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This architectural walking tour takes visitors through the political core of Washington, DC. Over the course of two hours, your knowledgeable guide will share stories from the original city plan by Pierre Charles L’Enfant, the tumultuous construction of the U.S. Capitol Building, the rise of the magnificent Beaux Arts Library of Congress, and the backstory of the imposing Supreme Court building. We’ll discuss the influence of prolific designers like Thomas Jefferson, Robert Mills, Frederick Law Olmsted, and Daniel Burnham. Controversy, chaos, and red tape abound!

The tour begins in the massive Great Hall of Union Station, once the largest train station in the world. This gateway to the nation’s capital—where presidents, diplomats, and politicians have all passed through—has hosted inaugural balls, parties, protests, and even a runaway train. After exploring the heights and depths of Union Station, we’ll proceed past the Freedom Bell and Columbus “Fountain” to the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court. Then on to the east façade (the original front) of the U.S. Capitol Building, and inside the breathtaking Library of Congress. Finally, we’ll take an underground tunnel to finish up at the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center—where you can join a free tour of the building’s interior (depending upon timing and availability), or head down to the National Mall to explore a Smithsonian museum or two.

Iconic Capitol Hill Sights and Stops:

• Union Station
• Supreme Court Building
• Library of Congress Jefferson Building
• U.S. Capitol Building Grounds
• U.S. Capitol Visitors Center

In partnership with DC Design Tours

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