capitol hill dc walking tour self guided

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Capitol Hill & Library of Congress Tours

Tour Information

Capitol & library of congress, capitol & library of congress highlights.

This page provides details of our Capitol Hill & Library of Congress Walking Tour, including tips on directions, times, and sights covered.

Our Capitol Hill & Library of Congress Tours bring you to the top of "the Hill." A trip to DC would not be complete without a visit to the seat of our legislative and judicial branches.

As the government holdings and staff expanded, the Library of Congress' Jefferson Building, the Supreme Court Building, and Congressional office buildings were built here.

Join DC by Foot as we explore these beautiful buildings and the meaning behind them.

We offer TWO TYPES OF CAPITOL HILL TOURS:

CAPITOL HILL SELF GUIDED AUDIO TOUR

This self guided audio tour takes you around Capitol Hill at your own pace.

We discuss the Supreme Court, Library of Congress and US Capitol.

The audio tour includes a Google Map to help navigate through the area.

You can explore the buildings interior on your own.  Find out how to get tickets here.  

PURCHASE AUDIO TOUR HERE

CAPITOL & LIBRARY OF CONGRESS (TICKETS INCLUDED)

In partnership with VISITDCTours we offer a tour that has reserved tickets to tour Library of Congress and US Capitol for you.

This is semi private small group tour and does have a ticketed cost.

You will enter Library of Congress and the US Capitol.

Your guide will tour the Library of Congress with you and then give you tickets to the the US Capitol tour after our tour.

Allow an additional 50 minutes after the tour for the Capitol tour.

Capitol Hill & Library of Congress Tours cover:

• Capitol Building
• Supreme Court Building
• Library of Congress' Jefferson Building
• and much more...

Want to visit the Capitol Building on your own? Check out our guide to touring the US Capitol.

Tour information

We do ente r Library of Congress and US Capitol on our ticketed tours.

Reservations:  REQUIRED.  Click here to reserve .

Where:  Meeting spots vary based on which tour you're taking. Please check the confirmation email you received when you booked!

For planning purposes both our guided tour and our audio tour start and end at the top of Capitol Hill in the vicinity of 1st between Constitution Ave and Independence Ave.

Purchase a guaranteed parking spot in advance near the tour’s starting point with  SpotHero .

Duration:  Approx. 2 hrs and less than a mile.  This tour does include stairs and is not accessible for wheelchairs, scooters or strollers. Due to security procedures, please do not bring strollers on this tour.

Allow an additional hour after our tour for the US Capitol tour.

When:  View our full tour calendar of guided tours .

• This tour runs daily except Sundays and Mondays. (You can take our self guided tour whenever!)

If our schedule doesn't work for you, then try it as an audio tour or take our  self-guided Library of Congress Tours .

What Should I Bring?

• Comfortable walking shoes
• A water bottle
• Appropriate clothing / umbrella - tours are rain or shine!

What's Included

• Professional Historian/Tour Guide
• Recommendations for the best food, music and museums
• Advice on must-do experiences

And much, much more

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Washington DC in 2 Days – A Self-Guided Walking Tour of the Best Sites

Washington DC, the capitol of the United States, is an amazing city. Visit free museums, memorials to iconic US presidents and to the sacrifices of US citizens around the world. These are all set in parkland on the banks of the Potomac River. Walk Pennsylvania Avenue, America’s Main Street and see the White House and the US Capitol. This two-day walking tour is the perfect way to explore the best sites of Washington DC!

Table of Contents

Washington DC 2-Day Itinerary

• Walk the Memorial Parks and the National Mall .
• Explore a couple Museums on the Mall .
• See the White House by walking the Ellipse and Lafayette Park.
• Discover the history of Pennsylvania Avenue .
• Explore the US Capitol area.

How to visit Washington DC

Washington DC is a planned city and designed as the seat of government over 200 years ago. Its core is the triangle created by the US Capitol, the White House and The Mall, known as Federal Triangle. The Memorial Parks are the lands to the west of the Washington Monument, reclaimed from the Potomac in the late 1800s. Our itinerary concentrates on Federal Triangle and the Memorial Parks. The best way to explore the area is on foot.

Washington DC Walking Map

Memorial Parks and the National Mall

The Memorial Parks in Washington DC are home to many historic monuments to US presidents, international conflicts and the sacrifices of US citizens.

