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Planning a trip to our nation’s capital? I have compiled the following information to make your trip to our nation’s capital memorable.
Capitol Tours
Capitol tours last approximately 45-75 minutes, and are offered through my office at 9:00 a.m. Monday through Friday. Since different sized groups must follow different guidelines set by the Capitol Guide Service, groups of 15 or fewer people are asked to fill out a separate request than groups of 16 to 40.
You may request a Capitol tour here.
The following information must be submitted for any type of Capitol tour request:
- Dates requested
- Name of group
- Number in group
- Group contact person and contact information including home (Iowa) and local (D.C. hotel or mobile) phone numbers
- Street mailing address with zip code for group or group contact person
Strict security forbids visitors from carrying any sort of sharp or potentially dangerous item, any sort of liquid or liquid container, as well as any scented oils or lotions, makeup, or lip balm. Cameras and cellular phones are permitted throughout most of the tour, but may be checked before entering the House chamber.
Groups of 15 or fewer are asked to make their request at least 7 days, but no more than 3 months, in advance of the requested tour date. It is recommended that groups of 16 to 40 make reservations at least four months in advance.
Public Capitol Tours
Those groups which are unable to obtain a reservation can still attempt to participate in a public tour. To take part in a guided public tour, visitors must obtain free tickets. These are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, at the Capitol Guide Service kiosk located along the curving sidewalk southwest of the Capitol (near the intersection of First Street, S.W. and Independence Avenue). Ticket distribution begins at approximately 9:00 a.m. daily and continues as long as tickets are available for that day. Since these tours are on a first-come, first-served basis, it is suggested that groups arrive early. Those that are able to make a group reservation must report to the same kiosk location at the scheduled date and time. At the appropriate time, ticket holders are directed to the South Visitor Receiving Facility. From here they will proceed to the Capitol to begin their tour. Maximum tour size is 40 people.
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