Capitol Hill

The Basics

Capitol Hill is home many historically and politically important building monuments, including the Supreme Court building, three Library of Congress buildings, and the Folger Shakespeare Library and Theatre. While you can visit these sights on your own, a Capitol Hill tour is a great way to gain context and delve deep into American history. If you’re lucky, you may even get to see Congress in session. For a bit less traditional Hill experience, you can take a guided ghost tour—legend has it that the Capitol is haunted!

Things to Know Before You Go

• You must reserve tickets to the Capitol Building interior in advance.

• Bars and restaurants are sprinkled throughout the Hill, especially in the Atlas District, along H Street NE.

• Though most of Capitol Hill is walkable, you can cover more ground on a bike, Segway, or electric cart tour.

• The US Capitol Visitors Center and information desk is a great place to start your visit.

• The Capitol Hill area, including the Capitol Building, is kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Smack in the middle of Washington D.C., Capitol Hill stretches north, south, and east from the US Capitol and the National Mall. East Capitol Street is the neighborhood’s main thoroughfare, running east through Lincoln Park until it reaches the Armory and RFK Stadium. The area is easily accessible on foot and by all forms of public transportation; driving is more difficult due to limited parking.

When to Get There

Capitol Hill is buzzing with activity both day and night. September to November and March to May are thought to be the best times of year to visit Washington D.C., when temperatures are mild and comfortable. The Hill is particularly lovely in cherry blossom season—generally in early April.

Touring the Capitol Hill Neighborhood

As you head east from the storied steps of the Capitol, the neighborhood turns into a lovely tangle of residential brownstone row houses shaded by big, elderly trees often teeming with gray squirrels. The center of gravity on the Hill is the Eastern Market. This covered bazaar and the surrounding blocks showcase local food, outsider art, handmade crafts, and a general bohemian vibe. It’s the place to be seen on weekends with families and friends.

Ways to explore

Capitol Hill is home to many of the most historically and politically important buildings in Washington DC, including the Supreme Court Building, three Library of Congress buildings, and the US Capitol, recognizable for its iconic dome.

While you can visit these sights on your own, a Capitol Hill tour is a great way to gain context and delve deep into American history, while guided tours of the US Capitol are a good choice for politics wonks and history geeks. Or, for a less traditional Hill experience, you can take a guided ghost tour after dark.

Accessibility

Some tours of Capitol Hill are accessible to wheelchair users, and the US Capitol is also wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

While there are no age restrictions, US Capitol tours may not be suited to very young children.

What to pack

Camera, water bottle, weather protection, small handheld bag

What to wear

Wear comfortable and weather-appropriate layers, as well as good walking shoes, especially if visiting over the course of a full day of sightseeing.

Not allowed

While the rules vary by tour, most don’t allow smoking, pets, or alcohol.

Amenities

Shops, restaurants, access to public transportation

Address 

Capitol Hill is located just east of the Capitol Building and the National Mall in Washington DC. The relatively central neighborhood is easy to reach by taxi, public transportation, or as part of a tour that includes transit.

Driving

Owing to limited parking and congested traffic, driving yourself to Capitol Hill may not be the best way to get there. You’re better off opting for taxis or rideshare services instead.

Public transportation

Capitol Hill is well-served by DC’s metro. You can take the Red Line to Union Station, or the Blue, Orange, or Silver Lines to Capitol South, Eastern Market, or Potomac Avenue stations. Local bus routes also serve the area.

Best times to visit

To tour the US Capitol and other sightseeing highlights, aim for typical daytime hours. Alternatively, stop by in the evening to scope the Hill’s dining scene.

Best days to visit

Some attractions, including the US Capitol, are typically open during the week and sometimes on Saturdays; aim for a weekday visit to see the neighborhood at its most bustling.

Best months to visit

If you can, avoid the summer high season, when heat and crowds can make DC sightseeing uncomfortable.

Special events

The Fourth of July is a great time to visit the area, when Capitol Hill is a hub of parades and other festivities.