We’ve listed the memorials in the order they are found walking in a counterclockwise direction. The loop from the Washington Monument to all the memorials is about 3.2 miles (5.1 km). The distance around the rectangle called “The Mall” between the Washington Monument and the US Capitol is about 2.8 miles (4.5 km). Many of the Smithsonian Museums are on The Mall along with the National Gallery of Art. Admission is free to all of these museums. There are lots of places to stop for a break. Food vendors are plentiful in this area.

Washington Monument

The Washington Monument stands 555 feet (170 metres) tall and is the perfect first stop to get an overall view of the area. Timed-entrance tickets are required to visit the 500 foot observation level. For information about obtaining tickets ($0.00 plus small service charge), visit the Washington Monument Reservation website before visiting. Don’t rely on getting a ticket on the day of arrival.

The view is stunning in all directions. To the west are the Lincoln Memorial and many of the veteran’s memorials. The Thomas Jefferson Memorial and the tidal basin are both visible to the south. To the east, see The Mall with the Smithsonian museums and the US Capitol. The Ellipse and the White House are directly to the north. The monument’s stones are two different colors showing the two phases of construction. When completed in 1884, it was the tallest building in the world.

World War II Memorial

Dedicated in 2004, the stunning memorial is made of white marble. It honors the sacrifices of both the American people at home, supporting the war effort, and the 16 million who served overseas.  The Freedom Wall’s gold stars commemorate the more than 400,000 Americans who gave their lives in the war.

The Atlantic and Pacific arched pavilions remind visitors that the war theatre was across two oceans. Between the pavilions are 56 pillars, one for each US state and territory.

Constitution Gardens

This 50-acre garden and lake, a bicentennial project, commemorates American independence.  A monument, on the island in the middle of the lake, honors the 56 signers of the American Constitution. Military headquarters buildings occupied this spot until the 1970s.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Two black-granite walls, each about 250 feet (75 metres) long, form a “V”. The names of the more than 58,000 men and women who gave their lives or remain missing are etched into the walls in the order they died or disappeared. The walls point to the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. This sombre, subtle memorial was dedicated in November 1982.

Nearby is the 3 Servicemen Statue.  This realistic depiction of three Vietnam servicemen was dedicated in 1984.  The Vietnam Women’s Memorial was dedicated in 1993, honoring the courage and sacrifice of all the women who served in the war.

Lincoln Memorial

Dedicated in 1922, this memorial to the 16th US President looks like a huge Greek temple. Each of its 38 columns is 44 feet (13 metres) tall and 7.5 feet (2.2 metres) across. Inside the memorial is a statue of Abraham Lincoln.  The seated Lincoln measures 19 feet (5,8 metres) from head to toe.

His famous Civil War Gettysburg Address and his 2 nd Inaugural speech are engraved on the north and south walls. Look for the engraving on the monument’s steps noting the spot where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963 overlooking the reflecting pool.

Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

Constructed in 1922/23, the pool is 2,000 feet (610 metres) long and 165 feet (50 metres) wide about the size of 5 American football fields. It is 1.5 feet (0.5 metres) deep at its edges and 2.5 feet (0.75 metres) in the center. The 2011 renovation added the paved walkways on the north and south sides.

Korean War Veterans Memorial

Dedicated in 1995, the memorial commemorates the sacrifices of 5.8 million American service members during the Korean War (1950 to 1953). In that short time, 36,574 Americans died in hostile actions. Of those, 8,200 are listed as missing in action and lost or buried at sea. More than 100,000 were wounded.

The memorial displays nineteen stainless steel foot soldiers, in full battle gear, advancing through Juniper bushes separated by granite strips representing the rice paddies of Korea. The figures showcase both the various branches of the armed forces and the ethnic cross section of America. The reflective wall beside the statues is 164 feet (50 metres) long. The etchings on the wall are from hundreds of photos from the war.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Two huge blocks of granite called the Mountain of Despair flank a 30-foot (9-metre) tall sculpture of King. His quotes are inscribed into the walls around the memorial. It was dedicated in 2011, the 48th anniversary of the August 1963 “March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom”.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

The memorial presents the story of Roosevelt’s 4 terms in office. There are statues, fountains and peaceful alcoves in red-granite rooms, spread over 7.5 acres on the southwest side of the Tidal Basin. It is a unique memorial to the longest-serving US president (1933 to 1945). The 2-term limit for US Presidents became law shortly after his death.

