capitol tour route

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.

@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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8. Cancellation of Your Tour of the United States Capitol

The U.S. Capitol reserves the right to suspend scheduled tours at any time and for any reason.  To cancel your tour of the United States Capitol, please have your confirmation number available.  You may cancel your tour at visitthecapitol.gov or by calling 202-226-8000.

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Exhibition Hall: E Pluribus Unum

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• Legislative Highlights
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• Conflict and Compromise II
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How to Get US Capitol Building Tour Tickets

This post is about how to get tickets to tour the United States Capitol Building.

We also include tips on how to get gallery passes to watch the Senate and the House of Representatives in action as well as tour highlights.

• How to Reserve Tour Tickets
• Plan Your Visit
• Tour Highlights
• Senate + House Gallery Passes

Tips From Locals and Travelers

Our sister company, VISITDCTours offers a tour that has reserved tickets to tour the Library of Congress and the US Capitol for you.

This semi-private small group tour is limited to ~12 people and does have a ticketed cost.

You will see the Supreme Court and enter the Library of Congress and the US Capitol. Your guide will tour the Library of Congress with you and give you tickets to the US Capitol tour after our tour.

Allow an additional 50 minutes after the tour for the Capitol tour.

You can book this tour with our sister company, VisitDC Tours!

Is the US Capitol Building Open to the Public?

Yes and no.

While you can schedule a free tour of the United States Capitol, it is not accessible to the public for any other purpose.

You must pass through security to enter the building; unless you have a tour scheduled, they won't let you through.

You do not need a reservation to enter the Capitol Visitor Center - where you can find the cafeteria, gift shops, museums, and part of the National Statuary Collection.

UNITED STATES CAPITOL TOUR TICKETS 

Taking a tour of the Capitol Building requires a ticket, which is free, but reservations are the only way to guarantee a spot (well, there's our tour as well ).  

We recommend booking up to 3 months in advance if you plan to visit during the peak Spring/Summer touring months.  

Tours run Monday-Saturday every 10 minutes from 8:30 am - 3:20 pm, but this schedule can be changed for any of a number of reasons.

The Capitol (as well as the Library of Congress and Supreme Court) is closed on Sundays.

Tours can last between 50-80 minutes and the tour route can be changed without notice due to activities inside the Capitol.

There are no self-guided tours of the US Capitol Building.

There are 4 options to get tickets:

(Option 1) - Take a tour with a Capitol Visitor Center docent.  

These tours are staffed by professional docents, who have extensive knowledge of the building. 

Guests are organized into groups of 20 and listen to their guide through headsets. 

The docents are very knowledgeable, and the tour includes a short video of the building's significance and history before heading into the publicly accessible areas.

(Our favorite option) - Join us on our Capitol Hill & Library of Congress Tour.

This is our walking tour of the Capitol Building campus with a photo stop at the Supreme Court , visits to the interior Library of Congress, and ends with timed tickets for a tour with a docent of the Capitol Visitor Center we discussed above.

(Option 2) - Book your US Capitol experience through the offices of your representative or senators.  

This option offers tours that are staffed by office personnel, usually interns.

The advantage here is that the groups are usually smaller, sometimes just your family.

Also, your guide is likely to be from your area or state, and it's always interesting to hear about their life on "the Hill".  

This option may give you the chance to meet your representative or senator.  

One potential drawback is that your guide may be pretty fresh and not as knowledgeable as the docents. We think this option is worth a try.  Book here .

(Option 3) - Walk up.

If you want to try to get onto a tour without advanced reservations, there are walk-up options.

We do not recommend doing this during March and April, as well as the peak summer months. All other times are likely to be OK.  

The advantage here is that you have more flexibility when you decide to take the tour.  

Walk-up tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and are given out only for the next tour time slot, so you won't be able to grab tickets for later in the day.

Capitol Visitor Center Hours:

One way to visit the U.S. Capitol Building without a tour is to stop in at The Capitol Visitor Center.

This center is open Monday – Saturday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.

There are occasions when the building is closed for special events or security reasons! These sometimes happen on short notice.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

In this section, we cover what to expect during your visit with tips on how much time you will need (below), how to get to the visitor center , parking, security , and dining options .

Depending on what you want to see, expect to spend at least 90 minutes to get through security and complete the tour and an additional 30 - 60 minutes to visit one of the voting chambers. 

Add an additional 30 - 60 minutes if you want to spend some time in Emancipation Hall (see highlights ).

The Capitol Building is adjacent to both the Supreme Court and the Library of Congress , and many visitors choose to visit all three at the same time. We recommend this as well.

But plan 3 - 5 hours in total to do so. You can easily spend 60 - 90 minutes at the Library and another 60 minutes at the Supreme Court.  

How to Get to the Capitol Visitor Center

The Capitol Visitor Center entrance is on the east side of the Capitol, which is the side opposite the National Mall. Click here for directions to the visitor center .

