The Florida state capital has two primary buildings. The one directly facing the street is the old state capital Museum. It is free to enter the museum until 4:30 in the afternoon when it closes. Once you're inside, you were able to do a self guided for for each floor in each individual room. There is history about the architecture of the building, the indigenous people of Florida, presidential elections and how Florida has shaped them in the past, a section on how agricultural industry has changed FL overtime, and how politics in Florida have influenced America. Once you are finished at the old Capitol museum, you can walk behind to the second building, which is the current state capital. It stands 22 stories high with a more modern architectural design. What to pack Security on the bottom level you're free to roam at your leisure. Start behind the elevators at the tourism desk for a layout of the building. After exploring the fourth floor, where there are a few interactive exhibits, head to the fifth floor and look down into the fourth floor to the rotunda, and you will find tons of interesting facts etched into the marble below. Make sure your last stop of the building is the 22nd floor where there is an observation deck. The North you can see Georgia, on a clear day to the south you can see the Gulf of Mexico, into the west is a great view of Florida State University, football stadium, and campus. read more

See all

The Capitol was not very accessible today so we did a drive by, there was some sort of event directly across the street so the area was surrounded by barricades, flashing lights and policemen. I thought we might be able to find a parking space within a reasonable distance but that wasn't going to happen. We were able to snap a few photos in passing but somewhat disappointed that we weren't able to get up close. The original building is a beautiful piece of architecture but the administrative tower behind it not so much, I guess it's more about efficiency and in my opinion is nothing more than an eyesore. It would of been nice to have the modern structure located in another part of town to preserve the historic value of the original nostalgic building. Even trying to circle the block was a bit of a challenge today and a disappointment after driving here... read more

See all

The original State capitol of Florida in Tallahassee, Florida is gorgeous. We had a great time visiting as it was a beautiful day, perfect weather. However, they ruined the entire area by adding the "evil tower of Orthanc" right behind it Yuck. What an eye sore! Almost as bad as the California State capitol, Almost. Ugh. read more

Florida State Capitol - The original State capitol is gorgeous. However, they ruined it adding the evil tower of Orthanc right behind it Yuck :( - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

Why do the beautiful states have such ugly state capitol buildings? Both the states of Hawaii and Florida have state capitol buildings that are very stark and simple. Perhaps it was due to the modern style at the time they were built (1969 and 1977 respectively), perhaps it was due to a stringent, no frills budget, or perhaps the architect simply didn't want to compete with the gorgeous tropical surroundings. Despite the dull exterior, there are some marvelous reasons to check it out anyway. It's a 22-floor skyscraper with a climate controlled observation deck at the top that allows visitors to catch 360 degree views of the city of Tallahassee. There is also an art gallery on this floor. I enjoyed viewing the natural photography of the area, but the first trick you have to figure out, is how to get up there. There are elevators that will whisk you to the top, but you have to figure out how to use the electronic keypad to call the elevator. I had never seen a system like this. The LCD display is like the one on your smartphone. You press a number and the elevation is called to whisk you away to your desired floor. However, you can't hit the number 2 twice thinking it will take you to floor 22. Nope! Unbeknownst to me, you have to swipe left to see another menu of higher floors. Thankfully the man in the Visitor's center was kind enough to help me figure it out. Once you step into the elevator, there are NO buttons to press. You can't change your mind, you can't stop on every floor, and you can't even force the door to close or stay open. There are no buttons on the interior of the elevator...just an LCD display showing the current floor. This was a bit odd to me. The senate and house chambers were similar to other state legislature chambers. Dark wood desks, rich colored carpet, and an air of elegance and sophistication worthy of the office. I noticed an interesting exhibit on the first floor. They had a Wall of Fame for ARTISTS and another one for WOMEN. This was great to see because usually the only portraits or pictures that deck the walls of most capitol buildings are the dozens of MEN, majority white who have served. Hats off to them for their public service, but thanks for expanding and recognizing other demographics that have contributed to the success of the state. Don't take my word for it. Make the trip yourself, and even if you feel you wasted an hour there, you can still revel that you are there to enjoy the small town of Tallahassee and the sunny state of Florida. read more

