Hidden Gems in DC: National Capitol Columns

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The National Capitol Columns is one of DC’s best-kept secrets. I lived in DC for years before hearing of the National Capitol Columns.

Although large in size, they are located in the back of the National Arboretum and are quite easy to miss due to its layout. Admission is free, and it’s best to go during the weekday. You can spend a few hours exploring the trails and getting lost in the bonsai gardens. The National Arboretum hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Visiting the Capitol Columns

large columns with a small pool on a sunny day

There are lots of free parking spots only a 7-10 minute walk from the columns. It only gets crowded on special occasions.

After a short walk from your parking spot, you’ll see a gorgeous path leading to the columns. There’s a few benches if you need to take a break and reflect. I don’t think it’s completely wheelchair accessible due to a few steps but you can get a pretty close view.

The columns themselves are absolutely gorgeous and brought me back to Athens, Greece. There’s fountain that feeds into a reflecting pool that add to the magic of the place. With all the gardens around you, it’s easy to forget that you’re in Washington DC.

History of the National Capitol Columns

Columns in the National Capitol — Photo by Paula Nardini

If you love learning about our Nation’s history, you’ll love visiting this place. These columns were carved from sandstone sourced near Aquia Creek in Virginia.

They initially supported the old East Portico of the United States Capitol, built-in 1828. However, they were removed during the Capitol’s expansion in 1958 and relocated to the National Arboretum in the 1980s.

There were originally 24 columns destined for the National Capitol Columns, but 2 were damaged and now reside on a different trail near Mount Hamilton. After years of being in ill-suited storage, both are cracked in half. Finding them would make for a great scavenger hunt.

Taking Pictures at the Mysterious DC Pillars

Black woman with long afro in yellow dress standing next to a large column with other columns around her

If I were taking pictures at the Capitol Stones, I would be as quick as possible and refrain from taking my tripod out. Security is a bit rigid here. It’s fine to have someone quickly take your photo as long as it doesn’t look like a special photoshoot.

I was asked to leave, and I saw someone who didn’t have a tripod but also took photos of themselves being asked to leave. So if you’re a solo traveler, please keep that in mind.

You can also purchase a shooting permit. The location is gorgeous, so it’s definitely worth it. You must apply for a permit beforehand, and shooting days are on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.