Library of Congress

About Library of Congress

Get the inside scoop on Library of Congress from local experts, travel creators, and tastemakers. Browse genuine trip notes, Library of Congress reviews, photos, travel guides, and itineraries from real travelers and plan your trip with confidence.

What people say

"The Library of Congress claims to be the largest library in the world. To get your bearings you can take a free one-hour walking tour of the historic building. This is one of the best ways to learn about the buildings history, art, and architecture. The library also has several permanent exhibits including their exhibit on the Gutenberg Bible. The rotating collections are also particularly interesting! To visit the Main Reading Room floor, you can visit every Tuesday - Friday 10: 30am - 11:30am and 2:00pm - 3:00pm. Visits are also welcome to view the space on Thursday evening from 5:00pm - 7:00pm. "
Read more in:
"This under-the-radar spot offers a self-guided tour with gallery that holds the Gutenberg Bible, the beautiful Great Hall, and access to the Main Reading Room Overlook. Free timed-entry passes required. Tip: You can walk onto the floor of the grand Main Reading Room. Usually reserved for credentialed researchers, this special access offers visitors a glimpse inside one of Washington’s most beautiful spaces. For more info visit - https://www.loc.gov/visit/"
"Once you're through security, find the signs for the audio tour, put in your earbuds, and enjoy your time in the Library! Highlights include a complete vellum copy of the Gutenberg Bible and mosaiced quotes form famous scholars, authors, scientists, and more."

Mentioned in these guides

Come with us for a whirl-wind trip to the capital city! This trip is planned for a Friday-Sunday weekend but could be adjusted to any 3 day travel window. DC is a great weekend destination because most activities are centrally located, and a majority of the museums and monuments included in this itinerary are completely free! Additionally, this trip is a great example of what you could expect if you book my "Premium Itinerary" travel services. 🧳Trip summary Day 1 - Travel & settle in Day 2 - Memorials & Government Day 3 - Museum highlights Why this guide? 📒 Hyper-detailed itinerary. This isn't your basic list of suggested activities & restaurants. Your days will be covered down to the minute, including time allotted for travel between activities and recommended transportation options. 🎟️ Advance ticket purchase recommendations. Avoid the lines - and disappointment - by booking tickets ahead of time. You'll be guaranteed entrance and will enjoy walking straight in, past any lines for ticket purchases. Special call outs for combo tickets to bundle and save will also be included where available! 🧾 Location-specific packing list. This won't be a comprehensive list (surely you've remembered your socks), but it will cover some key items to toss in your bag for a truly great experience at your destination. 🏆 Honorable mentions. Unless you booked a one way ticket (jealous!), you've only got a limited time to explore. The suggested itinerary includes my opinions of the best choices for first time visitors with general interest. Feel free to swap those out with any of the honorable mentions. ✨ And finally... If you are looking for a more tailored experience with a unique twist based on your interests, travel dates, and more, a custom itinerary may be best. I look forward to helping bring your vacation vision to life!
Backpacker • Car-free • Couples • Family • Groups • Female Solo • Adventure • Architecture • Art • Budget • History • Outdoors • People & Culture
Free
8