See all

Closed to tours on this early Sunday morning, but I had the opportunity to walk the grounds and enjoy the spectacle of the Capitol of the Sunshine State. Tallahassee is quite out of the way from much of Florida. Two to three hours from Pensacola to the west or Jacksonville (the largest city in the state) to the east, then it gets to be four hours from Orlando (fourth largest), and a full seven hours from Miami (second largest). The worst is the ten hour drive from Key West. Ouchies! Tallahassee itself is the ninth biggest city in the state, home to Florida State University and Florida A&M University. Compared to other cities that are state capitols, it is right in the middle of the pack at 25th largest. Maybe before there was much settlement or travel in the south of the state, this location made sense but now that Tampa, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale and Miami are large cities, Tallahassee's selection isn't so great. But it's here now and that is unlikely to change. The Old Capitol building is the shorter, more classical looking one. It was the capitol from 1839 (with the older brick building at its core) until 1977 when the New Capitol completed construction. The Old Capitol was slated for destruction but instead has been retained as a museum. The New Capitol is designed more as a modern office building in an international style, though it looks a bit like Bismarck ND https://www.yelp.com/biz/north-dakota-state-capitol-building-bismarck?hrid=oBXNDJGsVrgWwO1-ohO1Tg or Lincoln NE https://www.yelp.com/biz/nebraska-state-capitol-lincoln?hrid=GDQDpsZzA6FLhEhKt9qpqQ. It is actually THREE buildings - the 22-story high-rise tower in the center with the House building to the north and the Senate building to the south. If you're walking around the campus, it's not possible to walk all the way around the campus as I learned. The patio on the one side has only a single entrance and exit. Ugh. You'll want to do it from the sidewalk that does go all the way around. Nearby, you will find metered street parking and paid parking decks. When the Legislature is not in session, you should have no problem finding a spot. [Review 14089 overall, 1411 of 2020, number 1150 in Florida.] read more

See all

You can not travel through Tallahassee and not stop at the capital for a photo opp. Traveling on Hwy 27 with horrendous traffic it was nice to take a break and a breather from the mess. read more

Florida State Capitol - Capital Front - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

Nice building, with friendly staff, but no guided tours. Brandon, a Senate aide, was very helpful and answered many of our questions and educated us about the Capital and surrounding sites. Not much architecture or historical items in building. It's mainly administrative. read more

The new capitol & historic capitol are open again! We visited them both last Friday, May 7th. We parked our RV and towing vehicle at the civic center after calling them the prior day to make sure it was ok. New capitol: After going through security, we went straight up to the observation deck on 22nd floor of the new capitol. The views were spectacular and the art gallery there was very nice. There was no one around. Masks were not required. We then went to the Galleries on the 5th floor. They're were closed, but I was able to take pictures through the windows. On the 4th floor, the doors to the chambers were closed, but in the lobby there was a small replica of the historic capitol made of legos (kids will like that). Went to the 2nd floor to take pictures of the Seal of the State (located on the plaza level) from above. While taking pictures at the plaza level, we decided to stop by the governor's office and talked for awhile to the very nice lady working at the reception area. The sculpted dolphins in a fountain on the Capitol's plaza are under renovations. Historic capitol: Very modest compared to other state capitols, but with many original items on display that were replicated to perfection throughout the building. read more

See all

Here for a House Health Quality Subcommittee meeting. It would be easy to get lost here! I'm glad I was with people who knew their way around. Rotunda is beautiful. Meeting room chairs comfy. Exciting place to be during session! read more

Florida State Capitol - View of rotunda - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

Ah, the Capitol. Welcome, everyone, to where Florida's laws are made! There are actually two Capitol buildings. They are literally a few hundred feet away from each other but pick the wrong one and you could be looking at what is basically a museum rather than where all the magic happens. The old Capitol is a lot smaller but a lot more pleasing to the eye. The new Capitol is massive. I'm pretty sure it's the tallest building in Tallahassee, which makes it easy to spot. During the legislative session, expect this place to be jam-packed with anyone and everyone from elementary school kids on field trips, politicians getting ready to pass bills, lobbyists elbowing in to fight for their clients or even protestors just waiting for their voices to (hopefully) be heard. Going here is an experience for sure, but one I think everyone should at least do once to see how laws and how Florida politics really work. read more

Florida State Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

Disappointed that the new building is more like an office building unlike other state Capitol buildings. Difficult to get to the front door as it's inside and not street side. However, it is what it is? read more

Closed, the building the museum, everything was closed and locked. Could not see a thing inside. Attractive building with nicely manicured landscaping & fountains. read more

A must-see if interested in FL politics. Take a tour and visit both chambers! You will truly enjoy it.

