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>.

60 results

Best Seller

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

4.1

(330)

from US$64

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

2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.1

(251)

from US$64

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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Small Guided Tour Inside the Capitol and Library of Congress

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(59)

from US$79

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

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(191)

from US$52

Price varies by group size

The Original Capitol Hill Small Group Walking Tour - Max 15 ppl

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(2,018)

from US$79

Special Offer

Washington DC Ghost Tours - Lantern Led Capitol Hill Haunts

Explore the eerie tales of Capitol Hill on a captivating ghost tour that uncovers the haunted history of one of the most iconic sites in Washington, D.C. This 90-minute adventure reveals stories of feuding lawmakers, spectral presidents, and the infamous Demon Cat that torments guards. Visit the Supreme Court Building, the Library of Congress, and learn about the ghosts surrounding the Lincoln Conspiracy trials. Perfect for history buffs and ghost enthusiasts alike, this nightly tour offers a unique perspective on the capital's secrets after dark. - Tour Guides dressed in Victorian Era Attire - Led by lantern light - Duration: 90 minutes, covering less than 1 mile - Tour times: Nightly at 9:00 PM, March to November - Starting location: Outside Good Stuff Eatery at 303 Pennsylvania Ave. SE - Suitable for ages 7 and up; children under 6 are free

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Washington DC Ghost Tours - Lantern Led Capitol Hill Haunts

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Likely to Sell Out

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

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(160)

from US$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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Capitol Hill, Supreme Court & Library of Congress Exclusive Tour

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.8

(149)

from US$52

Price varies by group size

Likely to Sell Out

Discover Washington DC's monumental grandeur and democratic ideals with your self-guided audio tour, allowing you to explore America's capital at your own pace. Begin at the National Mall where the monuments to Lincoln, Washington, and the fallen of America's wars create a two-mile corridor of national memory stretching from the Capitol to the Potomac. Wander through the Smithsonian museums. Stand before the White House where every president since John Adams has lived and governed, then explore the halls of the Capitol where Congress has debated the nation's course since 1800. Marvel at the neoclassical grandeur of the Jefferson Memorial reflected in the Tidal Basin, especially magical during cherry blossom season when pink clouds frame the founding father's bronze figure. Discover Georgetown's cobblestoned streets where Federal townhouses and waterfront dining create the city's most charming neighborhood. Experience the solemn power of Arlington National Cemetery.

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Discover Washington: A Self-Guided Tour

8 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from US$8

Small Group VIP: US Capitol, Supreme Court, Library, & Folger

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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Small Group VIP: US Capitol, Supreme Court, Library, & Folger

4 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(2)

from US$149

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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Guided Capitol Hill with US Capitol and Library of Congress Entry

2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.2

(69)

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

2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.3

(302)

from US$65

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

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.1

(2,688)

from US$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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Reflections on a Nation Self-Guided National Mall Highlights Tour

1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(1)

from US$10

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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Dark History: Scandals of Capitol Hill Evening Walking Tour

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(8)

from US$59

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

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.0

(441)

from US$61

2 Hour Guided Bike Tour of Capitol Hill

2 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(11)

from US$55

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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4- Hour Private customizable Washington DC Tour

4 hours 5 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(68)

from US$550

Per group

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

5.0

from US$12

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

3 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(17)

from US$59

Washington DC is full of historical sites and while it’s easy to explore on foot or by bus, this 2-wheel tour option gives travelers access to some of the city’s most popular landmarks. Check out the Lincoln Memorial, White House exterior, Supreme Court and the Capitol on this Capital Sites Bike Tour. Your friendly guide shares plenty of history, facts, and city knowledge on this easy bike ride through the nation’s capital.

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Washington DC Capital Sites Bike Tour

2 hours

4.6

(199)

from US$55

Private Multilingual DC City Tour (Spanish, Portuguese, English)

Explore the famous sites of Washington DC on this private driving tour with hotel pickup. Choose from a morning or afternoon departure, then climb aboard a luxury vehicle and enjoy an educational and entertaining account of the nation’s capital with a private guide. Travel between the plethora of famous war memorials, monuments, and landmarks, with enlightening commentary from your guide.

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Private Multilingual DC City Tour (Spanish, Portuguese, English)

4 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(225)

from US$275

Price varies by group size

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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Monumental Electric Bike Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(101)

from US$89

Likely to Sell Out

Iconic Capitol Hill Architectural Walking Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(21)

from US$48

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What are people saying about Library of Congress

The Original Capitol Hill Small Group Walking Tour - Max 15 ppl

Lucie_B, May 2026

Amazing tour

James is very knowledgeable. The staff in the Capitol building and Library of Congress reminded our group how amazing he is.

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.

The Original Capitol Hill Small Group Walking Tour - Max 15 ppl

Susan_P, May 2026

Recommend this Tour!!

This is a walking tour that takes you inside the Capitol and Library of Congress. Our tour guide, James, was full of knowledge and he took care of us throughout the tour. I thought the tour was a great pace

The Original Capitol Hill Small Group Walking Tour - Max 15 ppl

Russell_W, May 2026

Evelyn was very...

Evelyn was very knowledgeable. We learned so much about our government. We now have library cards from the library of Congress. We had a great time.

The Original Capitol Hill Small Group Walking Tour - Max 15 ppl

Kellie_E, May 2026

Look No Further.... This is the tour to take!

This was a great tour. James, our tour guide, was a wealth of knowledge about the Library of Congress and Capital building. He was funny and spent a good amount of time answering our question. Even when we were late because we got mixed in another tour, James found us and made sure we didn't miss a thing. Thanks a bunch James. He is the guide to request.

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!