From a historical perspective this place is awesome. We were crunched on time but it was free to explore and we loved it! Standing on Beacon Hill, the Massachusetts State House was designed in 1798 by Charles Bulfinch, it marked a shift toward American-born architecture. Its iconic dome, later coppered by Paul Revere's company, has seen everything from abolitionist-era debates to WWII camouflage, when it was painted black to avoid detection. During World War II, the iconic gold dome of the Massachusetts State House became a potential liability. That bright, reflective surface wasn't just beautiful--it was basically a beacon from the sky. In an era when cities feared aerial bombing, anything that could catch a pilot's eye was a problem. So in 1942, officials made a decision that feels almost cinematic--they painted the entire dome black. Not bronze. Not dull gold. Black. The idea was simple: reduce visibility from enemy aircraft. Boston wasn't bombed during the war, but the fear was very real, especially after Pearl Harbor. Coastal cities like Boston were on edge, running blackout drills, dimming lights, and preparing for the possibility of attack from German U-boats lurking in the Atlantic. After the war ended, the dome was restored to its gold finish in 1945. read more

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The tours are only available weekdays, but if you're able to make it, it's worth doing a tour. If you can't make it inside, it's still cool to look at the golden dome from the outside. Inside, there is a lot of good artwork representing the state's history. You're free to walk around as desired or go on an hourly tour. Finding the tour is not intuitive and there aren't really any signs. Luckily, we asked at the gift shop or we never would have found it. The tour had some good information on the history of the state and explanation on paintings and statues, although she didn't know why Massachusetts was one of only a handful of Commonwealths. Because there is a lot of ground to cover, not everything gets an in depth context. Some of the rooms are floor to ceiling beautiful, including multiple domes. We learned where the original structure stood and which parts were added and where important figures entered from and where governors take their final walk. We went through the two chambers: the larger House of Representatives with lists of historically important Massachusettsians and a fish symbol that has a colorful history to the more intimate but still detailed Senate chambers. We also say the hall of recent govenors and learned how they chose to represent their portraits. The traditional artworks were fantastic, and it was a bit sad given the significance of the seal everywhere, they are looking to redesign it. There is a lot of great history as one of the oldest states that should be celebrated. If it were open on weekends even for self-guided tours, a lot more people would be able to experience centuries of history. read more

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One of the first monuments on the Freedom Trail, easy to spot on Beacon Hill, it's majestic, beautiful and full of history. I didn't visit it inside because I did the Freedom Trail on a Saturday and the place is closed on weekends. But hopefully next time! It dates from 1798, it's a national landmark, is the state capitol building. It was built on John Hancock's land, the first governor of the state. Later, the beautiful dome was covered in copper by Paul Revere's company. It is gold since 1874 and it gives a nice touch to the building. Lots of statues on the premises: General Hooker, President John F. Kennedy, Daniel Webster, Mary Dyer. Easy to spot, across from Boston Common, you can see its golden dome from the park. read more

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The Massachusetts State House serves as the home for the State Senate, House of Representatives, and Governor's Office. Inside, murals, statues and governors' portraits illustrate the state's history. Since its completion, the Massachusetts State House has been a site of multiple historical debates and discussions Tours are given weekdays year-round from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and are free of charge. The building is open weekdays from 8:45 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on weekends and of course holidays. The dome is partially covered with 23.5-karat gold leaf which was not the original design. read more

