U.S. Capitol
Free guided tours start at the underground Visitor Center and take in the Crypt, the Rotunda and National Statuary Hall. Book online; without a booking you join the next tour with space, so arrive by 2:30 PM. Open Monday to Saturday.
- Open
- Visitor Center Monday–Saturday 8:30 AM–4:30 PM; last tour 3:20 PM. Closed Sundays and some holidays.
- Price
- Free
- Time needed
- 1.5 hours
- Best time
- A weekday morning tour, then the Library of Congress next door.
- Address
- U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, First St SE, Washington, DC 20004Google MapsApple Maps
- Getting there
- Capitol South (Blue, Orange, Silver) or Union Station (Red). The Visitor Center entrance is on the East Front, below the plaza.
- Accessibility
- Fully accessible, with wheelchairs available at the Visitor Center.
- On site
- A cafeteria in the Visitor Center. No food or liquids, including water, past security.
Why go
The domed home of Congress is both a working building and a museum of American history. Free guided tours start with a short film in the underground Visitor Center, then take you through the Crypt, the Rotunda under the great dome, and National Statuary Hall, the old House chamber, lined with statues of famous citizens from every state.
Tips
- Book a tour online; without one, you'll be put on the next tour with space, so arrive by 2:30 PM.
- Food and drink, including water, aren't allowed past security.
- The tour doesn't include the Senate and House galleries, which need separate passes when Congress is in session.
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