By DullesMoms, October 2026
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a visit to the US Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) in downtown Washington, DC, offers a unique chance to explore the legislative process and the Capitol’s architectural grandeur.
Hours & Admission
The Capitol Visitor Center is open Monday-Saturday, 8:30 am-4:30 pm (Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, and Inauguration Day). Admission to the CVC and guided tours are free.
Guided Tours
Explore the Crypt, the Rotunda, and National Statuary Hall on guided tours led by professionals. Tours last about an hour; plan on at least 90 minutes for your visit. Reservations are strongly recommended to secure your preferred time slot, and you must enter every attendee’s name at least 2 days before your visit. Same-day passes may be available; if you arrive without a reservation, please arrive no later than 2:30 pm.
Specialty & Seasonal Tours
If you’ve experienced the standard Capitol tour and want even more depth, consider one of the Visitor Center’s specialty tours, offered Mon-Fri and lasting 45 minutes. Ask about the availability of free passes at the North Information Desk in Emancipation Hall:
Halls of the Senate
Explore the work of Constantino Brumidi, renowned for his “Apotheosis of George Washington” in the Capitol Dome and art that fuses classical styles with American themes. The Senate Wing showcases his legacy and offers insights into his life and artistic impact. This tour does not visit the Senate Chamber; Senate Gallery passes are required to see the chamber.
Votes for Women
Explore the history of women’s suffrage through the stories of leaders like Sojourner Truth, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Ida B. Wells, Alice Paul, and Inez Milholland on a tour of the Rotunda, National Statuary Hall, and Emancipation Hall.
Indigenous Peoples in Capitol Art
Discover how perceptions of America’s indigenous peoples have changed through the Capitol’s evolving art collection on this insightful tour.
Heroes of Civil Rights
Explore the interwoven narratives of Sojourner Truth, Frederick Douglass, and Charles Sumner on a tour that covers Emancipation Hall and the Old Senate Chamber, detailing their pivotal roles in the transition from slavery to civil rights.
Remembering the Revolution
Explore the nation’s founding through revolutionary history and John Trumbull’s classic historical paintings in the Rotunda.
Outdoor Grounds Tour (Seasonal)
Offered seasonally (September-October), Mon-Sat at 11 am, this 50-minute guided walking tour explores the 58-acre Capitol Grounds and Frederick Law Olmsted’s historic landscape design. This tour begins outside the CVC’s north entrance; no passes are required.
Exhibition Hall & Democracy Lab
Filled with interactive exhibits, the Exhibition Hall tells the story of Congress and the US Capitol. Within the hall, the Democracy Lab offers group activities tailored for kids aged 8 to 14 for a hands-on learning experience. The Democracy Lab is open Mon-Sat, 10 am-3 pm (hours subject to change); visitors of all ages are welcome, children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and a visit takes about 15-30 minutes. From October-December (Tue-Wed) and January-February (Tue-Thu), the Lab may close to the public for 1-2 hours at a time for group reservations.
Senate & House Chamber Galleries
Please note that standard Capitol tours do not include entry into the Senate or House Galleries. US citizens can request gallery passes through their Senator or Representative’s office (residents of US territories can request them through their delegate or resident commissioner). International visitors can inquire about gallery passes at the House and Senate appointment desks located inside the CVC.
Visitor Tips & Guidelines
- Security Screening
All visitors must pass through security. Food and beverages (including water), aerosol spray cans, and oversized bags (larger than 18″ x 14″ x 8.5″) are strictly prohibited (empty bottles are allowed). There is no storage on site. - Families
Strollers are permitted, baby changing stations are available in each family restroom, and a lactation room is located near the restaurant on the lower level.
Details:
Website
Location:
US Capitol Visitor Center ā Wash, DC
Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.
