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8 Best US Capitol Tours

best US Capitol tours in Washington DC

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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! That’s why US Capitol Tours are a must when visiting Washington DC .

Take a look at my top picks below, offering something for everyone. Whether you want to explore Capitol Hill on foot or by electric cart or hear all about its spooky past, we’ve got you covered. Alternatively, read on to discover more US Capitol tours.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

  • Capitol Hill tours

1 – DC Monuments and Capitol Hill Tour by Electric Cart

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!

Summary of the tour:

  • Capitol Hill and Washington DC’s monuments tour by electric cart
  • Enjoy up-close views of DC’s most famous landmarks such as Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, the White House, U.S. Capitol and more
  • Entertaining commentary about DC’s history and get the chance to explore Capitol Hill by foot

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

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

Small-Group Guided Tour inside US Capitol and 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!

  • Small-group walking tour of Capitol Hill: visit the U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress, pass by the Supreme Court
  • Admission to the Library of Congress and the U.S. Capitol included
  • Reserved access to a Capitol guide led tour of historic areas
  • View part of Thomas Jefferson’s collection of over 6000 books

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.

Read more: Best Tourist Attractions in Washington DC

3 – Haunted DC Walking Tour on Capitol Hill

Haunted DC Walking Tour on Capitol Hill, Washington DC

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!

  • Visit the U.S. Capitol Building, one of the most haunted places in the world
  • Hear ghost stories about past presidents and learn about DC’s spooky past
  • Pass by the Supreme Court, the Senate and House Office Buildings and the Scariest Place in DC
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges included

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 during this ghost tour .

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

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

4 – Best of DC + US Capitol and National Archives Reserved Entry

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.

  • check offer

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

5 – Capitol Hill Food Tour

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 during this food tour !

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!

Read more: Best City Tours in Washington DC

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

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 during this bike tour offered by 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!

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

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!

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

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 during this private tour 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.

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 and the Library of Congress

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Price & Hours

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Arguably the most magnificent building in Washington, the U.S. Capitol is where visitors go to witness politics in action. Inside, members of both houses of Congress debate and create national policy and law, while visitors explore the building's north and south wings and circular centerpiece: the Rotunda. This iconic hall houses paintings, frescoes and sculptures depicting famous scenes from American history, not to mention an iconic cast-iron dome added to the structure in 1868.

Touring the Capitol is free of charge, but you'll need to make your reservation well in advance to ensure you get a tour slot (you cannot see the Capitol without booking a tour). The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center welcomes visitors Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Inauguration Day). The tour does not include the Senate and House of Representatives galleries. Though some travelers express mixed reviews on whether the U.S. Capitol warrants the time and effort spent (both making reservations and going on the actual tour), most agree the site is well worth a visit.

If you're not that stoked about exploring the building's innards, consider taking a stroll outside of the building. It's located on the National Mall nearby the U.S. Botanic Garden and the National Air and Space Museum . The easiest way to reach the Capitol is via the Metro to the Capitol South or Federal Center SW stops (both on the Blue, Silver and Orange lines) or the Union Station stop (on the Red Line). Additionally, there are bike racks outside the Capital Visitor Center and Capital Bikeshare stations nearby. For more information, check out the official U.S. Capitol Visitor Center website .

After you've admired the Capitol, walk along East Capitol Street to the Library of Congress. Comprising three buildings and housing more than 164 million books, manuscripts, sound recordings, pieces of sheet music, maps and photographs, the Library of Congress is the world's largest library, according to Guinness World Records. The most notable building in the trio is the Thomas Jefferson Building, which was completed built in 1897. Here, you'll find an eclectic array of interesting items, such as the Gutenberg Bible, as well as a rotating series of events and exhibitions. You should also take a stroll through the Thomas Jefferson Building's Main Reading Room, which features a grand domed ceiling, mahogany desks and diligent researchers pouring over catalogs and periodic volumes. Visitors typically find the place mightily impressive.

The James Madison Memorial Building and the John Adams Building are mainly used for scholarly research, but the Thomas Jefferson Building welcomes visitors Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Thursdays). There are no entrance fees for this attraction, but timed-entry tickets must be reserved in advance. Events and exhibitions held at the Library of Congress are also complimentary for visitors. To find out more about the Library of Congress, visit the property's website .

