article_snippet.sent: The building and the nearby Capitol Visitors Center were locked down, meaning tourists or any staff could not enter or leave the buildings.
article_snippet.sent: the nearby Capitol Visitors Center was crowded with tourists taking in the Cherry Blossom trees, which are in full bloom along the National Mall.
article_snippet.sent: After the suspicious packages were examined, the lockdown was lifted about 3:50 p.m. ET and pedestrian traffic was allowed.