I took a tour of the Idaho State Capitol while visiting with friends in Boise. The tour was free and our tour guide Karen was full of interesting facts with an added touch of humor. We even got to meet the governor. There was a quilt display on the top level that I enjoyed. Now I want to tour all the state capitols! read more

Idaho State Capitol - Idaho State Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boise, Idaho

It was a really cool experience lots of stairs and lots of history my son really enjoyed themselves place is really pretty Our tour guy was very knowledgeable. Very wise man answered all the questions very impressed with the amount of history. There is here. You also were able to visit Governor Lil's office. It was a great experience overall. read more

Idaho State Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boise, Idaho

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While walking around downtown Boise, I got a chance to pass by the Idaho State Capitol this past weekend. It was certainly closed as it was about 9pm but still, I was quite impressed by its sheer beauty. I was able to walk up and down to the top of the stairs, explore underneath the little tunnel beneath and also check out the details of the liberty bell (which I cautiously but excitingly rang!) . I could even see through the large windows the intricate marble work on the interior walls and columns. It's such a gorgeous building. Fun Fact: The liberty bell is a full-size replica of the famous bell located in Philly and was commissioned in the same year! How cool is that?! read more

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Since 1864, Boise has been the Idaho State Capitol. It became the 43rd state in the federal Union in 1890. Tourtellotte & Hummel built the Using 4 using red, gray, green & black imported marbles. The building was inspired from Saint Peter's Basilica in Rme. On top of the dome is a bronze eagle, 5 ft 7 inch tall eagle. . The capitol building is 208 ft high, occupies an area of 201,720 sq ft & contains over 50,000 sq ft of artistically carved marble. There are 219 marble pillars in the original building; Doric, Corinthian, or Ionic. Tunnels connect the Capitol Building to the Supreme Court building & other government buildings on the Capitol Mall. These are used daily by government employees & are not accessible to the public. They could serve as bomb shelters to protect the governor and other public officials. A full-scale replica of the uncracked Liberal Bell is outside the Jefferson Street entrance. The bell is one of 53 commissioned in 1950 by the U.S. Treasury Department & given to each state and we can ring it. The capitol faces southwest and looks down Capitol Boulevard, about a mile. At the opposite end is the Boise Depot, built in 1925 on the rim of the first bench. Idaho's Capitol Building is the only one in the US heated by geothermal water. The hot water is tapped and pumped from a source 3,000 ft underground. read more

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There's always something special about visiting a state capitol building, especially ones that resemble the national capitol. Oregon's capitol was like that once, until it burned in 1935 and a new, modern structure was built. So, it was an extra treat for me to visit Idaho's seat of power. An impressive exterior is complemented by an equally impressive interior of white marble and various statues. One of my favorite things to do is look up into the rotunda of state capitol buildings. It makes me think of the lofty heights our country's founders aspired to and how fortunate we are to live in this great land. read more

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Had the most fun time tonight at the Christmas tree lighting at the Capitol. Everything was beautifully organized outside for the school choirs to sing, our military band to play and the tree to be lit. They passed out hot chocolate, coffee and cookies. It was a nice to keep us warm and happy. After the tree was lit we were all able to go inside and see the building. It was decorated gorgeously with reds and greens everywhere. It was absolutely stunning. I haven't been been to the Capitol during the holiday season. Today was such a neat experience. I hope everyone gets a chance to see what I got to see tonight at the Capitol. read more

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It would be a shame to be so close to the Capitol while visiting Idaho and not stop by. That's exactly what I said while I was in town this week, so I took a short detour from my event and walked around the building. It's just as beautiful and magnificent inside as it is outside-and it reminds me of my own state capitol building in Utah. I didn't stay for long and didn't go into any of the adjacent rooms-I'm not even sure if those were open to the public-but I did spend a few minutes in the large rotunda, just taking in the beauty and the richness of the history. Regardless of your opinion about politics, this building is pretty amazing and worth a visit. If you have more time, schedule a tour (I did not), otherwise you can just casually walk through it like I did. read more

