Library of Congress Tours and Tickets

Q: How much does it cost to visit the Library of Congress in 2026?

It’s free to visit the Library of Congress—although reservations are essential—but many travelers choose to visit with a guide. Walking tours of Capitol Hill, including the U.S. Capitol and the Supreme Court, start around US$50, or you can go it alone with an audio guide from US$5.

Q: Are there tours of the Library of Congress?

Yes, the Library of Congress offers tours to individuals and groups five days per week. Whether you’re visiting Washington DC for the first time or are a seasoned tour-taker, the Library of Congress is an absolute must-see. Learn about the library’s history and discover what makes it unique from knowledgeable guides.

Q: How long does it take to tour the Library of Congress?

A self-guided tour of the Library of Congress can take a few hours. However, make sure to give yourself extra time to wander and linger in the various exhibition spaces. The Library of Congress has lots of artifacts in historic buildings, so don't rush to see everything in one hour.

Q: What should you not miss at the Library of Congress?

Make sure you visit the Main Reading Room, which has a stunning ceiling and walls. Additionally, explore the Thomas Jefferson Building Artwork, which displays European art from various periods. Lastly, don't forget to check out the Civil War Photograph Exhibit at this renowned library. Don’t overlook regular concerts, lectures, and a variety of daily tours.

Q: Can I bring food in the Library of Congress?

No, you may not bring food and drinks inside the Library of Congress. However, you may bring in a sealed bottle of water. When visiting this, it's crucial to maintain silence. Many people come to study and conduct research, requiring a peaceful environment for contemplation.

Q: Do I need tickets for the Library of Congress?

No. The Library of Congress is free to enter and most events don't need tickets, so no need to reserve tickets. However, some programs such as special lectures, tours, and exhibitions or reenactments in the Jefferson Building may require tickets. Be sure to check before your visit.

Q: What are the best attractions in Washington DC other than the Library of Congress?

There are tons of fun things to do when you're done visiting the Library of Congress. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in Washington DC: <ul><li><a href="https://www.viator.com/Washington-DC-attractions/The-White-House/d657-a1102" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">The White House</a></li><li><a href="https://www.viator.com/Washington-DC-attractions/Martin-Luther-King-Jr-Memorial/d657-a14636" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial</a></li><li><a href="https://www.viator.com/Washington-DC-attractions/US-Capitol/d657-a1098" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">U.S. Capitol</a></li><li><a href="https://www.viator.com/Washington-DC-attractions/Lincoln-Memorial/d657-a1087" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Lincoln Memorial</a></li><li><a href="https://www.viator.com/Washington-DC-attractions/Washington-Monument/d657-a1100" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Washington Monument</a></li></ul>View Viator's guide to <a href="https://www.viator.com/Washington-DC/d657" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">all the best attractions in Washington DC</a>.

61 results

Best Seller

Small Guided Tour Inside the Capitol and Library of Congress

Have the opportunity to discover the interiors of the most important and famous buildings of this Nation with a specialized Tour guide who will show you in detail the heart of the Legislative Power (Capitol), Judicial Power (Supreme Court of Justice) and, of course, one of the largest Libraries in the world (Library of Congress). This tour includes reserved entrances with a professional guide. Come and join us to enjoy historical facts behind each place we visit.

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4.9

(50)

Small Guided Tour Inside the Capitol and Library of Congress

3 hoursFree Cancellation

from $79

Small-Group Tour inside US Capitol & Library of Congress or Court

4.8

(1,970)

Small-Group Tour inside US Capitol & Library of Congress or Court

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

from $79

Capitol Hill, Supreme Court & Library of Congress Tour 12ppl Max

5.0

(188)

Capitol Hill, Supreme Court & Library of Congress Tour 12ppl Max

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $52

Price varies by group size

Capitol Hill & Library of Congress Highlights Walking Tour (With Tickets)

A grand walking tour of Capitol Hill to explore the Supreme Court, Library of Congress, and US Capitol. Learn about the country's legislative & judicial branches and step inside with the included entry tickets. Supreme Court: The tour does not enter, but you will get a full understanding of the judicial branch. Library of Congress: See an original Gutenberg Bible, view Jefferson's original library collection. Take a peek in the main Reading Room and admire items such as a draft of the Gettysburg Address, handwritten lyrics for “The Sound of Music,” Maya Lin’s drawings for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, original artwork by Stan Lee for the Spider-Man comic. Capitol Building: Learn about the Burning of Washington and find the best angle for a photo. See the original plaster model of Freedom. Your guide will secure hard-to-get tickets for the docent-led tour, which brings you into the Crypt, the Rotunda, and the Old House.