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

The memorial honors the 3 rd president, drafter of the Declaration of Independence and founder of the University of Virginia.  Dedicated in 1943, its design resembles his library at the university.

Carousel on the National Mall

This beautiful, 1940s carousel is unusual. Its horses are 4 abreast and all are jumping. It was moved to the Mall in 1981 from an amusement park outside of Baltimore.

Ulysses S Grant Memorial and Capitol Reflecting Pool

The 17-foot (5.1-metre) tall statue of General Ulysses S Grant on his war horse stands out at the east end of The Mall.  Dedicated in 1922, the memorial honors the Civil War general and 18th US president. Its construction took 20 years.

This is a great spot for photos.  In the morning, to the west, is a stunning view of The Mall and the Washington Monument. In the afternoon, take the perfect picture of the US Capitol from the west side of the reflecting pool. 

National Gallery of Art

The two buildings on either side of 4th Street NW are the National Gallery of Art.  An underground walkway connects the buildings. This was nice when the skies opened up during my visit.  Admission is free.

The east building displays modern and contemporary art in both permanent and temporary exhibitions over five floors. There are paintings, sculpture, photography, works on paper, and media arts. A recent addition increased the number of works displayed from 350 to 500.

The west building houses artwork from the 11 th through the 19 th centuries. Works are exhibited by period and national origin.

The sculpture garden to the north across 7 th Street NW features large-scale works of modern sculpture. It is a great place to take a break. In the winter, weather permitting, an ice rink is added.

Smithsonian Museums on the Mall

The Smithsonian is the world’s largest museum complex with over 150 million artifacts in trust for the American people. James Smithson, an English scientist, willed part of his estate to the United States for the increase and diffusion of knowledge and the Smithsonian was born. Admission is free to all Smithsonian Museums in Washington DC. Hours vary by museum so be sure to confirm each Smithsonian Museum’s hours before visiting.

Smithsonian Castle

Completed in 1855, this was the first Smithsonian museum.  It is the Smithsonian’s Visitor Center.

Note 2023 : Beginning February 1, 2023, the Castle is closed for renovation. It is expected the renovation will take 5 years to complete. A Smithsonian Virtual Visitor Center website is available to help with questions.

The crypt in the North Tower holds Smithson’s remains. Originally buried in Genoa Italy, his remains were moved here in 1904. Interestingly, while alive, Smithson did not visit the United States.

Enjoy the beautiful Enid A Haupt Garden behind the Castle.

Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M Sackler Gallery

These 2 galleries showcase the power and grace of Asian art and its ability to reflect culture. Combined they are the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art . The collections have more than 40,000 objects from the Ancient East, Asia, and the Islamic world. Their ages range from over 4 centuries to current times. These galleries connect underground.

National Museum of African Art

The museum’s over 11,000 objects are some of the finest examples of traditional and contemporary African art. The exhibits show the beauty and diversity of African arts.

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

The Hirshhorn displays international modern and contemporary art. The exhibits change regularly and highlight major artists and trends. The sculpture garden across Jefferson Drive has works by Auguste Rodin, Henry Moore and even Yoko Ono.

National Air and Space Museum

This is one of the most popular of the Smithsonian Museums. It is undergoing an extensive, multi-year renovation. The building remains open to the public with areas closing as they are renovated. A free timed-entry pass is needed to visit the museum. Visit the Air and Space Museum’s Timed Entry Pass webpage.

With more time, visit the Steven F Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly Virginia. Literally hundreds of historically significant aircraft and spacecraft are displayed in a former hanger.

National Museum of the American Indian

The museum’s collection of Native American arts and artifacts is one of the world’s most extensive. It covers over 12,000 years of history and includes all major cultural areas in the Americas.

National Museum of Natural History

Many know this museum from the 2006 Hollywood blockbuster ‘Night at the Museum’. Henry, the African Bush Elephant greets all visitors to the museum. He’s been on display in the entrance lobby since 1959. The museum is home to life-size sea mammals displayed in the Sant Ocean Hall, the 45.5-carat blue Hope Diamond and much more. It’s a “must-do” for kids and fun for adults too.

