Welcome to the U.S. Capitol

The United States Capitol

The Capitol is among the most architecturally impressive and symbolically important buildings in the world. The Senate and the House of Representatives have met here for more than two centuries. Begun in 1793, the Capitol has been built, burnt, rebuilt, extended, and restored; today, it stands as a monument not only to its builders but also to the American people and their government.

Whether you are here to get information about an upcoming visit, to involve yourself in the workings of the Senate and House of Representatives, or to be inspired by two centuries of art and architecture, this site will be a gateway to your Capitol experience.

Learn More

Plan a Visit

Hours: The Capitol Visitor Center is open to visitors from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Inauguration Day. Tours of the U.S. Capitol are conducted from 8:50 a.m. to 3:20 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Visitors with official business appointments may enter the Visitor Center as early as 7:15 a.m.

Backpack Warning: Do not bring large daypacks, backpacks or luggage into the Capitol. Any bag larger than 14" wide x 13" high x 4" deep is prohibited. All bags will be subject to a lengthy search and security screening.

Book a Tour: Tours of the U.S. Capitol are free. Advance reservations are required.

Learn More

What's Happening at the Capitol

As the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center on September 28, 2009 welcomed its two-millionth visitor since opening on December 2, 2008, Terrie S. Rouse, CEO for Visitor Services, announced that approximately 50 new historic documents will be on display beginning October 12 in the Visitor Center’s Exhibition Hall. These documents include Susan B. Anthony’s petition to Congress asking for remission of the fine she received when she was arrested and convicted for voting in a national election in 1872. Another rare item is a letter that Dwight David Eisenhower wrote to Senator Joseph L. Bristow in 1910 requesting an appointment to the military academy at either Annapolis or West Point. Click here for more information about the new exhibit.