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Continuing my quest to visit all fifty state Capitols, Boise in my 43rd overall https://www.yelp.com/collection/ucwQvyGY8sZEDHaN49HU5Q and my third on this trip after Baton Rouge and Carson City. It's also the first one that is completely open for self-directed tours. How darned awesome is that? And coincidence, Idaho was the 43rd state to join the Union. Boise is the state's largest city and was originally part of the Oregon Country until it became a US territory in 1846 and then it was organized as the Oregon Territory in 1846 before finally joining in 1890. The state capital was briefly in Lewiston before the territorial legislature moved it to Boise in 1864. This building is the first and only Capitol building, completed in 1920 in a Classical design that is similar to others including Austin and Salt Lake City as well as the US Capitol building in Washington. Atop the huge dome is a bronze eagle. The building is stunningly beautiful and full of lovely sculptures and artworks. Sadly, the Senate and Congress rooms were closed to the public as the legislature was not in session today. I was still able to walk all the floors of the building and enjoy. [Review 17764 overall - 41 in Idaho - 1285 of 2022.] read more

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We came on a Saturday, and there weren't many people. The Capitol is on the list of National Register of Historic Places. It is 208 feet high with a bronze eagle sitting atop the prominent dome. There is a replica of the Liberty Bell (uncracked) at the base of the stairs outside the entrance. Passersby's are able to ring it. The interior consists of a lot of columns and marble. Looking upward to the dome from the first floor there are 13 large stars and 43 smaller stars. The 13 large stars represent the thirteen original colonies while the 43 smaller stars represent Idaho being the 43rd state to enter the union. Fun Facts: Idaho is nicknamed "The Gem State." read more

Idaho State Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boise, Idaho

I visited Idaho State Capitol with my husband on Memorial Day (yes it was open on this holiday). We arrived around 12 pm. It was rather empty, which was nice and there were plenty of plaques to read and also there was a video playing in the basement that provided history on the capitol building. Initially Lewiston, Idaho was picked to be the capitol for this potato state. But in 1964, it was voted to move the capitol to be to Boise. The great seal of Idaho was designed by Emma Edwards, who was from California, in 1891. She fell in love with Idaho on a visit that she decided to stay. She was the first woman to design a state seal. Later on, in 1957, artist Paul B Evans updated the state seal (the legislature had asked him to). When you first walk into the capitol, you can look up at the rotunda. There are 13 large stars what is to represent the 13 original colonies. There are also 30 smaller stars that provides a total of 43 stars that is to represent the 43rd state to enter into the Union. Up on the 4th floor, there is a George Washington statue that was carved from a single piece of pine by Charles Ostner, who was an Austrian immigrant. This talented man actually used a postage stamp to sculpt the likeness of the former president. This too about 4 years to be carved. This bronzed statue was presented to the Idaho Territory in 1869. It was placed on the grounds of the capitol until 1934, then brought in because of all the weather damage. The statue was repaired and restored and then covered in gold leaf. Also on this floor is a second statue that is a replica of Winged Victoria of Samothrace. The original sculpture was created around 400- 300 BC on Samothrace, which is an island in the Aegean Sea. This capitol is just beautiful filled with so much marble. But I did want to make mention to be careful when walking down the steps. I actually slipped and fell down several steps (onto the 2nd floor). Luckily with so few people around, no one saw me embarrassing fall, but it did hurt me the next day. The state capitol is worth visiting and would highly recommend you come to learn a little bit about the history of Idaho. read more

