About this experience
Explore the political core of Washington DC! This tour takes visitors through the heart of Federal power in Washington DC, looking at the history of our Nation’s Capital through the lens of architecture and urban planning. From the original L'Enfant city plan to the tumultuous construction of the Capitol and Grounds, the rise of the magnificent Beaux-Arts Library of Congress and imposing Supreme Court, and into the present day. Prolific designers like Thomas Jefferson, Robert Mills, Frederick Law Olmstead, and Daniel Burnham will feature prominently. Controversy, chaos, and red tape abound! A tour not to be missed by architecture and history enthusiasts.
At a glance
- Duration: 2 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 2 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
Capitol Hill Walking Tour Guide
Plan a Capitol Hill walk around the U.S. Capitol with clear advice on entry, free guided tours, reservations, security screening, accessibility, transit, and timing.
Capitol Hill Restaurants Guide
META DESCRIPTION]: A Capitol Hill restaurants guide reveals the neighborhood’s best pasta, omakase, tacos, and more, but the first stop might surprise you.
Washington DC Walking Tours Guide
Take the perfect Washington DC walking tour for your pace, budget, and interests before you miss the city’s most unforgettable route.
What is included
- Local guide
Not included
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
We'll begin our tour in the massive Great Hall of Union Station, once the largest train station in the world. This crossroads of Presidents, diplomats, and politicians have seen the drastic transformation, from inaugurations to World Wars, and even a runaway train!
After exploring the heights and depths of Union Station, we'll proceed past the Freedom Bell and Columbus "Fountain" to the steps of the Supreme Court.
we'll take in the imposing facade and learn about the architecture, history and design of the home of our Judicial branch of government.
We'll get great photo opportunities on the East side of the U.S. Capitol Building, and talk all about the tumultuous history of this icon of Washington.
We'll be going inside the breathtaking Library of Congress. We'll delve into the elaborate design, secret symbols, and fascinating history of this important institution, before taking an underground tunnel to the Capitol.
Our tour will conclude inside the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center, where our guides would be happy to help guests join a free building interior tour, depending upon availability.
Meeting and pickup information
- Our tour begins inside the Great Hall of Union Station under the big clock. When entering the station from the main entrance, turn right and look up to see the clock.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- DC Design Tours
Accessibility and practical details
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough guests to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, an alternative or full refund will be provided.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What accessibility information is provided?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
What is the cancellation policy?
Traveller reviews and photos
Traveller experiences load when you reach this section.