Massachusetts State House - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

This is one of America's most historic statehouses and it's truly a sight to see!! It's positively stunning inside and packed full of interesting displays around every corner. They offer guided tours but you can also do a self-guided tour which is what I did - they provide a map with info about the major points of interest but there's so much more to see so be sure to explore! This statehouse was built all the way back in the late 1700s!! The giant gold dome wasn't gold originally - it was just wood but it started to leak so they hired Paul Revere (yes that Paul Revere!!) and his copper company to cover it in copper which was later painted gold. When you first enter, you have to go through security and then you're free to just wander around as you please pretty much lol - that really surprised me haha! I suggest you make your way upstairs to Doric Hall to start where you'll find the info desk to get a map and info on points of interest- or sign up for the guided tour if you prefer. Doric Hall is full of giant columns and has a statue of George Washington and a lovely painting of Abe Lincoln. Next you'll head into Nurses Hall where you'll find a moving tribute to all the Civil War nurses. Next to that is Memorial Hall with a beautiful stained glass dome in the ceiling and then onto the Great Hall of Flags which is really cool! After making my way up the magnificent Grand Staircase, I somehow found myself in the State Library which isn't on the map - and this ended up being my fave part!! SO AMAZING!! The sweet staff lady inside the library was so excited to tell us all about it! The thing that really drew me in was they have a display of an original drawing for John Audubon himself!! The father of birding!!! Oh I was so impressed. And they also have Bradford's manuscript of his account of early life in Massachusetts- which included the Mayflower passenger list AND the whole description of the very first Thanksgiving!! They let you read it inside the library so I couldn't resist - I sat down and read it and it was so interesting!! They didn't even eat turkey - mostly fish haha! How cool is that?? After the library, I went inside the House of Representatives and the Senate Chambers - it was really fun to get to see all that. And the staff told me about a funny "Easter egg" of sorts in each chamber - keep an eye out for the "sacred cod" haha!! The fish is supposedly good luck and represents Massachusetts' earliest business - fishing! The state house truly is beautiful- I was there twice as long as I expected to be and still don't feel like it was enough time - I definitely want to go back and explore more of the treasures in the library!! It's all free to enter as well and there's a cafe on the top floor. It's in the heart of the freedom trail, right next to Boston Common - very much worth a visit! read more

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Stunning building! As we were doing our Freedom Trail walk, you walk right past this building located on Beacon Street, so we decided to go in for more some history. When you walk in the front doors, you have to go through security and take your bags, jackets, purses, etc. off and send it through the conveyor belt for security. You then can proceed to walk around the building yourself or take a free tour. We decided to walk around ourselves. The aesthetics of this building once you get to the center area is beautiful. You'll see flags from different nations hanging on the walls, statues of former leaders and historic men and women, memorabilia, written lessons on history and so much more. We got lucky that day and were able to witness a group of women of color that were being recognized for being the first at doing something. This was a great experience and even got me choked up. Seeing the news crew and proud family and friends enjoying that moment was very special. Stunning layout and decor, a lot of history and friendly staff made this a great unexpected stop. read more

Massachusetts State House - Women of color excepting their awards for being the first of something. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Beautiful area....Massachusetts State House, Boston Public Garden and Boston Common all nestled together read more

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For years when I would visit I would pass by this place and just admire the golden dome on top of the building. Finally I took a little tour inside this incredible place. It's beautiful. It's had a lot of history and I appreciate that. read more

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Any trip to a state capital needs to include a trip to the capitol building. Boston is home to the Massachusetts State House. It is one of the oldest capitol buildings, so it started out small but has been expanded. It's still not as large as other big city capitol buildings, but it is stunningly beautiful. A masterpiece of Federal-style architecture. On the outside there is a dazzling gold dome. On the inside there are multiple rooms that impress. There is the rotunda and grand staircase that is common in capitol buildings. There is also a memorial hall and a hall of flags that is not to be missed. There are beautiful murals throughout the building. Some of the best you will see in any state capitol. There are also statues and portraits. The House chamber and the Senate chamber look completely different, but both have their own distinctive charm. I took a guided tour of the state house and the guide was friendly and knowledgeable. Tours start at the top of every hour. You can do a self guided tour as well. But the guided tour gives you little historical details you won't know on your own. I've been to Boston many times over the years and it should not have taken me so long to visit the State House. read more

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Rich in history, the Massachusetts State House warrants a visit. Easily located off the red line, Park Street stop, the capital is open Monday-Friday. Tours are available starting at 10am, lastly about an hour. It is free. read more

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Massachusetts' wonderful State Capitol building may not be one of the oldest sights on Boston's Freedom Trail, but it's worth checking out nonetheless. It's spectacular rotunda (known as Memorial Hall) showcases a gallery of historical murals beneath a breathtaking stained-glass skylight that sits beneath the building's 23-karat golden dome. The adjacent Nurse's Hall, also sculpted out of Italian marble, honors the state's Civil War Army nurses, which includes notable names like Dorthea Dix, Clara Barton and Louisa May Alcott. And don't forget to duck into the impressive House and Senate chambers, both of which are accessible from the building's third floor when the legislature is not in session. Free guided tours are available, but our family enjoyed our 30-minute, self-guided walk through the building. It's a fantastic way to begin your exploration of the city's historic Freedom Trail sites, and one of the best examples of Federal architecture anywhere in the country. read more

