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Washington DC: National Archives and US Capitol Guided Tour

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$53.00 /person
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About the activity

Enjoy a skip-the-line guided tour of the National Archives and the US Capitol. Explore the exhibits which house some of the most important artifacts and documents in United States' history.

  • Free cancellation
    Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
  • Instant confirmation & Mobile tickets
    Receive your ticket right away. Use your phone or print your voucher.
  • Skip the line
    Get priority entry.
  • Live guiding
    English
  • Duration
    225 minutes
  • Includes
    • Pre-reserved National Archives entry ticket
    • National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
    • Pre-reserved US Capitol entry ticket
    • Local guide
    • Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off
    • Gratuities
Highlights & Description

Highlights

  • Uncover the story of the founding of the United States
  • See the original Declaration of Independence
  • Discover the home of democracy at the US Capitol
  • Tour the National Archives with an expert guide
  • See an original copy of the Magna Carta

Description

Experience the full story of US democracy from the Founding Fathers to the present day. Start your day at the steps to the National Archives, where you’ll meet your expert guide and get VIP-style entry to the building as the very first visitors of the day.

The number-one thing visitors to the National Archives want to see are the Charters of Freedom: The Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. That’s why you’ll go directly to the Rotunda where these documents are kept. Seeing them with your own eyes is a real treat, and your guide will be on hand to provide extra information to make this experience even more meaningful. Many visitors barely glance up to the murals above while they’re here, but your guide will tell you exactly why you shouldn’t overlook them!

You’ll step into the vaults for your last stop in the National Archives to see an original copy of the 1297 Magna Carta. Revered for providing the inspiration for the American Revolution, learn about its history and the last-minute auction bid that secured its place here!

Step outside the archives and take in the beauty of the Sculpture Garden at the National Gallery of Art. Your guide will show you the most interesting pieces as you pass through this scenic walkway. After you exit, you’ll pass through the National Mall where your guide will point out some of Washington DC’s most important buildings, including the Smithsonian Castle, Hirshhorn Museum and the National Air and Space Museum.

Making your way to the US Capitol next, you’ll have time to admire the stately reflecting pool and get a photo op of the building's most iconic view. Once again, entry is pre-reserved so you can step in without any delay. A historic monument, a working office building, and one of the most iconic symbols of democracy worldwide, you’ll discover all of these sides to the US Capitol on your visit. See the original House of Representatives, tour the crypt, and hear fascinating insights you won’t get elsewhere. You’ll come away with a greater understanding of the continued significance of this building and its place in history.

Good to know before you go
  • - This tour is in English.
  • - Sites on this tour are subject to occasional closures. If modifications are needed and time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour.
  • - This is a walking tour with large hills. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
  • - For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.
  • - On rare occasions we may not be able to get Capitol Visitor Center tickets. Instead we will visit the Library of Congress or the Supreme Court.
  • - Walks / Devour complies with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up-to-date information.
  • - Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the cancellation policy for this activity?
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
2. When will I receive the confirmation of my booking?
You will receive an email notification right after your successful payment. If you don't see it in your inbox, check your spam or junk mail folder. When the payment is completed you have the option to download your ticket directly.
3. What does the 'skip the line' ticket mean?
'Skip the line' tickets provide the fastest possible entry with no or very little queuing.
4. Are mobile tickets enough or do I have to print them?
Tickets don't need to be printed. You can show your ticket from your smartphone as a PDF.
  • Adults
    15-99 years
  • Children
    2-14 years
  • Infants
    0-1 years
May 2025
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