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4.8

(158)

Capitol Hill & Library of Congress Highlights Walking Tour (With Tickets)

3 hoursFree Cancellation

from $75

Capitol Hill, Supreme Court & Library of Congress Exclusive Tour

Get personalized attention and enjoy a flexible itinerary on this private walking tour of Washington DC. Visit the highlights and landmarks of the nation's capital, including the Supreme Court, the Capitol Building, the Main Reading Room of the Library of Congress, and others. Then, enjoy free time to explore the Capitol Visitor Center, including the US House of Representatives, with your provided entry ticket (unguided).

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4.8

(143)

Capitol Hill, Supreme Court & Library of Congress Exclusive Tour

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $52

Price varies by group size

Special Offer

US Capitol & Library of Congress Tour with Supreme Court, Senate

Discover the US Government’s storied history with this half-day guided walking tour of Capitol Hill and the Library of Congress. Visit the US Capitol’s Rotunda, Crypt, and Old House Chamber before exploring the world’s largest public display of knowledge in the Library of Congress and stopping off at the Supreme Court. All while your guide shares the detailed history of one of the US’s most prestigious locations.

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US Capitol & Library of Congress Tour with Supreme Court, Senate

2 hoursFree Cancellation

from

$61

$64

Don’t just stroll past D.C.’s capitol of power—with this walking tour, you’re going inside. Led by your guide, you’ll visit the US Capitol, the Library of Congress or Capitol Museum when the Library is closed, Thomas Jefferson's original library, and more. You’ll explore the rotunda, the crypt, and the old house chambers of the US Capitol, witness the Supreme Court exterior, and get a deep dive into the powers that run the United States.

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4.3

(301)

US Capitol & Library of Congress Tour with Supreme Court, Senate

2 hoursFree Cancellation

from $65

US Capitol, Supreme Court, Library of Congress, & Folger VIP Tour

Ditch the crowds and join us on a VIP experience of 4 iconic buildings in 4 hours in this semi-private (group of 8 or less) tour of Capitol Hill! Just arrive and we'll take care of the rest. Enjoy more flexibility and a relaxed pace. We head inside the Supreme Court where your guide will discuss the history, notable justices, landmark cases, and the secrets of the building. Next, the Folger Shakespeare Library. The building holds the world's largest collection of the printed works of Shakespeare and an Elizabethan Theatre. We move to the Library of Congress, the world's largest library. Your guide's reserved passes will bring you into the heart of knowledge. You will see Thomas Jefferson's library and the grandeur of the Main Reading Room. Using a tunnel, we enter the US Capitol where your guide gives little known history before providing passes for a tour of the historic spaces

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5.0

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US Capitol, Supreme Court, Library of Congress, & Folger VIP Tour

4 hoursFree Cancellation

from $149

Special Offer

U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress Tour with Rotunda & Crypts

4.1

(247)

U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress Tour with Rotunda & Crypts

2 hoursFree Cancellation

from

$58

$64

Guided Capitol Hill with US Capitol and Library of Congress Entry

On this walking tour, you don’t just stroll past D.C.’s bastions of power; you get inside the room where it happens. Led by your guide, you visit landmarks like the US Capitol, the Library of Congress, or Capitol Museum, and Thomas Jefferson's historic library. You even explore lesser-known spots like the Capitol Rotunda and the old House chambers, gaining insights into the inner workings of the United States. The tour starts at either the United States Botanic Garden or the Supreme Court of the United States.

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4.2

(69)

Guided Capitol Hill with US Capitol and Library of Congress Entry

2 hoursFree Cancellation

from $64

Hop-On Hop-Off 21 Stop Trolley Tour + Arlington Cemetery Tour

Enjoy a comprehensive, self-paced tour of Washington DC's top attractions—and even cross the Potomac to discover Arlington National Cemetery—on this hop-on hop-off trolley tour. Choose a start time that works best for you; then, set off to see everything from the Washington Monument and White House to the Jefferson Memorial. Along the way, listen to your guide's on-board commentary, and disembark at any of the 21 stops for a closer look.

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3.9

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Hop-On Hop-Off 21 Stop Trolley Tour + Arlington Cemetery Tour

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $61

New York and Washington Self Guided Narrated Tours with AI

With this AI app you're no longer restricted to crowded group tours or rigid scripts. Explore iconic sites like Times Square and the National Mall—or dive deep into lesser-known landmarks and hidden urban parks. Ask about literally anything that catches your eye—from a historic district to a secret street corner or a towering skyscraper. The city's secrets are yours to uncover. Point & Discover: Snap a photo of any monument or museum masterpiece to instantly receive a captivating and accurate story. It’s like having a historian in your pocket! Ultimate Freedom: Navigate seamlessly with interactive map-based audio tours. Your schedule, your pace, your rules. Choose Your Vibe: Select a narrator persona that matches your style—from a deep-diving scholar to a fun companion for the kids. Get Started: 7 Days of Premium Access available instantly for iPhone and Android.

