Frequently Asked Questions

• How much are the tours?
• How long do the tours last?
• Must I schedule a tour?
• How many can you accommodate on a Capitol Tour?
• When are your tours?
• Where does the tour start?
• Do you have a gift shop?
• Do you offer a self-guided tour?
• Is photography allowed?
• Where is the public entrance on weekdays and weekends?
• Where do buses drop off tourists and groups?
• Where do visiting guests park?
• Can we bring pets into the Capitol Building?
• May we do self-guided tours on weekends and holidays?
• What rooms are on the guided tour?
• Can you accommodate wheelchairs?

How much are the tours?

They are free.

How long do the tours last?

Approximately 30 to 45 minutes depending on the size of the group and what rooms are available.

Must I schedule a tour?

Yes, if your group has 10 or more people we ask that you call to schedule a time and date.

How many can you accommodate on a Capitol Tour?

The maximum amount of people we can accommodate on tour is 40.

When are your tours?

Tours run every half hour beginning at 8:30 a.m. and the last tour begins at 3:50 p.m. on weekdays.

Weekends and most holidays the tours run on a different schedule. 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. only.

For more information on Capitol Guided Tours, click here

Where does the tour start?

The tour starts in the Main Rotunda. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your tour time and check in at the Tour Guide Desk to ensure you are in the correct location.

Do you have a gift shop?

Yes, the Pennsylvania Capitol Shop kiosks are located in the East Wing of the Capitol and it is open from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. on regular weekdays only. For additional information, please click here.

Do you offer a self-guided tour?

Yes, weekdays only. Self-guided brochures are located at both information desks (one in the Main Rotunda and one in the East Wing).

Is photography allowed?

Yes, except when the Legislature is in session. You may NOT record video or audio in any room without prior approval.

Where is the public entrance on weekdays and weekends?

There are four public entrances:

• East Wing Entrance at the Fountain on Commonwealth Avenue (also the handicapped entrance)
• Main Rotunda Entrance at Third and State streets
• North Office Building on North street (closes at 3:00 p.m.)
• Irvis Office Building off of Walnut street (closes at 3:00 p.m.)

Weekends and most holidays, all visitors must use the main entrance, unless the handicapped entrance is needed. Please pre-arrange by calling 1-800-868-7672.

Where do buses drop off tourists and groups?

Weekdays, buses must bring the groups to the East Wing entrance on Commonwealth Avenue near the fountain.

Weekends and most holidays, all visitors must use the main entrance, unless the handicapped entrance is needed. Please pre-arrange by calling 1-800-868-7672.

Where do visiting guests park?

There are meters available on Third Street and State Street. If you would rather park in a local garage you may use this link for public parking garages. For more information on parking, please click here.

Can we bring pets into the Capitol Building?

Only service dogs are allowed to enter.

May we do self-guided tours on weekends and holidays?

No. The only open area on those days is our Main Rotunda. If you want to see the other rooms you MUST be with a guide.

What rooms are on the guided tour?

Typically, we will see the Main Rotunda, Senate, Supreme Court and House of Representatives. This is always subject to change. When the rooms are in use, availability may be limited with little or no notice.

Can you accommodate wheelchairs?

Yes, we can. Click here for information on accessibility services. Please contact our office if you need assistance in this regard.