Welcome to our nation’s capital! My office is happy to assist you in making your time in DC memorable. Check out the information below to learn about how you can enjoy access to these treasured pieces of American history.
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 would like to schedule a tour, please fill out the tour request form above. If you have any questions, 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. Public White House tour requests must be submitted a minimum of 21 days in advance and no more than 90 days in advance of the requested tour date(s). Reservations cannot be accepted for tour dates outside this 21 – 90-day window. Public tours are typically available from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, excluding Federal holidays or unless otherwise noted. If your tour is confirmed, please note that you will be assigned a specific time. All White House tours are free of charge. The White House tour schedule is subject to change with little notice based on inclement weather or official use. If you would like to schedule a tour, please fill out the tour request form above. If you have any questions please email: tours@cortezmasto.senate.gov or call (202) 224-3542.
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, these locations require passes or tickets for entry:
Admission is free of charge at all DC locations. Most museums are open every day of the year except December 25. Visit Hours and Locations for details and updates.
These locations require passes or tickets for entry: African American History and Culture Museum (free) | FAQ, Air and Space Museum in D.C. (free) | FAQ and the National Zoo (free) | FAQ. All other locations do not require passes or tickets for entry. 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 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. Seating for the oral argument sessions will be provided to the public, members of the Supreme Court Bar, and press. The Supreme Court Building will otherwise be closed to the public on days when the Court is in session.
On days when the Court is not in session, the building will be open to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., excluding weekends and federal holidays. Courtroom lectures are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Please refer to the 30-day rolling calendar for available lectures. Visitors may view ground floor exhibits and portions of the first floor on a self-guided basis. The cafeteria and gift shop are open to the public. If you need assistance scheduling a tour please email: tours@cortezmasto.senate.gov or call (202) 224-3542.
The FBI Experience
Visitors to The FBI Experience will learn how the Bureau operates in the field, at Headquarters, and within communities across the country. They will also gain a rare look inside the organization’s investigative divisions, laboratory resources, professional occupations, and more. The rich experience tells the story of the FBI’s internal operations and history, as well as how its cooperation with local, state, federal, and international partners helps further its unique role in national security and law enforcement. If you would like to sign up for this tour, please email our office at tours@cortezmasto.senate.gov or call us at 202-224-3542.
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. If you would like to visit the Library please reserve free timed entry passes online before your visit to the Library. Timed-entry passes are available up to 30 days in advance. A limited number of same-day passes will be available online each open day at 9 a.m. ET.
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. Admission to the U.S. Botanic Garden is free. No tickets are required. For more information please visit their website.
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.