Visitor Guidelines

To maintain an inclusive and welcoming environment for all, please be respectful to your fellow visitors.

Working Environment at the U.S. Capitol Building

The U.S. Capitol is a working building for Members of Congress and supporting staff. The Capitol Visitor Center staff are dedicated to making your visit informative and enjoyable. You will be visiting a workplace dedicated to ensuring all are free of discrimination, including harassment, and you are asked to treat all staff members with respect and dignity. Abusive, harassing, discriminatory or threatening language or behavior toward our staff or other visitors will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the building. Thank you for helping us create a positive and welcoming environment for all. If you have any concerns or questions that our staff are unable to answer, please ask to speak to a supervisor.

To ensure an enjoyable visit to the Capitol, please share the following guidelines with those in your party, including with groups of students and chaperones.

When Entering The Capitol Visitor Center

All carried items will be inspected upon entering the Capitol Visitor Center. We ask that students leave their backpacks or large bags and metal jewelry behind on the bus to help expedite the security check.
Food, beverages (including bottled water) are not allowed in the building. View the complete list of prohibited items in the Capitol.
The Capitol is a working office building.

While In The Capitol Visitor Center And The Historic Capitol

As a courtesy to those around you, please silence your cell phones and other electronic devices.
Please use a quiet voice when walking through the Capitol and exploring the Capitol Visitor Center’s Exhibition Hall.
Please do not touch art objects including sculptures, statues, walls, and cases. The oils and acids, even in clean hands, can cause irreparable damage to works of art.
Refrain from leaning on the walls or using the walls, display cases, or pedestals for notetaking.
Do not sit on displays or sculptures.
Do not block doorways or aisles or sit on stairs or floors. Seating is provided throughout Capitol complex.
Stay together as a group. Be attentive to your guide’s instructions at all times and especially when moving from one area to another in the Capitol. Watch your step, always use handrails when on the stairs, and use escalators with caution.
Respect any areas that are roped off.

Please don’t run, push, shove, or take any other actions that may endanger other visitors, works of art or artifacts.