Click on the links below to see the Capitol Visitor Center suite of brochures electronically. Hard copies are available at the Information Desks in Emancipation Hall.
U.S. Capitol Visitor Guide
This brochure provides a wealth of information in order to prepare you for a visit to the U.S. Capitol. It includes information about tours of the Capitol, visitor amenities, location, hours of operation, and security. The same information can also be found throughout this Website.
Constantino Brumidi, Artist of the Capitol
Constantino Brumidi (1805 – 1880) is known for the murals he painted in the U.S. Capitol over a 25-year period. This brochure provides detailed information and photographs on Brumidi and his achievements, including his most ambitious work, The Apotheosis of Washington, in the Rotunda eye of the Capitol dome.
Slave Labor Commemorative Marker
A commemorative marker acknowledging the role that enslaved laborers played in the construction of the United States Capitol is located in Emancipation Hall in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center.
U.S. Capitol Visitor Center Exhibition Hall
The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center’s Exhibition Hall showcases the only exhibit in the country dedicated to telling the story of Congress and the construction of the U.S. Capitol. Experience Exhibition Hall using this explanatory brochure as a guide.
The United States Capitol and Congress
The United States Capitol is the most widely recognized symbol of democratic government in the world and has housed Congress since 1800. This brochure provides in-depth information about the Capitol and Congress.
My Capitol - Student Self-Guide
Designed for young people ages 11 and older, the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center’s new student self-guide of the Visitor Center’s Exhibition Hall and the Capitol grounds includes historical background, directed-looking activities, and questions to encourage discussion during the tour or for follow-up at school or home. Teachers may get copies of "My Capitol" for their students at the Visitor Center’s North Coat Check on the upper level or download a copy here. For further inquiries about educational programs for students and teachers, please contact the Capitol Visitor Center’s Exhibits and Education Division at cvceducation@aoc.gov.
The Statue of Freedom
The Statue of Freedom has stood atop the United States Capitol Dome since 1863. Hoisted into place while the country was divided by the Civil War, the bronze statue designed and sculpted by American sculptor Thomas Crawford was created as the crowning feature of the building’s new cast-iron Dome.
Capitol Dome Restoration Project
The U.S. Capitol Dome Restoration Project is being conducted in phases to restore the exterior and interior of the Dome. Having last undergone major repair in 1959-1960, the cast-iron Dome is suffering from the effects of weather and age.
The U.S. Capitol Grounds
This guide and map highlight features of the U.S. Capitol Grounds. Begin your exploration anywhere on the map. As you follow walkways, enjoy the many scenic views of the Capitol and its surrounding landscape.
Guide to State Statues
This guide to the National Statuary Hall Collection of State Statues describes and illustrates and provides locations for the 100 statues at the U.S. Capitol donated by the 50 states to honor people notable in their history.