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New York and Washington Self Guided Narrated Tours with AI

7 daysFree Cancellation

from $12

Half Day Washington DC Monuments and Landmarks Small Group Tour

Experience Washington D.C.’s most iconic landmarks in a focused and efficient half-day morning tour led by a professional guide. Explore the heart of the nation’s capital, from Capitol Hill to the White House, and continue through the city’s most meaningful memorials honoring presidents, civil rights leaders, and military heroes. This route is designed to provide a powerful overview of American history, governance, and national heritage within a short timeframe. Guests will also receive a reserved ticket for the National Air and Space Museum, valid for a self-guided visit later in the day. This tour delivers essential Washington D.C. highlights with clarity, convenience, and cultural depth.

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5.0

(3)

Half Day Washington DC Monuments and Landmarks Small Group Tour

3 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

from $58

4- Hour Private customizable Washington DC Tour

Discover the highlights of Washington D.C. during this four-hour private tour. Follow a customizable itinerary with a seasoned guide and long-time local resident. Understand the history and significance of iconic landmarks like the White House, Supreme Court, Lincoln Memorial, and more—with plenty of get-down photo stops along the way. Enjoy complimentary bottled water and door-to-door transfers from the airport or your DC Metro Area hotel.

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5.0

(64)

4- Hour Private customizable Washington DC Tour

4 hours 5 minutesFree Cancellation

from $550

Per group

Washington DC Hop-On Hop-off Trolley Tour with 15 Stops

Take a hop-on hop-off Washington DC trolley tour to explore the nation’s capital at your own pace. The route encompasses the city’s top attractions, including the White House, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and more. Just hop off at any stop when you want to explore, and then hop back on the trolley to continue around the city. You can also upgrade to include Arlington National Cemetery entry.

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4.1

(2,662)

Washington DC Hop-On Hop-off Trolley Tour with 15 Stops

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $55

Reflections on a Nation Self-Guided National Mall Highlights Tour

Discover the essence of American ideals on the self-paced National Mall Highlights tour in Washington, D.C. This journey goes beyond mere sightseeing to reflect on the core values of liberty, justice, equality, and inclusion through vivid storytelling and curated stops. Engage with the monuments and their deeper meanings, creating a personal connection to history and culture. Perfect for both first-time visitors and returning explorers, this tour invites you to experience the National Mall as a vibrant narrative of the nation. — Self-paced exploration of iconic landmarks in Washington, D.C. — Reflect on American values such as liberty, justice, and equality — Blends history, memory, and nature for a richer experience — Ideal for first-time visitors and returning explorers alike

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5.0

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Reflections on a Nation Self-Guided National Mall Highlights Tour

1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hoursFree Cancellation

from $10

Iconic Capitol Hill Architectural Walking Tour

4.9

(21)

Iconic Capitol Hill Architectural Walking Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

from $48

Presidential DC: Capitol Hill + DC Bus Tour, US Capitol Entry

Immerse yourself in the history of the United States' capital on this bus tour around Washington DC. Ideal for first-timers who want to get in as much sightseeing as possible, this whistle-stop tour includes the White House and the Lincoln Memorial. What's more, your live guide explains the monuments and memorials as you pass by. You'll also enjoy access to and a guided tour of the Library of Congress, the US Capitol, and the Supreme Court.

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4.6

(17)

Presidential DC: Capitol Hill + DC Bus Tour, US Capitol Entry

3 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

from $59

Washington DC ICONIC Small Group Max 12: City & Mount Vernon Tour

Discover the story of America in a single day on this complete Washington D.C. tour. Walk the grounds of Capitol Hill, view the White House, and explore iconic memorials honoring leaders and veterans. Continue through the National Mall, Smithsonian Castle, and the National Gallery of Art and the National Air and Space Museum with next-day reserved entry. End the day at Mount Vernon, George Washington’s treasured estate overlooking the Potomac River, where the origins of the nation come to life. A powerful and efficient journey through the capital’s most significant sites.

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4.8

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Washington DC ICONIC Small Group Max 12: City & Mount Vernon Tour

7 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

from $138

Washington DC’s historic center spans a large area and can be difficult to see on foot. This electric bike tour allows you to cover more ground and cycle past highlights such as the Smithsonian museums, the Capitol Building, the White House, and Tidal Basin. With a motor to assist as you pedal, you’re free to concentrate on the city’s notable sights and listen as your guide points out hidden treasures you might not notice on your own.

