The Capitol Building — Local services in Washington

Went back today for the first time since 1995. First of all, they have added a massive new underground visitor center. There were so many people there, I can't imagine how they ever did these tours without the new center. No problems there.

However, the experience is sadly degraded. First of all, the terrorists have won. We can no longer function as citizens in our own house. If you enter through the Library of Congress tunnel and progress to visiting one of the visitors' galleries, you will go through no fewer than 4 security checkpoints, three of which will check all the same things. Also, the guards checking your stuff will get progressively ruder and less concerned with you as a person, the closer you get to the galleries.

My recommendation is get a tour from your representative, but SKIP THE GALLERIES where you will get treated like animals for the "privilege" of sitting in a balcony for 4 minutes before being herded out. Also, try to come in the dead of winter. By March 13, you will not even be shown the old Supreme Court chamber, because of the massive crowds of people they are...

A Powerful and Inspiring Experience Visiting the U.S. Capitol Building was truly one of the highlights of my trip to Washington, D.C. There’s something awe-inspiring about walking through the halls where so much of our country’s history has been made — and is still being made today. The architecture is stunning, and every room feels full of meaning. From the Rotunda to the National Statuary Hall, you can feel the weight of history and the importance of the decisions that have happened there. What I appreciated most was how accessible and welcoming the Capitol felt. The tour was informative and well-paced, and I loved that we were able to get close to so many parts of the building — it didn’t feel like you were just looking from a distance. It really gave the sense that this is The People’s House. If you’re heading to D.C., don’t miss this stop. It’s educational, powerful, and honestly kind of emotional — especially if you care about our country...

Oh my goodness. Whilst the Capital tour was great. Please ensure you have the inauguration lunch!!!! 4 course for $25. We happened to have 2009 menu… quail stuffed with wild rice in a demi glace, grilled vegetables Brussel Sprouts, heirloom carrots, wax beans and an apple spice cake in fondant and a quenelle shaped panacotta. Amazing! You could just go for lunch. The head chef and Istevan put on an excellent diverse menu in addition to the...