Published: March 20, 2024
Though not the original capital of the United States, Washington, D.C., is home to many of the most important locations and artifacts that shaped our country. It’s an excellent destination for every American citizen, so much so that many 8th graders travel there on a school trip each year.
There are plenty of things to do in Washington, D.C., that will delight people of all ages and interests. Whether you prefer arts and culture or historical landmarks, there’s something for everyone. The best time to visit Washington, D.C., depends on your interests, but expect crowds from late spring to summer.
Keep in mind that most of these places require security screening. Arrive early to allow time to get through the screening process (which can take up to an hour, depending on the location and time of year). Make it easier by packing light and checking specific requirements on the location’s website before you head out.
Read on to find out the best things to do while in our nation’s capital.
Washington, D.C., has a thriving arts and culture scene. From artwork to performing arts, there’s plenty to see and do.
Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Reservations: Admission is free.
Nearest Metro Station: Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter
Art lovers will not want to miss the National Gallery of Art, which showcases 110,000 objects in its permanent, temporary and loan collections.
Guests can explore three distinct areas. The West Building houses the bulk of the Gallery’s collection, focused on European and American art. This collection includes Ginevra de’ Benci, the only Leonardo da Vinci work in the Americas).
Visit the East Building to view modern and contemporary art from famous artists such as Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock and Georgia O’Keefe. Tour the Sculpture Garden to see the Spider by Louise Bourgeois and the AMOR sculpture by Robert Indiana.
Hours: Tour hours vary depending on events hosted at the Cathedral, so check the website.
Reservations: Tickets are required for any sightseeing admission to the Cathedral. Tickets start at $15 for adults and $10 for youth (ages 5-10). Admission for worship or private prayer is free. Admission is free for everyone on Sundays.
Nearest Metro Station: Dupont Circle
The Washington National Cathedral is the world’s sixth-largest cathedral and should be on your must-do list if you’re on your first trip to Washington, D.C., regardless of your faith.
It is the de facto venue for state funerals, having hosted the funerals of 21 American presidents since it opened in 1928. Helen Keller and President Woodrow Wilson are two of the 220+ people interred on the grounds. The building is also home to 112 gargoyles (including one of Darth Vader) and 215 stained-glass windows.
Take a guided tour, or explore the Cathedral on your own. You can also join a weekly service or attend one of their events. If you are traveling to Washington DC with kids, don’t miss the children’s chapel, which is a full chapel scaled to the size of a six-year-old, complete with a mini pipe organ.
Hours: Open daily 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. except Christmas Day.
Reservations: No tickets or reservations required.
Nearest Metro Station: Gallery Place-Chinatown
Home to 20,000 words of art, the National Portrait Gallery is part of the Smithsonian Institution.
Permanent exhibits feature America’s presidents, famous performing arts figures, American sports heroes, civil rights leaders and more. Visiting exhibits change frequently, so check the website to see what’s on display when you visit.
When you’re in the indoor courtyard, look up at the gorgeous glass ceiling or take in one of the many educational events and programs. The Gallery offers a variety of tours based on how long you want to spend with the art.
Hours: Public access is available Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to midnight.
Reservations: Tours are free, but you’ll need tickets to individual events. Ticket prices vary by event.
Nearest Metro Station: Foggy Bottom-GWU
The Kennedy Center is part performing arts center, part memorial to President John F. Kennedy. The permanent exhibit Art and Ideals: President John F. Kennedy is located in the roof-level atrium and focuses on his appreciation and promotion of the arts.
Catch one of the more than 2,000 annual performances in genres ranging from classical music to comedy to dance and more. See their events calendar for more information about what’s happening during your visit.
The Kennedy Center also offers free daily tours of the campus. Hit the highlights of the entire campus with the KC Campus Highlights Tour and explore the Kennedy Center Building or The REACH, which houses rehearsal spaces, classrooms and flexible-use buildings.
Hours: Opens 30 minutes before dawn and closes one hour after the last prayer at sunset daily.
Reservations: Tours are free but must be scheduled in advance.
Nearest Metro Station: Dupont Circle
The Islamic Mosque of Washington, D.C., is the first and largest mosque in the capital and is located on Embassy Row. Each Friday, 6,000 worshippers come to pray and participate in religious services. Its Islamic Center of Washington, D.C., is open to visitors.
