Visiting DC
Welcome to our nation’s capital! As we continue to heal as a nation from the pandemic, many of the tourist destinations we have come to know and love are available for virtual tours and online learning. Check out the information below to learn about how you can still enjoy digital access to these treasured pieces of American history.
The Smithsonian Institution Museums
The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum and research complex. It includes 19 museums and the National Zoological Park. Celebrations, lectures, performances, gallery talks, and films are offered throughout most Smithsonian museums. At this time, museum reopenings and visitation requirements vary; please see si.edu/visit for more details. Students, educators, and Nevadans of all ages can also visit the Smithsonian's Nevada page – a gateway for accessing and bringing home many of the resources of this world-class institution.
The U.S. Capitol
The U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives convene in the United States Capitol, a longstanding symbol of our democracy. Digital tours of the U.S. Capitol are available here. If you have any questions about the status of Capitol tours and when they will be open to the public; please email: tours@cortezmasto.senate.gov or call (202) 224-3542.
The White House
The White House has been the President’s official residence since 1800. Tours of the White House have been put on a temporary hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic and will be available as soon as deemed safe. Please visit whitehouse.gov for further details and updates.
The Supreme Court
The Supreme Court, which houses our nation's highest court, inspires visitors with the words: "Equal Justice Under Law" inscribed above its main entrance. At this time, the Supreme Court is closed out of concern for the health and safety of the public. Visit supremecourt.gov for further details about when tours will resume.
Library of Congress
The Library of Congress boasts a collection of more than 162 million items. Learn how the largest library in the world functions as an agency of the legislative branch of the U.S. Federal government by visiting loc.gov for a wide range of digital resources.
U.S. Botanic Garden
The U.S. Botanic Garden is a living plant museum established by the U.S. Congress in 1820. Lectures, workshops, children and family programs, and musical events are available through registration on the Botanic Garden website. Self-guided virtual tours, updates and other digital resources are available at usbg.gov.
The National Mall
The National Mall is flanked by the U.S. Capitol to its East, the Potomac River to its West, and the White House to its North. A visit to Washington isn't complete without seeing the Mall and its memorials honoring our country's rich, diverse history and influential leaders. The National Mall and Memorial Parks are open with some modifications and offer various programs and activities that can be found here.
Additional Resources for your visit:
The U.S. Senate Guide to Visiting DC - https://www.senate.gov/visiting/visitingdc.htm
Washington DC Visitor Resources - https://dc.gov/page/visitors-resource-center
