United States Capitol

The United States Capitol is located on the eastern side of Washington, D.C., but is often considered the center of downtown. The east, west, south, and north directions of buildings in Washington, D.C. are all based on the Capitol. Because television coverage of decisions in Washington often features the Capitol, often accompanied by phrases like "announcements from the White House," and its towering architecture, unfamiliar people have long mistaken the Capitol for the White House—the official residence and office of the President of the United States.

Attractions Location: District of Columbia, Washington, 20004 America

Opening hours:
08:30-16:30 (Monday-Saturday, January 1-December 31)

Official phone number: Ticketing Inquiry
+1 202-226-8000

Transportation:
subway
You can take the Blue Line or Orange Line to Capitol South Metro Station and walk north for 10 minutes.
Public transportation
1. Take bus 96, 97, A11, or DCN22 and get off at NE 1st St & NE Maryland Av.
2. Take bus 32, 34, 36, or 922 and get off at INDEPENDENCE AVE & NEW JERSEY AVE SE eb stop.
3. Take bus 32, 34, 36, 39, 630, 902, 904, 909, 922, 929, 995, or A11 and get off at SE Independence Av & SE 1st St.

Time reference: 1-3 hours


Recommended itinerary for United States Capitol tours

1-Day Itinerary: United States Capitol and National Mall Highlights

Discover the iconic United States Capitol and explore the key attractions along the National Mall.

  • Morning: Guided tour of the United States Capitol (book in advance via the Capitol Visitor Center).
  • Late Morning: Walk west along the National Mall to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum (~15 min walk).
  • Afternoon: Visit the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden (~10 min walk).
  • Evening: Walk to the Washington Monument and enjoy views; have dinner nearby.

Transportation: Walking is primary; Metro accessible via Capitol South station (Blue/Orange/Silver lines).

Accommodation/Food: Stay near Capitol Hill or downtown D.C. Try local eateries like We, The Pizza or Good Stuff Eatery.

Souvenirs: Capitol Visitor Center gift shop offers patriotic items, books, and souvenirs. Nearby Smithsonian shops sell museum-themed memorabilia.


2-Day Itinerary: United States Capitol + Museums of the National Mall

Explore the Capitol and delve into the rich museum culture along the Mall.

  • Day 1: United States Capitol tour and National Mall highlights as above.
  • Day 2 Morning: Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
  • Day 2 Afternoon: Walk to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (~10 min walk).
  • Day 2 Evening: Dinner in Penn Quarter or Chinatown area (short taxi or 10-15 min walk).

Transportation: Mostly walking; taxis or Metro from Chinatown (Gallery Place station).

Accommodation/Food: Stay near National Mall or Penn Quarter. Enjoy dinner at Zaytinya or Chinatown eateries.

Souvenirs: Museums’ gift shops with history and science-themed gifts.


3-Day Itinerary: Capitol + Monuments + Georgetown Exploration

Combine the Capitol with iconic monuments and historic Georgetown.

  • Days 1-2: As above.
  • Day 3 Morning: Visit Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and Korean War Veterans Memorial via Metro to Foggy Bottom (Blue/Orange line, approx. 15 min).
  • Day 3 Afternoon: Taxi or bus to Georgetown (~10 min from Foggy Bottom). Explore historic streets and waterfront.
  • Day 3 Evening: Dinner at waterfront restaurants or local bistros in Georgetown.

Transportation: Metro, taxi, and walking.

Accommodation/Food: Stay near National Mall or Georgetown. Try seafood at The Tombs or casual dining at Farmers Fishers Bakers.

Souvenirs: Georgetown shops offer local artisan crafts, boutique items, and Capitol-themed memorabilia at museum shops.


4-Day Itinerary: Capitol + Museums + National Zoo + Kennedy Center

Expand your visit to include wildlife and performing arts.

  • Days 1-3: Follow previous itineraries.
  • Day 4 Morning: Take Metro to Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan (Red Line, ~20 min) and visit Smithsonian’s National Zoo.
  • Day 4 Afternoon: Taxi or Metro to Kennedy Center (Foggy Bottom station, then short taxi). Enjoy a tour or performance.
  • Day 4 Evening: Dinner near Kennedy Center or return downtown.

Transportation: Metro and taxi.

Accommodation/Food: Stay downtown or near National Zoo. Try upscale dining at Kennedy Center’s rooftop restaurant or casual fare nearby.

Souvenirs: Zoo gift shop with animal-themed items; Kennedy Center shop with arts and music memorabilia.