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I originally visited the Idaho State Capitol on a Sunday only to realize that it was only open Monday through Saturday 8am-5pm and was closed Sundays. Fortunately I came back on a Friday to check it out before leaving Boise. There is street parking right outside but if you're going during the week or on Saturday you'll have to pay the parking meter. At the very front of the building there is a huge bell that you can actually ring and make a noise. Inside the entire building is just full of marble! From the steps to the walls to the pillars it's just stunning. Sadly the building is under construction so I wasn't able to stand at the very bottom of the center of the building and look up to the top. There are four floors but there are also a couple of floors below. There isn't much to see on the first couple floors as I wasn't able to see the senate or house chambers or even sit in the viewing areas. One of the only things to see on the four floors was a statue of George Washington carved out of Idaho wood. On the couple floors below the ground level there is the garden level that has the exhibits and the information that I was looking for. There are two sections of the exhibits: on the outside it's the history of the state and how it became what it is today. On the inside it's information about how government works and the three branches of the Idaho government. It reminded me of government class in high school. If you're going to visit the capitol city of a state I think it's a must to visit the state capitol and Boise is no exception. read more

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Beautiful place. Whenever I'm visiting a city, I try to make time to visit the State Capitol. They are always clean and pristine. Definitely worth appreciating. read more

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Pretty cool that it's open on Saturday and you can explore. The major doors are locked and can't enter. But you can go thru the hallways. Parking was free on the street. I believe it's free on weekends. There's elevators inside and handicap accessible. There's 4 floors. Really nice and pretty inside and love the white marable . read more

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Beautiful state capital. We visited the Idaho State Capital on a Sunday and were surprised by how quiet it was inside. There was barely anyone visiting, but many of the doors were open, allowing visitors to roam around. The Idaho State Capital is located in downtown Boise and found it easily walkable from west of downtown. We entered in the main entrance, which was the second floor. There, you can see many of the elected officials' offices, such as the governor's, attorney general, etc... We were also surprised that there was no staff or security to check us in like at other capitals. Not sure if it was because it was Sunday and/or the legislature is out of session, but we only saw one security guard who was busy setting up for an event on the lower level. Other than that, those that were here were visitors. The house and senate chambers were both open, so we were able to sit in the viewing gallery, which is cool that they allow visitors to do so. There was also a statuary hall and a brief exhibit on Idaho's first governor. In total, there are four floors open to the public at the capital. On the bottom floor/underground level, there is a huge exhibit of the history of Idaho, Boise and the capital building. You can read up on how Idaho became a state and the construction of the capital building and where its been renovated and added on, like the many wings connected underground. There was also a gift shop here, but was closed when we visited. I recommend visiting the Idaho State Capital if you're interested in learning more about Idaho's history, as well as just seeing a beautiful, significant building. I can tell you that as someone who has visited many state capitals, Idaho's is definitely one of the most attractive ones. I'm glad to have checked it out. read more

Idaho State Capitol - Idaho Seal - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boise, Idaho

The Idaho State Capitol is a beautiful historic building. It is well worth a visit and to walk around the grounds. The building is open for self-guided tours and it is free to walk through. Public restrooms available inside and there is a gift shop on the basement level. Photographs are ok inside and out and this makes a beautiful backdrop for some lovely pictures. read more

So beautiful inside. I love looking up at the dome. There are exhibits at times which are fun. Nice for quiet wandering. read more

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A beautiful Capitol building located in downtown Boise, this place surely did not disappoint. Really appreciated the grounds on a cold and snowy winter night, and the illumination is really special at night. Historic markers and information panels aid in learning the Capitol's past. Safe, an easy walk from anywhere in BoDo. read more

Idaho State Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boise, Idaho

BFF is into politics and government so we stopped by. I was completely surprised that you are free to enter without any security measures nor a metal detector (all but one security guard was in sight other than several cameras). Nothing different than you'd see at any other state capitol offices. read more

Plenty of statues and memorial around the Capitol building including a bell at the entrance, I was able to go inside and get some nice photos of the interior as well, it's definitely a must check out spot if your ever visiting Boise, Idaho. read more

Idaho State Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boise, Idaho

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What an amazing building! I am sad I didn't discoverer this diamond in the middle of our city sooner. The marble is stunning and everywhere. Just stunning! Marble steps, marble walls, marble banisters... Make sure you have time to explore this place. In the basement there are history walls to learn more about the capital and the history of our Idaho government and people. There are replica statues, lounges, historical photos, a scavenger hunt, and some jaw dropping rooms where our representatives and constituents meet. My friend and I enjoyed waking around the entire building looking at past leaders and photos. If you have a friend in town or just want something new to do, pop into our capital! It will not disappoint. read more

