While many summer travelers begin to make vacation plans, a number of historic sites in Washington D.C. are soon reopening.
“After years of shutdowns, Washington, D.C. is finally opening back up to the public,” Congressman Bob Latta said.
He provided the following information on visiting a number of national landmarks.
Capitol Tours
The U.S. Capitol has reopened for tours, although tours are currently limited.
“As more announcements are made, I will be updating my website with information,” he said.
The congressman noted that tours must be requested three weeks in advance.
To schedule a tour, contact Mr. Latta’s office at 202-225- 6405 for assistance.
The reopening of the Capitol is happening in two phases:
Phase one started March 28, during which staff and Congress members may lead tours of the Rotunda, Statuary Hall and the Crypt within the Capitol.
Tours may have a maximum number of 15 guests per tour.
School groups can request tours through Rep. Latta’s office, but they will be led by official Capitol visitors center staffers with a maximum of 50 guests per tour.
Phase two is anticipated to start May 30, and will include the reopening of the Capitol visitors center and Capitol Dome tours, according to the congressman.
To request a tour, see the website latta.house.gov/ forms/tourrequest/.
“I look forward to having you join my staff and me during your next visit to Washington D.C.,” he added.
White House Tours
As of April 15, members of the public may tour the White House, after being closed since March 12, 2020.
The White House is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., subject to availability and excluding federal holidays.
“To facilitate your request, please reach out to my office at least three months in advance of your visit date,” Congressman Latta said. “White House tours are reserved on a first-come first-served basis.
White House tours are currently booked through July 9.
They are facilitated through Congressional offices, but White House staff determines the availability of all tours.
To request a White House tour visit latta.house.gov/ forms/tourrequest/ or call Mr. Latta’s Washington D.C. office at 202-225-6405.
Other Tours
Although many tour opportunities throughout Washington are currently unavailable due to COVID-19 restrictions, the congressman provided the following exceptions:
•The Library of Congress welcomes visitors. They are still taking precautions, a timed entry ticket must be reserved via their website loc.gov/visit, and social distancing guidelines must be followed within the library.
•The National Archives is open to visitors from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Reservations are not required and admission is free to the public. More information can be found at museum.archives.gov.