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I've been in a lot of State Legislature buildings and they are all absolutely magnificent. If a society is going to take democracy seriously, then legislatures have to have the architectural gravitas and poise commensurate with lofty ideals. I don't know that all the representatives who were ever seated here lived up to those ideals, but this is the House that in 2006 passed historic legislation to insure healthcare insurance coverage for almost all citizens of the state. It's an awe inspiring building and worth an hour of your time. The state rangers and state police who have jurisdiction here are an impressive combination of professionalism and informative helpfulness. I watched them help two sets of European tourists and if only airline and hotel workers could be this tourist oriented at the same time making sure all visitors and workers are safe. You really don't need a tour, and the hour before closing is a good time to pop in and avoid any crowd. You go in by the Hooker's entrance and by the way, the slang term for prostitutes did originate from the general whose statue guards the entrance. He allowed "fallen doves" to follow his army around and they were such a sight they were known as "Hooker's women," though we don't really know if he was actually a customer himself. His command centers were, however, described as "dens of iniquity." At any rate this makes for an amusing photo op at the entrance. read more

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Beautiful state house. Just fronting the boston commons. Entrance is at the side. No parking space read more

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Marvelous piece of architecture. Beautiful... This place can be spotted in Boston by the gold gleaming dome roof which stands out amongst the buildings. It also falls in line of freedom trail. Magnificent, truly amazing and beautifully well kept. I immediately knew I was going to like Boston, and I wasn't wrong. There are multiple historical buildings around and I truly enjoyed the sense of history there was throughout the city. It's really nice to see historical buildings amongst the modern architecture. read more

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Beautiful building inside and out. Definitely do the self-guided tour. After some friendly conversation we were even able to go out on the governor's balcony. Be sure to talk to everyone and ask questions. read more

Massachusetts State House - Massachusetts State Capital - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Surprisingly well decorated building, and it was fun to walk around and see all the murals and flags. Friendly, helpful interns too.

The Massachusetts State House can be found on Beacon Hill right across from Boston Common. The building is absolutely beautiful, and it marks the beginning of the Freedom Trail. We were very rushed for time, so we elected not to go inside this time out, but we very much enjoyed taking in the exterior and taking pictures of the State House. It's Golden Dome is quite striking! Tip: Next time, when we have time to look around the interior, I look forward to checking out "The Sacred Cod"; this is an emblem within that symbolizes one of the ways some of the original settlers in The Bay State made their living - by fishing :-) read more

Massachusetts State House - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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I forgot to write a review of the beautiful State House when I was in Boston last February. It was closed because it was a weekend, but you can still walk around the outside taking pictures and enjoying the majesty of the building. A beautiful structure and you can see if from anywhere in the Boston area - it is quite literally "the Hub.". You might not be aware, but the property on which the State House is homed was once owned by John Hancock. Yes, the guy with the dramatic signature and with the insurance company named after him. (They have a big glass building across the way.) Pop quiz. Massachusetts is one of four states that refers to itself as a "Commonwealth." Can you name the other three? read more

Want to learn about the government of one of the oldest states in the union? Do you appreciate majestic classical architecture? Excited to see the real-life "Sacred Cod" and "Holy Mackerel" with your own eyes? Then come visit the Massachusetts State House! The State House is where the Massachusetts government works. This includes the state senate, house of representatives, and governor. The building is free and open to the public - though you'll need to pass through security, and obviously some areas are off-limits for the public (you can't just go barging into all the senators' private offices). But you can appreciate the grand halls (of which there are many) and the chambers where the legislators convene to debate and pass laws. And appreciate them you shall! The architecture and artwork here are magnificent. From large rotundas and grand staircases to marble sculptures and massive paintings, the State House is a sight to behold. It truly gives you a sense of awe and appreciation for the history of Massachusetts. If you come at the right time, you can have a tour guide walk you through the building and explain everything. But a self-guided tour is fine too, and there are pamphlets which explain the significance of the various rooms and monuments. So whether you're a tourist walking the Freedom Trail or a longtime Massachusetts native who wants to learn more about your state government, check out the State House for a fun and educational adventure you won't quickly forget. read more

