Capitol Hill walking tours are back! We have revamped itinerary — adding new elements, updating others, and we’re so happy to be offering it again to those interested in history, government, and examining the peaks (and valleys) of our democratic process.
Capitol Hill Morning is a three hour experience featuring visits to the United States Capitol Building, Library of Congress, and the Supreme Court. We are offering this tour in the morning hours on Tuesday - Thursday to accommodate open hours of all the institutions on the Hill and to match the busiest times on the Hill.
This tour is meant to convey the busy and occasionally chaotic environment on the Hill, while offering historical narrative about why, how, and by whom Capitol Hill was established as an entity and how it still manages to change and adapt after every election cycle.
Sample Itinerary:
9:00am: Walk the the west front of the Capitol. See, up close, where the President is inaugurated every four years!
9:30am: Explore the labyrinth of tunnels beneath the House Office buildings. See an actual Hearing Room where Congressional Committees meet to discuss bills.
10:30am: Go inside the Library of Congress and Supreme Court. If the Court is in session, we will view it from the outside.
11:30am: Discuss the role of Congress and see timely artifacts in the newly renovated Capitol Visitor Center and museum.
12:00pm: Photo op on the steps of the Capitol!
And so much more along the way.
Capitol Hill Mornings are $300 for up to 5 participants.
OK, I know what you’re thinking (FAQs):
Where do we meet?
We will meet in front of the U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave SW. The tour will end on the east steps of the Capitol.
Is the same as the CVC/Red Coat Capitol Building tour?
Our tour is an excellent companion to --but not the same as— the Red Coat Capitol Building tour run by the Capitol Visitor Center. They have official access to places we will not go on tour, including the Rotunda and Statuary Hall. Please contact your Senator/Representative for assistance with a Red Coat tour or visit the CVC website.
What about government shutdowns?
Occasionally Congress can not agree on passage of spending bills to continuously fund government operations. The end result is a “government shutdown,” until a new funding is passed into law. Essential government functions are preserved, but spaces like the Library of Congress, Capitol Visitors Center, and Congressional office buildings would close. We will still proceed with the tour! Typically we will spend more time on the grounds and time permitting, see additional memorials including the Disabled American Veterans Memorial and Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism During World War II.
What about security on tour?
We will we be entering secure buildings on tour, including the U.S. Capitol. We will pass through magnetometers and your bags will travel through x-ray machines. Please travel as light as possible. Obviously, don’t bring weapons or sharp objects. No liquids, including water, are allowed in the Capitol. If you follow the rules of this list provided by the Capitol (linked), you will be good to go!
What should I wear?
There are no restrictions on dress, but consider that the tour takes place half indoors and half outdoors. Please were comfortable walking shoes and dress weather appropriate.
We’re so excited to be doing these tours once again!