National Museum of American History

Fans of Americana – this is the museum for you. It is devoted to all aspects of the growth of America. Find everything from Washington’s military uniform and Jefferson’s portable desk to Dorothy’s Wizard of Oz ruby slippers.  This is a trip down memory lane for the over 40 crowd with lots of things for the kids as well .

National Museum of African American History and Culture

The newest Smithsonian museum’s architecture stands out on the mall. It’s the only national museum focusing exclusively on African American life, art, history and culture. Begin in the underground levels.  Walk through history; from the Transatlantic Slave Trade of the 1400’s to the defining moments of the 1960’s. The 3 floors above the entrance level highlight African American contributions to American culture.

A free timed-entry pass is needed to visit the museum. Visit the African American History Museum’s Timed Entry Pass webpage.

The White House

The White House is the oldest public building in Washington DC. Its cornerstone was laid in 1792. John Adams, the second president, moved in on November 1, 1800. Every president since has lived in the White House. Over the years, business and family needs required changes and expansions to the White House but the original structure remains. To enjoy a National Parks White House Tour be sure to apply several months in advance of your visit.

The Ellipse

The park between the White House and the Washington Monument is a community gathering space. Recreational activities and many demonstrations take place on the Ellipse.

The north end of the oval walkway at E Street NW is the closest point to the south lawn of the White House. Just to the east is the National Christmas Tree, planted on the Ellipse in October 1978. Every year Christmas lights illuminate the tree and have since 1923.

Walk west past the First Infantry Division Monument to 17 th Street NW. Walk north past the huge grey 19 th century Eisenhower Executive Office Building to Pennsylvania Avenue. Lafayette Square is just east along this pedestrian street.

Lafayette Square

The seven-acre park north of the White House is named for the Marquis de Lafayette, a wealthy French hero of the American Revolutionary War. The park has several statues of other European heroes of the Revolutionary War. The centerpiece is the 19 th -century statue of President and General, Andrew Jackson on horseback. This is the first bronze statue cast in the United States.

St. John’s Episcopal Church

On the north side of H Street NW, across from the park, sits the pretty, yellow, Greek Revival, Episcopal Church. Completed in 1816, it is also known as the Church of the Presidents since every sitting president has visited at least once. It is a National Historic Landmark.

From Lafayette Square walk east to 15 th Street NW and south for about 3 blocks to reach Pennsylvania Avenue where it continues east.

Pennsylvania Avenue

The avenue between the White House and the Capitol Building is home to a number of monuments and museums. America’s Main Street often plays host to marches, parades, and protests.  Wander history on a stroll to the Capitol Building.

World War I Memorial

This memorial honouring the more than 4.5 million Americans who served in the first World War was unveiled in April 2021. It includes a previously existing monument to John J Pershing, commander of the American Expeditionary Forces in World War I. The Peace Fountain is in the center and, in 2024, the final installation called “A Soldier’s Journey”, will be completed. A representation is currently in its place. This is a peaceful spot in the middle of busy Pennsylvania Avenue.

White House Visitor Center

The visitor center is across Pennsylvania and south of the World War I Memorial. This is a chance to see some of the White House without an actual visitor’s pass. There are historical artifacts and interactive exhibits for all ages. Displays include archival photos and footage of White House events.

Freedom Plaza

The marble surface of the plaza shows a partial representation of the L’Enfant Plan for the city, developed in 1791. See how the streets on the walking tour still follow the plan. The best overall view is from the Clock Tower of the Old Post Office Building.

Old Post Office Building

The beautiful building on the south side of Pennsylvania at 12 th Street is the luxurious Waldorf Astoria hotel. This was US Postal Service’s national headquarters from 1899 to 1914 when they outgrew it.  The building avoided the wrecking ball several times until being placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Enter the Old Post Office Museum at the back of the building. Early Washington DC photographs show how the city has grown over the years. Take the elevators to the Clock Tower and its observation deck for another aerial view of the city. The tower stands about 300 feet tall dwarfed only by the Washington Monument and the National Shrine.

Travel north on 10 th Street NW for 2 blocks to #511.

Ford’s Theatre

President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated in the theatre in April 1865. The building houses a Lincoln Museum and an active theatre. Lincoln was taken across the street to a room in Petersen House where he died the next morning.

