Library of Congress
8.8Friend Score / 10free
The largest library on earth, and its Thomas Jefferson Building is the most jaw-dropping interior in DC. Free, but you need a timed-entry pass. Open Tue-Sat 10a-5p (Thu until 8p), closed Sun-Mon. Grab a same-day pass at 9a if you didn't book ahead.
Key facts
| Hours | Tue 10:00a-5:00p Wed 10:00a-5:00p Thu 10:00a-8:00p Fri 10:00a-5:00p Sat 10:00a-5:00p Sun Closed Mon Closed |
|---|---|
| Price | free |
| Phone | — |
| Website | — |
| Nearest transit | Capitol South (Blue/Orange/Silver) or Union Station (Red), each a 5-8 min walk |
| Time needed | 1.5-2 hours |
| Best time to go | Weekday morning right at 10a opening, before the Great Hall fills up |
| Last verified | July 15, 2026 |
Friend Score
8.8/10- Value9.0
- iconic8.5
- Freshness9.3
- excellence9.0
- Crowd level7.0
- Authenticity9.0
- Accessibility8.0
Frequently asked questions
- Is it worth visiting with kids?
- The building itself dazzles, and the Young Readers Center is aimed at families. That said, it's more of a look-and-admire spot than a hands-on one, so energetic little kids may get restless faster than at the Smithsonians.
- How long should I plan to spend?
- Ninety minutes to two hours covers the Great Hall, the Reading Room overlook, and the main exhibitions comfortably. Art and architecture buffs can easily linger longer.
- Is there a tunnel to the Capitol?
- Yes, an underground tunnel connects the Jefferson Building to the Capitol Visitor Center. It's a great way to pair both in one trip and dodge the weather, though you still need separate tickets for each.
- What are the hours?
- The Jefferson Building is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10a to 5p, with extended Thursday hours until 8p. It's closed Sundays, Mondays, and select federal holidays. Last entry is 4:30p.
- Is the Library of Congress free?
- Completely free. The passes cost nothing, there's no admission fee, and the guided tours are free too. It's one of the best no-cost experiences in the city.
- Do I need a ticket for the Library of Congress?
- Yes, free timed-entry passes are now required for the Thomas Jefferson Building. Reserve online up to 30 days out, or snag a same-day pass released online at 9a. Walk-ups without a pass are usually turned away on busy days.
- Can I see the Gutenberg Bible and the main Reading Room?
- Yes. The Gutenberg Bible is on display, and you can view the ornate Main Reading Room from an overlook gallery. To actually sit and read in it you need a free Reader Identification card, which takes a few minutes to set up.
- What's the best photo spot?
- The Great Hall balcony on the second floor gives you the sweeping view down the marble staircase and mosaics that you've seen on postcards. Come early before crowds cluster on the railings.
Nearby in Ask Washington DC
- United States CapitolAttraction0.4 km · 5 min walk
- Eastern MarketMarket0.8 km · 10 min walk
- National Air and Space MuseumMuseum1.31 km · 16 min walk
- National Gallery of ArtMuseum1.36 km · 17 min walk
- Navy Yard & The WharfNeighborhood1.48 km · 19 min walk
Where to stay near Library of Congress
Compare hotels & stays on Booking.com · doesn’t affect the Friend Score