Discover Washington’s Federal Architecture on a Self-Guided Tour
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Discover how Washington's iconic federal buildings reflect the ideas of democracy, governance, and power on this self-guided walking tour. Spanning around Capitol Hill to Union Station, you'll explore the architecture, history, and the influential figures behind these institutions in just 90 minutes.
This private tour offers a flexible way to learn at your own pace. With offline access to maps, audio, and geodata via a user-friendly app, you can explore the city’s political landmarks whenever it suits you.
From the majestic US Capitol to historic Senate buildings and the Supreme Court, each stop reveals stories behind the architecture and the pivotal moments that shaped American democracy. It’s perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone curious about the nation’s capital.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the tour last?
The self-guided tour takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.
What do I need to participate?
You need a smartphone and headphones to access the offline app. The tour is suitable for all adults aged 6 to 399 and accessible for all fitness levels.
Are there any additional costs?
Personal expenses for admission fees are not included. Food, drinks, and transportation are also separate from the tour package.
Can I do this tour alone?
Yes, this is a private, self-guided tour designed for you to explore independently with all instructions provided beforehand.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Absolutely. The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels, making it accessible for most visitors.
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 1.5 hours – 2 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Guided experience
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- App for Android and iOS
- Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
- Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Not included
- Smartphone and headphones
- Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
- Food and drink
- Transportation
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Pass by the seat of Congress to learn about its centuries of construction, architectural evolution, and the distinct operating philosophies of the House and Senate.
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Stop 2
Walk past the nation's highest judicial body to learn about its establishment of judicial review, classical architecture, and how justices are appointed.
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Stop 3
Stroll past the Thomas Jefferson Building to explore magnificent Beaux-Arts architecture and discover millions of historic items, manuscripts, and rare recordings.
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Stop 4
Pass by this world-renowned institution to admire its Art Deco facade and learn about its vast collection of rare early modern literature and First Folios.
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Stop 5
Walk along one of D.C.'s oldest houses to learn about the historic fight for women's suffrage, Alice Paul, and the National Woman's Party.
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Stop 6
Stroll past this modern Senate building to observe its contemporary design, internal atrium sculpture, and learn about Senator Philip Hart's legacy.
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Stop 7
Pass by this mid-century Senate building to learn about the historical site's past and Everett Dirksen's crucial role in passing the Civil Rights Act.
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Stop 8
Walk along the oldest Senate office building to discover its classical Beaux-Arts architecture, historic hearing rooms, and legislative legacy.
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Stop 9
Stroll past this granite federal building to learn about judicial administration and civil rights icon Thurgood Marshall's groundbreaking legal strategy.
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Stop 10
Pass by this grand Beaux-Arts transit hub to admire its soaring gold-leaf ceilings, rich rail history, and presidential suite.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
The tour begins at the Capitol Visitor Center entrance on the east front of the U.S. Capitol. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- 100% refund if cancelled at least 1 day(s) before
- 0% refund if cancelled 0–1 day(s) before
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $9.99 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
