Tours of Washington D.C.
Welcome to Washington. Whether you are here for business or on a family vacation, you will find that our nation's capital is a fascinating place - full of art, music, history and culture. During your visit, please take the time to discover the breathtaking monuments, wonderful museums, charming neighborhoods, and beautiful parks. You may also want to tour one or more of the important and historical sites listed below. I hope you enjoy your stay.
The Capitol Building »
- The Capitol is open on all federal holidays except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Presidential Inaugurations.
- Aerosol sprays, liquids of any kind, food, overd suitcases or backpacks, knives, razor, mace, pepper spray, matches or lighters are prohibited.
- To view live debate in the Senate and House of Representatives chambers, separate passes are required. They, are available at my office.
- Website: http://tours.visitthecapitol.gov/
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White House »
- Although the tour is self-guided, tour officers are in every room to answer questions regarding White House architecture, decorations and history.
- There are many items that are prohibited from being brought to the White House; therefore, it is best that you visit the website for the full list http://www.whitehouse.gov/about/tours_and_events/
White House Fall Gardens and Grounds Tours
Additionally, the White House Fall Gardens and Grounds Tours will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 16th, and from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 17th. There are no regular tours scheduled for either of these days. The National Park Service will distribute free, timed tickets at the Ellipse Visitor Pavilion located at 15th and E Streets on each tour day beginning at 8:00 a.m. Tickets will be distributed -- one ticket per person -- on a first-come, first-served basis.
Holiday 2011 Scheduling
Please note there will be no tours available on:
- Sundays
- November 11th
- November 24th - 30th
- December 5th, 12th, and 19th
- December 24th - 31st
Supreme Court »
The Supreme Court is a spectacular, American symbol of justice and equality. The building is open to the public from 9:00a.m. to 4:30p.m., Monday through Friday; however, it is closed for federal holidays. The Supreme Court is located at One First Street, NE, across from the Capitol and next to the Library of Congress. Public lectures are available every hour on the half hour from 9:30a.m. to 3:30p.m. on days that the Court is not session. When the court is in session, oral arguments are open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. To see when the court is in session, please visit the Court's website.
- Website: http://www.supremecourtus.gov/
Library of Congress »
The Library of Congress is one of the most important research facilities for Congress and is the largest library in the world. The campus is divided into three main buildings: The Thomas Jefferson Building; James Madison Memorial Building; and the John Adams Building.
Public tours of the Jefferson Building are available Monday through Saturday at 10:30a.m., 11:30a.m., 1:30p.m., 2:30p.m., and 3:30p.m. (please note that the 3:30p.m. tour is not available on Saturday). Reservations are not necessary; although, it is recommended that you arrive early since the tours regularly begin on schedule.
- Website: http://www.loc.gov/index.html
Bureau of Engraving and Printing »
- The Bureau of Engraving and Printing is closed for all federal holidays and the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day.
- Only cameras without flash are allowed.
- Website: http://www.moneyfactory.gov/tours/washingtondctours.html
The Pentagon »
- Tour requests must be submitted two weeks prior to the requested date.
- Parking is offered in the Pentagon City Mall, which is only a five minute walk from the tour entrance and there is a special pedestrian tunnel for that purpose.
- The Metrorail has a stop at the Pentagon that can be accessed via the yellow or blue line.
- Website: http://pentagon.afis.osd.mil/tours.html
Department of Treasury »
- Cameras, strollers, and bags are strictly prohibited, and there is no storage space available at the facility. Therefore, it is best to leave these items behind.
- Use the South Entrance, which is located at 5th Street and Hamilton Place to gain access to the building. Once there, use the call button next to the distinctive iron gate.
- Please visit: http://www.ustreas.gov/offices/management/curator/tours.shtml
Kennedy Center »
- The closest Metrorail station is Foggy Bottom on the Red Line. Free shuttle buses leave from Foggy Bottom Station to the Kennedy Center every fifteen minutes.
- Parking is available, but there is limited space for SUVs taller than six (6) feet.
- Website: http://www.kennedy-center.org/
State Department »
- This tour is not recommended for children under the age of 12 years old.
- Strollers are not permitted.
- Reservations can be made three (3) months in advance, and tours last approximately forty-five (45) minutes.
- Website: https://receptiontours.state.gov/