Nebraska's State Capitol is a great place to visit! My wife and I drove to Lincoln to see several different places and we really enjoyed visiting the Capitol building. Our tour guide Allison did a wonderful job showing us the interesting details in many parts of the building. Having visited several state capitols in Western States, I wasn't sure what to expect here in Nebraska. However, this building exceeded any of the others in the scope and breadth of its materials and artwork. Well done, Cornhusker State! read more

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Came here for a school field trip. What a beautiful building. The tour guide that helped us was so knowledgeable and friendly. He had a great pace to keep kids actively involved without feeling restless and I learned a lot as well. I didn't know they did tours like this. A really cool visit with Andrew our tour guide. We had a great time. Parking is crazy because it takes awhile to find a spot but I feel like that's obvious for this type of building. A great experience here. read more

Wow!!! The Nebraska Statehouse in Lincoln should be on your bucket list. This truly magnificent structure rivals any European cathedral or castle. The Gothic Revival building was designed by Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue in the early 1920's. No expense was spared during the ten years of construction. From the outside, the base of the building, that house offices is large - made of Indiana limestone. The names of all the counties are carved in the base. A central tower rises high to a dome topped with a statue of "the sower" (planting seeds) to honor the Nebraska agricultural foundation. Inside, free tours run throughout the day. The atrium was filled with school children getting a tour. A tour guide approached us and offered a short private tour. The halls are magnificent, filled with art and stories about Nebraska. There are stained glass windows, artist murals, busts of prominent people that shaped Nebraska and light fixtures that are incredible. The tiled floors are filled with images that tell the story of a prehistoric Nebraska. The central dome is amazing. Upstairs (14 th floor) is a memorial room filled with more art and plaques to commemorate Nebraskans that served in wars. The legislative branch of government is unicameral (only one house). The Unicameral chamber is exquisitely designed and maintained in original condition. The State Library is a must visit. The fixtures, books and furnitures are original to 1930s. There are courtyards filled with lovely gardens. A statue of Abe Lincoln (the city namesake) stands at the west entrance. The Statehouse is a testament to the people that Nebraska home. Well done! read more

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I was only able to admire the architecture and art deco from the outside. I love the touches of city names around the building, storied frieze, Abraham Lincoln statue (of course) and star of show...The Sower on top of the building! read more

Nebraska State Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Lincoln, Nebraska

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I've lived in Nebraska since 1994 but have never visited the State Capitol building. The wife and I visited today and really enjoyed it. Because we went on a Sunday, parking was plentiful around the building. While waiting for the first tour, we walked around the building and admired the excellent sculpture on all four sides. The tour guide provided lots of interesting information about the building and the beautiful art within. My wife especially enjoyed the marble columns throughout the interior. Great views of the city from the 14th floor and the old time elevator was fascinating. read more

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Cool building. Not see a design like this. Loved walking the halls and looking around. Parking was easy. I found a place in no time. Very beautiful. read more

Nebraska State Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Lincoln, Nebraska

The Nebraska State Capitol is stunning inside and out! The architecture is unlike any other--towering, majestic, and rich with history and symbolism. Walking through the chambers and hallways feels like stepping into a piece of living art. The murals and mosaics are absolutely gorgeous, and the observation deck offers fantastic views of Lincoln. Whether you're a history buff, architecture lover, or just curious, this is a worthwhile stop. Highly recommend taking the guided tour if you can! read more

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We had a great visit here and was pleasantly surprised by a lot of the art work here! We showed up for a tour and so did a few other people, but seemed there were no tours that day after all (Even though the website said there was) and no one at the front desk (just a sign posted to go upstairs). We went upstairs and were never able to find a staff but a volunteer who told us to just walk around on our own. Was a bit bummed out to not have the tour, but still neat to see. read more

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What an experience! The architecture was absolutely gorgeous...we had a tour...we sat in on legislature session...and saw the Supreme Court room..everyone was so friendly..shout out to our tour guide Roxanne! FYI...do not wear high heels on the tour ... read more

