Attractions
Hidden-in-plain-sightLibrary of Congress, Thomas Jefferson Building
FreeThe world's largest library, and arguably DC's most beautiful interior, the Great Hall, the Main Reading Room, and a Gutenberg Bible.
Photo: United_States_Capitol_-_west_front.jpg : Architect of the Capitol derivative work: Crisco 1492, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped and resized.
SightseeingHistory BuffIconic
U.S. Capitol & Capitol Visitor Center
U.S. Capitol & Capitol Visitor Center is a sightseeing stop in Washington, DC, part of the Washington DC guide. Cost: free.
First St SE, Washington, DC · Washington, DC
Why you should go…
Free guided tours take you beneath the Rotunda's soaring frescoed dome, through the Crypt, and into National Statuary Hall, with real-deal history at every turn. Book passes ahead through the Capitol Visitor Center, they cost nothing, and the goosebumps are included.
- #government
- #architecture
- #guided tour
- #free
What's around here?
The closest stops to U.S. Capitol & Capitol Visitor Center, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.
Steps awaySwitch it up: Attractions
- SightseeingIconic
Supreme Court of the United States
FreeClimb the marble steps under the words Equal Justice Under Law, then explore exhibitions and hear a Courtroom Lecture inside.
Steps awayMore like this
- MuseumsHistory Buff
Folger Shakespeare Library
FreeSee Shakespeare First Folios, manuscripts and costumes in the exhibition halls, then visit the gardens and Elizabethan Theatre.
0.3 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums
- Sport & OutdoorFamily Favorite
United States Botanic Garden
FreeWander a glass conservatory of tropical, desert and orchid rooms beside the U.S. Capitol, then the outdoor gardens.
0.3 mi awaySwitch it up: Sport & Outdoor
- SightseeingIconic
Union Station
FreeWalk through a 1907 Beaux-Arts rail terminal whose Main Hall ceiling rises 96 feet, then browse its shops and restaurants.
0.5 mi awayMore like this
- SightseeingIconic
Washington Monument
FreeRide 500 feet up the world's tallest stone obelisk for the only aerial panorama of the White House, Capitol, and Mall.
1.5 mi awayMore like this
