Special Activities at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center

Aside from the general tour of the U.S. Capitol offered Monday through Saturday from 8:50 a.m. until 3:20 p.m., there are a number of special activities you may take advantage of.

Outdoor Talks and Tours

Outdoor Walking Tours of the Capitol Building and Grounds May 18, 23, 29 at 1 p.m.
The Capitol is set amidst 58.8 acres of winding paths, memorial trees, inviting benches, and beautiful flower plantings that are changed seasonally. Hear more about the Capitol Grounds including renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted’s original 1892 plan for Capitol Square and the challenges of preserving this historic landscape. Meet at the North Gift Shop on the upper level of the Capitol Visitor Center for this 45-minute talk. The talk will take place outside, weather permitting. No reservations or passes required.

Monday through Friday at 11 a.m., weather permitting, go on a 45-minute Guide-led outdoor tour of the Capitol grounds. Meet at the North Gift Shop; no reservations or passes are required.

Capitol and the Congress During the Civil War Tour

150th Anniversary of the Civil War 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 3:30 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

Brumidi Corridor in U.S. Capitol 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 10:30 a.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 Family Program

Exhibition Hall Family Program Monday through Saturday at 11:30 a.m., the history of Congress comes to life through this 30-minute program in Exhibition Hall. Discover how the Capitol expanded over time, and unpack the details of a law and what goes into making a legislative decision. Meet at the entrance to Exhibition Hall on the lower level of the Visitor Center. No reservations or passes required.