Capitol District

Though the Capitol may serve as the office for some of the most recognizable names in Washington D.C., access to the age old structure is nearly universal for area visitors and residents looking for some diversion. While campaigning for a permanent seat or lobbying for one of the numerous issues discussed daily inside the building’s chambers may be quite the stressful, financially burdensome endeavor, a day trip to the storied structure provides an educational and interesting activity the entire family can enjoy.The building itself is quite the awe-inspiring architectural feat, even with no regards to the centuries of history housed under its roof. Breaking ground in 1793, the original plans were put forth by architect Dr. William Thornton, though later modified by Benjamin Latrobe and Charles Bulfinch. The signature dome that adorns the Capitol, along with the House and Senate wings, is the crowning achievement of Thomas U. Walter, constructed during the mid 19^th century, ultimately rendering the building’s appearance much closer to that you see today.Admission into the Capitol Building is free of charge, however tickets are required in order to join in on an official tour of the facilities, through which your own personal experience can be augmented by the extensive knowledge of trained tour guides. Tours must be scheduled in advance through the Capitol’s Advance Reservation System or through the office of an elective Senator or Representative. All visitors, whether touring individually or as part of a guided group, are subject to a security screening prior to their entrance.The Capitol Visitor Center remains open from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday, save for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Inauguration Day, with tours available from 8:50 a.m. to 3:20 a.m. In order to accommodate visitors with official business appointments, the Visitors Center may open its doors as early as 7:15 a.m.