There are two Metro stations that are close to the Capitol, Union Station Metro, which is serviced by the red line as well as the Capitol South Metro, which services the orange, blue and silver lines.

If you are new to the DC Metro, then read our how-to guide to DC's subway .

All the major hop-on, hop-off, and shuttle tour bus companies make stops at the U.S. Capitol Building.  

Due to security restrictions, all tour buses must drop passengers off on the West Front (National Mall side) of the building.

Visitors then must walk up Capitol Hill for 8-10 minutes to reach the visitor center.  

There are motorized golf carts to take those who need assistance to get up the hill. Use this map for directions from the West Front drop-off .  

Be sure to read our post on choosing the best bus tour in DC .

There is no parking around the Capitol Building. In fact, unless you're in a taxi or your personal car - you won't be able to drive up there at all.

Coaches and large vans are not allowed near the entrance and must drop off and pick up guests on the west (National Mall) side of the building.  

You can find 2-hour on-street parking in the residential area around East Capitol and 2nd St NE/SE, but you, more likely than not, will spend some time finding parking.

A more reasonable option is to park at Union Station.

However, if you plan to visit Smithsonian Museums as well, then there are some parking garages south of the Capitol, in the Federal Center SW area. 

SpotHero  is a popular service in DC that makes finding parking a whole lot easier.

They allow you to view which parking garages will be accessible and book a guaranteed space near where you’re headed. Pretty simple.

Security Check

Security at the Capitol Building is pretty tight and similar to airport security (though you won't have to take off your shoes).

You will need to go through a metal detector and there are many items that are not allowed into the building:

• Any food or beverage, including water, and anything bottled or unopened. (empty water bottled are allowed)
• Any pointed object, including knitting needles.
• Bag larger than 18 inches wide and 8.5 inches deep.
• Mace or pepper spray, razors, and box cutters.
• Any weapon of any kind, even army knives as well as replicas/toys.
• Any liquids, gels, sprays, aerosols - like lotions, makeup, sunscreen.

You may bring in mobile phones, wallets, and cameras.

While strollers are permitted in the Capitol Visitor Center, they are not in the House or Senate galleries.

These are subject to additional screening at the entrance as well.

While you may not run into any congresspeople in the Visitor Center Restaurant, you may overhear some lobbyists, and it is a surprisingly good place to grab a bite to eat if you arrive early for your tour (or after).

It’s located on the lower level of Emancipation Hall, just to the side of the ticket desks.

They have a broad range of meals and snacks ranging from pizza to roast turkey to sushi.

We’re particularly fans of their breakfast sandwiches if you’re visiting in the morning, and the giant cookies are the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

Here’s a link to the menu .  They have received 4 of 5 stars on TripAdvisor.

While we do our best to provide all the information you'll need to visit the US Capitol, sometimes you require answers to specific questions related to your personal experience.

Thankfully, our Washington DC Travel Tips group on Facebook is the perfect place to look for any answers you may need.

Here are a few examples of interesting and helpful tips and tricks provided by members of our group:

This is probably the most common question about visiting the US Capitol Building, which is why we answer it at the top of this article.

As Jennifer notes, even if you just wanted to see the gift shop and visitor center, you'd need to pass through security (though as of 2024, you no longer require reservations just to enter the Visitor Center)

One nice thing about the US Capitol Building tour is that it's reasonably paced, so you should have enough time either before or after for other activities.

The only real place to eat lunch in the area is the Capitol Building itself, but they actually have a lot of great menu options, so it's not necessarily a bad option!

Many group members recommend getting a tour through your state representative because they will send down an intern and give you a less rushed experience. Despite some guest's experiences, you only sometimes get a private tour. In peak seasons, March-August, you'll often be with a large group.

That said, public tours are led by official docents, so you can trust that they will also provide an excellent service.

Diana notes that anyone who has booked a tour should show up at least a little bit early to ensure they can get through security without any issues and meet their docent on time.

10-15 minutes is probably sufficient for the entire process of getting from the entrance of the building to the starting point of your tour.

This is another common question we see on our group, and the unofficial answer is at least 2 weeks before the tour and up to 90 days ahead of time.

Even so, some of our members have indicated they scheduled their tour through their representative's office 6 months in advance.

For more helpful advice and suggestions, make sure to check our Washington DC Travel Tips group on Facebook, and consider asking our users any question you may have!

CAPITOL TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Exhibition Hall and Visitor Center Gallery

Once you get through security, you’ll find yourself in the beautiful Capitol Visitor Center.

This is where you’ll pick up your tickets if you’re taking a tour of the Capitol, but there are lots of things to check out before the tour even begins.

The beautiful, light-filled lower level is named Emancipation Hall , in remembrance of the slave labor that went into constructing the Capitol building and the United States as a whole.