Massachusetts State House - The chamber for the Massachusetts House of Representatives. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

The Massachusetts State House is a good start to the Freedom Trail. I went up here after spending some time at the Boston Common. The building is located on the top of Beacon Hill, and I must say it's a beautiful building with magnificent pieces of artifacts, sculpture, and art inside recalling many periods of Massachusetts history. However, my experience probably would have been better if I had a guided tour because I didn't know what the heck I was staring at. read more

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(12/5/19) This is a must-see when visiting Boston. Beautiful building inside and out. Each floor holds something different. Both chambers of the legislature are compelling, as they always are in buildings of this reverence. The security staff is very friendly and engaging. We were talking with the guard on the observation level of the Senate chamber. She was very interesting. She shared stories of living in Boston and we shared stories of living in Wilmington, NC. We talked about weather, Boston life, hurricanes and the building itself... She was a joy to converse with, which is one of the great things about going to new places. Talking with locals gives you such an invaluable perspective on other people's lives and the interesting places they live. Then, right before the senate convened, a group of raucous, ill-mannered high school students entered the gallery and our conversation was lost as they proceeded to demonstrate their lack of decorum and proper upbringing. The guard now had her hands full. We wished her well and thanked her for the wonderful conversation. The rest of the building is much the same way. Friendly folks, eager to help or chat. The people in the house chamber were so willing to show us around and fill us with information, I was giddy. They are so knowledgeable and friendly. It truly is a beautiful building. Each floor has something different to see. And it's free. I've been to several buildings of this stature; U.S. Capitol (pre- and post-911), Annapolis, Richmond, Raleigh, Columbia, etc. This is by far my favorite State House I have visited. Just gorgeous. And the staff makes it that much more terrific. I would encourage you to tour this State House, one of the most important in the history of our country, and engage the staff, they love tourists and imparting their knowledge and experience to them. (I forgot to mention one thing. Directly across the street from the front entrance to the State House is the memorial to Robert Gould Shaw, the union officer in charge of the 54th Massachusetts regiment, the first regiment of black soldiers. If you've ever watched the movie "Glory" you know who he is. Standing in front of the frieze by Augustus Saint-Gaudens is very humbling. Colonel Shaw gave his life for the truly noble cause of equal rights before the notion barely existed.) read more

Freedom Trail sites in Boston...we saw 13 of 16, and checked into only 9 because some are closed...June 2016...overall 4 stars... #1 of 16...Boston Common...5 stars...wonderful park area where people can meet and walk, or eat at one of the food stands that dot the area. It is a huge park in the city and well worth visiting. A great place to start your tour of the Freedom trail. All cities should have a public park area of this size and fame. Free. #2 of 16...Massachusetts State House...5 stars...This was our first stop on the Freedom Trail and IMHO it is the best. It is a magnificent piece of architecture that the State of Massachusetts (technically they are a Commonwealth) allows the public to visit practically every day of the year for no charge. Inside you'll find both the State Senate meeting room and the State Representative hall. In both cases, when the Houses are in session you are allowed to visit in the spectators balcony. We visited during the summer when the Houses were not in session and so we were allowed on the floor of both Houses...this was a very neat experience. There is also a Flag Hall worth seeing, and many other interesting places to investigate. Make sure you visit...this was worth it. Free. #4 of 16...Granary Burying Ground...5 stars...very neat burial grounds. Free entry and you'll see where Sam Adams, John Hancock, Paul Revere, and Benjamin Franklin's parents are buried. Interesting old monuments on the grounds. Worth the look. Free...although there is a guy at the entrance who loans you diagrams for a donation...worth it. #5 of 16...Kings Chapel...3 stars...Neat old church...you can see the original booths that were awarded to members based on their donations to the church. Worth the look. Free. #10 of 16...Old State House...2 stars...neat old building but they want $10 each for visitors to look at the small museum. Not worth the trouble...walk by and see the nice old architecture and move on. Not Free. #11 of 16...Boston Massacre Site...2 stars...sort of like the Fort Dearborn site in Chicago...it is a brass plaque set in the concrete on the corner. Walk on by and move on. Free. #12 of 16...Fanueil Hall...5 stars...very neat area of old warehouses in Boston. These have largely been turned into shops and places to eat. This is a big venue...with three distinct sets of warehouses. You could easily spend all day just here. Worth the visit. Free. #15 of 16...USS Constitution and Charlestown Navy Yard...5 stars...if you made it this far you must go see the USS Constitution...it is a piece of American history unlike any other. This ship is still on the active rolls of the US Navy. It is currently in dry dock and being refurbished (which seems to happen every 20 years) but don't let that hold you back. You'll go through a cursory security check and then can get on deck for a self-guided tour. There are also many sailors on board to answer any questions. An American landmark. Don't miss this one. Free. #16 of 16...Bunker Hill...3 stars...Site of an actual battle that played a large part in forming the United States. That said, it is a monolith on top of a small mountain overlooking Boston. Worth the visit, but you'll probably have to drive here to the North End of Boston and park your car. Still and all worth the visit. Free. read more