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from $ 64.00

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More Best Things To Do in Washington, D.C.

capitol tour worth it

#1 The Tidal Basin

If you've never been to Washington, D.C. before, plan to spend some time along the Tidal Basin, an approximately 107-acre pond encircled by a 2.1-mile loop trail. Constructed to use the strong tides of the Potomac River to clear silt from the Washington Channel and to maintain steady water levels in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pools , it now also serves as the backdrop to some of D.C.'s best-loved sites. Every spring, the Tidal Basin bursts with color as cherry blossom trees (gifted to the city from Tokyo ) bloom into cotton candy-colored tufts, and they attract hordes of visitors. The cherry blossoms typically hit peak bloom (defined as when 70% of the cherry blossoms are open) in March or April. The National Park Service website makes "bloom watch" updates on its website , where you can check the progress of the trees and see when peak bloom is expected for the year. You can follow the path that leads around the basin, but recent visitors recommended testing the waters in a paddleboat. Paddleboats are available to rent from spring until fall for $28 to $40 per hour (depending on the day) for a four-passenger boat. You can pick up a paddle boat every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from the boat dock near Maine Avenue.

Even if you don't make it to town for the cherry blossoms, you won't want to miss the three major memorials that can be found along the Tidal Basin's shores: the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial . A memorial to Virginia Declaration of Rights author George Mason, also stands nearby.

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What to Expect on a Tour of the US Capitol

There are two places in Washington DC that are on the top of most tourist’s bucket list: The US Capitol and the White House. Getting a tour of both of these takes a little preplanning but is worth the extra effort. On our recent road trip to Washington DC, we were able to take a guided tour of the US Capitol and have a few things to share about what to expect on a tour of the US Capitol.

This post includes Amazon affiliate links.

capitol tour worth it

Although it is possible to get same day tickets when you arrive in Washington DC, it’s definitely recommended to reserve a tour before you arrive. There is no fee to visit the Capitol but you must have tickets.

capitol tour worth it

Book your Tour

There are two ways to book a tour of the US Capitol .

  • You can contact the office of your Representative or Senator and request a tour. Most Congressional offices offer their own staff-led tours to groups of up to 15 people and can assist you in reserving a general tour.
  • You can also arrange a tour directly through the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center using an online reservation system. You simply create an account and reserve your tour date and time.

capitol tour worth it

*Note that tours fill up quickly and must be reserved as soon as possible. You should make reservations as soon as you know the dates you plan to be in Washington DC.

We contacted our State Representative through their website and requested a tour. On the day of our tour, we met our tour guide in the Representative’s office. They will send you email directions so you know where to meet and what time to arrive. If you are unsure, just reply and ask!

The tour takes you through some of the original chambers where the early leaders of our country met.

capitol tour worth it

The tour guide is typically a staff member or intern who lives in your own state and can personalize your tour so you will see the things that specifically pertain to your home area.

Remember that you will not be allowed to carry ANY drinks or most snacks in any backpacks or purses. So plan accordingly and drink or consume any snacks before you arrive.

You will pass through security and then have the opportunity to take your guided tour of the US Capitol building.

capitol tour worth it

The tour takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour and will give you the opportunity to see some of the Capitol highlights.

Statuary Hall

One of the most fascinating places for us was Statuary Hall. It’s a unique feeling to be standing in the Hall where daily news briefings occur, the Inauguration Luncheon and so many Presidents have walked.

capitol tour worth it

National Statuary Hall is a chamber in the United States Capitol devoted to sculptures of prominent Americans. The hall, also known as the Old Hall of the House, is a large, two-story, semicircular room with a second story gallery along the curved perimeter. It is located immediately south of the Rotunda.

There are restrooms along the tour in case you need it and of course, a gift shop at the end of your tour.

Don’t forget the back of the Capitol!

When you are done with your tour, don’t forget to walk around and enjoy the view from the back.

capitol tour worth it

Today I’m thinking about Washington DC and the best kept secret places to visit. What are your favorite places to visit that tourists usually miss? . . . #WilliamsOnTheGo #Travel #WashingtonDC #USCapitol #DCCool #USCapitolBuilding #visitwashingtondc #wheredowegonext #traveling #travelusa #usa #travelblogger #traveldc #RoadTrip #familytravel #explore #exploredc A post shared by Sharon (@hobbiesonabudget) on Jun 22, 2017 at 10:19am PDT

Have you ever toured the US Capitol? What is your favorite place to visit in Washington DC? I’d love to hear!