5-Day Itinerary: Capitol + Arlington + Museums + Old Town Alexandria

Visit historical sites across the Potomac River and explore charming Alexandria.

  • Days 1-4: As above.
  • Day 5 Morning: Metro from Capitol South to Arlington Cemetery (Yellow Line, ~20 min). Visit Arlington National Cemetery and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
  • Day 5 Afternoon: Taxi or Metro to Old Town Alexandria (King Street station, Yellow Line). Explore historic district and waterfront.
  • Day 5 Evening: Dinner in Old Town’s local restaurants.

Transportation: Metro and taxi.

Accommodation/Food: Stay near Capitol or Old Town Alexandria. Dine at seafood or American cuisine restaurants like Chart House.

Souvenirs: Arlington and Alexandria shops offer historical and local crafts; Capitol gift shops remain a must-visit.


6-Day Itinerary: Capitol + Museums + National Arboretum + Eastern Market

Combine culture with nature and local community markets.

  • Days 1-5: As above.
  • Day 6 Morning: Take taxi or bus (routes 80 or 96) to U.S. National Arboretum (~20-30 min). Explore vast gardens and collections.
  • Day 6 Afternoon: Visit Eastern Market on Capitol Hill for local food, crafts, and art.
  • Day 6 Evening: Dinner at nearby restaurants in Capitol Hill or Barracks Row.

Transportation: Taxi or bus for Arboretum; walking in Eastern Market area.

Accommodation/Food: Stay near Capitol Hill. Try market food stalls or nearby restaurants like Rose’s Luxury.

Souvenirs: Arboretum and Eastern Market vendors offer handcrafted goods, plants, and art pieces.


7-Day Itinerary: Comprehensive Washington D.C. with Capitol as Base

Explore Washington, D.C.’s best cultural, historic, and natural attractions centered on the Capitol.

  • Combine all previous itineraries.
  • Include visits to Library of Congress, Supreme Court (both near Capitol), National Portrait Gallery, and off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods like Adams Morgan or Dupont Circle.
  • Enjoy diverse culinary experiences ranging from food trucks to fine dining in Georgetown or downtown.

Transportation: Mix of walking, Metro, taxi, and buses.

Accommodation/Food: Midtown or Capitol Hill recommended for central access. Experience a variety of dining options across neighborhoods.

Souvenirs: Wide range of museums and landmark gift shops including Capitol, Library of Congress, and local artisan markets.


User Reviews

By Jie Yatou |

We have already made an online reservation in China to visit the Capitol at 10:40. Of course, a small number of individual tickets will be reserved on site every day.

You can also exchange tickets on the spot to attend the proceedings of the House of Representatives and the Senate. Registration is available at the entrance of both chambers. Whether you can attend the meeting depends on whether there are any meetings that day.

The security entrance requires you to queue up at the back of the Capitol building. You are not allowed to bring food in. There were already many people queuing up, and we waited for more than half an hour.

After entering the Capitol, we went to the Visitor Center to pick up our tickets for the day with our reservation number. Then, we lined up at the theater entrance and were divided into groups of about 20. Staff distributed headphones before we entered the theater to watch the film "Out of Many, One." The film emphasizes the concept of no single nation in the United States, but rather equality and mutual respect for all ethnicities and races.

Afterwards, you'll follow your tour guide around the area and won't be able to leave the group at will! (It's just that American and English are difficult to understand. Shouldn't such an important national institution have a tour guide with standard pronunciation?)

Compared to the Houses of Parliament (Big Ben) in the UK, this one is truly inferior. While the tour format is the same, with a tour guide, and although this one is free, while the UK has a fee, the difference is still significant. The guides always felt perfunctory, their explanations haphazard, and their leadership lax, even ignoring those who fell behind. The standard English was incredibly pleasant, and the British guides were incredibly attentive and attentive, making sure to pay attention to everyone during their explanations.

After visiting the Capitol, I felt a lot

By Beibei |

I joined a VIP tour led by a congressional staff member for a one-on-one tour of the Capitol. I got to see the empty Capitol dome for the first time, tour members' offices, and attend a hearing (amazing!). Best of all, I happened to catch the members voting, so the staff member took me upstairs to the debate hall where they were holding a vote, giving me a sneak peek (though security was very strict, so I couldn't take photos, which was a bit disappointing). Overall, this staff-led tour was fantastic! We were able to visit all sorts of places we wouldn't normally visit, and we were constantly exploring the Capitol's underground tunnels. English skills are a bit demanding, so you'll need to be able to speak basic English. Send me a private message for more information on how to join.