For more information about visiting the theatre and Petersen House, including timed-entry tickets, check Ford’s Theatre’s Visit Us webpage.

Take 9 th Street back to Pennsylvania and continue east.

US Navy Memorial Plaza and the Naval Heritage Center

The memorial honors the men and women of the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and the Merchant Marine who serve in both war and peace. Adjacent to the memorial plaza is the Naval Heritage Center. Learn about the sea services. Registration and searching for active service members and veterans is also available.

National Archives Museum

Directly across Pennsylvania Avenue from the Navy Memorial, the National Archives protect items telling the story of the growth of US, its government and the American people.  See the original signed copies of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution of the United States, and Bill of Rights in the Rotunda of the National Archives. Admission is free and reservations are not required but recommended between March and Labor Day. See the National Archives Visit webpage for more information and current exhibits.

The United States Capitol is one of the most widely recognized symbols of democratic government in the world. Free tours of the Capitol , the Senate chamber and the House of Representatives are available. A separate timed-entry ticket to visit each one is needed. These are available at the Visitor Center in the basement of the Capitol. As only a limited number of same-day tickets to tour the Capitol are available at the Visitor Center, it is recommended to reserve in advance. The Capitol’s Book A Tour webpage has all the information.

Since 1800, the Congress has occupied the Capitol. The growing government’s space needs required expansion of the building several times. The original construction was less grandiose than what we see today. In December 1863, the Statue of Freedom was placed on the top of a new cast iron central dome. It stands 287 feet (87 metres) above the east plaza.

Across First Street SE is the Library of Congress in the Thomas Jefferson Building.

Library of Congress

In 1897, when the library’s collection outgrew the Capitol, the collection was moved across the street to the Thomas Jefferson Building. The Great Hall takes your breath away with its tile mosaics and marble sculptures.

This is the world’s largest library with more than 165 million pieces housed in a number of buildings in the area. The library began in 1800. When the Capitol burned in 1814, the original collection was destroyed.

In 1815, President Thomas Jefferson offered Congress his personal library. It contained 6,487 books, the largest personal collection in the US at the time.  The books were the foundation for today’s great national library. An 1851 fire destroyed over half of the original books. Efforts are underway to replace the destroyed books and reassemble the original Jefferson library.

Supreme Court

To the north of the Library of Congress is the Supreme Court. It looks like a Greek temple. Its doors weigh 13,000 pounds.

More Than 2 Days in Washington DC

Travel beyond the Washington DC core with more time.  We highly recommend these two places.

Arlington National Cemetery

This vast military cemetery is just across the Potomac from the Lincoln Memorial. Wander the cemetery’s 640 acres of headstones, monuments and memorials. They honor individuals and significant historical events in the history of the US. See the eternal flame at President John F Kennedy’s gravesite. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier includes the remains of unknown service members from World Wars I and II and the Korean War. Soldiers keep a 24-hours-a-day, 365 days-a-year vigil at the tomb. See the elaborate changing of the guard ceremony.

The trees on the rolling green hills are hundreds of years old. Originally, Robert E Lee owned the area. When Lee and his family left at the onset of the Civil War in 1861, federal troops occupied the area.  The first military burial occurred here in 1864. The government compensated Lee for the property after the war.

Steven F Udvar-Hazy Center

Visit this huge facility the size of 3 aircraft hangers near Washington Dulles International Airport. There are hundreds of aviation and space artifacts. See pilot and astronaut equipment, the Space Shuttle Discovery, a stealth bomber and even a Concorde airliner. From the second floor, view the restoration lab where technicians work to bring battered aircraft back to life.

Know Before You Go

Are guided tours of washington dc available.

There are lots of guided tours available. We chose Capital Segway. Our guides were great and the “wheeled” tour was a fun way to get our bearings. I was a newbie to a segway. A quick “how-to” at their base and about 15 minutes “on the road” and I was quite comfortable.

Is there public transit available in Washington DC?

The Washington Metro is the city’s light rail transit system. It reaches all parts of the city. Stops are positioned within a 30 minute walk of most of the major tourist attractions.

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(No spam. Just great travel tips.)

Valerie Vanr

Valerie is the Co-founder of AvrexTravel.com. Val enjoys travel photography and writing informative City Walking tours.