You can enjoy the beautiful exterior of the street or take a tour of the center to learn more about the building and the role of the mosque in Islamic culture. Take in the stunning interior design that showcases gifts from Muslim cultures around the world, or participate in cultural lessons and events.
Note that the dress code is strictly enforced. To enter the mosque, you must cover your legs and remove your shoes. Women will need to wear head scarves. Religious services may be occurring during your visit, so be respectful.
Hours: Open daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. except for Christmas Day.
Reservations: No ticket or reservation is required, although some events hosted at the Renwick may require tickets.
Nearest Metro Station: Farragut North and Farragut West
The Renwick Gallery is a branch of the National American Art Museum that focuses on American crafts and decorative art. Rotating exhibits feature glasswork, jewelry, baskets, pottery and more.
The Gallery is smaller and more intimate than other Smithsonian Institutions. It offers daily tours at noon except Sundays and federal holidays and a children’s scavenger hunt.
Named the U.S. capital in 1790, Washington, D.C., is home to several historical sites. Whether you’re a history buff or not, these historical sites are must-sees while in the area.
Hours: Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April through October and daily 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. November through March. The Shops at Mount Vernon and the Mount Vernon Restaurant have separate hours.
Reservations: Tickets are required for entry. Ticket prices vary based on what areas you want to visit. Admission is free on President’s Day.
Nearest Metro Station: Mount Vernon is located 15 miles south of Washington. D.C., in Virginia, so the Metro won’t get you there directly. Instead, take the Metro to Huntington Station and hop on the 101 bus. You can also access Mount Vernon from D.C., via a Potomac cruise.
Mount Vernon was in the Washington family as early as 1674, and it served as George and Martha Washington’s home from 1754 until he died in 1799.
The grounds, mansion, museum, farm and gardens are now a top destination for visitors to Washington, D.C. Take a guided tour through the Mansion (but don’t take any flash photography photos) and learn more about the Washington family at the Museum.
If you attend during Revolutionary War Weekend (usually in May), witness American Revolution battle reenactments on the grounds. For a chance to experience the mansion by candlelight, take a candlelit tour from November through December.
Washington ran a whiskey distillery and gristmill, which has been reconstructed and is fully functional. On Saturdays in May, June and September, participate in a whiskey tasting or take a tour on Saturdays and Sundays from April through October.
Note: Mount Vernon is currently under restoration. Rooms will be closed temporarily throughout the process, which should conclude in August of 2026.
Hours: Open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Inauguration Day.
Reservations: Tickets for tours are required, but admission is free.
Nearest Metro Stations: Union Station, Capitol South and Federal Center SW
History buffs and architecture fans will love exploring the U.S. Capitol Building.
Take a guided tour or experience the interactive exhibits in the Exhibition Hall. Be sure to check out their special exhibit, which changes frequently. If you’re hungry, stop by the Capitol Cafe.
You can even watch Congress at work from the gallery if you get gallery passes. Request a gallery pass from your representative or senator.
During your visit, remember that the U.S. Capitol is a working office building and behave accordingly.
Hours: The White House itself is open by reservation only. The White House Visitors Center is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
Reservations: To tour the White House, you must submit a request 21 days in advance to your member of Congress.
Nearest Metro Stations: Metro Center, McPherson Square or Federal Triangle.
One of the most popular stops on any Washington, D.C., itinerary, the White House, is where the president of the United States of America lives while in office.
Most people view the White House from outside the gates, but you can also view a large-scale model and some interactive exhibits at the White House Visitor Center.
If you are fortunate enough to get a self-guided tour of the East Wing, State Dining Room, China Room and the White House Rose Garden, Secret Service members are in each room ready to answer your questions.
Hours: The museum is open daily, but the schedule varies by area. Check their website calendar for specific hours.
Reservations: Advanced tickets are recommended for the museum; tickets are required for theatre productions.
Nearest Metro Station: Metro Center
Ford’s Theatre is both a museum dedicated to President Abraham Lincoln and a working theatre celebrating America’s rich theatre history.
Tour the museum and learn about both Lincoln and John Wilkes Booth, the man who assassinated him. You’ll see Booth’s derringer pistol, high-resolution photographs of Lincoln’s clothing from the night and Lincoln’s life mask.