By pufferfish |

The United States Capitol is renowned for its neoclassical architecture. Its white marble structure features a massive dome at its center, crowned by the 6-meter-tall Statue of Liberty, symbolizing the spirit of independence. Visitors can enjoy free admission and a guided tour of the Rotunda, showcasing murals and sculptures depicting American history. The north and south wings house the Senate and House of Representatives, where visitors can observe live debates. Originally constructed in 1793, the building has weathered war damage and undergone numerous expansions, becoming a central symbol of the separation of powers. We recommend allowing three hours for an in-depth tour to experience the captivating blend of politics and art.

By Timothy Tianshuo |

Admission to the Capitol is free, but the number of visitors allowed each day is limited. Reservations are essential during peak season, weekends, and holidays. I booked a 2:00 PM tour the night before. A little after 1:00 PM, I passed through strict security and entered the Capitol Visitor Center. The Visitor Center is located in the basement of the East Plaza and offers coat check and restrooms. The basement hallway connects to the Library of Congress. On the day I visited, coat check was open until 4:30 PM, so please make sure to arrive before the scheduled pick-up time. Valuable items cannot be checked in, so please bring them with you. There are no restrooms along the tour route, so please use them before you begin. There wasn't much of a line at the security checkpoint on the day I visited, so getting my ticket was a breeze. Since the number of visitors was so low, there were no lines at the ticket collection point, regardless of whether I had a reservation or not. I was even able to be assigned to the 1:40 pm group, which started early. During the tour, the guide gave each member of the group headphones connected to the guide's microphone, allowing everyone to hear the guide without the loudspeaker noise damaging the artwork. Furthermore, you must never leave your guide alone; the consequences could be serious. No one wants to spend a day at the Capitol Police Department: it's not fun.

By Snow White |

Pearly white marble is my favorite. Whether in statues or architecture, it embodies a crystal-clear sense of purity and sublimity. The Capitol is majestic yet delicate, like an ivory sculpture, facing east and west, spanning north and south, its entire structure radiating a brilliant, clear hue. The three-story, flat-roofed building rises from a central dome, crowned by a small round tower, crowned by a bronze statue of the Statue of Liberty. I'm always struck by this, and marveled at the power of Western architecture: the power of humans or gods atop rooftops, weathering the elements like loyal sentinels guarding and protecting the world! But this statue is different from the one in New York. The French version, the Statue of Liberty, symbolizes America's resolve to break free from British tyranny and its yearning for freedom and independence. This American version, the Statue of Freedom, wears a feathered crown, holds a sword in her right hand, a shield in her left, and gazes ever eastward toward the rising sun, symbolizing a fearless fight for freedom. Her true face can be seen in the Capitol's underground visitor center. The white plaster version of the Statue of Liberty in the United States is more elegant and resolute than the bronze version on the roof. However, imported monks are more likely to chant sutras, and imported goddesses are more famous.

Surrounded by auspicious clouds, the heavens are composed of two concentric circles. Washington, clad in a purple robe, stands at the center of the inner circle. Victory and Liberty stand to the left and right, while 13 young women (representing the 13 founding states) dance gracefully. Franklin (lightning rod), Fulton (steam engine), and Morse (telegraph) are in the outer circle, each surrounded by their respective technological inventions. The fusion of legendary gods with scientists and their inventions? Does this indicate that, as early as 1865, the United States, with divine assistance and a respect for knowledge and science, would become the world power it is today?

By Jiang Li |

The United States Capitol, located atop the 25-meter-high Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., is a heartland of the nation. Built between 1793 and 1800, the Capitol, like many other important buildings in Washington, was damaged during the War of 1814.

By Martin |

It was so exciting to be able to visit the Capitol building.

By Fish Flower |

The United States Capitol is located in the eastern part of Washington, D.C. and is considered the center of downtown.

By Salad |

I read in the guide that I had to apply in advance, so I applied in advance. I went on 1-2 days. If you applied in advance, you can get priority access to the cinema to watch videos. If you don’t apply in advance, it seems that you can only visit the Congress and not watch movies. I’m not sure.

By Chestnut ಥ_ಥ |

It is probably under renovation, so I just watched from a distance, and I guess I can't go in.

By Childhood |

A visit to the Capitol is a must in Washington, D.C., and you need to book your number and time in advance. It's free. The staff were a bit unkind. It was pouring rain, and they made us queue outside to get in, and many of us didn't have umbrellas. Fortunately, the line didn't take long, and we were inside. Please note that you are not allowed to bring any items, including water, into the building.

