Book a tour for the day you will visit the Capitol Building. Tours are free, but it is best to reserve your tickets in advance by contacting the offices of your senators or representative or by booking online with the Visitor Center. Tours are given 8:50 a.m. through 3:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Inauguration Day.
Ask the office of your senators or representative whether Congress will be in session the day of your visit. Request a pass to the House or Senate gallery if you are interested in watching.
Check for the availability of same-day passes if you did not book a tour in advance. Go to the tour kiosks on the east and west fronts of the Capitol or at the information desks in Emancipation Hall on the lower level of the Visitor Center.
Leave large daypacks, backpacks and luggage in your car or at the hotel. Bags larger than 14-by-13-by-4 are prohibited in the Capital Building. Check the list of prohibited items on the Visitor Center website.
Enter the Capitol Building through the Visitor Center off Front Street. If you have a tour booked, the Visitor Center website recommends arriving at least 45 minutes before your tour starting time. The website also suggests allowing at least 90 minutes for your visit.