To learn about the assassination, see the theatre with a self-guided tour or listen to a history talk from a park ranger. You can also visit the Petersen House, the boarding house where President Lincoln died after being shot.
The Aftermath Exhibit showcases what happened after the assassination. Learn what happened to Booth and how the nation mourned its first assassinated president.
As the center of the American government, Washington D.C., features memorials for some of our most famous citizens and darkest moments. Visit these memorials and monuments to learn more about the people and events that shaped our country.
Hours: Open 24 hours with Park Rangers available to answer questions between 9:30 a.m. and 11 p.m.
Reservations: No reservations or tickets required.
Nearest Metro Station: Smithsonian station
Thomas Jefferson left his fingerprints all over American democracy, drafting the Declaration of Independence and serving as the country’s first Secretary of State and the third president. The Thomas Jefferson Memorial honors his contributions.
The building features a dome similar to the one in his home in Monticello and the University of Virginia Rotunda, while the columned facade mimics the Pantheon. President Franklin Roosevelt selected its spot specifically so he could look out from the White House to the building honoring his hero.
Enjoy the sunset views, but be prepared for crowds. The best time to visit the Jefferson Memorial is early morning or at night.
Hours: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily except July 4th and Christmas Day (last entrance one hour before closing)
Reservations: Tickets are required. You can reserve tickets ahead of time online for $1 or attempt to get one of the limited free same-day tickets at the Washington Monument Lodge. Everyone over the age of two must have a ticket to enter.
Nearest Metro Stations: Federal Triangle or Smithsonian
The Washington Monument, built to honor President George Washington, is the world’s tallest stone structure and obelisk. In 2019, it reopened after years of renovations, so if you haven’t been in a while, it’s worth another visit.
Even if you’re only in Washington, D.C., for three days (or less), the Washington Monument is a must-do. Ride the elevator 50 stories to the observation deck, where you can see roughly 25 miles in any direction.
If you have the time, walk to the far side of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool to view the monument’s mirror image, which is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
Note that there are no restrooms or drinking fountains inside the Washington Monument, and anyone who struggles with heights, small spaces, elevators or crowds may want to remain outside.
Hours: Open 24 hours a day, although rangers are only on duty from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day.
Reservations: None required, but to avoid the crowds, it’s best to go early in the morning.
Nearest Metro Stations: Foggy Bottom and Smithsonian
Located at the other end of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool from the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial is one of the most recognizable spots in Washington, D.C.,
The monument memorialized Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. Walk up the steps from which Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his I Have a Dream speech and pass under the 36 columns that represent the 36 states in the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death. In the center, you’ll see a towering marble statue of Lincoln in deep thought.
For a quieter visit, consider seeing the monument in the early morning on weekdays. Weekend and summer afternoons are the busiest.
Hours: Open 24 hours, but early morning and evening are the least busy times to visit. Park rangers are available from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. to answer questions.
Reservations: No reservations required.
Nearest Metro Stations: Foggy Bottom, Federal Triangle
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial consists of three elements: the Statue of Three Soldiers, the Women’s Memorial (added in 1993) and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, listing the names of people who served in the Vietnam War.
While at the Wall, you’ll see people doing rubbings to transfer names on the wall to a piece of paper. People will also leave notes and mementos for their loved ones whose names are listed on the wall. Catalogs at the entrance can help you find specific names quickly.
Visiting the Vietnam Wall is often an emotional experience, especially for those who fought in the war or knew someone who did. Be respectful.
Consider stopping by the other war memorials, the National World War II Memorial and the Korean War Veterans Memorial as well.
Hours: Open 24 hours with Park Rangers on duty from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. To avoid the crowds, visit when the Memorial is lit up at night.
Reservations: No reservations required.
Nearest Metro Stations: Foggy Bottom and Smithsonian
Enter the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial by passing through two large boulders called the Mountains of Despair. Continue walking towards the water of the Tidal Basin to the 30-foot statue of Dr. King carved into the Stone of Hope.
Don’t skip reading the 14 famous quotes from Dr. King’s speeches on the Inscription Wall. This feature is especially beautiful when the cherry blossom trees behind it are in full bloom. End your visit by contemplating Dr. King’s legacy as you look out over the peaceful water of the Tidal Basin.
