Democracy Lab

Learn about the work of Congress in this hands-on education gallery. The collaborative activities in the gallery are designed for children between the ages of 8 and 14. Visitors of all ages are welcome.

Hours of Operation:

Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Hours are subject to change.

Planning Your Visit

Visitor Guidelines

• Visitors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult (parent, guardian, teacher and/or chaperone) at all times.

• Staff are available to assist and answer questions, but not to supervise children.

• We welcome individual and family visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. Groups of 15 or more children must make a reservation in advance of their visit.

• Food and drink are not allowed in the Democracy Lab.

• Photography is permitted.

A staff member will greet you upon your arrival. Large groups may not be able to enter together. We encourage you to explore Exhibition Hall if your group cannot be accommodated at the same time.

We recommend that you allow 15 – 30 minutes for a visit to the Democracy Lab to ensure that everyone has time to engage in all the activity stations.

Group Reservations

Groups of 15 or more children under the age of 18, including school and camp groups, must make a reservation to visit the Democracy Lab. The maximum group size per session is 40 individuals (children and chaperones). We ask that groups maintain a minimum child-to-adult ratio of 10 to 1 while in the Democracy Lab.

Reservations are available Tuesday and Friday at the following times:

• 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

• 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

• 2 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

• 2:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Please contact education@visitthecapitol.gov to make your reservation or if you have questions prior to your visit.

For teachers interested in our Student Programs, learn more and register at visitthecapitol.gov/students-teachers. Onsite programs are available Wednesdays and Thursdays from October through February.