Around Emancipation Hall you’ll see many statues ranging from a native Hawaiian king to an astronaut.

These are overflow from National Statuary Hall which you’ll generally see on the Capitol tour, and we discuss a few paragraphs down.

There are two gift shops on the upper level - North and South. There was a congressional order passed that everything sold in these gift shops must be made in America.

In the center of Emancipation Hall is a 19.5-foot (6 m) Statue of Freedom , the original plaster model of the allegorical figure that sits atop the Capitol dome.

She is perfect to scale, and this allows you to get up close and notice the incredible detail put into the work.

Our favorite detail is the eagle’s head that sits atop her helmet and is adorned with a Native American headdress.

Just behind the statue of Freedom is the Exhibition Hall.

In this small museum, called Out of Many One , you can learn both about the history of the U.S. Congress and its work and the construction of the Capitol Building.

Highlights here include an 11-foot (3.5 m) tall model of the Capitol Dome , which you are encouraged to touch, and live feeds of the House and the Senate when they are in session.

It may seem odd to have a crypt in the middle of what is basically a government office building, but there are no actual remains interred here.

In some of the original plans of the Capitol, it was thought that George Washington and his wife Martha might be buried here.

But the first president wished to be put to rest at his home in Virginia, Mount Vernon, where he remains to this day.

The Crypt does still carry great importance, as it marks the center of Washington, D.C. Around the room are 13 statues, of important individuals from the 13 original colonies. 

Old Supreme Court

The judicial branch of the United States government met in this room from 1810 to 1860, when it then moved to the Old Senate Chamber which is also often included on the tour.

Generally, you enter the robing room, where the Supreme Court Justices once all donned their black robes together before entering the court.

At the back of the room are Justice’s desks, some of which are original to the 19th century and were actually used by the Justices when the Supreme Court occupied this chamber.  

One of the most remarkable aspects of the room is the vaulted ceiling designed by Benjamin Latrobe which was inspired by medieval engineering techniques and resembles an umbrella.

The Rotunda

The heart of the building and undoubtedly the most iconic aspect of the Capitol Building is the Rotunda.

It is where honored citizens have laid in state, including Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, Rosa Parks, and most recently, Billy Graham. 

In the original design of William Thornton, the rotunda was intended to be a simple dome modeled after the Pantheon in Rome.

However, when the building was expanded in the mid-1800s, it was clear that the dome needed to be enlarged as well, and construction of the massive wedding cake-style dome was begun.

Around the inside of the Rotunda are many pieces of art depicting important figures and events in American history.

At the center, there is the fresco the Apotheosis of Washington by Constantino Brumidi. It shows George Washington sitting in the heavens, flanked by the goddesses Liberty and Victory, and surrounded by 13 maidens representing the original 13 colonies.

Lower down the dome is a ring of friezes depicting American history from the landing of Columbus to the birth of aviation.

There are also many statues around the Rotunda, including one of Abraham Lincoln by Vinnie Ream, the first woman artist who received a commission from the American government.

National Statuary Hall

Like so many rooms in the Capitol, Statuary Hall is heavily influenced by ancient Greek architecture, drawing parallels between the origin of democracy and its rebirth in America.

Originally this room was intended to be a chamber for the House of Representatives.

However, the curved ceiling created strange acoustics, with whisper spots where someone speaking softly could be heard many yards away.

It was distracting during sessions, and many of the members didn’t like the idea of rivals hearing their secrets, so the House was relocated.

For many years, it was debated what to do with the room, until it was decided to dedicate it as space for states to honor their most eminent citizens.

Each state is invited to send two statues of their choosing in either marble or bronze, depicting people who have made a significant contribution to the history of that state.

Originally, all statues were placed in Statuary Hall, however as more and more states began sending their statues, the hall became was severely overcrowded.

Statues had to be placed behind each other, in some places 3 statues deep, and there were worries that the floor could not hold the huge weight.

Today the statues are scattered throughout the Capitol building as well as in the hall.

Old Senate Chamber

Since the country used to be much smaller, the Capitol building was as well. This is actually the third chamber that the Senate has met in.

The first had to be abandoned after just 6 years because it was crumbling and rotting, and the second was burned down by the British during the War of 1812.

Finally, the Senate convened here for 40 years.

In 1859 the Senate moved to its fourth and current chamber, and the Supreme Court moved in until it got its own building in 1935 ( which you could also tour ).

The Old Senate Chamber is richly decorated in crimson and gold and was inspired, like so much of Washington DC, by buildings in Paris.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES GALLERY PASSES

To visit the House of Representatives Gallery, which is where members of the House debate and take their votes, contact your representative or senator to obtain passes.

International visitors may inquire at the House of Representatives' appointment desk on the upper level of the Capitol Visitors Center.

These passes are not timed and can be used at any time during that year.