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I hopped in one of the hourly tours that are offered of the Capitol. It was amazing! I was surprised to see that I didn't need to go through any metal detectors or security, unlike other state capitols I have visited. It felt very welcoming. When I was a little lost, one of the employees directed me to the correct elevators as well. The tour itself was about one hour long, and covered the first floor. It explained a lot of the architecture and artwork present in the lobby. I couldn't believe the painstaking work that went into the murals and collages. We toured the courtroom and looked at the legislative chamber. Do note that the tour does not go to the 14th floor's observation deck. You'll have to find time to go to that separately, although that does mean that you can spend as much time as you want there! read more

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I don't have much to say other than this is something you should check out if you're in Lincoln. The building alone is very impressive and reminds me of places in Europe I've seen. The massive marble columns and high vaulted ceilings with archway everywhere, plus the art. It's very beautiful. You can take the elevator to the top of the tower and look out onto the city from the viewing areas. Inside the tower itself when you look up is an incredibly beautiful lighting element with very pretty tile work. This place is free to visit, you can take a guided tour, or just wander around. I did a mix of it. We listened a little then went on our own. Good on you Nebraska for having such a beautiful and cultured place in the state's capitol! read more

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Awesome place to visit. The history and architecture is incredible and I love the connection to NYC.

Beautiful and stately capitol building! Worth the visit. The murals tell stories of agriculture. Gorgeous inlaid marble and stone throughout. read more

Walked in as the doors opened at 1pm on a Sunday and was greeted by Allison who gave an awesome tour. She was so knowledgeable about the building, its architecture and art. read more

Closed and locked up for the holiday but I was still able to walk the grounds of the impressive Nebraska Capitol building. At 400 feet, it is the second tallest of it's 50 peers after Louisiana at 450 feet. The tower is completely functional with 15 stories that contain various state offices. There is also an observation level on the 14th floor which I would love to have visited (for my "Getting High" album) but was closed today. Other facts... when it was built, it was the tallest building in Nebraska. It is now third after two buildings in Omaha. The man on top of the tower is The Sower, he is casting the seeds of life to the winds. Construction of the Lincoln tower began in 1922 and completed in 1932. Lincoln is the 31st State Capitol I have visited! [Review 11375 overall, 1152 of 2019.] read more

Nebraska State Capitol - The Nebraska State Capitol in Lincoln - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Lincoln, Nebraska

This Nebraska State Capitol doesn't look like much from the outside, but it is stunningly beautiful on the inside. Anyone who doesn't rank this near the top of all state capitol buildings has surely not been inside. There is no security desk, so you are hit with the beauty of the interior of this building the moment you walk inside. Everything from the floor to the ceiling is either painted with murals or showcasing some other symbol of the state. I was able to take a tour and learn that Nebraska is the only state that is a unicameral. There is only one legislative chamber, not both a House and a Senate. It was in session while I was there, so I couldn't take a picture. I learned a lot about the state through the tour, as all the murals and interior details have some meaning. It you enjoy visiting state capitols you have to stop inside the Nebraska State Capitol. The only thing it lacks compared to the other top capitol buildings is overall size. The tower is very high, but the overall footprint of the building and grounds doesn't compare with some of the "big boys". There are capitol buildings more grand in scale, but none with more attention to detail in representing all aspects of the state through its capitol building. read more

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Incredible architecture and history through imagery. A must-see when you're in Lincoln.

I have seen a few state capitols in the past few years, so I decided to stop by the Nebraska state capitol on my way through Lincoln. I was intrigued on sight as I was driving up to it because it defied the "norm" of most other capitols I have seen (elongated "dome" rising up from the building versus the norm "squat", round domes) so I figured I should go inside and take a look. I enjoyed the architecture on the inside - the main floor is dimly lit and cool, kinda inviting if you're walking in from a hot day. Several murals on the walls, the marble columns, gorgeous mosaics on the floors, were all very beautiful. Most of the hallways on the main floor boasted busts of famous Nebraskans. Some of the hallways had pretty benches for lounging. You can walk up to the second floor and down one floor as well. There are some antiquated looking elevators that I didn't think worked, but I pushed the button and got in anyways to see how high up I could go - Not realizing that the 14th floor held an amazing observation deck and some more great art work on the walls and ceiling. There are tours available during the week as well. If you're in the area, I think it is a cool building to check out. read more