Great tourist stop in Tallahassee. We toured the old capitol, which is now a museum, and that was neat. Then we walked out the back doors of the museum and walked straight into the new capitol to visit the observation area on the 22nd floor. Great 360 degree views of Tallahassee up there! No one directed us where to go when we walked in, you could roam anywhere pretty much, but we found the elevators up to 22. read more

Florida's Capitol rocks and most of the time has the best state legislature in the nation. The 187,000 Realtors in Florida are having Great American Realtor Days this week during session. If you've never visited the State Capitol you should. Catch the House or Senate in session, the Governor giving the State of the State address, or the final day of session known as Sine Die. Tallahassee is beautiful, so check out the view from the 22nd floor. read more

Florida State Capitol - 22nd floor view of Tallahassee - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

See all

Want to see a cool panoramic I took from the observatory today? www.gigapan.com/gigapans/184613 Along that point, I'll forewarn the reader and admit this is really an Observatory Review - with ancillary comments concerning other facets of the building. For me, the observatory is where it's at. For Florida politicos, The capitol offers (arguably) more compelling venues below the observatory. Those of you that have out-of-town guests likely have this on your regular "let's check out Tallahassee" tour. If you don't, I'd suggest adding it on. It's free. It's a great bird's eye view of the city. And you're right next to the historical state capitol which is pretty cool. Taking this panoramic required schlepping 55 lbs of equipment - all metal - a lot of it suspicious-looking. Not to fear, the Capitol Police are pros and you're processed through the entry metal detectors in short order. The point is you can bring at least 55 lbs of stuff up here and not worry about admittance. Once you've wrapped up with the observatory, there really are plenty of cool things to see on the Capitol Grounds - including the old capitol. Inside the Capitol itself there is an abundance of attractions. The Wikipedia entry is a great place to read some of the basics. I'll end with an interesting story about Marshall Ledbetter. Aw, heck. Just cut/paste this link. It's good stuff... https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marshall_Ledbetter read more

Florida State Capitol - On high visibility days, the panoramas are very good. Come here to see FSU, FAM', and points N & E. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

How much the Capitol and Old Capitol will fascinate you depends on what interests you. My boyfriend and I took a field trip here because we figured we should explore the part of Tallahassee that is probably ignored by the majority of its residents. He loves history and I love politics and we both love architecture. Capitol - It was surreal for me to see the chambers of the Senate and House of Representatives. My boyfriend enjoyed the educational tidbits on the walls on Florida's background and honored individuals. The 22nd floor is very neat and you get a 360 view of Tallahassee. Old Capitol - We enjoyed how this building and its rooms were constructed. A lot of the rooms are themed with different parts of history. If you're running out of date ideas or money, come here and explore. You just might find something you like. read more

See all

The capital...beautiful set of balls and a nice average sized shaft for the great state of Florida. The museum is free and pretty interesting to walk through with the folks that visit for the first time. Especially if you go to the top floor and look over all the trees of the area and try to find your place. But I've worked in the capital and it's use it something that I refuse to talk about to not incriminate myself. So on another note: the new capital is built directly behind the old capital. Old capital nice to look at new capital...needs to find new people that actually want to work. So I guess it's OK? read more

Florida State Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

If you are in Tallahassee, the capitol building is worth a quick visit. There are a number of public areas, including an interesting observation deck on the 23rd floor with an excellent view for miles. It never hurts to see where you tax dollars are going. This is your building -- you should visit it! read more

Though my visit was work related, I still managed to pause and take in the view that surrounds the 22nd floor. Before I get there, there the parking logistics combined with security reduces the accessibility of this place. So if you do go, I recommend using public transportation or parking a few blocks away and walking. Like most capitals, there is security so be prepared to go through metal detectors. The 22nd floor is open to the public and there is an even a gallery up there that is be explored. So go for the panoramic views of Tallahassee and if you get the chance, visit the cafe. read more

A pretty cool place. The 22nd floor is a great place to get a bird's-eye view of Tallahassee. There was a urine smell on the top floor and not a lot of seating. We were traveling with a person with a physical handicap and found that the handicapped spots were on one side of the building and the ramps were on the other. It was also disappointing that the lights to both chambers were turned off, so even peeking in through the glass was difficult. Worth the visit, but could still be better! read more

If you are just passing through Tallahassee and can only visit one place, I would recommend you do so at the Florida State Capitol. Of course it has history and of course it is the seat of politics. Just because of those reasons, it is a must stop in my book as I was feeling guilty for taking the daughter out of school for almost two weeks to go on vacation. But I was able to justify the guilt away by telling myself that she is at least briefly visiting Florida's state capital and capitol. Aside from history and politics, though, the views from the 23rd floor were great and we got to check out a big part, if not all, of the city in just a few minutes -- a definite bonus since we were really in a rush. It is most definitely worth checking out if you are in town. read more

