Travel around Washington’s most famous architectural icon, the U.S. Capitol, and past the buildings housing America’s legislative and judicial branches of government.
You will discover that “Capitol Hill” does indeed describe a rise in the ground upon which the monumental edifice stands, and that its gracious park-like setting represents one of the most pleasing outdoor spaces in the city, featuring historic trees, fountains, outdoor sculpture and even a grotto.
The Library of Congress, U.S. Botanic Garden, and U.S. Supreme Court are all stops.
We’ll discuss the exterior of the U.S. Capitol itself—how it was designed, why it was burned down, the roles slaves played in its construction, and what actually goes on inside.
This walk does not include an interior tour of the U.S. Capitol.
You will discover that “Capitol Hill” does indeed describe a rise in the ground upon which the monumental edifice stands, and that its gracious park-like setting represents one of the most pleasing outdoor spaces in the city, featuring historic trees, fountains, outdoor sculpture and even a grotto.
The Library of Congress, U.S. Botanic Garden, and U.S. Supreme Court are all stops.
We’ll discuss the exterior of the U.S. Capitol itself—how it was designed, why it was burned down, the roles slaves played in its construction, and what actually goes on inside.
This walk does not include an interior tour of the U.S. Capitol.
What Is Not Included?
This walk does not include an interior tour of the U.S. Capitol. The walk concludes near the entrance to the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center, where participants can see exhibits, browse in the gift show or check on the availability of a docent-led tour of the Capitol building itself. (Advance reservations are strongly recommended for an interior tour. Contact the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center directly.)
Meeting Location
Capitol Hill South (Washington, DC)
(Exact meeting location details will be provided immediately upon purchase of tickets.)
- Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
- It's up to you. If you want to pay for your walk via credit card, the only way to do so is by purchasing in advance. If you prefer to pay cash, however, you are always welcome to just show up without an advance purchase. Either way we'd love to have you!
- What happens if I’m late?
- If you are late, you will miss the tour. Tours leave right on time, and to be fair to the whole group, we cannot wait for late arrivals. If you are not familiar with the meeting location area, please make sure to leave plenty of time to find it. Refunds cannot be provided.
- Where does this walk end?
- The walk concludes at the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center, located in the lower level of the U.S. Capitol itself. The entrance is on First Street, S.E.
- What sights do we see on the walk?
- The Library of Congress, U.S. Botanic Garden, and U.S. Supreme Court are all stops, as is the U.S. Capitol exterior. PLEASE NOTE: This walk does not include an interior tour of the U.S. Capitol.
- How long is the walk and how fast do we go?
- The walk lasts two hours and is approximately 3/4 of a mile in length. We walk at a steady pace.
- Is this walk suitable for children?
- No. This walk is not suitable for young children.
- I am bringing an infant/toddler. Do I need to purchase a ticket for him or her?
- No. Tickets are not required for children ages 3 and younger.
- What happens if it rains?
- Walks take place rain or shine. Dress appropriately for the day's forecasted weather conditions. Remember to bring water, sunglasses, and sunscreen on warm, sunny days.
- Will I be able to shop and buy souvenirs during the walk?
- Yes, at the conclusion of the walk when you enter the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center.
- Is the walk wheelchair and/or stroller accessible?
- Yes. Most of our walking tours are accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers.
- Are restrooms available on the walk?
- No. Restrooms are not available during the walking tour. Be sure to use the facilities prior to arriving for the walk.
- Can I bring my dog on the tour?
- No. Unfortunately, we cannot allow animals other than service dogs to attend our walks.
- Are the walks only offered in English?
- Yes. Washington Walks are only offered in English.
- Can I bring a camera?
- Yes. There are a lot of great photo opportunities along the way!
- What is a Washington Walkabout card?
- A Washington Walkabout card is a type of reward program. You pay for four walks up front and present your card at every walk and then you get the fifth one free. You can purchase a Walkabout card from a Washington Walks guide at beginning of any walk. Each card is $60). Cards do not expire and can be used by one individual only.
- Are gift certificates available?
- Yes. For details, please contact Washington Walks by clicking “Contact WashWalks” to the left of the page.
- Can I book a private or a group tour?
- Yes. Private walks are available, although groups often decide to attend the public walk. For one thing, it is often less expensive; second, part of the fun of our walking tours is interacting with those who attend the public walk. If you are interested in booking a private walk, contact Washington Walks by clicking “Contact WashWalks” to the left of the page.
Washington Walks
The best way to tour any historic city is by foot. Since 1999, Washington Walks guides have been escorting visitors and locals alike through quaint neighborhoods, along hip urban thoroughfares, and past D.C.’s instantly recognizable landmarks and memorials.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or long-time resident, the same holds true: if you haven’t been on a Washington Walk, you haven’t been to Washington, D.C.!
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or long-time resident, the same holds true: if you haven’t been on a Washington Walk, you haven’t been to Washington, D.C.!