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Home of the state legislature, the state supreme court, and the Nebraska Hall of Fame, the state capitol is an archetectural and artistic masterpiece. If you're visiting the state or have just never been to the Capitol you should go. It is absolutely worth the trip. Don't miss the quotes and stone reliefs on the exterior of the building, the hall of fame busts on the second floor, the actual legislative chamber next to the hall of fame or the observation deck clear at the top of the building and accessible by elevator. If you're bored, just step into a senators office and talk to the staff. So long as you're courteous and respectful they'll generally be happy to talk, they'll also help with directions if you get lost, which is pretty easy to do. The best way to see it all is to take a guided tour. There's a tour guide's office ust inside the doors at the top of the Capitol's North steps. read more

Very pretty location for portraits. So many great, hidden little spots with amazing natural light streaming in. While it's very popular with photographers it wasn't packed on a recent Saturday afternoon. If you have time, take some time to just explore. There are so many uniquely Nebraska flavored details all over the building. Make sure you take the beautiful art deco designed elevators all the way to the observation deck. read more

In Lincoln on a Sunday and did not expect it to be open, but it was. The building is beautiful inside and out as well as the grounds. Would like to see some historical displays though. read more

No separation of power here- the Supreme Court is literally 100 feet down the hall from the legislative chamber? Great building with numerous busts of many famous Nebraskans. Beautiful mosaics and architecture. read more

Nebraska State Capitol - Supreme Court - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Lincoln, Nebraska

I completely agree with the three other reviewers and have little to add to their fine reviews. What struck me was the feel of a European cathedral and the celebration of diversity. Also, the quality of the building, in that everything was made well and designed with purpose. I'm so glad I made it a priority to go for a tour! My friend and I went to the top, and the view is really pretty up there, and emphasizes the flatness of Nebraska. read more

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What a beautiful building! You could spend days scrutinizing all of the beautiful fine details replete throughout the building. There were such a variety of lighting fixtures, sconces, chandeliers, and yet none of them gave too much light. The first thing we noticed was how dark it was inside. We were there on a Sunday, so I wondered if it was extra dark because lights were dimmer or not on? I'm not sure. There was a tour going on, which is a good option if you really want to hear a lot about the murals and bus, is what I gleaned from walking by. FYI, you can't go up in the tower. They did have one of the four courtyards open, so it was nice to see that perspective. The floors are stunning. I love the building/landmark. read more

What a nice building! It's great that the building is open 7 days a week. Tours start on the hour. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable. I get the impression that all the tours are rather short, but I would love for them to be a bit longer. read more

Nebraska State Capitol - Unicameral chamber. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Lincoln, Nebraska

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This is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Lincoln. Tour the gorgeous,historical state Capitol building, see the beautiful art, check out the Eagles in their nest and peer down many stories to all of the people below. Learn about the legislature and pick up a fun gift in the gift shop. If you go during the week, you can even grab a bite to eat at the cafeteria! read more

The Nebraska state Capitol is such an amazing historic place! The building is so full of rich Nebraska history. The inside has beautiful marble and it is amazing to think that it was made so many years ago. What is special about the Capitol is that we have a unicameral system in the legislature. It is very interesting to be able to watch the sessions, and talk with the Senators . I love this building so much! It is one of the places I always take out of town friends to. read more

The main feature is the main floor rotunda with vaulted dome. Surprisingly, there is another vaulted ceiling on the 14th floor that sits on top of the rotunda dome called the "Memorial Chamber". The 14th floor of the 400' tall building also has multiple, small outdoor observation decks, but was closed. Doors to one of the two legislative chambers was open but entry wasn't allowed. Access to the court rooms and additional areas is possible by taking a tour. This 1932 Bertram G. Goodhue building shares the same sturdy features as his design for the Los Angeles Main Library (see https://www.yelp.com/biz/los-angeles-public-library-central-library-los-angeles-2). Most impressive were the incredibly detailed art deco hanging light fixtures which didn't provide much light. Too dark to see many features - particularly the tile murals in the "Life of Man" foyer. Without educational displays or art exhibits like most state capitols, there was not much to see and we stayed only 30 minutes. Free admission and 2-hour free street parking. read more

It's kind of creepy, honestly. Some of the elevators are terrifying and I have heard so many stories of it being haunted or people hearing things. It's pretty boring and there's not much to do. The artwork is okay. I just wouldn't go here for fun. read more