To the Previous Dude, How could you rate the state capitol and not point out that it looks like a giant cock and balls as you drives towards it on Apalachee? THAT'S why it deserves 5 stars, not its historical displays. read more

When I visited the Florida State Capitol in Talahassee, it was the spring of 2005. It was the 10th Capitol I had visited. The Florida State Capitol is the newest Capitol building in the United States, being built in 1977. Also, being built in 1977, it is the most non-traditional. There's no dome, no rotunda, no columns, no classical oil paintings or statuary. This is a modern capitol. And l like it. The Florida State Capitol is, first and foremost, a modern office building. It's bright, sleek and well designed. It has an observation deck on the 22nd floor, which affords a commanding view of the lovely university town of Talahassee. The legislative chambers are pretty straightforward. No grand art, stained glass or chandeliers. Modern all the way. The original Florida Capitol has been preserved and now houses a museum. It sits on the same grounds, mere yards from the new Capitol. This is a quaint little building chock full of interesting historical displays on Florida's history. They even have on display one of the original "butterfly ballots" from the infamous presidential election debacle in 2000. That right there was worth the trip. read more

We were up at FSU for our daughter and from the window we could see the Capitol. We figured why not go exploring. I'm glad we did. You can go up to the 22nd floor for the observation deck and art gallery. You can also look into the legislative chambers and see what you usually only see on TV. There is also a Visitors Center in the lobby and the museum right across the street in the old Capitol. And it's all free!! Nice way to spend a few hours. read more

Florida State Capitol - The rotunda. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

Cool place if you're into touring state capitol buildings! Self guided tour that took a little less than an hour to do our our own. Ten down, 40 to go! read more

I'm a político so this is a little biased but hanging around the Capitol area is one of the best things to do in Tallahassee. If you can head up to the viewing floor (I think 29th floor?) you can basically see Georgia, the whole Florida State campus, and a wonderful sunset if you're lucky. Definitely recommend heading up there to anyone in town, it's a beautiful view. Other than that there's so much to explore! read more

Florida State Capitol - Old and new Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

First of all, I'm not going to rate the Capitol based on the politicians it holds (I could write pages and pages on that...). The building is open to the public so constituents can visit the offices of their legislators (you're going to want to contact them ahead of time, of course) or check out the "old capital." The office buildings can be confusing and hard to navigate, especially if you're dragging around a large group (as I was on my last visit, it was a work trip). I love all the historic pictures hanging in the hallways. read more

Very cool place to visit w family to learn about Florida history; can see 1902 Governors Office and Senate/House chambers!

First time here, and the place was very clean and had some good monuments. Loved Tallahassee. Perfect weather, too.

While it may not be the most pleasing to the eye, the capitol offers a lot of history and great views from the 22nd floor! If you are in the area while legislative session is in (typically march through may) there are usually big displays and events going on in the courtyard that are lots of fun. read more

The new 22 story state capitol is a somewhat uninspiring, maybe ugly in the views of some, office building from the outside. However, touring the inside is definitely worthwhile, particularly to see the fantastic view from the 22nd floor. The capitol is on top of a large (by Florida standards) hill in Tallahassee, which is I believe the only city in Florida which has any real hills..There are some other interesting things to see inside, but the view is the primary motivation. I saw a few Florida State University students hanging in chairs in the top floor studying.. With that fantastic view, they chose a great and fairly quiet study spot. The legislative chambers and such you can see also, but they are pretty standard stuff (I am visited many state capitol buildings). There is a nice exhibit of wildlife photography on the 22nd floor also, at least there was when I went there in October 2010. Out front of the capitol there is an interesting looking fountain with dolphin statues. On the other hand, the old state capitol is quite beautiful, both from the outside and the interior.. Particularly the exterior and grounds. So much so that it is kind of a must-see attraction if you are visiting Tally. It is kind of sad that the very attractive old capitol has been eclipsed by the 22 story office building capitol, which is right next door to it and hides it from view from one side.. But if you are here, you should definitely tour both buildings, the modern capitol to see the view , where the legislature meets now, and a couple interesting exhibits; and the old capitol to see the architecture and also some interesting historical exhibits. read more

Interesting museum but kind of Pro-South/Confederacy/Republican. I didn't even know that Florida was part of the South.