The House Gallery is open to visitors whenever the House of Representatives is in session ( see schedule ) until adjournment for that day.  

It is also "usually" open whenever the House is in recess, from 9:00 am until 4:15 pm, Mondays through Fridays.

You will have to go through additional security and leave all belongings outside of the gallery in storage containers.

You can bring a pen and paper, but that is about it!  Absolutely no photography.

PRO TIP:  You will need an additional 30 - 60 minutes to visit either of the legislative galleries. If time is short, then we recommend visiting the House Gallery.  

It is here that the President of the United States delivers his annual State of the Union Address and you are more likely to see action on the floor.

SENATE GALLERY PASSES

To visit the Senate Gallery, which is where members of the U.S. Senate debate and take their votes, contact your representative or senator to obtain passes.

International visitors may inquire at the Senate appointment desk on the upper level of the Capitol Visitors Center.

Open to visitors whenever the Senate is in session, from 30 minutes before the Senate convenes ( see schedule ) until adjournment for that day, which is usually 4:15 pm.  

It is also regularly open whenever the Senate is in recess for 1 week or more.

When in recess, visitors are permitted to view the gallery from 9:00 am until 4:30 pm, Mondays through Fridays.  

There is no access on Saturdays unless the Senate is in session.  

You could also call the Senate to confirm if the gallery is open - 202.224.0057.

You will have to go through additional security for either and leave all belongings outside of the gallery in storage containers.

You can bring a pen and paper and that is about it!   Absolutely no photography.

Related Posts

• How to Tour the Supreme Court 
• How to Tour the Library of Congress
• Other Things to do in Washington, DC

Consider our guided tour of Capitol Hill , which includes tickets to tour the U.S. Capitol Building.

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8 Best US Capitol Tours

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Routes and Trips Travel Guide with Maps and Photos

Washington dc: capitol hill walk.

Posted by: Liisa Nygård

This self-guided Capitol Hill walk will take you to the world-famous halls of the US Capitol, Washington DC. In addition we will visit the Library of Congress and the US Botanic Gardens right below the hill.

Capitol Hill walk to the US Capitol

To see all these attractions you will preferably need a full day and prepare your visit in advance. To visit the US Capitol you need a reservation through on their website, at least during travel peaks.

However, in November there were no crowds. It was sunny, not too hot and autumn showed its best colors. Not a bad month to visit the Capitol Hill!

The Capitol Hill Walk on the Map

Map of the Capitol Hill walking itinerary

The map shows the Capitol Hill of Washington DC. The hill is located at the east end of the National Mall, to see the whole National Mall zoom out the map.

Our Capitol Hill walk is marked in blue on the map, not a long walk at all, probably something like a mile only.

The Congress Library is located behind the Capitol and so is the Supreme Court and some other institutions.

After you have completed the Capitol Hill walk, the next day you should take the National Mall, read about it here: National Mall Walking Itinerary, Washington DC . But now to the Capitol Grounds:

Capitol Grounds

The US Capitol Grounds

Before getting indoors we will have a look at the green Capitol Grounds surrounding the Capitol building.

And why not walk a bit further away to the National Mall, at least to the water basin of Reflecting Pool that offers great views of the Capitol building:

The US Capitol seen from the Capitol Grounds and Reflecting Pool

Then, to find the entrance to the Capitol you have to go round the building. The entrance is behind the Capitol:

The US Capitol

The US Capitol, the highest building in Washington DC

This is the US Capitol, the highest building in Washington DC, seen from the square behind.

The US Capitol is not just a building among many others, but one of the most important buildings in the whole world and the home of the Congress and Senate of the United States.

The public enters at the lower level behind the building and of course all visitors are inspected.

The entrance hall of the US Capitol

To see the building you will have to join a guided tour, the time of which you should book in advance on their website.

Only during low season you might be lucky enough to get a tour without pre booking it, but probably after standing for ages in the ticket queue.

The House of Representatives

Capitol Hill walk: tickets to the House of Representatives

Then, if you want to visit the House Chamber where the Congress sits and the Senate Chamber where the senate sits, these visits must be arranged separately.

We got the tickets to both places. It was a positive surprise that they let even overseas visitors get into the Chambers and then watch their sessions.

Of course there was one more inspection for that. Cell phones, cameras and such were not allowed in the chambers and they re-checked our IDs. But the chambers where so highly interesting, definitely worth all the trouble!

Above you can see our tickets to the House of Representatives. That’s all we can show as cameras where not allowed.

 Capitol Hill Walk: The Crypt

The Crypt of the U.S. Capitol

The guided tour of the US Capitol begins with the Crypt, a large hall with 40 Doric columns surrounded by remarkable statues from the different states.

The original idea with the crypt was to make it George Washington’s tomb.