Heading to Washington DC? Check out these other articles to help you plan your visit.

  • 20 Things to See Near Washington DC
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  • Free Walking Tour of Washington DC Monuments

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The statues look amazing.

I haven’t visited in a long time! I wonder if after spending a half a billion dollars on that place they still have those clippity-clop cement tiles outside that rattle as you walk on them!

I went to Washington D.C. on my senior trip and would like to take my granddaughters there.

I’ve been to DC a few times and still haven’t seen it all. Lots to see!

I have never visited DC — would love to go and see the Capitol, statutes, memorials, cemetery and more.

Such BEAUTIFUL photos! I would love to go!

I would love to visit the Capitol. I was there on a field trip way back in middle school. However, I really don’t remember much about it. I have never been to Washingto DC but would love to tour the White House.

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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

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.

@paddyleahy - U.S. Capitol Dome as seen from the Capitol Visitors Center - Washington, DC

@paddyleahy

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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Have you checked with your Senators? They can give Capitol tours as well, if they are available.

This post has been removed at the author's request.

How long is the tour and if I get to the kiosk at 8:30am - will I be able to get in for the 9am tour? We are from Florida and I don't know how long the kiddos can stand out in the cold waiting.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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IMAGES

  1. Review: Is The US Capitol Building Tour Worth It?

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  2. Review: Is The US Capitol Building Tour Worth It?

    capitol tour worth it

  3. Review: Is The US Capitol Building Tour Worth It?

    capitol tour worth it

  4. Review: Is The US Capitol Building Tour Worth It?

    capitol tour worth it

  5. Tour the Capitol: Washington, D.C.’s Most Iconic Buildings

    capitol tour worth it

  6. US Capitol Tour

    capitol tour worth it

COMMENTS

  1. Review: Is The US Capitol Building Tour Worth It?

    The U.S. Capitol tour is free, so in terms of whether it's worth it, the question is really whether it's worth your time when you visit Washington, D.C. given the number of other things to do. This post covers that, as well as tips for taking the tour, and what you'll see if you choose to go on the tour of the United States Capitol Building.

  2. Capitol Tour

    7,139 Reviews. #18 of 648 things to do in Washington DC. Sights & Landmarks, Government Buildings. East Capitol St NE & First St SE, Washington DC, DC 20004. Open today: Closed.

  3. 5 BEST US Capitol Tours + Things to Know BEFORE You Go!

    4. US Capitol & Library of Congress with a Guided Walk of Capitol Hill. Exploring the outside! The painting on the ceiling is impressive! This guided tour of Capitol Hill is a fantastic way to explore the center of US politics, and you get plenty of time to explore the Capitol Building with the help of your guide.

  4. U.S. Capitol, Washington DC

    The Capitol is among the most architecturally impressive and symbolically important buildings in the world. The Senate and the House of Representatives have met here for more than two centuries. Begun in 1793, the Capitol has been built, burnt, rebuilt, extended, and restored; today, it stands as a monument not only to its builders but also to ...

  5. Touring the U.S Capitol Building: What to Expect

    In addition to housing Congress, the Capitol Building is a museum of American art and history. It is open for tours from 8:50 am to 3:20 pm 6 days a week (Monday - Saturday). The tours are absolutely FREE, but they require a pass. We reserved our passes online before our trip. (Before our tour of the Capitol.)

  6. 9 Best US Capitol Tours Showcasing Washington DC's ...

    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. Capitol Hill tours; Read more: Best Museums in Washington DC. 3 - DC Monuments and Capitol Hill Tour by Electric Cart. Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 (1938 Reviews)

  7. Small-Group Guided Tour inside US Capitol & Library of Congress

    Visit the seat of American government on a guided Capitol Hill walking tour. Enjoy stops at the Library of Congress and Eastern Market. Get a more personal experience with this small-group tour, capped at 15 travelers. Get reserved-entry to the U.S. Capitol, and tour the building—included. See itinerary.

  8. U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress

    The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center welcomes visitors Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Inauguration Day).

