Capitol Hill Walking Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore U.S. Capitol's rich history
- Discover Library of Congress treasures
- Stroll through Capitol Hill's charming streets
- Learn about American democracy's roots
- Enjoy insights from a knowledgeable guide
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of U.S. Capitol
- Visit to Library of Congress
- Expert local guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Itinerary
Pass by: Guests meet directly across the street from the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory, one of the oldest botanic gardens in North America, founded by Congress in 1820, located at 100 Maryland Avenue SW.
Inside the U.S. Capitol: Guests go through security, have a short break, watch the orientation film, and then join the official guided tour with headsets. Typical rooms include the Crypt, Rotunda, and National Statuary Hall; sometimes the Old Supreme Court or Old Senate Chambers. The Rotunda fresco “The Apotheosis of Washington” is 180 feet above the floor; the Crypt was originally intended for Washington’s burial. *The government has the right to close or to cancel any tour inside the US Capitol without advanced notice to us.
Library of Congress (self-guided after Capitol): After being escorted to the tunnel, guests use timed-entry passes to walk straight into the Jefferson Building, widely considered the most beautiful building in Washington. Highlights include: – The Gutenberg Bible – 1 of only 3 perfect vellum copies in existence. – The Great Hall – a soaring Italian Renaissance-style atrium with marble columns, mosaics, gold leaf, and murals by leading artists. – The Main Reading Room – viewed from upper observation deck, this is the iconic circular reading room seen in countless films. – Putti and carvings – cherubic figures representing arts and sciences line the balustrades – Architectural firsts – the Jefferson Building was the first public building in DC designed for electric lighting and one of the first to use a comprehensive climate-control system.
Pass by the Supreme Court building
Pass by: Peace Monument/Peace Circle – commemorates naval deaths of the Civil War; figures “Grief” and “History."
Pass by: One of the largest equestrian statues in the world; sculptor took 20 years to complete
Pass by: 2-hour Morning guided walking tour through Capitol Hill
Pass by: Pass by the Senate and House office buildings and learn about the workings of Congress. Your guide will share insights into the history, architecture, and role these iconic buildings play in shaping American legislation.
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately.
- Photography may be restricted in certain areas.
- Food and drinks are not permitted inside the buildings.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the tour.
- Bring a valid ID for entry into government buildings.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Stroller Accessible
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
- Infants Required On Laps
Good to know
- Waking: There will be standing and walking during this tour. Please wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather as much of the tour is outdoors. DC can be very hot in the summer and cold in the winter. Umbrellas and layers are recommended.
- Animal policy: animals are not permitted on tours.
Traveler reviews
Fast Paced Capitol/Library of Congress Tour
It was a fast paced 4 hour tour! Dewayne was full of historical information of the Capitol and shared it as we gathered for the tour and at each stopping point. He seemed a bit too hurried and caused some in the tour discomfort. I loved the history lesson he and Vernon shared. The Capitol is lovely and Dwayne and Vernon treated it with reverence. I do recommend this tour but at a slower pace.
Just ok.
Vernon, our guide, was wonderful. The tour ran long, but we never stopped outside Supreme Court. Also, you just get led to the Library of Congress and then go in on your own. If you have time, plan ahead and get tix thru your Congress person - they are free !
See above
Very educational and interesting.
Hmmm?
It was canceled due to “National Prayer Day,” after waiting for hours and before being told we would be waiting for 5 minutes. Someone finally showed up to tell us that. They do not respond to messages in the app. And after all this time, the man seemed to turn his back to me when talking, even when I adjusted to hear! He adjusted to keep his back to me…
It was awesome! Dwayne...
It was awesome! Dwayne was charming & informative. Passionate about what he does. Dwayne aka.. The Roc aka Dwayne W. Thank you!