Washington, D.C.: Map of the U.S. Capitol Building
The U.S. Capitol Building stands as a significant monument, office building, and a global symbol of democracy. Located in Washington, D.C., it is the home of the United States Congress and the focal point of U.S. government activity. This map highlights the Capitol Building’s location, along with the Capitol Visitor Center and the West Lawn.
Positioned at the east end of the National Mall, the U.S. Capitol is at the intersection of East Capitol Street NE and First Street SE. The Senate office buildings are located to the north of the Capitol, while the House office buildings are situated to the south.
The Capitol grounds are open for visitors year-round, with free annual concerts held on the West Lawn on major holidays such as Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day. The nearest access to the West Lawn is from Northwest Drive.
Visitor Information and Hours
The main entrance to the Capitol Visitor Center is located underground on the building’s east side. The Visitor Center operates from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday, though it remains closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Inauguration Day.
Maps, Directions, and Transportation to the U.S. Capitol Building
The U.S. Capitol Building is surrounded by Constitution Avenue NE to the north, Independence Avenue SE to the south, and First Streets to the east and west. To reach the Capitol, several transportation options are available:
- By Car:
- From the George Washington Memorial Parkway, take I-395 North toward C Street NW and exit at First Street NW.
- From the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, head to I-695, exit at C Street NW, and proceed to First Street NW.
- Parking near the Capitol is limited, but Union Station, located at 50 Massachusetts Ave. NE, offers over 2,000 public parking spaces. For additional parking options near the National Mall, refer to local guides.
- By Metro:
- The closest Metro stations are Union Station, Capitol South, and Federal Center SW. The Washington Metrorail provides easy access to these stations.
- By Bus:
- The DC Circulator Bus offers convenient access. Take the Union Station-Navy Yard route and disembark at Independence Avenue SE.
- By Bicycle:
- Capital Bikeshare offers bike rentals at several stations around D.C., including one at 400 East Capitol St. NE, which is close to the Capitol.
Area Surrounding the U.S. Capitol Building
The map of the area surrounding the Capitol shows key locations, including nearby Metro stations: Capitol South, Federal Center SW, and Union Station. Within walking distance are some of Washington, D.C.’s most popular attractions:
- West of the Capitol: The National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, and National Memorials.
- East of the Capitol: The Supreme Court and the Library of Congress.
Important Notes for Visitors
- Capitol Hill: This neighborhood, located near the Capitol, offers a variety of restaurants, parks, and other attractions. It is a wonderful area to explore while visiting the U.S. Capitol.
Whether you’re visiting for a tour, attending a special event, or simply exploring the rich history of Washington, D.C., the U.S. Capitol Building and its surrounding area offer a wealth of experiences.