Although it's a bit phallic, Nebraska's capitol is beautiful building. I've never taken the tour, but have seen pics and heard stories so it's on my bucket list the next time I visit Lincoln. This is also where government stuff goes down. Like Ernie Chambers fighting for justice even though his fellow members of the unicamieral administered term limits to oust him several years ago. Well, he's back but sadly about to have to take another six year hiatus here soon. Keep fighting the good fight Senator Chambers and thanks for the badass mountain lion conservation license plates! read more

Lincoln's capitol building, affectionately referred to as the "Tower on the Plains", stands 400' tall & is the tallest building in Lincoln. In fact, no building in the city can be taller than the capitol. Guided tours by knowledgeable staff are available on the hour & are highly recommended. Weather permitting, be sure and take the elevator to the 14th floor observation decks and enjoy the panoramic view of the city. The story of Nebraska begins on the building's exterior with numerous relief sculptures carved in the Indiana limestone. The Sower, 19.5' bronze statue representing agriculture's importance in Nebraska, stands atop the gold tiled dome. A band of mosaic thunderbirds against a sky blue background beneath The Sower, reminds all of the importance of rain to agriculture. The capitol's floor plan is a cross within a square & 112' tall rotunda located at intersection of the cross arms in the center. The interior features marble columns, vaulted mosaic tile ceilings, marble mosaic floors and murals depicting Nebraska's history. All of the mosaic work was designed by the same artist! When completed in 1932, Nebraska had a bicameral legislature but changed to the one-house unicameral legislative system in 1937; it is the only state in the U.S. to have this distinction. Nebraska's state legislature is also the only state legislature that is entirely nonpartisan. Depictions of the history of Nebraska's Native American and Pioneer cultures are found throughout the building, in murals, carving and decorations. Especially stunning is the colorful East Chamber door. And you can't name a city "Lincoln" and not have a statue of the man, can you? The Standing Abraham Lincoln statue on the west plaza predates the capitol building. The bronze statue is standing on a granite pedestal with the Gettysburg Address carved into the granite backdrop. read more

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Took the guided tour on Saturday. Nat was the tour guide and was very knowledgeable. Highly recommend doing the tour as you gain a lot of insight into the murals and artwork and you get access to the Supreme Court Chambers. Definitely take the elevators to the ,14th floor viewing balconies, very cool. read more

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Went on their tour. Hadn't been here since I was a kid. Absolutely a must see if you haven't been or if it has been a while!

I visited the Nebraska State Capitol in the summer of 2007. It was the 13th State Capitol I had visited, and I loved it. This one definitely ranks up there with my favorite state capitols. It is a unique and beautful building that strikes the visitor with awe and inspiration. The Nebraska State Capitol is one of the three US State Capitols that stands as a "skyscraper" capitol. It tops out at 400 feet, a height which wouldn't make too much of a splash in most big cities, but in Lincoln, this is the tallest building around, by far. It was constructed in the 1930s and is one of the early examples of Art Deco design. The design of most state capitols doesn't really reflect their state. Nebraska's state capitol reflects and respects Nebraska. The building is an homage to the prairie, to the natives who inahabited it, and to the pioneers who "civilized" it. All over the building are wonderful artworks, such as cieling and wall mosaics and painted wood panels that evoke Native American imagery and the pioneer spirit. The overall effect is one of a sandstone color spackled with riots of color on the cielings, walls and floors. There are no Greek style statues or grandiose oil paintings in this capitol. Here, it's all an Art Deco interpretation of Nebraska. It's awesome. You can take the elevator to an observation deck 400 feet above Lincoln. Here you can look out over this lovely little college town set on the edge of the prairie. The observation deck has its own unique early Art Deco design. This is a fantasitic Capitol and one of my favorites. read more

We got here at 4PM to make the last tour of the state capitol. Wow, if you ever get to have the pleasure of getting with Gloria, then be sure to take it. Gloria had a dry/sarcastic/funny dialogue with everyone on our tour. She obviously knows the history around the bison etched into the entry masonry to the paintings above in the hall of fame to the floor marble pictures. We went to the senate floor and also the court room. Both were magnificent and Gloria told us everything soo well. She even answered questions at the end and encouraged us to go to the observation deck and 3rd floor balcony. Overall, hands down the most funny and informative tour to any capitol bldg which is up there with Sacramento's capitol bldg. read more

