Land Adventures: Iconic Capitol Hill Tour with DC Design Tours

Tour Overview

Step into the epicenter of American authority, where architecture and planning reflect the ambitions, hopes, and contradictions of government. From Pierre L’Enfant’s visionary city plan to the dramatic rise of the U.S. Capitol, Capitol Hill embodies lofty ideals and political struggles. Take in the Beaux-Arts splendor of the Library of Congress, Union Station’s monumental gateway, and the austere authority of the Supreme Court—landmarks that reveal the stories, ambitions, and power struggles that shaped the nation’s civic landscape.

Along the way, meet visionaries like William Thornton, Frederick Law Olmsted, and Daniel Burnham—architects and planners whose grand ideas (and grand egos) helped shape the capital. It’s a story of power, politics, red tape, and remarkable design— perfect for architecture buffs, history lovers, and curious minds.

What We'll See

We begin in the soaring Great Hall of Union Station, once the world’s largest train station and a monumental gateway to the nation’s capital. This crossroads of Presidents, diplomats, and politicians has witnessed historic moments, from inaugurations and World Wars to a runaway train. From there, we pass the Freedom Bell and the Columbus Fountain before ascending the Supreme Court steps to admire its neoclassical design and rich allegorical symbolism.

Next, we visit the Capitol’s East Front to discuss the drama, delays, and ambition behind America’s iconic seat of government. Inside the Library of Congress (arguably DC’s most beautiful building), we’ll admire the lavish Great Hall, look down into the breathtaking Main Reading Room, and explore Jefferson’s library.

Passing through the tunnel to the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, we’ll see the striking 19½-foot plaster cast of the Statue of Freedom, the same figure that stands atop the Capitol dome. We’ll explore the Capitol’s diverse collection of state-donated statues, from activist Helen Keller to Apollo 13 astronaut Jack Swigert, country music legend Johnny Cash, and Hawaiian King Kamehameha. To round out your visit, we’re happy to help obtain timed-entry tickets for a guided tour inside the Capitol.

Private & Group Tours

Private tours are available any day and time, for groups of all sizes! Check our private bookings calendar to reserve a walking tour for groups of up to twelve people. For times not listed online, groups larger than twelve, driving tours, or custom itineraries, please get in touch.

Tour Details

2 hours 1 mile Children under 5 years old are welcome for free.

Sturdy walking shoes, bottled water, and comfortable clothes are recommended! Please note that there is no food or liquid allowed inside the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center.

Where to Meet

Meet your guide in the Great Hall of Union Station under the big clock and red banners. GPS Address: 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002 Your tour will end at the Capitol Visitors Center.