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4.7

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Monumental Electric Bike Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

from $89

5.0

(10)

2 Hour Guided Bike Tour of Capitol Hill

2 hoursFree Cancellation

from $55

Likely to Sell Out

Dark History: Scandals of Capitol Hill Evening Walking Tour

Follow your guide to the Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building, where you will learn about the largest library in the world, its oddest collections, and the dark stories that reside within. Hear stories about the Old Brick Capitol, the prison that once stood on the location of the Supreme Court. Learn about the architecture of the highest court in the land and its history. Hear stories of death, bloodshed, and false-imprisonment in the hallowed halls of Congress in DC's most iconic building. Continue on to the House Office Building where tales of scandalous acts of smuggling, trysts, and backdoor deals are told. Learn about the residents that called Capitol Hill home in stories of saucy escapades to corruption to cannibalism! This is a fully outdoor tour

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5.0

(8)

Dark History: Scandals of Capitol Hill Evening Walking Tour

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $59

Capitol Hill & US Capitol Entry, DC Bus Tour, Arlington Cemetery

Experience DC on a Full Day comprehensive tour that includes a 2-Hour Guided Walk of Capitol Hill with Entry to US Capitol. Pass by the Library of Congress, Senate Offices, and Supreme Court buildings. A 3-Hour Bus and Walking City Tour of the National Mall is also provided following Capitol Hill. See sites such as the White House, Martin Luther King Jr Memorial, WWII Memorial, and more. End your tour with a 2-Hour Guided Walk through Arlington National Cemetery and catch a glimpse of the Changing of the Guards, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and John F Kennedy family Gravesite.

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5.0

(6)

Capitol Hill & US Capitol Entry, DC Bus Tour, Arlington Cemetery

7 hoursFree Cancellation

from $175

Experience the grandeur and history of Washington DC with our exclusive 4-hour private luxury tour. Tailored for those who appreciate the finer things in life, this tour combines comfort, elegance, and convenience, allowing you to explore the capital's iconic landmarks from the plush comfort of a high-end vehicle. As you glide by the majestic U.S. Capitol, the storied White House, and the poignant war memorials, you'll be immersed in the rich tapestry of American history. The intimate setting of a private tour means you can enjoy each site at your own pace, with ample time for reflection and photography. Forget the hassle of crowded group tours. Enjoy the exclusivity of a personal driver, direct hotel pickup, and drop-off.

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4.5

(13)

4 Hours Private Tour in Washington DC

1 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

from $450

Per group

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What are people saying about Library of Congress

Small-Group Tour inside US Capitol & Library of Congress or Court

Tina_B, Apr 2026

Capital & LoC

Personal guide only way to go for first time visits. Shane wa was very knowledgeable and personable. Library of congress best of the tour!

Capitol Hill & Library of Congress Highlights Walking Tour (With Tickets)

Gina_B, Apr 2026

Great Experience

Excellent!! Tour Guide was friendly and knowledgeable. Highlight was the Library of Congress and walking through the tunnels.

US Capitol & Library of Congress Tour with Supreme Court, Senate

patton5149, Apr 2026

Great time

Enjoyed the tour, getting into the library of congress was cool too! Really had a great time learning what was happening in the capital and in the library of congress! Hope everyone takes the chance to take the tour!

Guided Capitol Hill with US Capitol and Library of Congress Entry

Crystal_W, Mar 2026

We were expecting a bus...

We were expecting a bus to take us in. We received a text from our tour guide asking us to meet him outside the Supreme Court. We loved our tour guide, Tyrone McBride. It was definitely worth taking this tour considering the heightened security and guaranteed way to see the Capitol and the Library of Congress.

Small-Group Tour inside US Capitol & Library of Congress or Court

Amy_L, Apr 2026

Informative, well-organized tour

Family of 4 with 2 adults and 2 teenagers enjoyed an informative, well-organized tour of the area across from The Capitol (pointing out Supreme Court exterior and details) and inside tours of the Capitol and Library of Congress with Kevin. Kevin was very prompt, knowledgable and a wonderful guide for the ~3-hour tour.

U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress Tour with Rotunda & Crypts

Erin_S, Apr 2026

The original time was...

The original time was cancelled due to an “event” at the Capitol. We got nothing official to let us know it was cancelled. We did get a text from an unknown number and with poor grammar and we thought it was Phishing text. We were able to come back after the event and re book our tour. We were told this by the friendly guards at the visitor center, when we showed up at 8:00 in the morning

Capitol Hill & Library of Congress Highlights Walking Tour (With Tickets)

Natalie_G, Apr 2026

Great experience! Trevor...

Great experience! Trevor made it easy on a very hot day. The tour was informative, interesting and fun. The library of congress was stunning, the Gutenberg bible and the Two Georges exhibition were the highlights of our visit! Thank you, You’ve made this trip a memorable experience!