U.S. Capitol Building: Guided Tours, Congress in Session & Exhibition Hall 

FAQs

• What exhibits are at the U.S. Capitol?

  Most of the U.S. Capitol's attractions are found in Exhibition Hall. the only exhibition in the nation dedicated to the history of the legislative branch. In Exhibition Hall, you'll marvel at the building's architecture with a 11-foot Capitol Dome model, view rarely-seen documents from the National Archive and Library of Congress, and learn more about Congress through interactive exhibits. The U.S. Capitol also displays the table used for President Lincoln's Second Inauguration and President Washington's gavel used in the ceremony to lay the cornerstone of the building in 1793.

• What items are prohibited?

  Before arriving for a tour of the U.S. Capitol, there some items prohibited from the building. Visitors are not allowed to bring liquids of any kind (including water), food or beverages, any bag larger than 18" wide x 14" high x 8.5" deep, aerosol cans or weapons of any kind. To visit the Senate or House viewing galleries, visitors are not allowed to bring electronic devices, smartphones, cameras or recording devices of any kind. Checkstands are available to safely store these items while visiting the gallery. 

Helpful Links

• https://www.visitthecapitol.gov/exhibitions
• https://www.visitthecapitol.gov/plan-visit/prohibited-items