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From the White House to the nation’s Capitol and back along the National Mall, see and hear about over 50 of Washington’s most important monuments, structures and museums!

• Experience the fascinating stories of, Washington’s most legendary sites including the White House, FBI Headquarters, Capital Hill, Library of Congress, several Smithsonian museums including the new Museum of African American History & Culture, Washington Monument, Ford’s Theater, the emotional WWII memorial, the Botanic Garden, and the smallest and oldest structure on the National Mall.
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Routes and Trips Travel Guide with Maps and Photos

Washington dc: capitol hill walk.

Posted by: Liisa Nygård

This self-guided Capitol Hill walk will take you to the world-famous halls of the US Capitol, Washington DC. In addition we will visit the Library of Congress and the US Botanic Gardens right below the hill.

Capitol Hill walk to the US Capitol

To see all these attractions you will preferably need a full day and prepare your visit in advance. To visit the US Capitol you need a reservation through on their website, at least during travel peaks.

However, in November there were no crowds. It was sunny, not too hot and autumn showed its best colors. Not a bad month to visit the Capitol Hill!

The Capitol Hill Walk on the Map

Map of the Capitol Hill walking itinerary

The map shows the Capitol Hill of Washington DC. The hill is located at the east end of the National Mall, to see the whole National Mall zoom out the map.

Our Capitol Hill walk is marked in blue on the map, not a long walk at all, probably something like a mile only.

The Congress Library is located behind the Capitol and so is the Supreme Court and some other institutions.

After you have completed the Capitol Hill walk, the next day you should take the National Mall, read about it here: National Mall Walking Itinerary, Washington DC . But now to the Capitol Grounds:

Capitol Grounds

The US Capitol Grounds

Before getting indoors we will have a look at the green Capitol Grounds surrounding the Capitol building.

And why not walk a bit further away to the National Mall, at least to the water basin of Reflecting Pool that offers great views of the Capitol building:

The US Capitol seen from the Capitol Grounds and Reflecting Pool

Then, to find the entrance to the Capitol you have to go round the building. The entrance is behind the Capitol:

The US Capitol

The US Capitol, the highest building in Washington DC

This is the US Capitol, the highest building in Washington DC, seen from the square behind.

The US Capitol is not just a building among many others, but one of the most important buildings in the whole world and the home of the Congress and Senate of the United States.

The public enters at the lower level behind the building and of course all visitors are inspected.

The entrance hall of the US Capitol

To see the building you will have to join a guided tour, the time of which you should book in advance on their website.

Only during low season you might be lucky enough to get a tour without pre booking it, but probably after standing for ages in the ticket queue.

The House of Representatives

Capitol Hill walk: tickets to the House of Representatives

Then, if you want to visit the House Chamber where the Congress sits and the Senate Chamber where the senate sits, these visits must be arranged separately.

We got the tickets to both places. It was a positive surprise that they let even overseas visitors get into the Chambers and then watch their sessions.

Of course there was one more inspection for that. Cell phones, cameras and such were not allowed in the chambers and they re-checked our IDs. But the chambers where so highly interesting, definitely worth all the trouble!

Above you can see our tickets to the House of Representatives. That’s all we can show as cameras where not allowed.

 Capitol Hill Walk: The Crypt

The Crypt of the U.S. Capitol

The guided tour of the US Capitol begins with the Crypt, a large hall with 40 Doric columns surrounded by remarkable statues from the different states.

The original idea with the crypt was to make it George Washington’s tomb.

Capitol Hill walk: the Crypt of the U.S. Capitol

Then the dome:

The Capitol Dome

Statues in the Dome of the US Capitol

The Dome of the US Capitol is full of amazing paintings and great statues showing the most important events in American history. And statues of remarkable American people.

Capitol Hill walk: the US Capitol Dome

And more statues will follow in the next hall:

National Statuary Hall

National Statuary Hall of the US Capitol

The Old Hall of the House of Representatives, the National Statuary Hall, also has statues from different states. Every state has two statues of its notable citizens in this hall of the Capitol.

Capitol Hill walk: National Statuary Hall

So now we have seen the Capitol and will move further to the next building, the Library of Congress.

To get to the library we only have to take an underground tunnel.

Capitol Hill Walk: Library of Congress

The Congress Library, Capitol Hill, Washington DC

The US Library of Congress is so huge. It is the world’s biggest library that has 150 million items in its collections.