Capitol Hill walk: the Crypt of the U.S. Capitol

Then the dome:

The Capitol Dome

Statues in the Dome of the US Capitol

The Dome of the US Capitol is full of amazing paintings and great statues showing the most important events in American history. And statues of remarkable American people.

Capitol Hill walk: the US Capitol Dome

And more statues will follow in the next hall:

National Statuary Hall

National Statuary Hall of the US Capitol

The Old Hall of the House of Representatives, the National Statuary Hall, also has statues from different states. Every state has two statues of its notable citizens in this hall of the Capitol.

Capitol Hill walk: National Statuary Hall

So now we have seen the Capitol and will move further to the next building, the Library of Congress.

To get to the library we only have to take an underground tunnel.

Capitol Hill Walk: Library of Congress

The Congress Library, Capitol Hill, Washington DC

The US Library of Congress is so huge. It is the world’s biggest library that has 150 million items in its collections.

The library is one of the three Capitol Hill buildings that any citizen is free to use, so it’s not only for the congress members.

If you only have time with one of the many library buildings, visit the Thomas Jefferson Building that’s known for its stunning architecture.

To get more out of your visit take a free one hour guided tour. On the tour the guide will show you all the highlights and after the tour you can examine more on your own.

The Great Hall of the Library of Congress

These pictures are from the Great Hall of the Library of Congress, decorated with fantastic arches, columns and balconies. Look at it!

Reading Room and the Bibles

The Main Reading Room of the Congress Library

This again is the Main Reading Room of the Congress Library. The massive hall is full of enchanting details, like the eight marble columns with female figures watching the readers sitting lower down in the hall.

The Gutenberg and Mainz Bibles of the Library of Congress

The Library of Congress also contains two real treasures dating back to the 1450s: the printed Gutenberg Bible and the handwritten Mainz Bible .

Jefferson Collection and Magna Carta

Thomas Jefferson’s Collection at the Library of Congress

And of course the library has much more, like a collection of Thomas Jefferson’s books, loads of old maps and bible. Then there are children’s books and comics and other things to see.

By the way, the old map in the picture below is worth 10 Million dollars. It’s the first map ever with the word America:

Treasures of the Congress Library, Washington DC

The day we were visiting happened to be the opening day of an exhibition of the original Magna Carta 1215. The Magna Carta (the photo up in the middle) was brought from the Lincoln Cathedral in Great Britain, just for the exhibition.

US Supreme Court

US Supreme Court on the Capitol Hill of Washington DC

Then, next to the Library of Congress is the United States Supreme Court. The court building looks a bit like a Greek temple and you can go in and watch the court’s proceedings for free.

We missed the court interior as it was already closed for the day at the time we were finished with our other Capitol Hill walk attractions. It was soon getting dark but luckily there was still some time to see the Botanic Gardens.

Capitol Hill Walk: US Botanic Garden

The conservatory of US Botanic Garden

After a long walk in cold Washington autumn weather we really needed a moment in a warmer, tropical climate. Especially having arrived from Florida two days earlier.

The Washington DC Botanic Garden in photos:

Capitol Hill walk: US Botanic Garden

We really appreciate that anybody is free just to walk in the conservatory and stroll in the all the beautiful gardens around it. They have such a huge amound of plants from different countries and climate zones.

And most of all I liked this little bird that was staring at me from the bush. But it was getting dark soon and it was time to finish out Capitol Hill walk.

Capitol Hill walk: a bird in the bush

So I hope you enjoyed reading about our little walk in the capital of the United States. If you have been to the Capitol Hill what more would you recommend to see on the hill?

Good bye from Washington DC!

More on Washington DC

If you are planning a trip to Washington DC, check out these two posts:

• National Mall Walking Itinerary, Washington DC
• Washington DC Day Trip to Old Town Alexandria

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Capitol Hill Tour

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.

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.

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.

*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.

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.

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.

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.

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
• How much does a trip to Washington DC cost?
• 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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This Man Planned the Most Efficient U.S. Road Trip of All Time (Video)

All the state capitols in the lower 48, in one trip.

Jordi Lippe-McGraw is a freelance writer and editor covering travel, parenting, and wellness. She’s traveled to more than 50 countries on all seven continents (including Antarctica while five months pregnant) and equally loves penguins and truffles.

Hitting the open road and driving into the sunset is a romantic notion, but most of us need a little planning before road trip .

Do you go north? Do you go south? Do you take a week? Do you take a month? What are the best stops to make? And there are a million more questions to be asked.

Randy Olson, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, mapped out a super-efficient — and super-ambitious — way to see the contiguous United States. He devised his cross-country road trip , combining algorithms and Google Maps, so he could visit 48 capitol buildings.

“For this road trip, there is one goal: to take a picture at as many U.S. state capitols as possible,” Olson wrote on his blog. “We will travel only by car, so that rules out Alaska (too far away) and Hawaii (requires a plane flight) and leaves us with the 48 contiguous states (excluding the nation's capital, Washington, D.C. ).”

