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United States Capitol"United States Capitol, Washington DC" by Pierre Blaché…

United States Capitol

First St SE, Washingtonfree
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The United States Capitol is the seat of Congress and one of the world's most recognizable democratic symbols. Perched on Capitol Hill at the eastern end of the National Mall, it has housed the Senate and House of Representatives since 1800. Free guided tours take visitors through the Rotunda, Crypt, and National Statuary Hall — passes required but admission is free.

Key facts

Hours
Mon–Sat 08:30–16:30
Pricefree
Phone—
Website—
Nearest transitCapitol South (Blue/Orange/Silver lines) and Union Station (Red Line) — both within easy walking distance
Time needed90 minutes for the guided tour plus security; up to 3–5 hours if combining with the Library of Congress and Supreme Court next door
Best time to goWeekday mornings right at opening (8:30 a.m.) for shorter lines; book tour passes up to 90 days in advance, especially March–August
Last verifiedJuly 12, 2026

Locals Score

  • Value8.5
  • Freshness5.9
  • Crowd level6.0
  • Authenticity8.5
  • Accessibility7.5
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Frequently asked questions

How do I book a Capitol tour?
Tours can be reserved up to 90 days in advance at visitthecapitol.gov, through the offices of your U.S. senators or representative, or by calling the Office of Visitor Services at 202-226-8000. Same-day walk-up passes may be available — arrive as early as possible, no later than 2:30 p.m.
Can I watch Congress in session?
Yes, but gallery passes are required and must be obtained through your senator's or representative's office. Senate Galleries are open 30 minutes before a session begins and remain open until adjournment; when not in session, they are open Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
What does the guided Capitol tour include?
All guided tours are led by professional guides and visit the Crypt, the Rotunda, and National Statuary Hall. The tour route is subject to change and does not include the Senate or House Galleries, which require separate passes obtained through your congressional representatives.
Is it free to visit the US Capitol?
Yes — admission to the Capitol Visitor Center is free. Guided tours of the historic Capitol are also free, but a tour pass is required. A limited number of same-day passes are available, but advance reservations are strongly recommended.
What Metro stop is closest to the US Capitol?
Capitol South (Blue, Orange, and Silver lines) and Union Station (Red Line) are the two closest Metrorail stations. Federal Center SW (Orange, Silver, and Blue lines) is also within walking distance. The DC Circulator National Mall Route also stops nearby.
Is the Capitol accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes — the Capitol Visitor Center is fully ADA-compliant. Services include adaptive tours, wheelchair availability, sign-language interpreting for deaf or hard-of-hearing visitors, and open captioning on all films. Contact the Office of Congressional Accessibility Services at 202-224-4048 for specific needs.
What are the Capitol Visitor Center's hours?
The Capitol Visitor Center is open Monday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It is closed on Sundays and on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and Inauguration Day. The last guided tour of the day begins at 3:20 p.m.
Can I visit the Capitol without a tour reservation?
Yes — you can enter the Capitol Visitor Center without a reservation to explore Exhibition Hall, the café, and gift shops for free. However, to take a guided tour of the historic Capitol building itself, you need a tour pass (advance reservation or same-day if available).

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