Time to Tour
Since the weather is beginning to warm up, DC will soon be flooded more than ever with tourists. Here is the skinny on the more popular tourists attractions in Washington and the low-down on how to make sure that you are able to get tickets.
1) U.S. Capitol: You can get a tour from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Free tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Capitol Guide Service Kiosk near First Street SW and Independence Avenue. If you get there early, this is your best bet to get tickets. The tour of the Capitol is really nice. You get to see where our laws are made and get to hear neat historical facts and stories.
2) The Supreme Court: The Court is in session the first Monday in October through late April. During this time, visitors can listen to the oral arguments and the 30 minute Q&A between the attorneys and the justices. If you only want a quick peek of the justices, you can get that as well. Tours are only given when the Court is not in session. Tours begin on the half-hour from 9:30 to 3:30 p.m. You don't need to make advance reservations.
3) White House: In order to get a self-guided tour of the White House's formal rooms, you need to be part of a group of 10 or more and request the tour through your member of Congress. The tours are only given between 7:30 a.m. through 12:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. You can submit a request up to six months in advance. The tour is free. If you request a tour in advance, you will learn the specific time and date of your tour one month in advance. It's been years since I have been on a tour of the White House, but I can say this--don't be surprised when you don't see much of the White House. Most of the White House is closed for visitors.
Happy Touring!