After receiving our guide's audio guide at the front desk, we found our guide at our scheduled time and lined up to enter the building's accessible areas. (With an American academic ID, you can get a Chinese audio guide, which we did, but it didn't seem very useful.)

The Capitol is indeed very grand, with many statues of American leaders placed inside.

The light inside is often not very bright, and the photo effect is not very good, so it is best to go and see it in person.

We must follow the assigned tour guide and cannot leave the group at will. The entire tour takes about an hour, during which time we are not allowed to go to the toilet, which is something we need to pay attention to.

By Alex & Mei |

The white marble building stands out against the backdrop of the blooming cherry blossoms.

By Yang Yang |

I made an appointment for the visit on the official website of the Capitol three months in advance. You can visit without an appointment, but you have to queue up in advance. I didn't feel much when I saw it on TV, but when I got there, I realized that the Capitol is really magnificent! The door opened at 8:50, and we arrived at 8:20. There were already student groups queuing. After the security check, I entered the lobby and there were no tourists yet.

The first step is to watch a short European and American film about the history of the Capitol, its location, and its significance to the American people. After the film, staff wearing red vests will lead the tourists to line up, receive headphones, and then they will take you on a tour.

Our tour guide was a black man with a relatively pure accent, and I was able to understand some of the introduction and his American humor. After the black man finished his explanation, we were free to move around and look around.

Since we entered the Capitol from the front entrance, we were able to walk through an underground passage to the Capitol Library and visit its second floor without going through security. If we went to the library first and then to the Capitol, we would need to go through security again.

By vicky |

I booked a tour of the Capitol in advance. Following a guide, I began to wander around inside. There were many people visiting the Capitol, and people from all over the world were listening to history inside.

By alern |

It's a very nice place, and if there aren't many people, you can make an appointment on the spot. In addition, it is recommended to take pictures from different angles outdoors for different effects.

By ⊙Dandanbao⊙ |

When I saw the iconic dome of the Capitol from afar, I felt like the words "house of cards" were about to emerge from the bottom of the picture.

As someone who has been watching American TV series since high school and has a good understanding of and admiration for American society and culture, when I stand in the square in front of the Capitol, a different kind of emotion (hard to describe, hahaha) really comes to my mind.

By Struggle's little grandson |

Admission is free, but reservations are required online in advance. A limited number of tickets are available at the visitor center each day. However, upon arriving, I discovered that tickets aren't very tight. If you're concerned, make a reservation, preferably in the afternoon. The security checkpoint is the most insane I've ever seen, even stricter than at an airport. No water or food, including unopened vacuum-packed food and fruit, is allowed. I booked the earliest available ticket at 9 a.m. and reluctantly threw away two apples and three small cakes (a day's worth of rations, lol). The upside of the morning is that there are fewer people. The first group to enter Capitol Hill was only about 10 people, which was a great way to take photos and explore. By the time we emerged, the hall was packed, and I guess my photos would have looked like a sea of people.

Tip 1: Go to the National Gallery early in the morning to check your bag (it's open until 5 PM), then head to Parliament Hill. Perfect! It'll just require a bit more walking. Similarly, if your backpack is too heavy, you can leave it there and stroll through Parliament Square with your smaller bag. Just remember to pick it up before 5 PM.

Tip 2: You can also attend the House of Representatives or Senate meetings on Capitol Hill. You can ask the tour group volunteers for details. I gave up because I didn’t have time.

The statue atop the Capitol is the Statue of Liberty, created by Freemason Thomas Crawford. Standing eastward, it faces the rising sun. Standing at 19.5 feet tall, it symbolizes the supremacy of freedom. All sculptures in downtown Washington, D.C., must be no taller than 19 feet.

By OO Wandering |

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day, and Inauguration Day.

Admission: Free

You need to make an appointment in advance to join the guided tour of the Capitol (***#.WapsQ2UxBsM). The tour is usually less crowded around 9 am on weekdays, which is a good time to visit.

Those who wish to visit on their own can take a look at the official website's visitor guide: ***_17-114_VisitorGuide.pdf

The Capitol undergoes strict security checks for all visitors. Liquids (including drinking water), non-aerosol sprays (unless prescribed), sharp objects (except pens and pencils), bags larger than 18" wide x 14" high x 8.5" deep, weapons (including replica firearms/ammunition), and razors/box cutters are not permitted. There are check-in areas at both the north and south entrances.

By Autumn is relaxing |

No reservations are required; you receive a free ticket and instruction manual (available in Chinese) upon arrival. First, you'll watch a short film about American history and the formation of core values. Then, you'll be divided into groups and guided tours with the director. I visited twice with different guides, and the explanations varied. There's two hours of free parking on nearby residential streets, making it easy to walk.

