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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Landmarks

Old Post Office Pavilion

A Romanesque Revival masterpiece at 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, featuring a 315-foot clock tower and a historic atrium, once the second-tallest structure in the capital.

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What is the Old Post Office Pavilion known for?

It is a federally protected site in the Romanesque Revival style, featuring a clock tower, atrium, and the Congress Bells. At the time of its completion, it was the second-tallest structure in Washington, D.C., after the Washington Monument.

Is the Old Post Office Pavilion free to visit?

Yes, admission to the Old Post Office Pavilion is free.

What are the hours for the pavilion?

From March through August, the pavilion is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 7 p.m.

Can I still go up the tower?

No, the Old Post Office Tower closed to the public on October 1, 2025, while the General Services Administration determines the building's future management and public access.

How do I get to the Old Post Office Pavilion using public transit?

The nearest Metrorail access is the Federal Triangle station on the Blue and Orange Lines.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Old Post Office Pavilion is a stunning example of Romanesque Revival architecture, designed by architect Willoughby J. Edbrooke and constructed between 1892 and 1899 to house the U.S. Post Office Department headquarters and the city's post office. At the time of its completion, it stood as the second-tallest structure in Washington, D.C., surpassed only by the Washington Monument. The building was formally listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. Inside, the pavilion features a massive atrium and a 315-foot clock tower that houses the Congress Bells. This tower has long been a major viewpoint over the city, offering panoramic views of the capital. From the 12th-floor observation level, visitors can see the Capitol, White House, Washington Monument, Pentagon, Smithsonian museums, Supreme Court, and Lincoln Memorial. For decades, the National Park Service operated the tower, welcoming millions of visitors over a 42-year period. However, as of October 1, 2025, the tower is closed to the public pending decisions by the General Services Administration regarding ownership and future management. While the tower's observation deck is currently inaccessible, the building has functioned as a hotel since 2016.

Visitor tips

  • The nearest Metrorail access is the Blue and Orange Line at Federal Triangle.
  • Admission to the pavilion is free.
  • Check current status of the tower access before visiting, as it closed on October 1, 2025.
  • Allow time to explore the hotel lobby and the historic atrium.

Nearby context

Located at 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, the pavilion is situated in the heart of the federal district, surrounded by various government buildings and within walking distance of the National Mall.

Sources

Evidence and links