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A great place to take a walk to after dinner. Building looks amazing and is accessible to get to. read more

Idaho State Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boise, Idaho

The Idaho State Capitol is a true gem in the Gem State. Located near the center of Downtown Boise, the Capitol building is large and very ornate. It is surrounded by a large park with easy access, but limited parking. Fortunately it is an easy walk from the downtown garages. The Capitol houses the legislative and executive branches of state government. Idaho has only about 2 Million residents, but has nearly the same number of representatives as California. The basement houses a good exhibit that explains how state government works and the history of Idaho. It was not always such a conservative State. The upper chambers are ornate and lavish with large and opulent design. I was surprised by the lack of overt security at the facility with easy access, but I suspect they closely monitor the facility on a regular basis. Whether or not you agree with the decisions made within the Capitol, everyone can agree that the Idaho State Capitol is a beautiful and great part of downtown Boise and with a stop. read more

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Interesting experience! There is a lot to look at and even if you just go inside a little the dome is super cool to look at. You should definitely go to the upper levels to see more. read more

There were No guided tours. The building only had self-guided tours. That is the reason for 4 stars instead of 5. Other than that, I loved everything about this Capitol Building: easy accessibility, lovely, manicured grounds, friendly, helpful employees, beautiful marble and functional, open spaces. This administration touts an open door policy and welcomes all people to visit the capitol and get involved with the political process. If you go through the front doors, you enter on the main level and need to go downstairs to visit the gift shop. Because there were no guided tours. We got a short snapshot of the history of the building from the nice, informative staffer in the gift shop. Everyone who worked in this building that we encountered that day was absolutely friendly and helpful. In the past 16 months, I've visited 14 capitol buildings and the people here were the friendliest. The building has just opened again recently due to a 2-year renovation/historical restoration project. The results of the restoration are fantastic. The beautiful, accessible building, the friendly, helpful employees and the prime location make me wish I lived close by so that I could visit it more often. read more

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Gorgeous building. I am excited to have crossed off another state capital from my list. It was an absolutely beautiful spring day and I couldn't have been more thrilled that it was opened on a Saturday to visit. read more

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Boise's most distinctive building, designed by two of Idaho's most prominent architects, John E. Tourtellotte and Charles F. Hummel. They were also responsible for Boise's Carnegie Library, St. John's Cathedral and the administration building for the University of Idaho in Moscow. The building is open to the public and parking can be found in nearby downtown garages. Parking is free for the first hour. read more

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The Idaho State Capitol is arguably one of my favorite places. Open to anyone, for free, you can enjoy the vast openness of the rotunda and walk down the wings. There's an educational center in the basement level, and a gift shop that sells fun Idaho themed items like microwave potato bags and huckleberry candy. The Lincoln auditorium is a beautiful new addition after the last renovation. Here are some fun "facts": the "log cabin" design on the exterior is to represent the pioneers that settled Idaho as our "foundation". The columns on the inside aren't real marble, they're only painted. The canon on the front lawn had to be filled with cement because someone fire it into the post office. An old treasury safe has been converted into an office. Check this building out, whether you're an Idaho native or a visitor, it will put you in awe. read more

This is a review for the park out front only. While the property as a whole is beautiful upon closer examination the grass is pretty gross. There's more litter and poop on the ground than I generally like at a park.... yeah it's gross. My son and I were playing catch and he literally stepped on and slipped on...Vienna sausages... yes you read that correctly... Vienna sausages on the ground at the park... in front of our capital building. He was pretty grossed out when I told them what they were, which is a good thing. We had a good laugh and moved... and then we almost stepped in poop and it didn't look like pet poop. Soooooo all in all the trees provided ample shade for us and all the people asleep on the tables and benches. Would I go back to this park? No. read more

