Share this tour
Offered languages
- English
Explore the political core of Washington DC! This tour takes visitors through the heart of Federal power in Washington DC, looking at the history of our Nation’s Capital through the lens of architecture and urban planning. From the original L'Enfant city plan to the tumultuous construction of the Capitol and Grounds, the rise of the magnificent Beaux-Arts Library of Congress and imposing Supreme Court, and into the present day. Prolific designers like Thomas Jefferson, Robert Mills, Frederick Law Olmstead, and Daniel Burnham will feature prominently. Controversy, chaos, and red tape abound! A tour not to be missed by architecture and history enthusiasts.
Book directly via DC Design Tours for the best experience and price!
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Our tour begins inside the Great Hall of Union Station under the big clock. When entering the station from the main entrance, turn right and look up to see the clock.
The tour concludes inside the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center, where guests can join a free interior building tour (depending upon timing and availability).
Itinerary
-
Union Station (Pass by)
We'll begin our tour in the massive Great Hall of Union Station, once the largest train station in the world. This crossroads of Presidents, diplomats, and politicians have seen the drastic transformation, from inaugurations to World Wars, and even a runaway train!
Admission ticket free -
1
After exploring the heights and depths of Union Station, we'll proceed past the Freedom Bell and Columbus "Fountain" to the steps of the Supreme Court.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Supreme Court
we'll take in the imposing facade and learn about the architecture, history and design of the home of our Judicial branch of government.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3U.S. Capitol
We'll get great photo opportunities on the East side of the U.S. Capitol Building, and talk all about the tumultuous history of this icon of Washington.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Library of Congress
We'll be going inside the breathtaking Library of Congress. We'll delve into the elaborate design, secret symbols, and fascinating history of this important institution, before taking an underground tunnel to the Capitol.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included -
5U.S. Capitol Visitor Center
Our tour will conclude inside the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center, where our guides would be happy to help guests join a free building interior tour, depending upon availability.
15 minutes • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Show 2 more
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough guests to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, an alternative or full refund will be provided.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Show more
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience
Top Searches
Company
Get our app