Hours: Open 24 hours, but facilities such as restrooms are only open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Reservations: No tickets or reservations required.
Nearest Metro Stations: Pentagon, Pentagon City
The National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial is a tribute to the 184 people killed when a hijacked plane crashed into the Pentagon building on September 11, 2001.
Illuminated benches dot the two acres around the Pentagon, with each one dedicated to someone who perished on the plane or in the building. Visit the Age Wall, which showcases the victims’ ages in height, ranging from 3 inches high to 71.
If you wish to explore the Pentagon while you’re there, you must sign up for a tour 14 to 90 days in advance of your visit. Tours are only offered Monday through Friday, so plan accordingly.
There’s no shortage of Washington, D.C., museums, many of them part of the Smithsonian Institute. No matter your interest—space, history, art, history—there’s a museum for you.
Hours: Open daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Reservations: Admission is free, and no ticket is required.
Nearest Metro Station: L’Enfant Plaza
Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Museum of the American Indian is one of the largest collections devoted to the Native American experience. Designed in collaboration with local tribes, the Museum hosts several permanent and visiting exhibits that center on local tribes and native ceremonies and ancestry.
Be sure to stop in the Mitsitam Cafe, which is more than just your average museum cafe. The cafe features Native-inspired foods and is a frequent dining destination for people not attending the Museum itself. (Note that the Mitsitam Cafe is currently undergoing renovations. It is expected to reopen in late spring 2024.)
The family-friendly imagiNATIONS Activity Center is a must-stop for families with young children. Play-based interactives educate children 10 and younger about Indigenous peoples’ contributions to cultural and scientific knowledge.
Hours: Open daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. every day except Christmas Day
Reservations: Free timed-entry passes are required.
Nearest Metro Station: L’Enfant Plaza Metro
One of the Smithsonian’s largest museums and best attractions in Washington, D.C.,, the National Air and Space Museum is home to some of history’s most important aeronautical pieces. There you’ll find the Wright Brothers’ 1903 flying machine, Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of Saint Louis plane and Apollo command modules.
While you can wander the museum freely, free 90-minute tours can help you hit the highlights. Most people spend about two hours in the museum, although you can spend more if you opt to view IMAX and Planetarium shows or participate in a flight simulator.
Note: The National Air and Space Museum is undergoing renovation, so some galleries may be closed. Renovation is scheduled to be completed in 2026.
Hours: Open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and noon to 5:30 p.m. on Mondays. Closed on Christmas Day.
Reservations: Free timed-entry tickets are required. It’s one of the most-visited Smithsonian museums, so get your tickets early.
Nearest Metro Stations: Federal Triangle and Smithsonian
Nicknamed the Blacksonian, the National Museum of African-American History and Culture is Smithsonian’s newest museum. It opened in 2016 and is the world’s largest museum dedicated to African-American history and culture.
Learn the American story from the African-American perspective as you explore the museum’s 12 galleries and 13 interactive exhibits. The museum’s 85,000 square feet are filled with artifacts and stories about the African-American experience, covering topics ranging from slavery to African-American contributions to the American military and athletics.
Avoid the crowds by attending Monday through Thursday, especially during the school year.
Hours: Open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Reservations: No reservations are required, but reserved tickets are strongly suggested during the busy season (March through Labor Day).
Nearest Metro Stations: Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter, Federal Triangle
Many of America’s most important documents are housed in the National Archives Museum, including the following:
Other important documents, such as the 1297 Magna Carta, are also on display. Remember that no photography is allowed to protect these important documents.
You can also explore interactive exhibits and family-focused areas like the Boeing Learning Center or grab a snack at the Charters Cafe.
Note: The National Archives Museum is currently undergoing renovations, which will be complete by the summer of 2025. Some galleries and exhibitions may be closed during your visit.
Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. except Yom Kippur and Christmas Day.
Reservations: Tickets are required from March through August due to increased attendance. Advanced tickets purchased online are $1.
Nearest Metro Station: Smithsonian
The United States National Holocaust Memorial Museum offers a powerful look at the events of the Holocaust in Nazi Germany. It’s one of the best Washington, D.C., tourist attractions and is something every visitor should see at least once.