  9. US Capitol & Library of Congress Guided Tour with Capitol Hill

    Washington DC, USA. DC Monuments and Capitol Hill Tour by Electric Cart. 1,995. from $72.26. Washington DC, USA. Capitol Hill Walking Tour with US Capitol and Library of Congress. 182. from $85.00. Operators have paid Viator more to have their experiences featured here.

  10. U.S. Capitol Visitor Center

    The proposal for a Capitol Visitor Center began to crystallize in the mid-1970s with the issuance of the Architect of the Capitol's report "Toward a Master Plan for the United States Capitol." In 1991, Congress authorized funding for conceptual planning and design of a visitor center. In 1995, the design report was issued.

  11. Book a Tour

    The Capitol Visitor Center is open Monday-Saturday from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tours begin every 10 minutes until 3:20 p.m. All tours are led by our professional tour guides and visit the Crypt, the Rotunda and National Statuary Hall. The tour does not include the Senate and House Galleries.

  12. Visit the U.S. Capitol

    Tours of the Capitol . The Capitol Visitor Center is open Monday-Saturday from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Reservations are recommended for a tour. Visit the schedule a tour page to select a day/time.. All tours are led by our professional tour guides and visit the Crypt, the Rotunda and National Statuary Hall.The tour does not include the Senate and House Galleries.

  13. What to Expect on a Tour of the US Capitol

    Most Congressional offices offer their own staff-led tours to groups of up to 15 people and can assist you in reserving a general tour. You can also arrange a tour directly through the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center using an online reservation system. You simply create an account and reserve your tour date and time.

  14. Guide to Visiting the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington D.C

    Specialty Tours of the U.S. Capitol Building. If you've already done the free tour of the U.S. Capitol Building, then you might enjoy some of the specialty tours. The Halls of Senate Tour . The Halls of Senate Tour takes place every Monday-Friday at 11.00 am and 2.00 pm and takes visitors high above the Rotunda and inside the Capitol Dome.

  15. How to Tour the U.S. Capitol & See Congress in Session

    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.

  16. U.S. Capitol, Washington DC

    This tour goes inside each destination for a guided tour, and highlights include reserved-entry at the U.S. Capitol with a guide to help bring Capitol Hill's fascinating politics and history to life. 3 hours. Free Cancellation. from. $89.00.

  17. Free Tour of the US Capitol Building

    This video helps you understand exactly what to expect should you visit the US Capitol Building in Washington DC. This is one of many videos on my travel vl...

  18. Difference between White House/Capitol tour? : r/washingtondc

    The Capitol tours booked through your representative/senator's office will most likely be led by an intern. You may be joined by other constituents who are visiting the same day, and these tour groups are usually smaller (<15). Interns learn standard information for the tours, but may be able to highlight particular points of interest related ...

  19. Frequently Asked Questions

    All other Capitol Visitor Center tours are offered in English. Non-English-speaking visitors may request a tour follow-along brochure, which provides translations of the historical information being shared by the guide. These brochures may be requested at the Information Desks and are available in the following languages: አማርኛ Amharic ...

  20. Washington DC Forum

    Short Trip Metro Card 1:20 pm. White houre tour & Capitol Congressional tour vs public tour 12:19 pm. Washington two days with slight mobility issue today. Hotel recommendations and safety today. Clarification on luggage on amtrak Northern regional train yesterday. The better hotel: Fairmont DC or The Madison? yesterday.

  21. Capitol Hill Facts

    What material is the U.S. Capitol made of? The original building, completed in 1826, was made of brick clad in sandstone. The north and south wings and connecting corridors added in the mid 19th century and the replica of the East Front constructed in the 20th century are made of brick clad in marble; the dome is made of 8,909,200 pounds of ...

  22. Visiting Washington D.C. and want to know how long I need ...

    The White House tour may require a lot of waiting but doesn't take long at all. So 4-5 for these things. Personally I would recommend skipping the White House and seeing some of the art museums. The Hirshon, American Art, Portrait Gallery, East and West Wing of the National Gallery of Art. 2.

  23. Texas State Capitol Tour

    The Capitol is awesome. Most people know the shape from S. Congress looking North. There is a lot of cool stuff on the North side and underground. The full 3D structure is amazing. Just ignore the guys with the large guns. They are there to protect you, not intimidate you. 5.