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United States/Things to Do in Washington, D.C., couple trip

Library of Congress (couple trip)

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How Couple-Friendly is Library of Congress?

90%Couple-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 90% Couple-Friendly: Couples can enjoy docent tours, grand architecture, and Thursday evening concerts with on-site drinks, yet must reserve timed-entry together to avoid separate slots.

Google
Reviews4.8/ 5
(from 3,314 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free Admission: No ticket fee for all tours and exhibitions.
  • Rich Architecture: Ornate marble halls and mosaics offer a grand backdrop for photos.
  • Quiet Corners: Lesser-known galleries let you explore collections side by side at your own pace.

Challenges:

  • Security Screening: Allow extra time for bag checks and metal detectors at the entrance.
  • Peak Crowds: Midday tours and weekends fill quickly; early slots feel less crowded.
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🏖️ Explore Library of Congress with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Library of Congress. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Library of Congress?

  • A federal research library established in 1800 as the nation’s first library and serving as the research arm of the United States Congress
  • Home to more than 170 million items, encompassing books, manuscripts, photographs, maps, recordings, and digital materials from around the globe
  • Ensemble of Beaux-Arts, Neoclassical, and modern buildings on Capitol Hill, anchored by the ornate Thomas Jefferson Building

What is so special about Library of Congress for couple trip?

  1. Enjoy a free expert-led tour of the ornate Jefferson Building
  2. Explore rare collections with a self-guided audio path
  3. Experience the iconic Main Reading Room on a timed walkthrough
  4. Attend Thursday evening talks and live music for a special date experience
  5. Capture stunning shots of marble halls and mosaics together

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: This gives time for a guided tour, special exhibitions, and the Main Reading Room walkthrough without rushing.

(View Library of Congress on Map)

Couple-Friendly Activities in Library of Congress

Docent-Led Guided Tour:

Join the free one-hour, docent-led tour of the Thomas Jefferson Building.

Tip: Arrive 20 minutes before tour time at the Ground Floor Information Desk to secure your spot.

Self-Guided Audio Tour:

Use the free nine-chapter audio guide on your smartphone to explore key highlights.

Tip: Download audio tracks from the Library website before you arrive to avoid connectivity delays.

Main Reading Room Walkthrough:

Pick up free timed tickets for a 5-minute look inside the iconic Main Reading Room.

Tip: Collect tickets in the Great Hall 10 minutes before the 10:30 a.m. or 2:00 p.m. session.

Treasures Gallery:

See rare items like the Gutenberg Bible and Thomas Jefferson’s personal library.

Tip: Visit early to enjoy quieter displays and linger by your favorite items.

Live! at the Library:

On Thursday evenings (5:00–8:00 p.m.), attend free talks and live music in the Great Hall.

Tip: Reserve your 5:00 p.m. timed-entry ticket online and buy snacks on-site.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Library of Congress

  1. Early Arrival: Arrive at 9:45 a.m. to join the first guided tour and grab good seats.
  2. Audio Prep: Download the audio guide chapters beforehand to skip Wi-Fi delays.
  3. Timed-Walkthrough Tickets: Pick up Reading Room tickets in the Great Hall as soon as you enter.
🏖️ Tour Library of Congress like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Library of Congress. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Library of Congress

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Anna Bevens

Anna Bevens

Jan 2026

Definitely take advantage of the free timed tickets to visit the Library of Congress and definitely check out the website to find out when you can enter the Main Reading room, plus what special exhibits are occurring. Don’t forget to check in your coat, backpack or any bulk items for free in the cloak room- you won’t regret it!!! Check out the gift shop, especially the tote bag of the reading room...

Madhusudhan BT

Madhusudhan BT

Dec 2025

Please ensure you book the advance time slot tickets, they are free. A security check is required at the entrance. After passing security, head straight to the information desk and pick up a worksheet for kids. They’ll be challenged to find seven symbols or designs throughout the building — and once completed, they can return for a special stamp reward. It’s a lot of fun! The Library of Congress ...

Ruth Loos

Ruth Loos

Dec 2025

This was the highlight of my trip to the National Mall. The detail of the building was fantastic and the Gutenburg Bible was so cool to see. The reading room was also beautiful to look at. The displays to walk through could have been more interesting, but overall I would still highly recommend visiting just for the architecture.

Dr.Bhargava Boddu

Dr.Bhargava Boddu

Nov 2025

Visiting the Library of Congress felt like entering a palace of knowledge, where history, art, and wisdom come together in the most beautiful way. The majestic architecture, stunning murals, and the grand Main Reading Room with its domed ceiling and tall columns created a sense of awe and admiration. Knowing it is the largest library in the world, holding millions of books, manuscripts, maps, and ...

Alex Ros

Alex Ros

Oct 2025

The Library of Congress in Washington DC is one of the most breathtaking and majestic buildings I have ever visited. From the moment you step inside you are surrounded by beauty, elegance, and an incredible sense of history. The architecture is stunning with marble columns, grand staircases, and intricate details that make every corner worth admiring. The ceilings are covered with colorful murals ...

When is the best time to visit Library of Congress (Washington, D.C., United States)?

Plan a Thursday evening visit to catch Live! at the Library concerts and talks. In June, attend the Treasures Family Festival for pop-up demos and folk music.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Washington, D.C. on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Timed-entry passUSD 0
Coffee at nearby caféUSD 12
Drinks/snacks during Live! eventUSD 10
Total EstimatedUSD 22

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Library of Congress

Address: 101 Independence Ave SE, Washington, DC 20540, USA

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About Library of Congress

Opening Hours

Monday:Closed
Tuesday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:Closed

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+1 202-707-5000

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