Join us for a 2.5-hour walking tour of Capitol Hill, home to the U.S. government’s most powerful institutions. With a small group of no more than 12 guests, our expert guide will lead you through the historic buildings that shape American democracy, from the halls of Congress to the nation’s highest court.
Visit some of the most important sites in the U.S. capital, including the stunning exteriors of the Supreme Court, the Library of Congress, and the Capitol. Step inside the Library of Congress to admire the breathtaking Main Reading Room, see Thomas Jefferson’s personal book collection, and view a rare Gutenberg Bible. At the Supreme Court, learn about the judicial system in its museum and, depending on availability, catch a glimpse of the courtroom where landmark rulings are made.
Inside the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, receive entry passes for the House of Representatives and Senate galleries, allowing you to explore these chambers (UNGUIDED) at your own pace after the guided portion concludes. This immersive tour provides a deeper understanding of the institutions that define the United States, from its founding principles to the modern legislative process.
Highlights: Highlights Generally Include (As long as not on loan or being restored):
The U.S. Capitol Building
Admire the seat of the U.S. Congress, an architectural masterpiece with its iconic dome, grand columns, and sweeping views over the National Mall.
The Supreme Court
Marvel at the grand neoclassical Supreme Court Building, with its towering Corinthian columns and striking marble façade, behind which justices have ruled on some of the most consequential legal decisions in American history.
Main Reading Room, Library of Congress
Take in the breathtaking beauty of the Library’s Main Reading Room, an awe-inspiring space lined with towering bookshelves and intricate Renaissance-style murals.
Gutenberg Bible
See one of the few surviving copies of the Gutenberg Bible, a revolutionary work that changed the course of human ...
Capitol Hill Walking Tour – Semi-Private
Washington, United States
2 hours 30 minutes
What You Will Do
What's Included?
- Semi-private walking tour
- Semi-private" means group size is never more than 12 guests maximum
- Professional tour guide
- Duration 2.5 hours
- Tour will run, rain or shine
What's Not Included?
- Tour price does not include hotel pickup or drop-off (we recommend uber or taxi)
- Tour does not include gratuities (optional)
- Tour is not available for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
- Note: tour of the capitol building not included. we do provide entry passes for the house & senate at the end of the tour to visit at your leisure (unguided)
Cancellation Policy
- Customers can cancel for a **full refund up to 24hrs before the tour start time**. No refund will be provided within 24hrs before the tour start time. Contact us by phone to cancel or Reschedule if necessary. *(reschedule fee may apply)*
- No-shows and latecomers will be charged the full price.
- If you have **booked through a third party, please contact them directly** to cancel or reschedule according to their Terms & Conditions.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
Capitol South Metro station, C St SE & First St SE Washington, DC 20003
1
Itinerary
Itinerary: Exterior of the U.S. Capitol Building Begin your tour with a guided walk around the iconic U.S. Capitol, where Congress has convened since 1800. Learn about its neoclassical architecture, the symbolic meaning behind its grand dome, and the historic events that have shaped this cornerstone of American democracy. Supreme Court Step inside the highest court in the United States and explore the grandeur of the Supreme Court Building, where landmark cases have defined the Constitution. Discover the building’s classical design, its storied history, and the pivotal role of the judiciary in American governance. (10 minutes) Library of Congress Enter one of the most stunning buildings in Washington, D.C. Marvel at the breathtaking Great Hall, gaze into the Main Reading Room, and admire some of the nation’s most treasured collections, including the Gutenberg Bible and Thomas Jefferson’s personal library, which helped shape the Library’s foundation. U.S. Capitol Visitor Center Visit the Capitol Visitor Center, where exhibits bring the history of Congress to life. Gain insight into the legislative process and see remarkable artifacts that tell the story of the United States’ lawmaking body. U.S. House of Representatives – UNGUIDED Guests will receive entry passes to the U.S. House of Representatives, allowing them to visit the gallery at their own pace and observe Congress in action when in session. U.S. Senate – UNGUIDED Your pass also grants access to the U.S. Senate gallery, where visitors can witness legislative debates and discussions that shape national policy.
Additional Information
This activity is operated by Babylon Tours Washington D.C.
- Accesibility: Tour is NOT available for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
- Disclaimers: • The tour may enter government facilities in active use, and as such proper behavior and decorum is required at all times. • The Library of Congress, Supreme Court, U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, House of Representatives and the Senate may be subject to unscheduled closures with little to no notice due to government events, special sessions or security reasons. While we strive to provide the full experience, unforeseen closures are beyond our control. In such cases, we will offer a rescheduling option to ensure you still get the most out of your visit. Thank you for your understanding. • The tour route may be affected by national celebrations. In such cases, we will provide guests with an alternative route, ensuring all highlights of the tour are still covered. Refunds or discounts cannot be provided in these situations. • No large bags or suitcases are allowed during this tour. We recommend comfortable shoes, a bottle of water, umbrella in case of rain and hat during summer. Due to increased security measures at many attractions some can’t be visited from the inside. • NOTE: Tour of the Capitol Building NOT INCLUDED. We do provide entry passes House & Senate at the end of the tour (unguided)