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Tickets to the 56th Inaugural Ceremonies will be provided free of charge and distributed through Members of the 111th Congress. The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies does not provide tickets to the public. Members of the public interested in attending the Inaugural Ceremonies should contact their Member of Congress or U.S. Senators to request tickets.
The public should also be aware that no website or other ticket outlet actually has inaugural swearing-in tickets to sell, regardless of what they may claim. Tickets will not be distributed to Congressional offices until the week before the inauguration and will require in-person pick-up.
“Any website or ticket broker claiming that they have inaugural tickets is simply not telling the truth,” said Howard Gantman, Staff Director for the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies. “Tickets for the swearing-in of President-elect are all provided through members of Congress, and the President-elect and Vice President-elect through the Presidential Inaugural Committee. We urge the public to view any offers of tickets for sale with great skepticism.”
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(via Experience DC)
How can I get a ticket to the parade? If I don’t have a ticket, will I be able to see anything? Where should I stand?
The parade takes place on Pennsylvania Ave., starting at the Capitol and ending at the White House. A limited number of bleacher seats are available, but they are traditionally filled by major donors and supporters. Members of the public can stand along the parade route.
How can I get a ticket to an inaugural ball?
Tickets to the official balls, organized by the Presidential Inaugural Committee, are generally difficult for members of the general public to obtain. Tickets for many state society balls and smaller events are available to the public.
How can I find a hotel room?
Hotel rooms are still available in DC and the surrounding area, but you can expect three- or four-night minimum stay requirements at most properties. If you’re looking for 9 or fewer rooms, call Destination DC’s visitor services team at 1-800-889-5344 to check availability, or click on the “book your trip” button at the top of this page.
I’m bringing a group of 10 or more. How can I find hotel rooms?
Groups in need of assistance in locating rooms, restaurants, transportation or other needs may contact Destination DC, the official convention and tourism corporation for Washington, DC, for support. Groups requiring ten or more rooms may call 1-800-422-8644 or fill out an online RFP for travel professionals or meeting planners. If you wish to book a pre-packaged tour that includes hotel accommodations and transportation to official public events, click here for more information.
If I’m staying outside the city, how should I get downtown? What can I expect? Where can I park?
We recommend that you take public transportation to the official events. You can pre-purchase all-day Metro passes to avoid waiting in line. Additional information about station hours and route modifications will be posted here as it becomes available. If you choose to drive, please note that streets surrounding the National Mall will be closed to vehicles. Plan to park away from the downtown core and walk or take Metro.
Will any attractions be closed on Inauguration Day?
You can expect some DC attractions, particularly those that line the parade route and the National Mall, to operate on modified schedules on Inauguration Day. Check back to this website or call the attraction in advance of your visit to confirm its hours.
How can I bring a motorcoach to DC on Inauguration Day? Where can I park?
Groups planning to travel by motorcoach to Washington, DC for the inauguration should be aware that permits are required and street closures will be in effect. Groups planning to travel to DC on a motorcoach can obtain information about parking, restrictions and permit requirements here. The DC Department of Transportation's Motorcoach Guide to Washington, DC can be accessed by clicking here. Drivers should expect street closures around the National Mall and in parts of downtown on Inauguration Day. Additional transportation information will be posted as it becomes available.
Can you suggest a three- or four-day itinerary for me/ my family/ my group?
You can view some sample itineraries here, or visit the “Experience DC” section of our site to look for ideas for families, foodies, African-American history enthusiasts and more.
Do you have any tips for Inauguration Day visitors?
• If you’re searching for hotel reservations, note that many hotels in and around Washington, DC require 3- or 4-night minimum stays during this period. Try modifying your search dates if you find limited availability.
• Allow plenty of time to get to the ceremony and parade route. You can expect large crowds and tight security on Inauguration Day.
• Dress warmly. All public events take place outdoors, and January weather can be quite chilly. Because you may be walking or standing, you’ll also want to wear comfortable shoes.
• Plan ahead. Check back to this site for information on access points to public viewing areas so that you’ll know exactly where to go.
• Take public transportation. Many streets around the Capitol and the National Mall will be closed for vehicle traffic and parking. Allow extra time for lines and crowds. You can also avoid waiting in line at Metro fare card machines by purchasing daily passes in advance. If you’re taking Metro, we suggest that you arrive early or carpool, as parking at stations may be limited.
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