Massachusetts State House - Main floor of the House - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Definitely worth a visit. The State House is located on top of Beacon Hill opposite Boston Common and is one of the city's most recognizable buildings with its golden dome. We enjoyed just exploring the beautiful interior on our own. The marble-floored corridors and rooms are beautiful and contain interesting works of art and murals depicting the state's unique heritage. The Memorial Hall with its red Sienna marble is particularly striking. The State House is open Monday-Friday from 8:00-6:00. They have docent led tours that last about 45 minutes, but if you're doing it on your own, give yourself about 30 minutes. read more

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Many people start the Freedom Trail near or around the Massachusetts State House. Boston is the state capitol with a magnificent building smack dab in the center of Boston, right across the street from Boston Common. The building is just spectacular on the inside and outside. The classic building has extensive and ornate displays of marble, gilded decorations, and lots of artwork, even beyond what you would normally expect. Once you pass through the requisite security check, you have free reign to explore the building - although some areas are blocked off. The place likely gets busy during session, but is well worth a trip anytime. The restrooms are a little cheesy downstairs, but overall this is a great stop on the Freedom Trail and worth a visit. read more

Massachusetts State House - Capitol Exterior - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Outstanding and free but even if they charged it would be worth it. Tremendous architectural beauty and history screaming from the walls. Tours run every 30 min or you can simply walk around the 3 floors and soak it all up. Not to be missed. read more

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This was a wonderful visit! It's unfortunate that you can only go on weekdays since most people work during the week but I managed to score a day off to visit. Beautiful old building with plenty of History. They offer tours and it was completely worth it. You just need to make sure you go on a weekday! Be sure to check out the Women's Hall of Fame hallway since some smart person realized that a lot of these old buildings are memorials to men and often leave out the opposite but equal sex. Great place to learn about Massachusetts government. read more

I need to add and comment on how beautiful the inside is in addition to the greatness of the outside. I got a chance to actually wander through the House today while going to the State Library: the paintings and exhibits in the house are beautiful. Whether you're a fan of former Governors like David I. Walsh or Eugene Foss, or like nice wall paintings of the various events in Massachusetts history, the State House is an artistic treasure. On top of all of this, the State Library has a great record of past state documents. Some of them are in better shape than others, but it's a cool collection of the annals of Massachusetts history. read more

I love visiting State Capitol buildings and I had to stop in when visiting Boston last month. The tour is free and I opted to do the self-guided tour since the guided tours were filled with school groups. The building is beautiful inside and out and I particularly enjoyed the stained glass under the dome as well as the artwork throughout the building. It's easily accessible as the building is right next to Boston Common and is off the Freedom Trail. I definitely recommend coming here if you enjoy touring historical buildings! read more

Massachusetts State House - Beautiful! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Mongo find building with steeple. Mongo like old buildings. A lot. Mongo think very pretty inside. A lot. Mongo see lots of old things from history. Some history make Mongo happy. Some history make Mongo sad. But Mongo learn a lot. Mongo take pictures. A lot! And even though the name on steeple building is spelted wrong - Mongo think you will like Mas-a-chew-sits State House! A lot! read more

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Unfortunately, the day we came to visit it was closed to the public and actually surrounded by police. It was during the protests against the police system. So our review is from the pure outside aesthetics of the building. It's pretty, and there some steps that lead up to it from the Boston Common that sets for some great selfies! The history that comes with this building is great. To think Paul Revere and Sam Adams used to use this space! read more