“Whenever possible, we will avoid routes that require us to travel through foreign countries, as entering/leaving the country requires a passport and border control tends to slow things down.”

To start, he found the “true” distance between all of the capitols by car, and then the shortest route by roadbetween every capitol, amounting to 2,256 directions. He did a lot more math — you can read that here — before determining his final itinerary.

The algorithm “reached an optimized solution that makes a complete trip to all of the U.S. state capitols in only 13,310 miles (21,420 km) of driving,” he wrote. That came out to visiting those 48 U.S. state capitols in 8.5 days.

“The best part is that this road trip is designed so that you can start anywhere on the route,” he noted. “As long as you follow the route from wherever you start, you’ll hit every state capitol in the 48 contiguous U.S. states.”

• By Jordi Lippe
• By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

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The Rocky Mountaineer’s Train Route: Your Ultimate Checklist

Posted: February 8, 2024 | Last updated: February 8, 2024

All aboard!

Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks rail route runs between Denver, Colorado and Moab, Utah. The scenic train journey in the USA’s southwest has a length of 354 miles and takes a day and a half to complete, including an overnight stay in pretty resort town Glenwood Springs. As the route name suggests, the geology of the region is one of its star attractions, with the Rocky Mountains, rugged canyons, russet-colored rocks and swathes of desert visible from the train’s panoramic windows.

Click through the gallery to discover some of the standout experiences from Rocky Mountaineer's epic Rockies to the Red Rocks train trip...

1. See the Mile High City and its Capitol building

Denver, nicknamed the Mile High City after its elevation, is Colorado’s state capital and offers lots to see and do before or after riding the Rocky Mountaineer. You can join free guided tours of the Colorado State Capitol – a grand domed building designed by Elijah E. Myers and opened in 1894. From there it’s a five-minute walk to Denver Art Museum, whose collection of Indigenous works and depictions of America’s West are among its highlights.

2. Start the journey at Denver Train Siding

The Rocky Mountaineer begins or ends its Rockies to the Red Rocks route from Denver Train Siding at 36th Street and Wazee Street. After coach transfers from their hotel, passengers are greeted by members of the crew and warmly welcomed on board. The train is made up of single-deck SilverLeaf carriages, which have comfortable leather seats and panoramic oversized windows that make it easy to enjoy the scenery along the route. 

3. Ride the Big 10 Curve

The line that the Rocky Mountaineer runs on is not only incredibly scenic, it's also remarkable for feats of engineering, including the Big 10 Curve, which was built in the early 1900s and is located around 20 miles from Denver. Named after the degree of tightness along a section of track with a 2% incline, the curve helps minimize the distance traveled on the climb into the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. Looking back provides fine views of distant Denver and its suburbs far below.

4. Snap verdant landscapes in the tunnel district

The journey into the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains includes traveling through a 13-mile stretch of track known as the tunnel district. Completed in 1904, it features 30 tunnels that were hand-blasted through rock. Rising towards the Continental Divide – the mountainous spine of North America – provides opportunities for you to step into the vestibule and breathe in the fresh mountain air, and to photograph the dramatic landscapes.

5. View Gross Reservoir in the Rocky Mountains

The Gross Reservoir is on the eastern side of the USA’s Continental Divide. Its water is pumped from the western side, through the access tunnel constructed for workers building the six-mile Moffat Tunnel that slices under the divide. On one side, water flows into the Pacific while on the east it drops towards the Atlantic. The tunnel is named after David Moffat, who invested his fortune in constructing the Denver, Northwestern and Pacific Railway.

6. Spot the Elizabeth Kurtak Art Gallery in Fraser, Colorado

Journeying on the Rockies to the Red Rocks route means you can sit back and enjoy viewing both rural and urban scenery. The route snakes through Winter Park, a Colorado ski resort that in 2006 became the USA’s highest incorporated town. Nearby Fraser is home to historic wooden buildings typical of those constructed by settlers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. One such building is now home to the Elizabeth Kurtak Art Gallery (pictured), a local artist's studio and gallery who specializes in watercolor. 

7. Enjoy insightful commentary from a Rocky Mountaineer host

Intermittently, the hosts who serve food and drink on board the Rocky Mountaineer also pick up a microphone to highlight points of interest along the route. Their commentary provides fascinating insights into the heritage of the railway line, history of places and details relating to nature and geology. They also receive notifications from crew members in other carriages about wildlife sightings, which can include the likes of bald-headed eagles, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep and pronghorns – the fastest mammals in North America, who can run at speeds close to 60 miles an hour. 

8. Eat tasty, locally sourced food

The rugged scenery is not the only highlight of the journey. Tasty meals are served to passengers at their seats, with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, including peach cobbler made with Palisade peaches, beef from local cattle and freshly baked items from Glenwood Springs. The menu is available in the seatback and is explained by the chef, who makes a round of the carriage to take passengers’ orders shortly before the service. The food is paired with regional beer and wine, with options also from elsewhere in the United States.

