U.S. Capitol Building, Washington

The legislative branches of the U.S. government, the Senate and the House of Representatives, meet in the Capitol Building. Public tours form on the east side of the Capitol and include visits to the Rotunda and other chambers. Visitors can also view the Senate and the House from the galleries when Congress is in session. Plan to have lunch at the Senate Refectory, a cafeteria where, by law, bean soup is always on the menu. Visitors can enter the U.S. Capitol Building through the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center and enjoy several historical exhibits.