Seat of Congress, art gallery, architectural marvel, historical landmark

"Seen among the city's iconic landmarks of power, the Capitol is another visitable seat of government that I highlight, but staying in the capital's storied hotels offers a different kind of immersion — where whispered deals and the atmosphere of influence are experienced away from official buildings." - Madeline Weinfield
"I recommend taking the free guided tour to appreciate the building's classical inspiration and interior highlights — the Crypt with its 40 Doric-style columns, the Rotunda fashioned after the Pantheon, and the impressive National Statuary Hall with its marble columns and towering statues — but be sure to reserve your spot online ahead of time." - Dobrina Zhekova Dobrina Zhekova Dobrina Zhekova is a writer with over a decade of editorial experience in Europe and the U.S. She covers luxury travel, art, architecture, and design. Her writing has appeared on InStyle.com, Vogue.com, Elle.com, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

"The U.S. Capitol Building is the epicenter of all D.C. political action—this is where the country's most important battles are fought. Home to the House of Representatives and the Senate's meeting chambers for more than two centuries, it's also an art gallery in its own right, with priceless paintings and murals adorning the walls and ceilings. Take the free guided tour and marvel at the parade of political heroes and villains who have roamed its halls during pivotal moments in U.S. history. The Capitol is located within easy walking distance of the Library of Congress, the Supreme Court, and the U.S. Botanic Garden."

"I watched Bernie Sanders arrive at the inauguration ceremony for President Joe Biden, bundled in a puffy beige coat and large brown-and-white mittens, seated on an isolated folding chair outside the U.S. Capitol as he observed the transition of power; the instantly iconic image—captured in front of Lady Gaga—quickly spread on Twitter, became a meme (many noting he seemed to be wearing the same Burton parka from a fundraising video), and even resonated with frequent outdoor diners who compared it to the improvised street and sidewalk patios restaurants are using nationwide." - Gabe Hiatt

"I observed that the U.S. Capitol building was the site of a pro-Trump mob's insurrection that left six people dead, including a Capitol Police officer who was injured during the attack and another who later died by suicide; it is also the planned focus of President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration, prompting major security concerns and requests to federal agencies to beef up protection." - Gabe Hiatt