9. Follow the Colorado River's westward flow

Much of the Rockies to the Red Rocks’ route skirts the USA’s fifth-longest river. On the journey out of Denver, the train picks up the westward flow of the Colorado River near Byers Canyon. At Gore Canyon, the track runs alongside fast-flowing rapids that pose a challenge even to experienced white-water rafters. Elsewhere, the route swings across plains and through steep-sided valleys, including Burns Canyon – named after the trapper and settler Jack Burns.

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10. See rugged canyon walls near Dotsero, Colorado

11. Sweep alongside Interstate 70 in Glenwood Canyon

12. Stay overnight in Glenwood Springs

You’ll stay overnight at a hotel in Glenwood Springs, no matter whether you are heading towards Moab or Denver on the route. That means an opportunity to soak in one of the resort city's hot spring pools. Nomadic Ute people were aware of the healing properties of the geothermally heated, mineral-rich water long before the arrival of the railroad in 1887, which transformed Glenwood into an early wellness destination.

13. See John Henry ‘Doc’ Holliday's headstone

The Rocky Mountaineer has a pre-dawn departure when heading west to Moab, which means you’ll need to visit Linwood Cemetery in Colorado the night before if you want to see John Henry ‘Doc’ Holliday’s headstone. One of the best-known names of America’s Wild West era, Holliday was a dentist turned gambler and gunslinger who participated in the infamous gunfight at the OK Corral. Suffering from tuberculosis, he headed to Glenwood Springs seeking a cure and died here in 1887. 

14. Breathe in the morning air near New Castle

Hot coffee and tea is provided on the platform at Glenwood Springs station ahead of the westward journey on the second day, where the rush of cool morning air in the vestibule may also help snap you awake. The hills around nearby New Castle are famed for being the location of a coal fire that has smoldered underground for more than a century. Methane caused an explosion in the Vulcan Mine in 1913. Intermittently, smoke is seen above ground.

15. Experience a golden sunrise over the Colorado River

You won’t regret the early start once you see the sun ascending over the rolling hills that rise into the White River National Forest, which sprawls across 2.3 million acres and has 11 ski resorts. Photographers have long known that the hour after dawn is often rewarded by spectacular imagery and passengers aboard the Rocky Mountaineer get to see why at the beginning of the second day. Water vapour sometimes rises off the Colorado River at this hour, reminiscent of steam billowing from a hot bath.

16. Appreciate geology in De Beque Canyon

17. Roll through Colorado's oldest wine producing region

Most Americans associate peaches with the state of Georgia, yet Coloradans tend to swear that those from Palisade are sweeter and juicier. The area gets its name from the fortress-like Palisade rock (pictured), whose steep sides formed from Mancos Shale. It was at Rapid Creek, near Palisade, that Colorado’s first vineyard was established in 1890, with Zinfandel and Muscat grapes among the varietals planted. Passengers on board the train have the opportunity to sample Coloradan wines while traveling through the area.

18. Cross the Utah-Colorado state border

A modest hand-painted sign marks the site of the Colorado-Utah state border, the white capital lettering daubed on the gently meandering red sandstone of Ruby Canyon. Nearby, indentations in the cliff face provide evidence of Indigenous habitation long before European settlers made their way westward. The marks provided a way of reaching dwellings high above the valley floor. The area remains important to Ute people who were resettled on reservations.

19. Experience the arid beauty of eastern Utah

The train provides unimpeded views of eastern Utah’s arid landscape. On seeing the sun-baked yellow grass, dusty earth and slowly crumbling mudstone cliffs, cartoon fans might be forgiven for thinking that all the scenery is lacking is a not-so-wily coyote chasing a beeping road runner. The inhospitable climate played a role in turning Cisco into a ghost town. It’s now rebounding as a place where artists can express their creativity.

20. Tour rock formations in Arches National Park

The Rockies to the Red Rocks rail journey ends at Moab Train Siding, with the entrance to Arches National Park lying on the way to Moab. Late afternoon is an optimal time to tour the eroded rocks that give the park its name. From the siding, Dead Horse Point State Park lies in the opposite direction along Highway 313. It was there that the scene of the Ford Thunderbird driving into the canyon was filmed for the 1991 movie  Thelma and Louise .

21. Go off-road in the hills above Moab

Moab has evolved into a thriving adventure tourism destination. At the outset of the Atomic Age, the surrounding area attracted prospectors and became a hub for uranium mining. Horse riding, river rafting and rock climbing now number among the activities that visitors can try. Off-road driving in buggies and four-wheel vehicles, including Hummers operated by the  Moab Adventure Center , offer a way of exploring dusty hills on the edge of town. And dark skies mean that the fun doesn’t stop with nightfall either. 

