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Iconic Capitol Hill Architecture Tour

icon 2 hours Mobile ticket Free Cancellation
Tickets from € 0.00

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April 2025
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Adult (17 - 99)

Minimum: 1, Maximun: 6
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Child (1 - 16)

Maximun: 6
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Explore the political core of Washington DC! This tour takes visitors through the heart of Federal power in Washington DC, looking at the history of our Nation’s Capital through the lens of architecture and urban planning. 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. Book directly via DC Design Tours for the best experience and price!
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  • Local guide
  • Gratuities
Departure Point

Washington Union Station, 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA Our tour begins inside the Great Hall of Union Station under the big clock. When entering the station from the main entrance, turn right and look up to see the clock.

Return Details

U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, Washington, DC 20004, USA The tour concludes inside the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center, where guests can join a free interior building tour (depending upon timing and availability).

  • Union Station, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States
    We'll begin our tour in the massive Great Hall of Union Station, once the largest train station in the world. This crossroads of Presidents, diplomats, and politicians have seen the drastic transformation, from inaugurations to World Wars, and even a runaway train!
  • Columbus Memorial Fountain, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States
    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.
    5 minutes
  • Supreme Court, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States
    we'll take in the imposing facade and learn about the architecture, history and design of the home of our Judicial branch of government.
    5 minutes
  • U.S. Capitol, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States
    We'll get great photo opportunities on the East side of the U.S. Capitol Building, and talk all about the tumultuous history of this icon of Washington.
    10 minutes
  • Library of Congress, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States
    We'll be going inside the breathtaking Library of Congress. We'll delve into the elaborate design, secret symbols, and fascinating history of this important institution, before taking an underground tunnel to the Capitol.
    30 minutes
  • U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States
    Our tour will conclude inside the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center, where our guides would be happy to help guests join a free building interior tour, depending upon availability.
    15 minutes
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough guests to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, an alternative or full refund will be provided.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Marti S
06 May 2019
This was the *best* walking tour I've taken - and I've been on many! SAM did an absolutely amazing job - he was not only knowledgable about the history & architecture, but had "side stories" to offer at each point. He responded to questions, and while our group totally kept up with his pace (unlike some tours where the walkers lag far behind the guide) Sam was kind & considerate with keeping us either in the shade or finding elevators as needed. Initially I thought the tour would be "weak" (Union Station, Supreme Court, Capitol view, Library of Congress, ending at Capitol Visitor's Center) - but the entire 2 hour tour was chock-full of information, history, and architecture! I would TOTALLY recommend DC Design Tours even at full price! (Plus I found out they offer a military discount - *thank* you!) 

For us, taking the Metro proved best - giving us the flexibility to arrive right at Union Station (red line), and leave from Capitol South station (silver line).

 This tour does go into public, historic buildings - and you will be going through airport-type scanning sensors and bag inspections. "Pack lightly."
Lizabeth L
10 Mar 2018
My husband and I arranged a private tour that started at Union Station and concluded at the Library of Congress . It was 2 hour in length ,perfect timing for our schedule. I have been on group tours in DC that have there place as an introduction . This was so much superior. Our guide was knowledgeable and passionate about her city it’s buildings and history . She was very accommodating about my husband whom had some issues with the distances and pace . I only wish I had had time to book an Arlington tour with her . Reasonably priced ,immediately responded,clear and accurate directions and set up .
lilyrager
29 Dec 2017
This holiday season, I asked Carolyn to take all 12 of my family (ages 10 to 75) who were in town visiting me on the capitol hill tour. It was a huge HIT: my father was able to learn how these buildings were designed, my nieces discovered who chose the famous literary figures at the library of congress and my 10 year old was able to run up and down the patio of the capitol. This is my 3rd tour with DC Designs (and Carolyn) because she knows how to tell a story; she weaves in fascinating back stories and true details that will amuse and delight. My family has already asked me to reserve time for the Abraham Lincoln assassination tour for next year! If you are looking for a great way to learn about this city, enjoy time with friends/family/colleagues and get out in the fresh air - you just can't beat it!
This tour in Washington DC is organized by DC Design Tours

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We always double-check the availability with our local partners for each booking. Even though this is usually a swift process, it can take up to 24 hours. Once this process is completed you will receive your voucher or ticket by email. If our local partner is not able to confirm your booking we will offer you the best possible alternative. If the new date and/or time doesn’t fit your itinerary, we will reimburse the full amount paid.
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