How cool is it that you can just freely wander the Capitol Building? We loved exploring all the rooms and taking pictures inside and out. The marble everywhere was gorgeous and the place was spotless! There's a whole lot of stairs, but also an elevator for those with strollers and such. We took advantage of the free street-side parking on Sundays (and I think it might be free on Saturdays too?). There were a lot of cool old church buildings on the block behind the Capitol as well. It was a neat place to explore! read more

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A week long visit to Boise was part tire kicking for what it might be like to live there and part pure tourist. Our visit to the beautiful 1920 completed and 2009 restored Idaho Capitol building in downtown Boise was tied to both. In every state in our nation are these grand buildings in which representatives the voters elect to work for them convene to do the people's business. Sometimes the individuals elected confuse the grandeur of the structures as intended for them personally and forget who works for whom. Regardless, a visit to any state Capitol always humbles my husband and me for how fortunate we are to live in this great country, imperfections and all. TIME We spent a couple of hours in this Capitol building and the garden on a lovely September day. Would recommend other visitors pencil in a couple of hours although you could blow through this in 45 minutes if you wanted to. FIRST - FOUR YELLOW RIBBONS There are yellow ribbons, one each on four pillars at the front of the building. We had a chance to ask Governor Otter's Executive Assistant about them. She told us they are to remember native Idahoan, Army Sgt. Bowe Robert Bergdahl is still held prisoner by the Taliban after being captured in Afghanistan in 2009. Videos of him were sent by the Taliban up through 2010. The Red Cross delivered a letter from him to his parents in June of this year. Negotiations to free him (believed to be held in Pakistan) involved unsuccessful high level diplomatic efforts to broker peace between the Afghani government and the Taliban which also involved proposed release of five terrorist detainees held at Gitmo. There is little optimism by Administration officials for progress until after 2014 when NATO forces leave Afghanistan and even less optimism for a rescue of Sgt. Bergdahl. We appreciated the Capitol building of his native state displays ribbons to make all mindful of this 27 year old soldier. I wanted to extend the awareness here. ENTRY Like many state Capitols there is no security clearance required to enter this beautiful building. You access the building either by climbing the impressive front marble staircase or for no steps access via ramps that are on either side of the main staircase leading down to the lower level. TOUR Self guided. Get a brochure at the gift shop in the lower level / basement. When the legislature is not in session you can wander at will including the House and Senate chambers. Some of that would be restricted if the lawmakers were at work. Our recommendation would be start at the first floor for orientation with the brochure and to look up under the dome. Then go to the fourth floor and work your way back down. On the fourth floor you can see more up close the ornate tops of the interior Corinthian Columns and where the public seating galleries are for the House and Senate. This is also the location for a small gallery with art made by people in Idaho and the replica of Winged Victory, provided by the people of France. (See THIS N THAT.) You can enter the House and Senate chambers on the third floor. Offices for the AG, SOS, Lt. Governor and Governor are on the second floor. The design of the building uses ideas from several periods and cultures and many kinds of construction materials which makes it interesting for "go slow" touring to take in the details. Garden plantings around the Capitol are lovely even if not extensive and there are pathways to enjoy them. FRIENDLY PEOPLE As we looked in the windows of the Governor's outer office, his staff opened the door and invited us in to see the office and even stay for a proclamation signing in half an hour's time. We didn't stay for the ceremony but it is worth saying that from arrival to departure of our week in Boise, people everywhere were so friendly including the Governor's staff. THIS N THAT: HOURS: Visitors are welcome during legislative sessions from M - F / 6:00 a - 10p and Sat & Sun / 9a - 5p. Also during non session periods from M - F / 6a - 6p and Sat & Sun / 9a - 5p. ACCESSIBILITY: Some wheelchair accessible. Entry ramp to lower level. Elevator between floors. Not all seemed to meet ADA. WINGED VICTORY: In 1949 the people of France sent a Merci Train to thank the people of the US for their support in WW II. A boxcar of gifts went to each state. Idaho's contained a replica of Winged Victory now displayed here. IDAHO CAPITOL ARCHITECTS: Two architects designed this building in roughly 1905 as partners, John E. Tourtellotte and Charles Hummel. When work on the Boise Capitol finished, Mr. Tourtellotte relocated to Portland OR but the partnership endured. My husband thinks we should relocate to either Boise or Portland. His idea is straining our partnership. Maybe we could try the solution used by these two architects! DOWNTOWN: Easily stroll from Downtown to Capitol as we did after dinner one night. Try eats downtown: Tony's Pizzeria Teatro (L/D), Bleu Bird (L), Alavita (D) read more