The museum includes many rotating exhibits, but its permanent exhibit, The Holocaust, consists of three floors. The self-guided tour leads you through three floors of narrative history of the Holocaust, including artifacts, personal stories and video. The entire exhibit takes one to three hours to explore and can be a sobering yet powerful experience.
Note: The Museum does not have an age limit, but the subject matter can be difficult for all ages, especially young children. The Museum recommends children be 11 or older to view The Holocaust exhibit.
Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. except Christmas Day.
Reservations: Admission to the museums and most exhibits are free, and tickets are not required.
Nearest Metro Stations: Federal Triangle, Smithsonian Station, Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter
The National Museum of Natural History hosts a collection of 148 million species and artifacts to help everyone learn more about the natural world, making it one of the top things to do in Washington, D.C.
Stop in the O. Orkin Insect Zoo, home to more than 30 million insects, and hold a hissing cockroach. Explore the David H. Koch Hall of Fossils or see the coral reef fish tank in Sant Ocean Hall. Don’t miss the megalodon model hanging from the ceiling in the West courtyard. Get up close and personal with butterflies in our Butterfly Pavilion (note that tickets are $7.50 for adults and $6.50 for children for this exhibit).
When you (and your wallet) need a break, check out these free things to do in Washington, DC.
Hours: Grounds are open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (winter) or 6 p.m. (summer), and exhibit buildings are open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (winter) or 6 p.m. (summer). Closed Christmas Day.
Reservations: Free entry passes are required for every guest, regardless of age.
Nearest Metro Stations: Cleveland Park, Woodley Park
The National Zoo boasts 1,500 animals in 15 different exhibits. Catch a Daily Animal Demo, including meeting an elephant or watching sea lions eat lunch. Each exhibit offers at least one interaction with a keeper and/or an animal every day, making it one of the most popular things to do with kids in Washington, D.C..
The Zoo includes more than just animals. Play at the Me and the Bee playground or ride the Speedwell Conversation Carousel. During the summer, get wet at the Squirt Zone. Also, check out the Zoo’s two murals: The Good of the Hive and the Wyland.
Hours: The Mall is open daily for 24 hours, but hours for individual attractions within the Mall vary.
Reservations: No reservations required.
Nearest Metro Station: Smithsonian
The National Mall is home to many of Washington, D.C.,’s greatest attractions, monuments and museums and is the country’s most-visited national park.
Bordered by Constitution and Independence Avenues, the National Mall is an excellent place to spend the day. It includes multiple walking trails, and many of the attractions are free. Walking from one side to the other is nearly two miles, but you can also rent a Segway or a bike to help you get around when your feet get tired.
Benches and picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it a great spot to relax between attractions.
Hours: Dates and times of events for the National Cherry Blossom Festival vary by year, so check the official website.
Reservations: No tickets are required, although some specific events may require tickets.
Nearest Metro Station: Smithsonian
Since 1912, Washington D.C., has hosted the Cherry Blossom Festival to celebrate the gorgeous cherry blossom trees along the Tidal Basin. The cherry blossoms generally bloom at the end of March or early April, but it varies based on weather conditions.
The festival is a cultural event held around Washington, D.C., that includes an opening ceremony, various festivals, a parade and the annual Pink Tie Party fundraiser. If you want to see the cherry blossoms without the fuss of events, walk the Washington Mall or take a bike tour. Other tips for visiting the Cherry Blossom Festival include exploring the Dumbarton Oaks Gardens for great pictures and skipping the crowds on the Hains Point Loop Trail.
However you choose to celebrate the cherry blossoms, never pick one, no matter how beautiful. Doing so is against the law!
Hours: Open 24 hours every day of the year.
Reservations: No reservations needed.
Nearest Metro Station: Foggy Bottom/George Washington University
Known as America’s River, the Potomac River flows through Washington, D.C., and connects some of the city’s most popular areas. You can walk along the Mount Vernon Trail or explore the river from the East and West Potomac Parks. It’s one of the best places to see the cherry blossoms in the spring.
If you prefer, you can pay to take a sightseeing cruise or boat tour to see Washington, D.C., from the water.
Hours: Open 24 hours, although hours for businesses vary.
