The United States Capitol reopened to the public for tours on December 8, 2001. The decision to reinstate tours was based on an evaluation of current security procedures and public safety requirements; it is consistent with maintaining the highest level of safety for visitors, staff, and Members alike. For additional security, the new procedures have been implemented regarding items that visitors will not be permitted to bring into the Capitol. Click to see a list of prohibited items.
Because of increased security and the construction phase of the Capitol Visitor Center, please contact the U.S. Capitol Guide Service if you have any questions before your visit. Recorded information is available at 202-225-6827.
Public Tours of the CapitolThe following visitation policy is in effect at the Capitol as of July 3, 2003. The Capitol is open to the public for guided tours only. Tours will be conducted from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday (the Capitol is not available for tours on Sundays). The Capitol will be open on all federal holidays except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Visitors must obtain free tickets for tours on a first-come, first-served basis, at the Capitol Guide Service kiosk located along the curving sidewalk southwest of the Capitol (near the intersection of First Street, S.W., and Independence Avenue; see the map below). Ticket distribution begins at 9:00 a.m. daily. Ticketholders will be directed to the South Visitor Receiving Facility, which is located south of the Capitol; from there they will proceed to the Capitol to begin their tour. Maximum tour size is 40 people.
The Congressional Special Services Office provides information about tours for the disabled by telephone at 202-224-4048 (voice) or 202-224-4049 (TDD). Additional accessibility information is available.