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Getting to the Capitol

Walking to the capitol.

The United States Capitol is bordered by Constitution Avenue to the north and Independence Avenue to the south. It is located at the far eastern end of the  National Mall  beyond the Capitol Reflecting Pool. The Capitol Visitor Center, the main entrance to the U.S. Capitol, is located beneath the East Front plaza of the U.S. Capitol at First Street and East Capitol Street. 

The Capitol Grounds are open to visitors.

• U.S. Capitol Map
• Click here to download the U.S. Capitol map in PDF format

Visitor Services Shuttle to Capitol Visitor Center Entrance

For your convenience, the Capitol Visitor Center provides an on-demand shuttle for those with mobility issues or in manual wheelchairs.  The shuttles run from the southwest corner of Capitol Square at Independence Ave. and First Street, SW, to the Capitol Visitor Center entrance at the center of the Capitol’s East Plaza.  Please ask the Office of Congressional Accessibility Services at 202.224.4048, Capitol Visitor Center staff in red shirts or vests, or at either of the kiosks located at the southwest corner of Capitol Square or on the east side of the Capitol near the corner of First St. NE/SE and East Capitol Street.  Please provide as much advance notice as possible to help facilitate your request.

If you are traveling with a large group requesting mobility assistance, we strongly recommend that you contact the Office of Congressional Accessibility Services at 202.224.4048 prior to your visit.  Please provide as much advance notice as possible to help facilitate your request.

Getting to the Capitol by Bicycle

Bicycle racks are located near the entrance to the Capitol Visitor Center along First Street SE and First Street NE. These racks are in addition to numerous bike racks provided on the West Front of the Capitol, between the Russell and Dirksen Senate Office Buildings, and by each of the House Office Buildings.

The District Department of Transportation’s bike sharing program, Capital Bikeshare , allows you to take a bicycle from more than 350 stations across the Washington, DC, metro region and return it to any station near your destination. 

Getting to the Capitol by Subway

There are three subway stops found within walking distance of the Capitol:

• Union Station – Located at First Street, NW, and Massachusetts Avenue.
• Capitol South – Located at First Street between C and D Streets, SE.
• Federal Center, SW – Located at the southwest corner of Third and D Streets, SW.

Additional information on riding the subway, which is called the Metro, is available at the  Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority homepage www.wmata.com .

Two DC Circulator routes, ( Union Station – Navy Yard Route  and  National Mall Route ) include stops near the U.S. Capitol. The Circulator is another kind of public bus, and you will find more information about this option at  www.dccirculator.com .

Getting to the Capitol by Car

Please keep in mind that there is very little public parking available near the Capitol. The nearest public parking facility is at Union Station, to the north of the Capitol.

Metered street parking is found along the Mall to the west of the Capitol.

Tour Bus Route and Commercial Bus Restrictions on U.S. Capitol Grounds

Click here to view the tour bus route (Updated 11/07)

The following security measures will be implemented as part of continued efforts by the U.S. Capitol Police to enhance security within the Capitol complex. These measures are precautionary, and are not predicated on any known threats.

Effective Saturday, June 9, 2007, all commercial buses will be prohibited from accessing the following areas on U.S. Capitol Grounds. This policy does not affect public transit buses, or sight seeing trolleys:

• Independence Ave., between Washington Ave., SW and 2nd Street, SE
• Constitution Ave., between Louisiana Ave., NW and 2nd Street, NE
• 1st Street between D Street, NE and D Street, SE
• 1st Street between Maryland Ave., and Independence Ave., SW
• 2nd Street between D Street, NE and D Street, SE

Tour bus operators must adhere to the following vehicle regulations:

Tour buses may ENTER U.S. Capitol Grounds at:

• 3rd and Maryland Ave., SW
• 3rd and Pennsylvania Ave., NW

Tour buses may EXIT U.S. Capitol Grounds at:

• 1st and Louisiana Ave., NW

LOADING and UNLOADING of passengers MUST occur at the east curb of:

• 1st and Maryland Ave., SW (east curb of Garfield Circle)
• 1st St., SW/NW between Pennsylvania and Maryland Avenues
• 1st and Pennsylvania Ave., NW (east curb of Peace Circle)

Traversing Constitution Avenue, Independence Avenue or First Street and Second Street, NE/SE in front of the U.S. Capitol is prohibited. Tour bus standing, idling or parking is not permitted. Vehicular Security Checkpoints may be activated at any time without notice. Please follow police directions, posted street signs, and/or illuminated message boards to facilitate your visit to the U.S. Capitol.

Additional recorded information can be obtained by calling the U.S. Capitol Police Bulletin Board at 1.877.872.7111, or by emailing  [email protected] .

If there are any questions about these events or security procedures, you may contact the United States Capitol Police Public Information Office at 202.224.1677.