80. Frederick Law Olmstead and the U.S. Capitol Grounds

Explore Frederick Law Olmsted’s historic US Capitol grounds design. See the marble terraces, grotto, and paths on this expert-led tour.
About this Event

Tour description:
Commissioned by Congress in 1874 to design the grounds of the U.S. Capitol, Frederick Law Olmsted created an innovative landscape, presenting the building to greatest visual effect while overcoming numerous design challenges. Explore the history and design of the Capitol grounds while learning about its intricate features: the Olmsted-designed marble terraces, brick Spring Grotto, masterful stone and ironwork; and carefully crafted views and circulation paths. The tour will also summarize the remarkable career and breathtaking legacy of this underappreciated American genius. Presented by the Olmsted Network and the United States Capitol Historical Society; led by volunteers from the USCHS.

Tour Guides:

Steve Livengood, Public Historian, and Carla Smith, Licensed Tour Guide, U.S. Capitol Historical Society

Ward:

6

TOUR INFORMATION:

Tour Starting Location:

First Street SE, in front of the Library of Congress, Original building

· Closest Metro or Bus Line: Capitol South

· Tour Ending Location:

U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Avenue SW

· Tour Length: 1 hour 30 minutes

· Tour Distance: miles

· Fitness Level: Low Level (slow walking, flat terrain)

· Audio Enhancer: No

· ASL: No

· Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

· Stroller Accessible: Yes