's now on its way to the Senate.
• Uber and Lyft pumped the brakes on their exit from the Twin Cities, for now. The Minneapolis City Council unanimously voted Thursday to push their pay hike back to July 1, giving the legislature two months to find a state-wide solution to keep the rideshare companies in operation. Both companies have agreed to operate in the area until the new deadline.

— What are you interested in hearing more about from Capitol Hill? Reach out to Sam Woodward by email at [email protected] and let her know.

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• Moscow events

Moscow metro of the last 20 years

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Former D.C. officer assaulted on Jan. 6 comes to Ohio to talk Trump, attacks on democracy

Rioters who overran the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, beat then-D.C. police officer Michael Fanone unconscious with their fists and pipes, stunned him with his own Taser repeatedly, sprayed him in the face with a chemical irritant and tried to take his gun.

Fanone suffered a traumatic brain injury and a heart attack at 40 years old. He's one of more than 140 officers who were injured that day when a mob of former President Donald Trump's supporters attempted to stop the certification of President Joe Biden's election victory.

Fanone has testified to Congress about his story, and now he's come to Ohio as part of a nationwide tour. He wants to dispel any myths about the day being nonviolent or insignificant.

Fanone said he's concerned most Americans have become indifferent. He wants Americans to educate themselves about what led to the insurrection and reject politicians like Trump who advocate for violence. That's why he is traveling around the country with Courage for America, a nonprofit group that opposes the "extremist" Republican majority in the U.S. House, and telling his story. He spoke with The Columbus Dispatch's editorial board on Friday and his other stops in Ohio include speaking to an Ohio State University class.

"I've got four daughters. In a lot of ways, I feel as though my generation and generations that came before me are responsible for creating this mess. And so I'm gonna' do everything that I can do to make sure that they don't pay the price for the mistakes that I personally made and that my generation made," Fanone said.

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

Fanone said he's one of the "morons" who voted for Trump in 2016.

Besides educating people, Fanone wants to hold politicians accountable who continue to embrace anti-democratic rhetoric and election denialism.

"(Politicians and people who hold positions of authority) say things and people act based on the things they say," Fanone said. He pointed to how an Ohioan with an AR-15-style rifle tried to break into the FBI's office in Cincinnati in 2022, a day after U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Urbana, denounced the FBI online.

"I wouldn't rule out another storming of the Capitol. It might not be the United States Capitol, but it might be state capitols," he said.

How many Ohioans participated in Jan. 6?

At least 67 Ohioans have been arrested and charged for their role in the attack on the U.S. Capitol in 2021.

Capitol riot anniversary: Here's the latest on the Ohioans charged for January 6th

More than 50 Ohioans have been convicted, with many getting probation sentences or less than a year of prison.

The Dispatch has reported on how many defendants from Ohio have blamed their actions in court on Trump and extremist propaganda they were fed by right-wing media.

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@LairdWrites

Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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