Capitol Visitor Center spokesman Tom Fontana gives a guided tour of the new Capitol Visitor Center on Capitol Hill in Washington, Monday, Nov. 10, 2008. Behind Fontana is a cross-section of the Capitol Dome.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – After years of construction and controversy, the media is getting the first look at the brand new United States Capitol Visitor Center, which is set to open to the public next month. 

Located below the East Capitol Grounds of the U.S. Capitol Building in D.C., the visitor center is three-quarters the size of the Capitol itself.  It’s also the largest expansion project ever completed in the Capitol’s 215-year history. 

The new United States Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) features amenities that include an exhibition gallery, orientation theaters, a cafeteria, and gift shops—all within an environment that keeps visitors out of the unpredictable D.C. weather.

Also, 85 new trees have been planted, new skylights added, and historic lanterns and fountains have been restored in an effort to revitalize the Capitol’s historic landscape. 

The nearly 580,000 square-foot CVC will officially open to the public on December 2.  That day also marks the day that the Statue of Freedom was placed atop the Capitol building in 1863, signifying the completion of construction on its dome. 

Since the ceremonial groundbreaking for the CVC in June 2000, the project has received significant criticism for being behind schedule and over budget.  Construction on the center was originally scheduled to be completed in January 2004.  Delays and extra expenses have been blamed on the high cost of fuel, inclement weather, and extra security measures after 9/11. 

To find out more about the new Capitol Visitor Center, follow this link to their official website. 

For general information about public tours of the Capitol, call the Capitol Guide Service at (202) 225-6827.