By Juliet Jiujiu |

The Capitol Building is free to visit. You need to make an appointment in advance on the official website and queue up at the door to go through security check according to the appointment time. There are dedicated staff to lead and explain.

By Gulangyu Island |

Primarily constructed of white marble, the building is modeled after the Pantheon in Paris. Surrounded by massive columns, it exudes grandeur and is a masterpiece of Classical Revival architecture. The three-story dome on the central roof has become a popular backdrop for television coverage of American political news. Atop the dome stands a six-meter-tall bronze statue of the Statue of Liberty, crowned with feathers, holding a sword in her right hand and a shield in her left, perpetually gazing eastward toward the rising sun. Within the dome lies the magnificent central rotunda, while the north and south wings on either side house the offices of the House of Representatives and the Senate, respectively.

By Clouds and Water |

The Capitol Building is built on a 25-meter-high hillside, hence the name Capitol Hill. However, to most people, the building appears to be built on flat ground, with no trace of the hillside visible.

Because the Capitol is built on a small hill and is already quite high, and because of its unique round dome shape, it is quite eye-catching among the surrounding buildings. Therefore, like the Washington Monument, people can see it from far away in different directions.

By Wheat Lost |

This Romanesque building, seen countless times in films and television, still stands tall and dazzles. Its exterior, clad entirely in white marble, exudes a sense of sacredness and purity. The United States has a separation of powers: legislative, executive, and judicial. Congress holds sole legislative power, and Americans consider it the supreme symbol of government of the people, by the people, and for the people. It also serves as the perfect backdrop for television coverage of American political news.

All government buildings in the United States are open to the public. However, because the Capitol is a popular tourist destination and attracts a large number of visitors, reservations are required. If time permits, a visit inside is well worthwhile.

As the sun sets, the red glow casts a shadow on this majestic building, creating an ivory hue. Against the backdrop of dense clouds, the visual effect is truly marvelous.

As the crowds disperse in the evening, the once bustling square returns to tranquility. Sitting alone on Capitol Hill, gazing at the towering obelisk and the Lincoln Memorial in the distance, one can most fully appreciate the majesty of this place as the capital and the heart of the government.

By Maggie |

The U.S. Capitol is pictured on the back of the $50 bill, not far from the National Air and Space Museum. The National Archives and Newseum are also accessible. The FBI and other government agencies are also nearby, allowing visitors to explore them on foot.

By Jean |

The Capitol: You can visit the Capitol, but you need to make an appointment in advance.

To make an online reservation, you need to register first and then make an online reservation. Once the reservation is successful, a confirmation letter and notes will be sent to your email.

Please arrive at least 30 minutes early on the day of your visit and collect your ticket with your confirmation letter.

Generally speaking, there are a few vacancies if you book five days in advance. If you have time requirements, book as early as possible.

(Those who don’t care whether to visit or the time can check the reservation interface a day or two before the tour, and there may be one or two vacancies.)

*** You will receive an email once the reservation is successful

By 👻wendysuu |

Tourists have a special channel to visit the Congress, and security checks are required.

After entering, just use your passport to get a number and queue up.

Then the tour leader will take you to watch a short film (of course it is a short film about the United States, so that everyone can better understand the United States)

Then the headphones were distributed and the lady started to introduce it in a long stream... The interior is really beautiful.

By Rebecca |

We forgot our passports, thinking that places like this require valid ID and that going back to get them would mean we'd miss our reservation. We figured we'd give it a try since we were already there, since the other tours were in the same area. We walked up to the Visitor Center, and the handsome security guard at the door said, "Come back in two hours; they're opening late." "Do you need a passport?" "No." "Okay, just the reservation paper will do." "No, you don't need anything." So, was the reservation a joke? The good news is, forgetting your passport won't affect me.

We returned to the entrance of the Capitol Visitor Center at around ten o'clock. There were a lot of people queuing at the entrance. It started to rain while we were queuing. Fortunately, we brought an umbrella. The queue was outdoors. If we came here in the summer, we would have to bring an umbrella, otherwise we would be exposed to the sun.

After passing through the relaxed security checkpoint, you'll follow the crowd to the central hall, where you'll queue up to be assigned to your group and then be led on a guided tour. It's all free! The tour lasts about an hour, and if you'd like to sit in on the tour, you can apply on-site.

By laziness |

2018.02.13 To be honest, compared to the White House, the Capitol is taller, richer, and more handsome. The building is a masterpiece of art. I feel that the American architectural style is truly luxurious in simplicity, with fine workmanship and exquisite carvings.

