The Original Capitol Hill Small Group Tour w/ Reserved Passes
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Please note that in the case of a government shutdown we will be providing alternate options
Experience the Capitol Hill tour that started it all in 2017. Often copied, always the best.
Meet your guide outside the Library of Congress and begin your adventure.
We head to the Supreme Court (exterior only) for a photo stop where your guide will discuss the complex history of the institution, notable justices, landmark cases, and the secrets of the building.
Next we head to the US Capitol where your guide will give you background about the heart of American democracy and fill you in on the little-known history and stories before providing passes to a tour of the historic rooms of the Capitol.
Finally we take a tunnel to the Library of Congress, the world's largest library. Your guide's reserved passes will bring you into the heart of knowledge. You will see Thomas Jefferson's library and see the grandeur of the Main Reading Room.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please review voucher information after booking as it provides a detailed list of items banned from the Capitol and many other federal buildings. Possession of these items will result in non-admission to the building.
Tour runs approximately 3 hours
Please plan to arrive 15-20 minutes before tour start time. Tour begins exactly at stated time, entry to buildings are on timed reservations, and group must enter security together, therefore we are unable to accommodate for late arrivals.
Closest Metro stop: Capitol South (Orange/Blue/Silver Lines) - Exit station using main exit, walk approximately two blocks north on First Street SE.
The US Capitol and its surrounding complex are in a secure federal operation area and nearby parking is highly restricted. The nearest public parking is located at Union Station approximately .5 mile from meeting location. Alternative modes of transportation are highly encouraged.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
3-Hour Guided Walking Tour of Capitol Hill in Washington DC
Small-Group (15 guests or less) for a more personalized experience
Learn the history of the Supreme Court and of its current operations (exterior only).
View part of Thomas Jefferson’s original collection of over 6,000 books
Professional Guide
Admission to the Library of Congress
Admission inside the U.S. Capitol Building
Reserved access to a Capitol guide led tour of historic areas of the Capitol
Gratuities
What To Expect
Capitol Hill
Marvel at the neoclassical architecture and lush greenery of Capitol Hill
Supreme Court
We stop outside the Supreme Court for photos and learn about the history and inner workings of the highest court in the land.
Options
U.S. Capitol + Supreme Court
Duration: 2 hours
U.S. Capitol + Supreme Court: Tour of Capitol Hill with Entry to:
1. U.S. Capitol
2. Supreme Court
4 Capitol Hill Attractions
4 Capitol Hill Attractions: See more with tours inside:
1. US Supreme Court
2. Folger Shakespeare Library
3. Library of Congress
4. US Capitol
Semi-Private: 8 or fewer guests
Duration: 4 hours
US Capitol + Library Congress
Capitol + Library of Congress: Capitol Hill Guided Tour with Entry to:
1. U.S. Capitol
2. Library of Congress
Small-Group: 15 or fewer guests
Duration: 3 hours
Reviews
1,832 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Amazing experience with Meg
495diederikw,
Oct 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a wonderful tour! Booked it during government shutdown so unfortunately couldn't enter any of the public buildings, but Meg went above and beyond and got us into a live Senate session. She was so knowledgeable and taught me so much about the history and current state of the buildings and government institutions on the east end of the national mall. Thank you so much, I'll be back!
Must book!
Q7819WUjenniferc,
Oct 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00James was so fun and a wealth of interesting information! Loved the blend of history and personal anecdotes of historical figures, buildings and happenings of DC. It was a comfortable pace and included opportunities for bathroom and restroom breaks. very rewarding experience.
Great job James
Margaret S,
Oct 18, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00James did a wonderful job showing us around the supreme Court and Folgers library. He was very informative and funny and glad to have James. The tour itself was OK. We have love to see Capitol Hill.
Knowledgeable and very friendly
Passenger50530480747,
Oct 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Provided us tickets to the Senate and that was awesome and she offered to take pictures at all our stops. Asked if we had questions for her and that was nice of her.
Special insights into American political history
wheels1015,
Oct 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Although we were unable to enter the Capital building due to the shutdown, we were provided with a comprehensive overview of the Capital buildings and unique glimpses of its history and construction. We were privileged to enter the Supreme Court building and learn of its operations and personalities. Our outstanding and friendly guide shared with us her expertise and knowledge of both the legislature and judiciary systems of the USA. Our final discoveries were of Shakespeare within the Folger Shakespeare Library. A thoroughly enjoyable experience and well worth considering to enhance your understanding of American history.
Informative and...
crisellam,
Oct 7, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00Informative and enjoyable. Our guide James was amazing and very knowledgeable about the buildings we saw. The tour had to be altered due to the government shutdown, but it was still great!
Only tour outside of building area, not worth at all.
jianw629,
Oct 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00Only tour outside of building. Not worth at all …. Would not recommend at all . The speed of taking is super fast， information is not strong enough to the fee …
Highly Recommend
Michele M,
Oct 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour with friendly and knowledgeable guide. Definitely worth doing this tour if you’re in Washington DC.
Wonderful! Thank you James!
kstanicar,
Oct 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00James is a rockstar and truly makes this tour! We had a great time visiting the Capital and Library of Congress and appreciated all of the information he has and shares. His big personality matched our style and we highly recommend.
It is too expensive, go by yourself It is free
Rosacruz F,
Oct 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
1.00I don't think is worth the money, the lady giving the tour was OK, but a tour itself it is too expensive. For a ticket that is free. You only take the group to the door and the tour is given by a Profesional inside the building. Why do you charge so much for one hour of talking?
From $69.00
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