US Capitol, Library of Congress, Supreme Court and tunnels..
Hi all,
Thank you so much for your amazing help so far.
My window to book a tour of the US Capitol opens up soon (for October). My original plan was:
Tour of Capitol (get tickets for 9:00 AM) - plan for 90 minutes.
11:00- Visit Supreme Court, plan 90 minutes.
12:30 - Tune Inn restaurant
2 PM - Library of Congress timed-entry ticket, plan for 90 minutes.
I have now read that there is a tunnel between the US Capitol and the Library of Congress that would save additional security lines. I can't see if they are still opened since COVID. Are they?
If so, should I do: US Capitol, Library of Congress, Lunch, Supreme Court? The Supreme Court closes at 3 PM, so timing might be tight, but alternatively, I could save some time to the Library and getting to lunch earlier.
What would you suggest?
Thank you,
Isabelle
Isabelle, your itinerary is quite doable, but there are a few nuances to consider regarding the US Capitol, Library of Congress, Supreme Court, and the connecting tunnels.
Regarding the tunnel between the US Capitol and the Library of Congress: as of recent updates post-COVID, the underground passage (used primarily by staff and for secure transport) is generally not open to public visitors. Tours typically require exiting the Capitol and going through the Library’s own security checkpoint. Therefore, you should plan for separate security screening at both locations.
Given that, here’s a suggested itinerary based on your goals:
- Option 1: Original plan
- 9:00 AM - US Capitol tour (approx. 90 minutes)
- 11:00 AM - Supreme Court (90 minutes; includes any short exhibits or courtroom view if available)
- 12:30 PM - Lunch at Tune Inn
- 2:00 PM - Library of Congress timed-entry ticket (90 minutes)
- Option 2: Swap Library and Supreme Court Suggested if you want to minimize walking and security lines, and potentially get lunch earlier:
- 9:00 AM - US Capitol tour (90 minutes)
- 10:45 AM - Library of Congress (90 minutes; gives you time to walk through the tunnel corridor foyer area, if any public access exists, but still go through Library security)
- 12:30 PM - Lunch at Tune Inn
- 1:30 PM - Supreme Court visit (tight but doable; Supreme Court closes at 3 PM, so plan a focused visit)
Additional tips for timing:
- Capitol tours can run slightly longer, depending on group size; allow buffer time before your next stop.
- The Supreme Court is quick to visit if you mainly view the courtroom and exhibits, but plan for any lines for guided explanations.
- Library of Congress is extensive; if your timed ticket is fixed, you might have to skip some sections to stay on schedule.
- Lunch can be flexible; Tune Inn is close to the Capitol and Library, so you could adjust based on your pace.
Overall, Option 2 may save time and reduce walking, but if your primary focus is seeing the Supreme Court before it closes, ensure you leave the Library with enough buffer. Regardless, plan extra 10–15 minutes for walking between buildings and passing through security lines.
In summary, the tunnel is not available for public transit between the Capitol and Library. Scheduling either option works, but consider the Supreme Court’s closing time and personal pace when deciding the order.
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