How to Tour the Capitol Building
The United States Capitol has been the meeting place of the United States Congress for over 200 years. It occupies a prominent spot on the east end of the National Mall, atop Capitol Hill, in Washington D.C. Tours of this historic building are available for individuals and groups through either the office of your U.S. Representative or Senator or through the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center.
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Instructions
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Plan your tour in advance, as tours can book quickly. Determine a day or two that will work for you before contacting a tour organizer. Tours are free.
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Reserve spots for you, your family or small group (15 people or fewer) by contacting your U.S. Representative or Senator. You can also book a tour online via the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center.
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Reserve a large group (more than 15 people) tour online through the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center. Do not contact your Congressperson to reserve a large group tour.
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Enjoy the Capitol grounds and U.S. Capitol Visitor Center before or after your tour. You don't need a guide or reservations to explore these areas.
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Tips & Warnings
Same-day tour passes are sometimes offered in limited quantity. Visit the Information Desks in Emancipation Hall on the lower level of the Capitol Visitor Center to see if any are available.
If you book through your Congressional Representative, your tour is likely to be led by their staff, rather than a Visitor Center employee.
Security is tight inside the Capitol; plan ahead so your visit goes smoothly. See the Capitol Visitor Center website for a list of safety policies and prohibited items.
References
Resources
- U.S. Capitol Visitor Center: locate and contact your Representative
- U.S. Capitol Visitor Center: locate and contact your Senator
- U.S. Capitol Visitor Center: book a tour for yourself, your family, or small group
- U.S. Capitol Visitor Center: book a tour for a large group
- U.S. Capitol Visitor Center: visitor safety policies and prohibitied items
- U.S. Capitol Visitor Center: general information and hours
- Photo Credit capitol hill image by Matthew Antonino from Fotolia.com