Last stop on my Freedom Trail walk. They offer free tours on the weekdays but I came to late. Located right across from Boston Common. The building itself is big and designed like a typical government building. I did like the dome on top though. I wish I could have gone inside but still a nice walk by. read more

Massachusetts State House - Outside - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

The seat of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts! You can walk right up to the capitol building fence, and voice your concerns to government. Long live the freedom of speech that our forefathers fought for! This is a stop along the Freedom Trail, which is visible from the Common, and from all over town. It was originally built on land donated by John Hancock to the state, as it was an old ranch of his. The top was only somewhat recently gilded in 24k gold, as it was originally built out of wood. Did you know that during WWII, they painted it grey so that enemy bombers wouldn't be able to see it? When I went, the gates were locked, and there were armed policemen standing outside of the gate looking stern and uninviting. So I didn't go in. But I was happy to see a veteran out in front of the building protesting, keeping the government in the know about his grievances. It's a nice looking building, but our capitol in Texas is bigger... :P read more

I love Massachusetts. Capitol offers free tours hourly starting at 10 during the week. You may do a self-guided tour other times. It was quite busy. read more

The Capitol offers free tours hourly starting at 10a on weekdays. Alternatively, a bit earlier and throughout the day you can do a self-guided tour. The self-guided brochure was informative and also a good map. Online there is information for a self-guided exterior tour. There are also some exhibits in the second floor area where tours start from. The entrance for visitors is to the right of the building's' front and center. I snuck in just before a big school group so the metal detector line was quick for me, but note this area may get bottlenecked. read more

The Massachusetts State House is good start to the Freedom Trail. I went up here after spending some time at the Boston Common. It's located on the top of Beacon Hill and I must say it's a beautiful building with magnificent pieces of artifacts, sculpture and art inside recalling many periods of Massachusetts history. I recommend going here if you are a tourist or a resident of Massachusetts. read more

Massachusetts State House - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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I had an excellent tour at the MA State House, which covered the history of the building, the governors, the exhibits and included entrée into the House of Representatives during voting on a bill. The Senate was away at the time. It was enriching, educational and entertaining. Glad I finally took the leap -- and went on the free guided tour. read more

"Courage--judgment--integrity--dedication--these are the historic qualities of the Bay Colony and the Bay State--the qualities which this state has consistently sent to this chamber on Beacon Hill here in Boston and to Capitol Hill back in Washington." -President-Elect John F. Kennedy Delivered to a Joint Convention of the General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The building is gorgeous, the commonwealth is progressive, and the state constitution is the oldest written constitution in effect in the world today. I'm a liberal from Massachusetts. And proud of it. read more

Went on a tour here, guide had great knowledge of building's history and fun facts about it. You can also do a self-guided tour following the brochures at the front desk. Would give it 5 stars but the guide talked really fast, in a kind of monotone. I took my English class here and students had a hard time hearing what he was saying. I heard him giving another tour and this seems to be his speaking style, which [for docents, tour guides] might be a bit too fast. I think this might be more an experience thing, having been a docent myself I know it gets easier to public speak with time. A couple years ago there was an older guy who did the tours and he did an excellent job engaging students and talking with us. He even let us see the governor's office and talk with the staff, so hats off to him. read more

The Statehouse harkens back to our European routes. If you're sitting at the bottom of the Common by the fountain, it is a lovely view up the hill to this gold-domed structure--a classic monumental view that recalls Edinburgh, Paris and Prague. It's so nice you'll even be able to ignore the homeless guy peeing on the bench next to you. Simultaneous, it's also uniquely American, designed in the stately, simple style of Charles Bullfinch--the first American architect. The building is pleasing to look at from far away and up close. It engages with you, while also allowing you to admire it. It is a true monument. And then when you get inside, the wonders continue. There are absolutely gorgeous frescoes and marble columns all over the place. It's amazing that the State House and Government Center can exist in the same city. read more

You do have to go through security, but it's cool that you can go right into the current gold-domed state capitol bldg and either take a guided or self-guided tour. Interesting displays, sculptures, art, hall of flags, floor mosaics and more. We even got to go in to see the representatives desks with the voting mechanisms on them. Getting out was not quite as straightforward as getting in. We wandered around and came out the side entrance. This building is at one end of the Freedom Trail, facing Boston Commons. read more