Iconic Capitol Hill Architectural Walking Tour

4.9 (21 reviews) 2 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

21 reviews

4.9

Library of Congress — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Union Station — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

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.

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At a glance

Duration: 2 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 20 people
People per booking: 1–6
Guide: English
Operated by: DC Design Tours

Ages: Children (1–16 years) · Adults (17–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Local guide

Not included

Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

Union Station

Passing by

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!
Columbus Memorial Fountain

5 min

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.
Supreme Court

5 min

we'll take in the imposing facade and learn about the architecture, history and design of the home of our Judicial branch of government.
U.S. Capitol

10 min

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.
Library of Congress

30 min Admission included

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.
U.S. Capitol Visitor Center

15 min Admission included

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 point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

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.

End point

The tour concludes inside the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center, where guests can join a free interior building tour (depending upon timing and availability).

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

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.