By Smithda 🍙 |

Regarding the Capitol, that day was a real shame. We went on Christmas Eve, and all these important places were closed, so we missed out on a great opportunity to go inside. If you're planning a visit, be sure to time it right.

By Vivian |

I recommend following the one-hour tour. However, the headset isn't very effective, and it also challenges my English listening skills...

By Luanqi didn't run around |

You can go inside to visit, the interior is obsessive-compulsive and likes to shape

By Constantine |

The political center of the United States is equivalent to our Zhongnanhai, so you can only take pictures from a distance. It’s not a scenic spot, but you can look at the architectural style and feel the relaxed atmosphere of the United States.

By Dr. Chen |

After exiting the station and walking south along Delaware Avenue NE, I could see the Capitol's white dome, crowned by the Statue of Liberty, nestled amidst a sea of flowers. Like the White House, it's the American building most frequently featured on CCTV.

Most of the Capitol building is open to the public, no tickets required, but you must go through strict security checks, conducted by armed Secret Service agents. No food or water is allowed. The visitors were eager to visit, and everyone lined up quietly. Perhaps because it was spring break, there were many elementary school students. It seems Americans are just as well-educated on patriotism as we are.

At the center of the U.S. Capitol is a large hall called Emancipation Hall. As I descended the stairs from the entrance, I looked up and saw the aforementioned four characters engraved on the marble wall, gleaming with gilded gold. Honestly, I was initially surprised, then filled with awe.

The hall was packed, shoulder to shoulder. I had expected it to be fairly busy, but all open areas required a queue, so we only had a quick glimpse. The largest white plaster statue in the center is called the Statue of Liberty, not to be confused with the one in New York.

The hall is surrounded by statues sent by various states. The U.S. Constitution stipulates that each state can send two statues to Congress.

By Zhou Bubu |

This place is always mistaken for the White House. When we went there, the exterior was under renovation, which was a bit disappointing.

By TravelKay |

My experience here was probably a one-in-a-million experience. I hadn't planned to go in, having heard you had to make an appointment. But! My husband had a meeting that day, leaving me alone in Washington. Early that morning, I attended a 9/11-themed blood drive in a government building to help Muslims. Then, I went to an office in the Capitol and attended an international conference on Pakistan's internal affairs, along with other government officials. Finally, when my husband came to pick me up, he was interviewed by a TV station...

By Life is sea sea sea sea sea sea |

Americans call the Capitol the Capitol, viewing it as the supreme symbol of government of the people, by the people, and for the people. President Washington laid its cornerstone on September 18, 1793, and the Capitol was dedicated in 1800. During the Second Anglo-American War in 1814, the building was burned by the British, partially destroyed. Later, the Senate and House chambers, the dome, and the rotunda were added, and the building has been renovated and expanded numerous times.

By Old Cow |

At this time and angle, the Capitol is more attractive

By I'll give you half of the soy milk. |

You need to make an appointment one month in advance, and the tour is free and there are people to explain it. The souvenir shop has good things and is duty-free.

By Fan Zi |

Hehe, I went there in sixth grade, and I almost forgot everything.

By Yaoyao |

It's a very grand building. Before I went there, I always thought it was the White House. Later I realized that the White House is so small.

By The Demonic Little Gong |

The US Capitol building on Capitol Hill is under two years of renovation and looks quite unsightly. It doesn't matter if your online reservation time has passed; you can still go without a reservation. You can get tickets for the House Gallery (blue) and Senate Gallery (white) with your passport; if you use your US ID, you'll have to queue in a separate building. If you don't have time, just go to the Senate Gallery to watch the congressional debate and voting. I heard you can find detailed arrangements on the *** website. They don't say "yes" during the voting.



In the afternoon, I went to the Senate Gallery to watch the voting. Those who weren't in person participated via cable. During the debate, every few words started referring to China and India. Suddenly, I understood why they always treat us like imaginary enemies. Outside, I met a freelance photographer. He said Washington has themed events every month, and this week's was the police parade. Let's go watch the parade. On the way, I met a guy who had walked all the way from Georgia to Washington with a backpack.

By I walk alone through the mountains |

It has almost the same shape as every state capitol building.

