From its inception, the Capitol Visitor Center has been conceived as an extension of the Capitol that welcomes visitors to the seat of American government. At nearly 580,000 square feet, the CVC is the largest project in the Capitol’s 212-year history and is approximately three quarters the size of the Capitol itself. The entire facility is located underground on the east side of the Capitol so as not to detract from the appearance of the Capitol and of the grounds designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in 1874. The planting of 85 new trees, the restoration of historic fountains, lanterns and seat walls, and the addition of skylights, water features and granite pavers across the East Front Plaza will all serve to revitalize the historic landscape.
While construction is ongoing, we invite you to learn some of the history behind the CVC, read about ongoing activities, view pictures of current construction progress, or send us a question or comment about this historic project.
For general information about public tours of the Capitol, please contact the Capitol Guide Service at (202) 225-6827.