The Nebraska State Capitol was an excellent blend of history and art. The tile floor mosaics on the second floor and the depictions of the prarie and the plains in murals were very powerful. I also appreciated the welcoming staff. I was able to appreciate this gem in late August this year on a short stopover on our way to Minnesota. From Interstate 80 the tower of the capitol seemed to grow from the plains as we approached Lincoln from the West. We took the I-180 turn off and passed by the University of Nebraska before heading towards the Capitol grounds. We parked on the south side of the Capitol. I was a bit nervous at first looking at the south entrance because no one was going in or out and the tower and the stone facing on the south made it ominous. I timidly walked up the steps and entered the door. Walking by the cafeteria and giftshop I went to the docent desk who was very friendly and courteous and gave me literature and information on the capitol building. I retraced my steps and met up with the other members of my group. We ate at the cafeteria of the capitol, myself having a turkey sandwich on rye bread. The cafeteria was well lit and had an awesome view of a patch of grass in a neighboring courtyard. My only complaint here was that the restrooms seemed very antique. I can understand preserving the fixtures however the towel dispensers were one of those fabric wind-up ones. Kind of icky. I had not seen those in nearly 14 years and then in another country.We also did have an opportunity to peek into the reception areas of some Nebraskan politicians. Interetsing how you are able to carry a gun on the capitol grounds, just not into a politicians office. This idea was very unfamilar to me. I am always used to metal detectors at all major government buildings. After this I made my way to the second floor. I was impressed by the tile artwork on the floor depicting animals throughtout natural history particularly those native to Nebraska. Also the sculptures depicting famous Nebraskans in the hall adjancent had an almost shrine-like quality. Father Flanigan, Pershing, and Buffalo Bill Cody were all there. Along with women and Native Americans in the adjacent chambers and their contributions to Nebraska history. It was truly inspirational. Regretfully, I did not have time to go up into the 14th floor of the tower and look up across Lincoln. I was able to get a few souvenirs in the gift shop. It was a very comprehensive on the history and cultural significance of Nebraska. I did not know there was so much literature on various aspects of Nebraska. I was quite impressed. The capitol in Lincoln was very impressive. It gave me an appreciation of Nebraska made me excited to have seen it and the state. I have seen only a handful of state capitols but I would have to say that Lincoln ranks up there with Sacramento and St. Paul in the history, architecture, and culture. I hope to visit Lincoln again someday. read more

A fantastic building--I definitely recommend going on a guided tour. We got a great tour guide who knew a lot about the art throughout the capitol, and told us the stories behind them. Also, at the recommendation of our guide, I ducked in to check out the Governor's Reception Room after the tour was over. They don't mind at all (as long as you're unobtrusive about it), and it is another great room in this building. Don't miss the observation platform at the top, either! read more

This building is likely the most unique I have ever visited. You can wander around freely at no charge. You actually feel like its 1925 just walking around in it. The murals are breathtaking, the craftsmanship is magnificent. It has been kept in nearly pristine condition and has a really neat observation deck. If you are passing through Lincoln, you cannot miss this. Just park the car, walk in, and wander around freely. Everything about this masterpiece just screams perfection. If you like architecture this is definitely for you! read more

Finally, a non-traditional Capitol Building! Although on closer inspection, this building in Lincoln, Nebraska is a mixture on the inside and outside between a Catholic Cathedral, a Mormon temple, and a mausoleum. I liked the fact that they went with different but the whole outside kind of looks like a prison. The inside was a bit dark and dull and I literally have seen hallways and light fixtures like that in Cathedrals. It was different but it didn't feel very inviting. But I was able to top it off with a visit to the 14th floor observation deck, which was great on this nice sunny but very hot day! There were a lot of murals to see which was nice but it still didn't help that the building did not feel like a legislative hall. It really just felt like they converted a cathedral to a state house. You'll see when you get there. read more

Ahhh, the good ole penis of the plains! This is an amazing building with beautiful architecture throughout. I love the ominous feeling inside and the place is almost always empty. It is a great place to check out if you are in town, or make the trip, you won't be disapointed. read more