Capitol Hill & Library of Congress Highlights Walking Tour (With Tickets)
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A grand walking tour of Capitol Hill to explore the Supreme Court, Library of Congress, and US Capitol. Learn about the country's legislative & judicial branches and step inside with the included entry tickets.
Supreme Court: The tour does not enter, but you will get a full understanding of the judicial branch.
Library of Congress: See an original Gutenberg Bible, view Jefferson's original library collection. Take a peek in the main Reading Room and admire items such as a draft of the Gettysburg Address, handwritten lyrics for “The Sound of Music,” Maya Lin’s drawings for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, original artwork by Stan Lee for the Spider-Man comic.
Capitol Building: Learn about the Burning of Washington and find the best angle for a photo. See the original plaster model of Freedom.
Your guide will secure hard-to-get tickets for the docent-led tour, which brings you into the Crypt, the Rotunda, and the Old House.
Available options
Capitol Hill & Library of Congress Highlights Walking Tour (With Tickets)
What's included
Guided Walking Tour with a Professional Licensed Guide
Tickets for the docent-led US Capitol tour (during shutdown, we see this from exterior only)
Tickets to go inside Library of Congress (during shutdown, we see this from exterior only)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We'll see the best photo angle of the US Capitol, stand where the four DC quadrants of DC intersect, and see the press area for Capitol reporters.
2
Stop 2
From the outside, your guide will talk about the Supreme Court Building.
3
Stop 3
Your guide will bring you inside this beautiful architectural wonder to explore Thomas Jefferson's personal library collection, an original Gutenburg Bible, the Main Reading Room overlook and more.
4
When security allows, we'll see the permanent podium on the House side of the Capitol available for press conferences.
5
Stop 5
We'll enter the Capitol Visitor Center to see the original model of the Statue of Freedom (the statue on top of the Capitol Dome) and see part of the National Statuary Collection.
6
Stop 6
Your guide will explain the US Capitol's significance, architecture and history before bringing you inside for a docent led tour.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
99 reviews
5★
86
4★
7
3★
2
2★
2
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.9
42 reviews
5★
39
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet your guide at the corner of 1st St NE & Constitution Ave NE, on the sidewalk outside the Reserve Officers Association building (private building; do not enter). We cannot accommodate guests who arrive more than 15 minutes late. There are no restrooms until the second hour of the tour.
Important notes
• If you need to reach us, please SMS us at +1-202-370-1830. Messaging us on the Viator app will send us an email and may not be seen right away.
• You will receive a text prior to your tour with the tour guide's information. If you do not get this, you may have provided an incomplete phone number. Please make sure country code was included. Contact us directly if you do not get this text.
• Due to security and ticketing procedures at federal buildings, guests who arrive more than 15 minutes late to the tour will not be accommodated
• All visitors must pass through security. While no ID is required, there are strict restrictions (e.g. no liquids, food, sharp objects, or suitcases). There is no skip-the-line option for this. Expect some waiting to enter buildings.
• We do NOT meet at the Capitol Visitor Center. Entering the US Capitol for the docent led tour is the last stop on our walking tour. You will be given a timed ticket for that experience, which is about 45 minutes long and takes place after our 2 hour walking tour.
About Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States and a vibrant city filled with iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and rich history. It offers a unique blend of political significance, cultural diversity, and architectural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.
Top Attractions
National Mall
The National Mall is a large, open park in downtown Washington, D.C., featuring numerous iconic landmarks, monuments, and museums. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the city.
Historical/Park
Half day to full day
Free
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
This museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution and features a vast collection of natural history specimens and exhibits, including dinosaurs, gems, and cultural artifacts.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free
United States Capitol
The United States Capitol is the meeting place of the United States Congress and a symbol of the American democratic government. Visitors can take guided tours of the Capitol building and its grounds.
Historical/Government
1-2 hours
Free
International Spy Museum
The International Spy Museum is a unique and interactive museum dedicated to the history of espionage and the world of intelligence. It features an extensive collection of spy artifacts and exhibits.
Museum
2-3 hours
$24.95 for adults, $14.95 for children (7-12)
Georgetown
Georgetown is a historic neighborhood known for its charming streets, upscale shopping, and renowned dining scene. It is also home to the historic Georgetown University and the C&O Canal.
Historical/Shopping/Dining
Half day to full day
Varies by activity
Must-Try Local Dishes
Half-Smoke
A half-smoke is a type of sausage that is smoked and then grilled, typically served with chili, cheese, and onions. It is a D.C. classic and can be found at various local eateries, including Ben's Chili Bowl.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork and beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Crab Cakes
Maryland-style crab cakes are a local favorite, made with lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. They are typically served with a side of remoulade sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains shellfish, not suitable for those with seafood allergies
Eggs Benedict
A classic American breakfast dish consisting of poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise sauce, typically served on an English muffin. The Founding Farmers restaurant is known for its delicious eggs Benedict.
Breakfast/Brunch
Contains eggs, dairy, and meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Sweet Potato Fries
A popular side dish in D.C., sweet potato fries are often served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as aioli or ketchup. They can be found at many restaurants and food trucks throughout the city.
Snack/Side Dish
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly (ensure no butter or animal products are used in preparation)
Popular Activities
Hiking and biking in Great Falls Park
Rock climbing and rappelling in Theodore Roosevelt Island
Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Potomac River
Picnicking in the National Mall
Strolling along the Georgetown Waterfront
Visiting the United States Botanic Garden
Exploring the Smithsonian Museums
Attending a performance at the Kennedy Center
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms, while fall features beautiful foliage.
10-25°C
50-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, French, Chinese, Amharic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) (UTC-5:00, UTC-4:00 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Washington, D.C. is generally a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and always confirm the fare before starting your journey
- • Be cautious when approaching strangers or signing petitions or surveys
Getting there
By air
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport • 5 km from city center
- Washington Dulles International Airport • 42 km from city center
By train
Union Station
By bus
Union Station, Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Metro system is efficient and reliable, with six color-coded lines serving major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Adams Morgan
U Street Corridor
Capitol Hill
The Wharf
Day trips
Mount Vernon
24 km (15 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Mount Vernon is the historic estate of George Washington, the first President of the United States. The site features a museum, a mansion, and beautiful gardens, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of one of America's founding fathers.
Old Town Alexandria
10 km (6 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Old Town Alexandria is a charming historic district featuring cobblestone streets, colonial-era architecture, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums. It is a popular destination for shoppers, foodies, and history enthusiasts alike.
Great Falls Park
24 km (15 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Great Falls Park is a scenic park featuring breathtaking waterfalls, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Potomac River. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
Festivals
National Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April
Independence Day Celebration • July 4
Washington, D.C. Jazz Festival • Late June
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions, such as the National Mall and Smithsonian museums, early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
- Use public transportation, walking, or biking to get around the city, as traffic and parking can be challenging
- Purchase a multi-day pass for public transportation, such as the Metro or bus, to save money and time
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, such as spring (cherry blossom season) and summer (Independence Day)
- Research and compare prices for activities and attractions, and consider purchasing tickets in advance to save time and money
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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