Reservations: No reservations are required, but individual restaurants and attractions may require them.
Nearest Metro Station: Foggy Bottom-GWU, Rosslyn
The Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C., is home to Georgetown University, a wide range of shops, trendy restaurants and beautiful waterfront views.
You can explore the area on foot independently or join a walking tour. Be sure to stop by the C&O Canal and the Georgetown campus. Tour one of the historic homes or relax at Georgetown Waterfront Park. In the evening, check out the area’s bustling nightlife, which is a popular thing to do in Washington, D.C. at night.
Hours: The station is open daily from 5 a.m. to midnight to the public and open 24 hours to passengers with tickets. Individual shops and restaurants have their own hours.
Reservations: No tickets or reservations to explore the building.
Nearest Metro Station: Union Station
Union Station opened in 1907 and has been a working train station since it opened (other than a brief closure for restoration). It also has multiple shops and dining options for travelers and tourists alike.
The station is older than many of its surrounding landmarks. It’s been restored several times, and its neoclassical architecture will delight any architecture fan. Whether you see it while catching a train or stopping between landmark tours, don’t miss the beautiful arched ceiling in the main waiting area.
Hours: You can explore the neighborhood 24 hours, but shops, restaurants and attractions have their own hours.
Reservations: Specific venues within the neighborhood may require them, so check their websites.
Nearest Metro Station: Gallery Place Station
Cross under the Friendship Arch and enter the bustling Chinatown, Washington D.C. This historic area was once home to thousands of Chinese immigrants, and while most of the population is no longer Chinese, the cultural influences remain.
Now a sports and entertainment area, the area is home to many family-owned Chinese and Asian restaurants. (Be sure to try some authentic dim sum!) You’ll also find a Chinese video store and several Chinese grocery stores. If you’re tired of walking, catch a ride on a pedicab.
If you’re in town for Chinese New Year, you can’t miss the Lunar New Year Paragraph, which features dragon dances and other elements of Chinese culture. Throughout the year, you can also participate in activities and classes at the Chinatown Community Cultural Center.
Hours: You can access the cemetery morning to evening, but some areas may be restricted due to special events.
Reservations: No reservations necessary.
Nearest Metro Station: Arlington National Cemetery
The final resting place for more than 400,000 military servicemembers, Arlington National Cemetery covers 624 acres. Start your visit at the Welcome Center to look at maps and exhibits before you explore the cemetery grounds. You can explore on your own, join an independent walking tour or take a 45-minute tram tour.
In the cemetery, visit the John F. Kennedy Eternal Flame at his gravesite or explore the monuments and memorials around the cemetery honoring specific battles, wars or groups of people.
Do not miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This powerful moment occurs every hour on the hour from October through March and every half hour from April through September.
Note: Photography is allowed in the Arlington National Cemetery as long as you are not taking photos of any funerals in progress or mourners.
Hours: Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, with the last entry 30 minutes before closing
Reservations: You can access most parts of the Library of Congress for free, but you’ll need timed-entry tickets. Some events and exhibits may cost money to enter.
Nearest Metro Station: Capitol South
The Library of Congress was founded in 1800 and consists of three buildings in the Capitol Hill area of DC. As the official library and research center for the U.S. Congress, it has more than 170 million items in its collections.
The Thomas Jefferson Building is considered the main library building. There you can explore John White Alexander’s murals in the six lunettes that illustrate The Evolution of the Book and wonder at the beauty of the statues in the Main Reading Room.
The James Madison Memorial is home to the United States Copyright Office, the Motion Picture and Television Reading Room and the Mark Pickford Theater, where you can catch free screenings of movies and TV shows.
Don’t miss the third Library of Congress building, the John Adams Memorial Building. Highlights include Ezra Winter’s Chaucer Murals in the North Reading Room, the Jefferson Murals in the South Reading Room, and the sculptures depicting the history of the written word on the bronze west and east entrance doors.
There’s so much to do in Washington, D.C., that planning a trip can feel overwhelming. Consult a AAA travel agent or our Washington, D.C., Travel Guide for more information. Use our Trip Canvas tool to build and book your trip from your couch, and don’t forget to use your AAA Membership for exclusive travel savings.
Exclusive Deals for AAA Members
Unlock Member-Only Ticket Savings
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!