Library of Congress 📚 | Walking Tour of Washington D.C. in a Day

Audio Guide Washington D.C. | Walking Tour of Washington D.C. in a Day

Library of Congress 📚

Hey, bookworms and history buffs! Ready to dive into one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring buildings in Washington, D.C.? The Library of Congress is not only the largest library in the world but also a treasure trove of history, art, and knowledge. Whether you’re admiring the architecture or checking out rare manuscripts, this is a must-see spot in D.C. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit, with some insider tips and hidden gems to explore along the way!

(1) Google Maps Link:

📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/iVvuE7NcjkT3b1cC9

(2) Nearest Subway Station: 🚇

The closest Metro stop is Capitol South Station (Blue, Orange, Silver lines), just a 5-minute walk to the Library of Congress. You can also use Union Station (Red line), which is about a 10-minute walk.

(3) Good Places to Eat, Drink, or Grab Coffee Nearby:

After soaking in all that history and knowledge, you’ll need to refuel! Here are some great nearby spots:

• We, The Pizza 🍕 (8 minutes away): You can’t go wrong with their delicious pizzas and refreshing homemade sodas—perfect for a quick and casual bite.
• Good Stuff Eatery 🍔 (8 minutes away): Known for its burgers and shakes, this D.C. staple is ideal for grabbing a filling meal before or after your library visit.
• Tortilla Coast 🌮 (6 minutes away): Craving some Mexican food? Tortilla Coast has great tacos and margaritas in a cozy setting.
• Café Berlin 🥨 (10 minutes away): Looking for something a little different? This German-inspired café is perfect for a sit-down meal, offering hearty fare like schnitzel and pretzels.
• Ebenezers Coffeehouse ☕ (12 minutes away): A cozy coffee shop near Union Station, perfect for grabbing a good coffee before heading into your library adventure.

(4) Best Photo Spots 📸

The Library of Congress is absolutely stunning, inside and out. Here are the best spots to snap some jaw-dropping photos:

• The Great Hall: Once inside the Thomas Jefferson Building, head to the Great Hall. The vaulted ceilings, marble columns, and intricate mosaics make this the perfect spot for photos.
• The Main Reading Room: One of the most iconic spots in the Library. You can view this beautiful, circular room from above in the Visitors’ Gallery. No photos are allowed inside, but you can snap a picture from the gallery window!
• The Exterior of the Jefferson Building: The outside of the Thomas Jefferson Building is a masterpiece, especially with its grand staircase. Great for wide-angle shots of the entire building!
• The Gutenberg Bible Display: Inside the Great Hall, don’t miss the display of the Gutenberg Bible. It’s one of only a few complete copies in the world, and the display case is beautifully lit for photos.
• The Court of Neptune Fountain: Located right outside the Jefferson Building, this dramatic fountain makes for a fantastic photo backdrop with the Library’s beautiful architecture in the background.

(5) Opening Times: 🕒

The Library of Congress is open Monday through Saturday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and is closed on Sundays and federal holidays. Admission is free, and you don’t need a ticket to explore the public areas!

(6) Additional Insider Tips: 💡

• Get a Reader's Card: If you want to access the Reading Rooms, you’ll need a Reader Identification Card. It’s free and available to anyone 16 or older. You can register online and pick it up at the library!
• Take a Free Tour: The Library offers free guided tours, which provide excellent insight into the history and architecture of the building. Tours last about 45 minutes and start at the Information Desk in the Jefferson Building's Great Hall.
• Don’t Miss the Exhibits: The Library regularly hosts fascinating exhibits. Popular ones include the Thomas Jefferson Library (a reconstruction of Jefferson’s personal library) and the American Treasures exhibit, which displays rare and historic documents.
• Visit the Madison Building: While most visitors focus on the Jefferson Building, the James Madison Memorial Building is also worth a visit for its modern architecture and additional exhibits.

(7) Hidden Gem 💎

The Whittall Pavilion: This small room is tucked away on the second floor of the Jefferson Building and often overlooked by visitors. It houses a collection of rare Stradivarius violins and other historic instruments. It’s a quiet, peaceful spot to take a break and admire these priceless works of art!

(8) Public Bathrooms Nearby 🚻

• Library of Congress (Jefferson Building): There are clean, accessible restrooms on every level of the Jefferson Building, with the most convenient ones located near the Great Hall.
• Capitol Visitor Center: Just across the street, the Capitol Visitor Center also has excellent public restrooms if you’re exploring both sites in one day.
• Union Station: If you’re heading back towards Union Station, this is another convenient place to stop for a restroom break.