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

Library of Congress (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is Library of Congress?

95%Solo-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 95% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can join free hourly tours, wander top-tier exhibits, or sit and research with a Reader ID, all in a safe, quiet space that is easy to navigate alone.

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

Positives:

  • Free Admission: All tours, exhibits, and events are free with a timed-entry ticket.
  • Quiet Study Areas: Multiple reading rooms offer peaceful spaces for solo reading or research.

Challenges:

  • Ticket Demand: Reading room walkthrough tickets can fill quickly—plan to arrive early.
  • Building Navigation: Three connected buildings can be confusing; pick up a floor map at the info desk.
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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 solo trip?

  1. Free guided tours and audio guides tailored for solo explorers
  2. Unique access to the Main Reading Room with free timed entry
  3. Rare collections like the Gutenberg Bible in the Treasures Gallery
  4. Regular free public events and quiet study spaces

Recommended visit duration: 1-3 hours

Why 1-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: This gives time to join a tour, audio guide, reading room walkthrough, and view key exhibits at a relaxed pace.

(View Library of Congress on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in Library of Congress

Hourly Docent-Led Tour:

Join a free, one-hour guided tour of the Jefferson Building.

Tip: Arrive 20 minutes early at the Ground Floor Info Desk; no reservation needed.

Self-Guided Audio Tour:

Use your smartphone or a Library device to explore nine themed stops.

Tip: Download tracks from loc.gov before you arrive to avoid network delays.

Main Reading Room Walkthrough:

Attend a 5-minute guided visit inside the historic Main Reading Room.

Tip: Pick up free tickets in the Great Hall 10 minutes before each session.

Treasures Gallery:

View rare items like the Gutenberg Bible and the Minerva Mosaic.

Tip: Start at the Great Hall gallery entrance to avoid backtracking.

Live! at the Library (Thursdays):

Enjoy evening talks, music, and workshops in the Great Hall.

Tip: Reserve your free 5 p.m. timed-entry ticket online early that week.

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

  1. Download Audio Guide: Save files before visiting to bypass spotty Wi-Fi inside the halls.
  2. Arrive Early: Reach the Great Hall 15 minutes before opening to secure walkthrough and tour spots.
  3. Check Event Calendar: Review loc.gov/visit to reserve free Live! at the Library and public lecture tickets.
🏖️ 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

Powered by Google
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)?

In winter, expect lighter crowds and faster walkthrough tickets. In spring, weekdays in the morning avoid cherry blossom–season visitors. Thursday evenings year-round offer free concerts and talks.

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

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Timed-entry passUSD 0
Guided tours and audio guideUSD 0
Coffee or snackUSD 7
Total EstimatedUSD 7

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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