Quick Details
This tour takes visitors through the political core of Washington DC! 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.
The tour begins in the massive Great Hall of Union Station, once the largest train stations in the world. This crossroads of Presidents, diplomats, and politicians has seen drastic transformation, from inaugurations to World Wars, and even a runaway train! 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. Then on to the East façade (the original front) of the United States Capitol Building, and inside the stunning Beaux Arts Library of Congress. Finally, we’ll take an underground tunnel to finish up at the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center. While non-Capitol guides are not permitted to take tours into the Capitol Building, we can help you join a free building tour at the conclusion of our tour.
Sturdy walking shoes and comfortable clothes are recommended! Please note that there is not food or liquid allowed inside the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center. Empty water bottles can be filled once inside.