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National Park & Nature

US Capitol

📍 US Capitol, Washington, DC 20515, USA
US Capitol
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★★★★☆

Quick Facts

Location
USA, Washington
Category
National Park & Nature
Duration
1-2 hours
Address
US Capitol, Washington, DC 20515, USA
Coordinates
38.8898, -77.0090

Introduction

The United States Capitol crowns Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. and houses the Senate and House of Representatives, serving as the symbol of federal legislative power. Designed by William Thornton, the neoclassical domed building was cornerstone-laid by George Washington in 1793, survived the 1814 British burning and repeated expansions, and received its current cast-iron dome in 1866. A 6-meter bronze Statue of Freedom tops the dome, facing east. The East Front hosts presidential inaugurations, while the West Front overlooks the National Mall and the Lincoln Memorial. The underground Capitol Visitor Center offers guided tours into the Rotunda, National Statuary Hall and the Old Supreme Court Chamber, and the public may observe sessions of Congress. The Capitol is both the political heart of the nation and its most recognizable architectural symbol of democracy.

✨ Highlights

1
Cast-Iron Dome
The 1866 dome crowned by the Statue of Freedom is the building's icon
2
The Rotunda
Central ceremonial space under a canopy fresco with presidential busts
3
Statuary Hall
The old House chamber displaying 100 statues donated by the states
4
Visitor Center
Underground exhibition hall with free tours and Capitol history displays
5
Library of Congress
Adjacent Thomas Jefferson Building, the oldest federal cultural institution
6
Inaugurations
Every four years the president is sworn in on the East Front steps

🛈 Practical Info

→Duration:1 to 2 hours including the guided tour
→Access:Red Line to Union Station or Blue/Orange to Capitol South
→Security:No liquids, food or large bags permitted
→Opening Hours:Monday-Saturday 8:30-16:30; closed Sundays
→Transportation:On foot / subway

Ticket Information

Ticket Information
AdultFree

Free (reservation required)

💡 Tips

• Tour slots are limited; book two weeks ahead at visitthecapitol.gov
• Requesting through your member of Congress can secure a richer tour
• When Congress is in session, you can observe debates with a separate pass
• The visitor entrance is under the East Plaza, not the main front door
• After the tour, walk the National Mall to visit nearby Smithsonian museums

FAQ

What are the opening hours of US Capitol?

Monday-Saturday 8:30-16:30; closed Sundays

How much is the admission for US Capitol?

Adult: Free; Free (reservation required)

Any practical tips for visiting US Capitol?

Tour slots are limited; book two weeks ahead at visitthecapitol.gov Requesting through your member of Congress can secure a richer tour

How long should I spend at US Capitol?

A typical visit takes 1-2 hours.

Ticket prices, schedules and opening hours are for reference only; please follow the official announcement.

📰 Guides for US Capitol

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