7 Hidden Tunnels Under Government Buildings

The literal underbelly of public agencies.

by Elliot Carter

7 Places

Be it for security or convenience, government agencies sure seem to love digging themselves tunnels. Below are seven real-world tunnels hiding under government buildings across the U.S., some of which you can explore for yourself.

Washington, D.C.

FDR's Bomb Shelter

A narrow passageway under the White House leads into the armored vaults of the Treasury Department.

Added by Elliot Carter

Washington, D.C.

Steam Tunnels Under Capitol Hill

More than 100 years later, they're still down there.

Added by Elliot Carter

Los Angeles, California

Underground Tunnels of Los Angeles

These passages under the Hall of Records came in handy during Prohibition.

Rachel

Added by Rachel

Washington, D.C.

Capitol Building Tunnel System

Members of Congress have traveled between the buildings on Capitol Hill for a century hidden from tourists, press, and storm clouds.

Added by Elliot Carter

Washington, D.C.

Russian Embassy

The U.S. government's 300-foot spy tunnel under the embassy never quite delivered as promised.

Added by Elliot Carter

New York, New York

City Hall Station

The now-abandoned subway station below City Hall was lavished with fine architectural details and large chandeliers.

Rebekah Otto

Added by Rebekah Otto

Washington, D.C.

Capitol Air Conditioning Towers

Two huge air ducts lead 400 feet up into the belly of the U.S. Capitol.

Added by Elliot Carter