Skip the Line National Archives and US Capitol Tour
Overview
Available languages
3 hours 45 minutes
Mobile ticket
Combine your visit to two of the most important sights in Washington and discover the fascinating history of the birth of the US on this tour of the National Archives and US Capitol. Instead of worrying about securing tickets and time slots, get pre-reserved entry to both sites and see some of the most important documents in existence alongside an expert guide bringing the documents, places, and iconic buildings before you to life.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
This tour is in English.
Sites on this tour are subject to occasional closures. If modifications are needed and time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour.
This is a walking tour with large hills. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.
On rare occasions we may not be able to get Capitol Visitor Center tickets. Instead we will visit the Library of Congress or the Supreme Court.
Walks / Devour complies with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up-to-date information.
Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Local English-speaking guide
National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
Pre-reserved National Archives entry ticket
Pre-reserved US Capitol entry ticket
Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off
Gratuities
What To Expect
The National Archives Museum
Begin your tour by stepping into the past at the National Archives. With pre-reserved tickets for the first entrance of the day, your expert guide will lead you straight in to see some of the most influential documents in history. At the Rotunda, lay your eyes on the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights as you hear about their legacy and influence. You’ll also see one of the original copies of the 1297 Magna Carta and discover its influential legacy, including how it came to be stored in Washington D.C.
National Gallery of Art
Description: A scenic stroll through the Sculpture Garden awaits next. You’ll see some stunning pieces including Marc Chagall’s ‘Orphée’ a gorgeous mosaic inspired by Greek mythology and Hector Guimard’s ‘Entrance to the Paris Métropolitain’, a feature which can still be seen at 86 station entrances in Paris today. Alongside these beautiful sculptures, you’ll pass through the center of the garden, used as a gorgeous fountain in the summer and an ice-skating rink in the winter.
Options
Skip the Line National Archives and US Capitol Tour
Reviews
58 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Never Again
angeliquesB1043OD,
Oct 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00I arrived at the meeting place early, I didn’t see any tour representatives. As more people arrived and started to line up at the door for ticketed entry. I lined up, redeemed my ticket & received a message my ticket would be emailed to me. I NEVER received the email. I was still able to enter the National Archives. I went to the information booth to ask where I’d meet my tour and was told since I purchased through a third party vendor I’d have to contact them. I called no one answered, I sent a message and didn’t receive a response. I proceeded to take the tour on my own and when I reached out to Trip Advisor to share my experience & request a refund, I was denied. Needless to say this was my first and last experience with Trip Advisor. It’s $59.00 I won’t get back but lesson learned! Although I HIGHLY recommend visiting the National Archives, it was an AMAZING experience.
Great tour
Valerie T,
Sep 15, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was great-very knowledgeable guide, kept us going at a good pace. Got us time all to ourselves at the Constitution and Declaration. All around good stuff!
It was a great tour. Ryan...
Andy C,
Sep 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a great tour. Ryan was our guide and he was very knowledgeable and interesting. A Capitol Tour guide takes over for your guide at the Capitol. We wish we could’ve kept Ryan!!
Great experience, highly...
Pete S,
Sep 2, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience, highly recommend! Ayana was an awesome tour guide. She was so knowledgeable about the history of each place. I went solo and had a great experience.
Amazing guide!!
Michelle S,
Aug 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Amanda is the absolute best! This was the perfect way to see the National Archives and learn their great history. The walk to the Capitol Building was nice and the tour there was quick but informative. I would recommend booking tickets for the Library of Congress for the afternoon. Will definitely be booking more with Amanda when we return next.
Amazing tour!
Bettinafields,
Jun 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour is definitely worth the money! You get to skip the lines and get your own personal tour. Our guide was Jim and he was amazing, friendly, and very accommodating. He took us right where we wanted to go and stood in the heat with us to get our tickets for the capital and directed us. Amazing tour!
Great skip the line tour
casstef,
May 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great skip the line tour - we avoided the crowds ( and we found out it was the busiest day of the year!) and our guide was personable knowledgeable !
Ryan is very...
stephen m,
May 15, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Ryan is very knowledgeable and personable. Easily navigated the inevitable detours and delays inherent with DC. Well worth the money.
Fun - informative - great guides!
42jennaferk,
Apr 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jana was great! Very informative and really great entertaining my 8 year old! She kept us on time and explained everything. Even set up accommodations for my parents who had issues with stairs and walking a lot.
Great tour. Worth the price to skip the line.
Nick R,
Apr 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Jesse was a great guide. He was great with the kids too. He made sure they were involved the whole time. Our tour was at 10am, and the money was worth it for us to be first in line.
Related Experiences
Operated by Walks - USA