By Meng Xiaomeng |

While visiting the Capitol, we discovered that the dome was undergoing repairs, which was a bit disappointing because we couldn't see it in person. Admission to the Capitol is free, and tickets can be obtained in two ways: by booking in advance on the official website or by queuing up at the Visitor Center inside the Capitol. However, if there are crowds, there might be a long wait for tickets on-site. The staff and volunteers we met later were very welcoming. The entire tour lasted about an hour and gave us a comprehensive understanding of the Capitol and the U.S. congressional system. The first part of the Capitol tour was watching a 13-minute promotional video. Afterward, visitors were divided into groups and led by a dedicated guide around the Capitol. Foreign visitors were given a guide map in their language, which was updated in real time based on the current status of the Capitol. For example, if the Capitol dome was undergoing repairs, the guide explained the reasons for the repairs, which was very user-friendly.

By blue sky and white clouds |

Make an appointment to visit. Inside, you'll find statues sent from various states, as well as numerous murals. Unfortunately, we were unable to tour the library as it was undergoing renovations. It's a must-see. There's also a visitor center with excellent facilities.

By Imperial Princess |

This is one of the must-see attractions for tour groups. Take a photo.

By Hardcore island enthusiast |

The Capitol. Before visiting, I'd always thought it was the White House from watching TV, but it's actually where the House and Senate meet for political meetings. We didn't have a reservation and arrived the same day, arriving at 7:30 AM. We were worried we wouldn't be able to get in, but there wasn't even a line at the entrance. We grabbed a coffee at a nearby Starbucks and returned at 8:30 AM. There was a security line at the entrance. After asking the staff, I was told I could enter without a reservation. I went downstairs and saw that I could just queue for the walk-in tour. There was no line at all. We were one of the first tours, only 17 people in the group, and the staff said we were lucky. We first watched a short film about Congress. It was well-filmed, with beautiful scenery and history—it's not easy to get this kind of film. Then we were shown the old Senate chamber, the old Supreme Court (there's no actual graves), the dome, and the sculpture room. It was educational and interesting, and it's free. It's definitely worth a visit. It's best to make a reservation in advance so you don't have to get up as early as I did.

By Mars User |

This is where national legislators work and national bills are discussed and approved.

By There is a kitten at home~ |

The scenery is great, the lawn is big, and the sky is blue. I'm willing to sit here for an afternoon.

By Little Willow Stupid |

If you want to visit the interior, you must make an online reservation in advance, otherwise you will have to wait in line for a long time. It is recommended to make an online reservation in advance.

Make an appointment on the official website one month in advance, otherwise you may have to wait in line for 2 hours before you can get in.

By cyice |

The lawn in front of the Capitol is great, and everyone can walk up to the steps of the Capitol at will, so it is very open.

By Noxinghan Sky |

The Washington sign, but it was under renovation when I went there...

By Go with the flow |

Stop arguing, come here, let’s have a meeting!

By wanmaymay |

We recommend stopping at two places: the pond in front of the Capitol building, which is the best photo spot facing the Capitol building; and the steps in front of the Capitol building. After visiting the Capitol building, you must go to Capitol Hill!

By Walking Pear Soup |

Capitol Hill feels similar to the White House, but it is open to tourists and is very close to the National Gallery of Art.

By Carving a Boat to Look for a Sword (JX) |

Capitol Hill, also known as the United States Capitol;

After the stone dome was built, they thought it was too flat and too short (just like choosing a model!), so they removed it and replaced it with cast iron and painted white to create the current look;

By Free and Easy Tour |

If you watch American TV series filmed in Washington, D.C. (like Bones), you'll inevitably see an aerial shot of three buildings: the United States Capitol, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial. This is a classic shot; if you don't believe me, keep an eye out for it next time you watch it.

By Jeanner |

Try to book a time to visit the Capitol Building on the website in advance to save time queuing. We arrived at the building entrance early in the morning with our printed reservation form. There are signs around the Capitol Building indicating the entrance for visitors; just follow the signs. Then there's the complicated security check. Please note that you are not allowed to bring water in. After the security check, you enter the building and exchange your reservation form for a sticker that can be attached to your clothes, allowing you to officially enter the building. First, we watched a short film that tells the story of the Capitol Building from its early design to its later construction. Then we followed the tour guide to visit each exhibition hall. The downside is that you have to stay with the same tour guide and cannot fall behind. Also, they usually move on to the next exhibition hall immediately after the tour ends, leaving little time for photos.

By Embrace nature |

Please note that the opening hours are from 8:40 am to 3:20 pm.

The interior of the Capitol building is impressive, with its magnificent dome, exquisite oil paintings, and sculptures of historical figures.

By Leisurely Wooden Fish |

Built on Capitol Hill, this famous building with its white exterior walls and dome is majestic and is the center of American power. It is often mistaken for the White House.

