Washington D.C. Capitol Hill Tours
Tour the U.S. Capitol, Supreme Court, and Library of Congress!
Discover Capitol Hill - seat of American legislative power! Capitol Hill tours explore U.S. Capitol Building (dome and Rotunda!), Supreme Court (highest court!), Library of Congress (largest library in world!), and surrounding historic district. Tour Capitol interior seeing Rotunda, National Statuary Hall, Crypt, and learning about legislative process. Visit Supreme Court chamber (when court not in session!), explore Jefferson Building with stunning architecture, and walk historic Capitol Hill neighborhood. Tours include free Capitol tours (advanced booking!), building access, and civic education. It's American government center!
Why Choose Capitol Hill Tours in Washington, D.C.?
U.S. Capitol
Iconic dome - where Congress meets, laws made!
All FREE Tours
Capitol, Supreme Court, Library all offer free tours!
Library of Congress
Most beautiful library - stunning Jefferson Building!
Active Government
See democracy in action - working government buildings!
Types of Capitol Hill Tours in Washington, D.C.
Capitol Tour
Official free tour of Capitol Building interior.
Library of Congress
Self-guided or docent tour of Jefferson Building.
Supreme Court
Tour highest court and watch oral arguments.
Complete Capitol Hill
Visit all three buildings in half-day.
What to Expect on Your Washington D.C. Capitol Hill Tours
Duration
Capitol: 90 min. Library: 1-2 hours. Supreme Court: 1 hour. All three: 4-5 hours.
Capitol Rotunda
Massive dome interior, historic paintings, National Statuary Hall!
Library Jefferson Building
Most beautiful library - ornate architecture, Main Reading Room stunning!
Supreme Court
Courtroom when not in session, "Equal Justice Under Law" inscription!
Capitol Grounds
Beautiful Capitol grounds with gardens - free to explore!
Security
Strict security at all buildings - no large bags, arrive early!
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Capitol tours FREE but MUST book online weeks ahead (visitthecapitol.gov).
Library of Congress FREE, no reservations - most beautiful building in D.C.!
Supreme Court oral arguments (Oct-April, Mon-Wed mornings) - line early!
All three buildings walkable - do in one morning or afternoon.
Security strict - no large bags, allow 30+ min for entry.
Capitol visitor center has exhibits - worth exploring.
Congressional gallery passes from representative's office - watch House/Senate!
Free but competitive - plan ahead and book early!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:How do you tour the U.S. Capitol?
A: FREE tours but MUST reserve online weeks ahead at visitthecapitol.gov! 90-minute tour of Rotunda, Statuary Hall, Crypt. Same-day tickets rare. Congressional office tours more extensive (contact rep!). Book early - popular!
Q:Can you visit Supreme Court?
A: Yes! FREE entry, no reservation. Court in session Oct-April. Oral arguments public (line early!). When not in session: Self-guided tour, lectures. Beautiful building, important history. 1 hour sufficient. Fascinating!
Q:Is Library of Congress worth visiting?
A: ABSOLUTELY! Most beautiful building in D.C. - Jefferson Building stunning! Main Reading Room gorgeous. FREE, no reservation (except tours). 1-2 hours. Even non-readers amazed. Don't miss it!
Q:Are Capitol tours free?
A: YES! Completely free but advance online reservation required (weeks ahead!). Tours fill fast. Alternative: Contact your representative's office for congressional tour (more extensive). Plan ahead!
Q:Can you watch Congress in session?
A: Yes! House and Senate galleries open to public. Congressional gallery passes from your representative's office (email/call ahead). Watch democracy in action! Session times vary - check schedule. Unique experience!
Q:What is in Library of Congress?
A: Library of Congress is world's largest library - 173 million items! Jefferson Building has Main Reading Room (stunning!), Gutenberg Bible, Jefferson's library. FREE to visit. Research library but public tours available. Architecture alone worth visit!
Q:How long for Capitol Hill?
A: Capitol tour: 90 min. Library: 1-2 hours. Supreme Court: 1 hour. All three: 4-5 hours with security/walking. Budget half-day for complete Capitol Hill experience. Don't rush government!
Q:When is the best time for Capitol Hill?
A: Weekday mornings for Supreme Court oral arguments (Oct-April). Book Capitol tours as soon as available (weeks ahead!). Avoid Cherry Blossom crowds. Year-round operation. Plan based on what's in session!
Why Visit Washington, D.C.?
Iconic National Mall and historic monuments
World-class Smithsonian museums
Capitol Hill and political significance
Rich American history and culture
Beautiful architecture and memorials
Perfect blend of politics and culture
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Washington, D.C. enjoys four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid (75-90°F/24-32°C), winters are cold (30-45°F/-1-7°C), and spring/fall offer pleasant temperatures.
Best Months
March to May and September to November offer the best weather with mild temperatures, beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.
Peak Season
June to August brings peak tourist season with hot, humid weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.
Off Season
December to February offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cold weather and occasional snow.
Plan Your Washington, D.C. Trip
Transportation Tips
Excellent public transportation with Metro rail and buses. Walking is perfect for exploring the National Mall, and ride-sharing services are widely available.
Car Rental Deals in Washington, D.C.
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Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your Washington, D.C. adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Best Hotel Deals in Washington, D.C.
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