Capitol and the Congress During the Civil War Tour

In honor of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War, a special tour, lasting 30 to 45 minutes, entitled "Capitol and the Congress During the Civil War," is offered Monday through Friday at 3 p.m. With stops at the Old Supreme Court Chamber and other important areas at the Capitol, this tour will explore how the Capitol was used during the Civil War, critical debates that took place during the Civil War, and key judicial decisions made during this time period. No reservations are needed. Get passes for this tour at one of the Information Desks on the lower level of the Visitor Center.

Brumidi Corridors Tours

A special tour of the Brumidi Corridors on the first floor of the Senate wing of the Capitol enables visitors to view and learn about the ornate paintings on the walls and ceilings designed by Constantino Brumidi between 1857 and 1859. This tour, which lasts approximately 30 minutes, is offered Monday through Friday at 2 p.m. No reservations are needed. Get passes for this tour at one of the Information Desks on the lower level of the Visitor Center.

Exhibition Hall Talks

Thursday, December 6 at 1 p.m.
In 1876, the United States elected a 19th president, Democrat Samuel J. Tilden, but Rutherford B. Hayes became the 19th president. Join Wayne Kehoe, Volunteer Coordinator at the Capitol Visitor Center, as he discusses the bitter fight in Congress for the White House. Meet at the entrance to Exhibition Hall for this 15-minute talk. No reservations or passes required.

Thursday, December 13 at 1 p.m.
What is the connection between the War of 1812 and citizenship? Join Carol Beebe, Director of Exhibits and Education at the Capitol Visitor Center, as she explores how the War of 1812 tested and shaped the American concept of citizenship. Meet at the entrance to Exhibition Hall for this 15-minute talk. No reservations or passes required.

Exhibition Hall Tours and Daily Family Program

Visitors are welcome to investigate the Capitol Visitor Center’s Exhibition Hall at their leisure; however, you may also want to take advantage of an opportunity that will help guide your exploration of the historic documents and artifacts that are on display. Monday through Friday at Noon and 1 p.m., and Saturdays at Noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m., you may join a 20-minute tour of Exhibition Hall. Through stories and object exploration, learn how Congress and the Capitol have changed as the country has changed. No reservations or passes are required for this program. Simply meet at the designated time at the entrance to Exhibition Hall on the lower level of the Visitor Center.

A family program is offered Monday through Saturday at 11 a.m. The history of Congress comes to life off the walls of Exhibition Hall through this guided program for visitors of all ages. Discover how and why the Capitol grew over time, unpack the details of a law and make a legislative decision. Meet at the entrance to Exhibition Hall on the lower level. No reservations or passes required.

Hands-on Journal Making

December 6, 13, and 20, 10:30 a.m. – noon
Use your creative skills to design a journal that captures the memories of your visit to the United States Capitol. Activity takes place just outside the North Gift Shop. No reservations or passes required.