The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center jurisdiction manages the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) visitor programs, exhibits and use of meeting spaces.

The underground facility serves as the main visitor entrance to the U.S. Capitol and includes Exhibition Hall where permanent and rotating exhibits focus on the history of the legislative branch, the legislative process and the architecture and art of the U.S. Capitol. The CVC also houses a restaurant, two orientation theaters, a large auditorium, two on-site gift shops and an online gift shop. Since its opening in 2008, more than 29 million people have visited the CVC. The Chief Executive Officer for Visitor Services oversees the CVC. This position reports administratively to the Architect of the Capitol but operates under the Chief of Operations.

Contact the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center at 202.226.8000, book a tour online or go to visitthecapitol.gov.

Our Stories

U.S. Capitol Visitor Center Work

Congressional Cemetery in Washington, D.C.
History & Discoveries

Honoring the U.S. Capitol Guides Buried in Congressional Cemetery

Several of the men who first led tours through the U.S. Capitol are buried in Congressional Cemetery. In December 2019, a group from the Capitol Visitor Center Social Committee gathered at the cemetery to place markers on the graves of these guides and learn more about their lives.
The Capitol Materials Cart being shown to visitors in Emancipation Hall.
Programs & Events

Cool Tools: Capitol Materials Cart

The new U.S. Capitol Materials Cart Program showcases a variety of AOC trades, including masonry, sheet metal, paint and wood-crafting.
View of the U.S. Capitol from the southwest in March of 2017.
History & Discoveries

Congress' Role in Time

On March 10, 2018, the Capitol Visitor Center hosted a teacher workshop to think about these issues and learn about Congress' role in time.

A talented employee of an Architect of the Capitol sheet metal shop.

Expertise

Skillful Craftmanship

We serve in diverse roles applying both modern techniques and historical tradecrafts in the care and preservation of the Capitol campus.

Areas of Expertise