By bamboo stick and straw sandals_xu |

The Rotunda is a key attraction when visiting the Capitol. Since the time of President Lincoln, it has been the site of state funerals for deceased U.S. presidents, members of Congress, military heroes, and prominent citizens. It is also a frequent venue for welcoming visiting heads of state and dignitaries. Surrounding the Rotunda are paintings depicting scenes from the American Revolutionary War and early pioneering, and numerous sculptures are also on display.

By shady |

You can enter the underground from the front of the Capitol. The underground is connected to the National Library. There are free guides and service staff to lead the tour. Most museums in Washington are free to visit.

You can enter from the back underground and visit. Tickets are free, but you need to go through security. There is also a screening room that tells history, which is very good, but it is too cold inside in the summer.

By Tannhauser |

Security in front of the Capitol felt even stricter than at an airport; food and drinks were not allowed inside. Many tourists happily entered with their backpacks, only to leave with their bags bowed in frustration. Before entering, they had to watch a movie to learn about the Capitol, and then follow the guided tour with headphones on.

By xiaofeiniu2008 |

I took a photo from a distance. I was too tired to walk after coming out of the Natural History Museum. Maybe next time.

By Calm as water |

The scenery is beautiful with blue sky and white clouds. It feels different to visit this world-famous building up close!

By UD_pomme |

When we arrived at the Capitol, there was already a long line. Visiting the Capitol also requires security checks, which, while not as strict as airport security, are still much stricter than other museums (at least the straps of bags, watches, and cell phones need to be removed).

By Lao Tie |

The U.S. Capitol's office building is located on Capitol Hill, a 28-meter-high structure. Washington personally laid the cornerstone in 1793. After the outbreak of the Civil War, some proposed halting construction, but President Lincoln insisted on completing the dome. Today, the Capitol's dome serves as a prime backdrop for television coverage of American politics. Inside, a magnificent hall can accommodate 2,000 to 3,000 people.

By Tianshan |

In September 2012, I visited Capitol Hill, which is located at the top of Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, at the east end of State Street.

By ceciwu |

I love the grandeur and calmness of DC, and the Capitol is my favorite building there. I arrived at Capitol Hill early in the morning and queued for security to enter the Capitol (remember, don't bring any food or drinks; they must be discarded). There's no entrance fee, and there's a free guided tour. Instead of speaking directly through a loudspeaker, each visitor is given a headset. The guide speaks through a microphone, explaining the Capitol's main halls, the structure of Congress, and some of its history. The murals, sculptures, and reliefs on the dome are all beautiful. The Library of Congress is also open to the public, said to be the largest library in the world. Photography is not allowed inside, but it's truly beautiful and well worth a visit.

By yf890312 |

The United States Capitol, located on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., is the seat of power in the United States. The lawn east of the Capitol is where every president has held his inauguration ceremony.

By make a sightseeing tour |

The United States Capitol Building, a three-story, white stone dome on Capitol Hill in downtown Washington, D.C., opened in 1800. It serves as the legislative center of the United States. The Senate is on the left, and the House of Representatives on the right. It is a landmark of both the United States and Washington. To the east of the Capitol Building is the Library of Congress, the largest library in the United States. The Great Lawn east of the Capitol Building is where every president has held his inauguration.

By Remember↘ |

The Capitol is as famous as the White House, and it is a must-see when you come to Washington. It gives people the feeling that, well, it is really grand.

By Donghua Rainbow |

The U.S. Capitol Building looks more beautiful. It is located not far from the White House. Since there are no railings blocking the view, tourists can watch and take photos from a closer distance. In addition, there is a large lawn in front of it for tourists to rest, so the atmosphere and feeling are quite good. Many tourists lie in the sun and admire the Capitol Building.

By doris_siqi |

I originally thought that the general public was not allowed to enter the U.S. Capitol. Unexpectedly, you only need to make an online reservation in advance and print out the email sent after booking.

By Past, Present, Future |

The United States Capitol, also known as Capitol Hill, is the seat of the United States Congress. It is located on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., the nation's capital, at the eastern end of the National Mall. Geographically, the Capitol is located slightly east of Washington, D.C., but is often considered the center of downtown. Addresses of buildings in Washington, D.C. are based on the Capitol as their reference point for east, west, north, and south.

The Capitol is a symbol of American politics, having been the site of Congress since 1800. Members of Congress gather here to make laws, and it's also where the President is sworn in and delivers his annual State of the Union address.

By melon |

The Capitol, constructed of white sandstone and marble, has a central dome and drum modeled after the Pantheon. Because it sits on elevated ground, it stands taller than the surrounding buildings.