Cvent

In addition to being a key feature of the Washington, DC skyline (it's the fifth tallest structure in the city), the United States Capitol Building is also one of the most recognizable landmarks in the nation, even the world. Not surprisingly, millions of people visit this iconic Washington, DC attraction every year, braving cold weather and heat and humidity as they wait outside for a tour. However, this wait is about to change.

The Capitol Visitor Center opened December 2 after decades of planning and construction and over $600 million spent. At nearly 580,000 square feet, this underground complex, complete with huge skylights and a original white plaster model of the Capitol dome's statue, is the largest project in the Capitol's 215-year history. Visitors now begin their Capitol experience in the comfort of the Visitor Center, which welcomes them with exhibits, two orientation theaters, an auditorium, food services and gift shops.

Though the Visitor Complex is not available for private rentals, event and meeting planners can certainly take advantage of this one-of-a-kind attraction as part of their Washington, DC entertainment agenda. Offered Monday through Saturday from 8:45 AM to 4:15 PM, one-hour tours of the Capitol make for a unique and memorable group outing during your Washington, DC events.

Along with the opening of the Capitol Visitor Center, a new, user-friendly Web-based system launched to make tour reservations faster and easier. Planners can now register group tours online in minutes by visiting the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center's website. From the re-opening of the National Museum of American History to the stunning unveil of the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, Washington, DC's growing appeal continues to soar.