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Boise is the capital of the State of Idaho. The Idaho State Capitol, completed in 1920, houses the state government. The building, located in Downtown Boise, is one of many State Capitols in the United States that feature a dome. If you have some time to spend in Boise, check out the State Capitol, especially as you are in a city that is the capital of the state it is situated in. And be sure to bring your cameras and take photographs to highlight your visit! Oh, and just to mind you, there is limited on-site parking that requires you to deposit coins into the parking meters, so should you decide to park around the building if you find an empty parking space, plan accordingly and use your time wisely. read more

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Beautiful building! So far I would rank this second to California's capitol building. Beautiful marble, detailed columns, lots of natural light, overall just bright and cheery! No tours on weekends but a lot to see and I was there for hours. I could sit and gaze in the rotunda mindlessly for a while. It was so pretty! read more

Idaho State Capitol - Pretty building! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boise, Idaho

So many memories here from years ago as a Girls' State delegate to now living just blocks away- it's a reminder of all of the sacrifices people have and continue to make to create a state where citizens can experience freedom and safety and enjoy all of the intricate benifits of being a resident of Idaho and of Boise specifically. read more

Idaho State Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boise, Idaho

Enjoyed my time in the Boise area. What stop would be complete without a visit to the Capitol. Unlike some other Capitol cities that are really busy, there wasn't much vehicle or foot traffic. Parking was metered but I found some right away on the adjacent block to the Capitol. There is a nice park across the street. It's probably a nice place for downtown employees to each lunch on a pretty day. The architecture of Capitol itself is really beautiful with a dome similar to the US Capitol. Ofcourse it was quiet (they weren't in session) and the chambers were open to look in and take pictures. I also appreciated the picture boards with photos of the senators and representatives. All in all, a very nice place and right in line with the small town feel of the entire Boise area. read more

Idaho State Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boise, Idaho

GO AGAIN: Yes! Wahoo! On a Sunday mid-day we could walk right in and explore much of the building. And, such a beautiful building it is! Thank you Idaho! read more

My son has been so curious about the Capitol Building lately so I decided to take him, not knowing if we could go in or not. The hours on the website were very conflicting. He was able to ring the bell out front & he loved the architecture. To our surprise...the doors were open! We spent about an hour inside, exploring the four floors, little museums, statues and everything else. I would def. advise anyone who has been curious to take the time to check it out. Great photo ops, too! read more

Idaho State Capitol - Amazing - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boise, Idaho

Compared to Oregon, where I currently reside, Idaho's state capital is much more impressive, beautiful and available to the public. It was open on a Saturday, and even with the street fair and other events going on, there were only a few other people inside. Both the interior and exterior are beautiful and well taken care of, and it's a peaceful way to spend about an hour. The best part though? It's completely free! read more

Loved our visit here, spent a lot of time admiring the history and the architecture inside its beautiful walls. If they had guided tours it would've taken our experience to the next level. read more

Awesome building! The people who make the big decisions here spend all the money you give them, so I would definitely take the time to investigate the building they spend so much time in. It can get crowded, but stop in anyway. Have a look around. Talk to people. Take pictures. It's your building, after all. Enjoy. read more

A typical capitol but the first we have ever been to of many that did not allow visitors in the chambers or viewing room (and it wasn't even in session). read more