U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress Tour with Rotunda & Crypts
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience American democracy on this 2-hour guided Capitol Hill tour with entry to the U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress (guests will visit the Capitol Museum on Mondays and 8am tours when Library closed), plus photo stops at the Supreme Court, Senate offices, House of Representative offices and Ulysses S. Grant Memorial.
Inside the U.S. Capitol, join the official guided tour to explore the Crypt, originally intended as George Washington’s burial site, the Rotunda with its historic paintings, the National Statuary Hall, and sometimes the Old Supreme Court or Old Senate Chamber.
Next, enjoy a visit to the Library of Congress’s Jefferson Building, widely considered the most beautiful building in Washington, with timed-entry passes. Highlights include the Gutenberg Bible, the Great Hall, and the Main Reading Room with panoramic overlooks.
This tour delivers a complete experience of Capitol Hill, combining history, architecture, and unforgettable photo opportunities in one tour.
Available options
2pm Capitol + Library Congress
Monday Tours: Library of Congress is closed on Mondays, travelers will instead spend extra time at US Capitol and visit the Capitol Museum.<br/>US Capitol + Library Congress: 2-Hour Capitol Hill Walking Tour with Admission into both the U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress Buildings.<br/>Starting point:<br/>United States Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20001, USA
8am Capitol + Capitol Museum
US Capitol Entry: 2-Hour Guided Walk of Capitol Hill with Entry inside U.S. Capitol. Stop at exterior of Supreme Court and Library of Congress.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Supreme Court of the United States, 1 First St NE, Washington, DC 20543, USA
11:30am Capitol + Library
Monday Tours: Library of Congress is closed on Mondays, travelers will instead spend extra time at US Capitol and visit the Capitol Museum.<br/>U.S Capitol + Library Congress: 2-Hour Capitol Hill Walking Tour with Admission into both the U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress Buildings.<br/>Starting point:<br/>United States Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20001, USA
9am Capitol + Library Congress
Monday Tours: Library of Congress is closed on Mondays, travelers will instead spend extra time at US Capitol and visit the Capitol Museum.<br/>US Capitol + Library Congress: 2-Hour Capitol Hill Walking Tour with Admission into both the U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress Buildings.<br/>Starting point:<br/>United States Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20001, USA
What's included
Visit the Rotunda, the Crypt, and National Statuary Hall
Potential to visit the Old Supreme Court or Old Senate Chamber (depends on day of travel)
See the Gutenberg Bible at Library of Congress, 1 of the 4 institutions with a complete vellum copy
Admission to U.S. Capitol building with Tour
2-Hour Morning or Afternoon Guided Walking Tour of Capitol Hill
Admission to Library of Congress (or Capitol Museum when Library Congress is closed Mondays or 8am)
Stop outside Supreme Court, Ulysses S. Grant Memorial, Senate Offices, House of Reps, Peace Circle
See Thomas Jefferson’s original library
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
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.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
One of the largest equestrian statues in the world; sculptor took 20 years to complete
3
Peace Monument/Peace Circle – commemorates naval deaths of the Civil War; figures “Grief” and “History."
4
Stop 4
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.
5
Stop 5
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.
6
Stop 6
Pass by the Supreme Court building
7
Stop 7
2-hour Morning guided walking tour through Capitol Hill
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.8
79 reviews
5★
50
4★
5
3★
3
2★
3
1★
18
Tripadvisor
4.3
148 reviews
5★
106
4★
16
3★
2
2★
9
1★
15
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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.
Meeting point
8am Tours Only: Meets across the street from the Supreme Court on First Street NE. Please arrive 15 min before tour starts.
Important notes
MEETING LOCATION
9am, 11:30am, or 2pm Tours: Please plan to meet 15 min prior to tour start time outside the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory at 100 Maryland Avenue SW. Your Guide will meet you next to a large planter located outside the conservatory in the Terrace Garden, which is a paved courtyard located right near the Conservatory entrance. The planter is a large, grey urn shape with a small tree inside, and is a focal point in the garden area so easy to identify. An image of the planter has been added to the tour listing for reference.
8am Tours Only: Meets across the street from the Supreme Court on First Street NE. Please arrive 15 min before tour starts.
RECOMMENDED
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.
Tours provided by: Signature Tours DC, (202)498-2346
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
