Discover the story of the United States on this skip-the-line tour of the National Archives and US Capitol.
Skip the Line National Archives and US Capitol Tour
Summary 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
Combine your visit to two of the most important sites in Washington and discover the fascinating history of the birth of the US on this tour of the National Archives and US Capitol. Instead of worrying about securing tickets and timeslots, get pre-reserved entry to both sites. See some of the most important documents in existence alongside an expert guide bringing the records, places, and iconic buildings before you to life.
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.
Included / Excluded
- Pre-reserved National Archives entry ticket
- National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
- Pre-reserved US Capitol entry ticket
- Small group of 10 guests maximum
- Local English-speaking guide
- Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off
- Gratuities
Start / End Locations
Start Location: 701 Constitution Avenue Northwest, 701 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, US
Start Location Notes: Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. This tour meets at 701 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20408- Outside the Front Steps of the National Archives.
Start Location Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6DJpPJczpATetQnv8
Important Information
Know Before You Book
- 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.
- All guests must pass through security to enter the National Archives and US Capitol.
- Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time for check-in. Out of courtesy to other guests, we’re unable to wait for latecomers. No refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.
- This is a walking tour with large hills. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
- 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.
- We encourage appropriate footwear for uneven surfaces.
- Bags and backpacks. Only one bag is allowed per person; bags cannot be larger than 17 × 26 inches (43 × 66 centimeters) in size.
- Photography and videography are prohibited in the National Archives Museum. Cameras are permitted but should be put away in pockets, bags, or backpacks before entering exhibit areas.
- 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.
- For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.
- Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
Cancellation
Cancellation Cutoff: 24 hours
Cancellation Notes: Cancellations received greater than 24 hours prior to tour commencement are fully refundable. Cancellations received within 24 hours of tour commencement are nonrefundable. Amendment requests are subject to availability and price changes. Late arrivals and no shows are nonrefundable. This is applicable to any tour participant that fails to arrive, or arrives after tour departure.
Options and Pricing
Seasonal pricing for Skip the Line National Archives and US Capitol Tour valid from Mar 1st until Mar 14th & from Apr 22nd until Jul 31st & from Oct 1st until Oct 31st 2025
| Seasonal pricing for Skip the Line National Archives and US Capitol Tour valid from Mar 1st until Mar 14th & from Apr 22nd until Jul 31st & from Oct 1st until Oct 31st 2025 | RETAIL PRICE |
|---|---|
| Adult (15 - 99 years) | $59.00 |
| Child (2 - 14 years) | $49.00 |
Points of interest
Terms and Conditions
Before you travel, please read the "Know Before You Go" section for essential information, requirements, and possible disruptions regarding your tour.
Additional Information
Before you travel, please read the "Know Before You Go" section for essential information, requirements, and possible disruptions regarding your tour.
About operator:
Walks (takewalks.com, walksofitaly.com) began over a decade ago (2008, to be exact) in Rome, Italy. We quickly became the premier walking tour company in 7 countries - Italy, Spain, France, the UK, Greece, and Portugal. Our US cities include San Francisco, NYC, Boston, Chicago, and New Orleans.
In 2021, we joined The Hornblower Group (cityexperiences.com) expanding our reach and working alongside this powerhouse travel brand.
Our tour products vary but predominantly we #takewalks, exploring the world by foot - we believe, the best way to get into the heart of a city and its incredible people. From introductory strolls to food tours, day trips, cooking classes, and below the surface, in-depth tours, we have our hand in everything a traveler could want. Oh, and we also like to give our clients exclusive access to the biggest attractions in the world...
Despite the big changes in our brand over the years, our focus has remained simple - to relentlessly create tours with the client experience at the forefront and anchored upon the dedicated, intelligent, and above all, passionate local guides who want to share their cities with you.
Our tour products vary but predominantly we #takewalks, exploring the world by foot - we believe, the best way to get into the heart of a city and its incredible people. From introductory strolls to food tours, day trips, cooking classes, and below the surface, in-depth tours, we have our hand in everything a traveler could want. Oh, and we also like to give our clients exclusive access to the biggest attractions in the world...
Despite the big changes in our brand over the years, our focus has remained simple - to relentlessly create tours with the client experience at the forefront and anchored upon the dedicated, intelligent, and above all, passionate local guides who want to share their cities with you.
Basic Information
- Duration: 225 minutes
- Trip difficulty: Easy
- Max Group Size: 10
- Category: Tours & Sightseeing
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