The library is one of the three Capitol Hill buildings that any citizen is free to use, so it’s not only for the congress members.

If you only have time with one of the many library buildings, visit the Thomas Jefferson Building that’s known for its stunning architecture.

To get more out of your visit take a free one hour guided tour. On the tour the guide will show you all the highlights and after the tour you can examine more on your own.

The Great Hall of the Library of Congress

These pictures are from the Great Hall of the Library of Congress, decorated with fantastic arches, columns and balconies. Look at it!

Reading Room and the Bibles

The Main Reading Room of the Congress Library

This again is the Main Reading Room of the Congress Library. The massive hall is full of enchanting details, like the eight marble columns with female figures watching the readers sitting lower down in the hall.

The Gutenberg and Mainz Bibles of the Library of Congress

The Library of Congress also contains two real treasures dating back to the 1450s: the printed Gutenberg Bible and the handwritten Mainz Bible .

Jefferson Collection and Magna Carta

Thomas Jefferson’s Collection at the Library of Congress

And of course the library has much more, like a collection of Thomas Jefferson’s books, loads of old maps and bible. Then there are children’s books and comics and other things to see.

By the way, the old map in the picture below is worth 10 Million dollars. It’s the first map ever with the word America:

Treasures of the Congress Library, Washington DC

The day we were visiting happened to be the opening day of an exhibition of the original Magna Carta 1215. The Magna Carta (the photo up in the middle) was brought from the Lincoln Cathedral in Great Britain, just for the exhibition.

US Supreme Court

US Supreme Court on the Capitol Hill of Washington DC

Then, next to the Library of Congress is the United States Supreme Court. The court building looks a bit like a Greek temple and you can go in and watch the court’s proceedings for free.

We missed the court interior as it was already closed for the day at the time we were finished with our other Capitol Hill walk attractions. It was soon getting dark but luckily there was still some time to see the Botanic Gardens.

Capitol Hill Walk: US Botanic Garden

The conservatory of US Botanic Garden

After a long walk in cold Washington autumn weather we really needed a moment in a warmer, tropical climate. Especially having arrived from Florida two days earlier.

The Washington DC Botanic Garden in photos:

Capitol Hill walk: US Botanic Garden

We really appreciate that anybody is free just to walk in the conservatory and stroll in the all the beautiful gardens around it. They have such a huge amound of plants from different countries and climate zones.

And most of all I liked this little bird that was staring at me from the bush. But it was getting dark soon and it was time to finish out Capitol Hill walk.

Capitol Hill walk: a bird in the bush

So I hope you enjoyed reading about our little walk in the capital of the United States. If you have been to the Capitol Hill what more would you recommend to see on the hill?

Good bye from Washington DC!

More on Washington DC

If you are planning a trip to Washington DC, check out these two posts:

• National Mall Walking Itinerary, Washington DC
• Washington DC Day Trip to Old Town Alexandria

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Book a Tour

Reservations are recommended .

The Capitol Visitor Center is open Monday-Saturday from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tours begin every 10 minutes until 3:20 p.m. All tours are led by our professional tour guides and visit the  Crypt , the  Rotunda  and  National Statuary Hall . The tour does not include the  Senate and House Galleries . The tour route is subject to change.

Reservations are recommended, but not required. Visit the  schedule a tour  page to select a day/time for a reservation. Same day passes may be available. Visitors without reservations are encouraged to arrive at the Capitol Visitor Center as early in the day as possible, but no later than 2:30 p.m., to obtain passes.

All tours, programs and activities are free of charge.

Visitors enter through the Capitol Visitor Center, located underground on the east side of the Capitol. Please leave time to go through security and review the U.S. Capitol’s  prohibited items list  before your visit.

You can begin your Capitol experience at the Visitor Center by visiting Exhibition Hall , perusing our Gift Shops or getting a bite to eat at the Capitol Cafe.

For information on tours offered in Mandarin and Spanish, please view the Foreign Language Tours page.

How Do I Cancel My Reservation?

You can cancel your reservation through your account in the Capitol Visitor Center’s online reservation system.

