The United States Capitol, standing atop Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., is the working seat of the U.S. Congress, where the Senate and the House of Representatives meet. A neoclassical building used by Congress since 1800, its white cast-iron dome crowned by the Statue of Freedom is one of the most recognizable symbols of American democracy and the defining feature of the Washington skyline. As of 2026 it remains an active legislative building, and visitors can explore the interior on free guided tours that begin at the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC), located underground on the east side. When Congress is in session you can also obtain a separate pass to watch the Senate or House from the visitor galleries, making it an easy full-day outing combined with the nearby Smithsonian museums on the National Mall.
The Rotunda — the great dome interior with Brumidi's fresco 'The Apotheosis of Washington,' huge historical paintings and statues of notable Americans
National Statuary Hall — the former House chamber, famous for its statues donated by each state and its unusual whispering acoustics
The Brumidi Corridors and the Crypt — Constantino Brumidi's intricate murals and the structural heart of the building
The cast-iron dome and the Statue of Freedom — the iconic exterior best viewed from the National Mall and the East Front plaza
The Senate and House galleries — watch Congress at work in a live session (gallery pass required)
Emancipation Hall in the Visitor Center — the plaster model of the Statue of Freedom and permanent exhibits on the Capitol's history
Good to know
RulesGuided tours are free but require a timed pass. Reserve online at visitthecapitol.gov up to 90 days ahead (same-day passes may be available); book ahead in busy seasons and arrive at least 60 minutes before your time. The last tour begins around 3:20 p.m.
RulesWatching Congress in session needs a separate gallery pass, not the tour pass. International visitors present a passport or foreign ID at the Senate and House appointment desks in the Visitor Center; the galleries are open only when Congress is in session.
SafetyExpect airport-style screening (magnetometer plus x-ray). No food or drink is allowed (empty your water bottle and refill inside), knives of any size and any spray/aerosol (including self-defense sprays) are banned, and bags must fit within about 18 x 14 x 8.5 in, so travel light.
MannersThis is a working legislature. Dress neatly, silence your phone, follow staff instructions, and note that photography is not allowed in the galleries. Tipping 15–20% is customary at nearby restaurants and cafes.
SeasonWashington, D.C. summers are hot and humid and winters are cold, with plenty of outdoor waiting and walking on the National Mall. Bring a hat, water and sun protection in summer, warm layers in winter, and comfortable shoes.
CautionCapitol tours and gallery passes are officially free. Beware third-party sellers or look-alike sites charging for 'Capitol interior access' or 'skip-the-line' entry; book only through visitthecapitol.gov or via your embassy or a congressional office.
Practical info
Reach the Capitol on foot from Metro's Capitol South station (Blue/Orange/Silver lines) or Union Station (Red line); entry is through the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC), underground on the east side. The Visitor Center is generally open Monday–Saturday 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day and Inauguration Day) and tours are free and run about 45 minutes, but confirm current hours, tour reservations and gallery-pass rules on the official website before you go.
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