---
title: US Capitol Historical Society
slug: us-capitol-historical-society-washington
type: attraction
sub_type: walking tours
source_url: https://www.tripster.com/detail/us-capitol-historical-society-washington
city: Washington
state: DC
country: US
address: "200 Maryland Ave NE #401"
geo:
  lat: 38.89251
  lng: -77.00323
cancellation_policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
extracted_at: 2026-06-16T21:46:53.397Z
availability: SoldOut
rating:
  value: 4.5
  count: 3
  scale: 5
---
## Overview

Escape the crowds and experience the U.S. Capitol Building in an exclusive exterior tour from the U.S. Capitol Historical Society. Follow trained, knowledgeable volunteers behind the scenes as they provide in-depth information about our nation’s history, the notable men and women, the building’s construction process and monumental days in history, and so much more.

The U.S. Capitol Historical Society offers a unique alternative way to see and learn about the Capitol Building and the history of Congress, away from crowds, security, and long lines, with personal attention in a small group.

## What's Included

- An extensive exterior tour of the Capitol by volunteers trained by the Society
- Historical anecdotes and perspectives about Congress, the Capitol’s origin, construction, and meaning of the democratic government
- Coverage of topics such as the Senate Park Commission, the City Beautiful movement, Capitol complex, construction history, Senate and House extensions, dome and Statue of Freedom, and how to tour interior public areas
- Guide available after the tour to answer questions
- Meeting and end points at key Capitol locations (Garfield Circle, Peace Circle, Capitol Visitor Center entrance upon request)

## What's Not Included

- This information is not provided in the source.

## Good to Know

- Tours begin promptly at 7:00 pm.
- The guide will be available after the tour to answer questions.
- The tour is approximately 2 hours long.
- Tours meet at Garfield Circle at the bus drop-off location for the Capitol Grounds.
- Tours end at the bus pickup location at Peace Circle; guests can be dropped at the Capitol Visitor Center or other requested locations.
- Please arrive no later than 15 minutes before the tour start.
- Garfield Circle is accessible by Red Line at Union Station and Blue/Orange/Silver Line at Capitol South.
- There is public parking at Union Station.
- Reservations are required.
- Tours operate rain or shine.
- Children ages 10 and under are free.

## Cancellation Policy

This information is not provided in the source.

## FAQs

### How long is the tour?

The tour is approximately 2 hours long.

### What time does the tour start?

Tours begin at 7:00 pm sharp.

### What time should I arrive?

Please arrive no later than 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour.

### Where does the tour meet and begin?

Tours meet and begin at Garfield Circle at the bus drop-off location for the Capitol Grounds. The address is 1st Street and Maryland Avenue SW, Washington DC.

### What is the best way to get to the meeting point?

Garfield Circle is accessible by several Metro lines. It is accessible on the Red Line at Union Station, and on the Blue/Orange/Silver Line at Capitol South. There is public parking at Union Station.

### Do I need a reservation to attend a tour?

Yes.

### Are tours rain or shine?

Yes.

### Will the tour guide be able to answer my questions?

Yes. Tour guides are available during and after the tour for any questions you may have.

### Can I bring my children on the tour?

Yes. Children ages 10 and under are free.

## Reviews

> "Union Station and Capitol grounds."
> — LyndaC258, October 20, 2016