• Go to  https://tours.visitthecapitol.gov  (A new page will open.)
• Beneath the blue banner reading “Reserve a Tour of the Capitol,” click on the link to log in. (A sign in/signup dialog box will open.)
• In the sign in section, log in with your email address and password.
• Search for reservations by clicking “More” in the “My Reservations” tab.
• Once you have located your reservation, click the link to “Cancel.”

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Capitol Hill Walking Tour

Explore the home of the us capitol, library of congress, and us supreme court includes entry to us capitol and library of congress, see and learn more with an expert guide, includes reserved entry to the us capitol and library of congress.

Join your personal guide in a small group of less than 20 people on this walking tour exploring the seat of 2 federal branches of the US Government and its supporting facilities, known collectively as Capitol Hill.

Meet your guide at the Neptune Fountain in front of the Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building, in the famed Capitol Hill.

Explore the architecture of the highest court in the land and learn its history. Discuss the evolution of the US Supreme Court, its current operations, and key historic cases and opinions.

Tour the halls of the Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building with your guide, where you will learn about the largest public collection of knowledge in the world. Hear stories of the foundation of the library, its connection to founding father Thomas Jefferson, and learn the process for conducting research from their archives.

Continue to the US Capitol grounds and explore the exterior characteristics and artwork that make up the people’s house, while learning its role in the United States republic, both in history and current day operations. Continue inside the Capitol with your guide and reserved entry passes and join a docent lead tour of the rotunda, crypt, old house chambers/statuary hall, and other historic areas of the home of US Congress.

Group Tours Adult – $89 Child – $79

• Things to Know
• This tour DOES enter the US Capitol and Library of Congress
• There will be a moderate amount of walking involved. Dress accordingly
• Umbrellas recommended (great for rain or to escape the sun)
• Reservations required
• Meet your guide Thomas Jefferson Building of the Library of Congress
• All Weapons are Prohibited
• No Food or Drink is allowed inside the Capitol. Refillable water bottles are allowed.
• What You'll See
• Tour inside the Library of Congress
• Tour inside the US Capitol
• Tour outside the US Supreme Court
• Thomas Jefferson’s original library
• Capitol Rotunda
• Statuary Hall

COVID19 Rescheduling Policy: Book With Confidence! No Penalty For Rescheduling As Many Times As Necessary

Semi-Private Capitol Hill Walking Tour: Uncover DC's Political Heart

Explore the rich history and power centers with our expert guides.

• Babylon Tours Washington D.C.

From $95

Discover more about this tour

Visit the beating heart of Washington DC where two of the three branches of the United States government meet. This tour includes the stunning exteriors of the Supreme Court, the Library of Congress, and the Capitol. Walk the grounds designed by Frederick Law Olmsted who designed Central Park in New York City. Go inside the Thomas Jefferson building of the Library of Congress designed as a temple of knowledge (and to prove the United States understood Art, Culture, and Sophistication as well as any country in Europe.) While there check out a real Gutenberg Bible, this copy is one of only four complete Gutenberg Bibles printed on vellum, in the world. You will also learn about Thomas Jefferson’s love of books and how his collection became the seed from which the world’s largest library grew. Learn about the judicial system within the elegant marble halls at the Museum of the Supreme Court, and maybe get a peek inside the actual courtroom. Your guide will end the tour providing access passes (and information about security protocols) for the visitor’s galleries of the current chambers for the House of Representatives and or the Senate, to be seen at your leisure.

NOTE: Tour of the Capitol Building NOT INCLUDED. We do provide entry passes House & Senate at the end of the tour (unguided)

Highlights generally include: (but not limited to)

Exterior of the Capitol

Exterior of the Supreme Court

Museum of the Supreme Court

Possible viewing of the Courtroom

View of the Main Reading Room of Library of Congress

Gutenberg Bible

Thomas Jefferson’s library

Statue of Freedom

“Semi-Private” means group size is never more than 8 guests maximum.

“Private Tour” means tour guide exclusively for you.

Prices Vary Based on Group Size

• Adult $95 18 years of age or older
• Youth $85 Between 10 - 17 years of age
• Child $75 Between 0 - 9 years of age

We went to New York in November with Babylon City Tours & w loved it so much we had to try it again! We took a trip in December and Aaron was our guide, he made things so much fun and memorable! Can't wait to try all their European tours next!

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Washington DC: Capitol Hill Guided Small-Group Walking Tour

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