8 Best US State Capitol Buildings to Visit

A few thousand years from now, our US State Capitol Buildings might tell a similar story to the crumbling ruins of ancient Greece and Rome. They’re our equivalent to the Roman Forum and the Acropolis, where politicians gather and make important decisions. Some even replicate the architectural styles of these periods.

You could think of them as the country’s architectural wonders. Each one is a mix of History, design, and political importance, crafted to tell the story of the states it represents.

While every state has a capitol building, only a handful stand out for their beauty and historical significance. Here are eight of the best:

8. West Virginia State Capitol, Charleston

As if the city of Charleston wasn’t stunning enough, the West Virginia State Capitol building is the cherry on top. It was finished in 1932 and designed in a Neoclassical style, with a gold-detailed dome roof that beautifully catches the light of an East Coast sunset.

Its exterior is characterized by symmetrical columns and a huge rotunda — very reminiscent of Ancient Greek and Roman structures. Step inside, and you’ll be overwhelmed by the striking marble interiors and a massive mural of the Battle of Point Pleasant.

Not only is it the legislative hub of the state, but the venue also hosts various events, ceremonies, and Educational programs throughout the year.

7. New York State Capitol, Albany

Although a relatively small capital city compared to others, Albany’s state capitol building sure does make up for it. A bit of a mashup between Romanesque and Renaissance styles, this building looks just like a European palace from the Victorian era.

A big highlight is the ‘Great Western Staircase,’ which can make anyone who walks up it feel like royalty. The artwork is just as impressive. It all tells an intriguing story of New York’s rich history. You’ll find everything from famous people to pivotal events in history depicted here.

You would never guess that the building of it was a rough ride. Budget cuts and the lack of an architectural plan created some serious construction drama.

6. Connecticut State Capitol, Hartford

Connecticut’s State Capitol in Hartford is another building that will transport you straight into your favorite fairytale. It was built in the Gothic Revival style in 1878 and finished with spires, towers, and an impressive golden rotunda.

The interior is just as impressive. Its arched windows, deep red walls, and fresco ceilings with geometric details put it in the same league as chapels and synagogues across Italy — which is saying a lot. And we can’t forget the sprawling gardens surrounding the building.

Add to that 12 sculptures representing things like war, Education, justice, and commerce, and it’s no surprise this is one of the most beautiful buildings in the country.

5. Hawaii State Capitol, Honolulu

Hawaii’s capitol building is one of the newest on the list. It was completed in 1969 and is unlike any other political building in the country.

Architecturally speaking, it’s an American adaptation of modernist Bauhaus, dubbed ‘Hawaiian International Architecture.’ The style mixes classic Bauhaus principles with Hawaiian iNFLuences, such as an open-air layout, wide overhangs, and a low-pitched roof.

To keep things tropical, it even has a central courtyard with water features, inviting plenty of light into the space. It’s also surrounded by lush lawns and towering palm trees, only to be expected in this part of the world.

4. Massachusetts State House, Boston

Completed in 1798, the Massachusetts State House in Boston is one of the oldest capitol buildings in the US. Since it’s located in the heart of the city, its golden dome is recognizable to anyone who has visited Boston. Let’s just say it’s hard to miss.

The building follows Federal-Style architecture, with high pillars, red brick walls, and stately arched doorways and windows. The interior looks more like a museum than a government building. The Flag Room shows off the state’s historic battle flags, while the Doric Hall houses statues of different American heroes.

It’s stately, well-cared for, and beautifully lit, thanks to the stained-glass windows and chandeliers.

3. Texas State Capitol, Austin

Everything is bigger and better in Texas, and the State Capital Building in Austin is no exception. It’s just about as impressive as the one in Washington, D.C. and is statistically taller than it. Pretty brag-worthy, if you ask me…

It’s a perfect example of the Italian Renaissance Revival, a dramatic and impressive style that is a change of pace in this city. Among its winning features, the stunning sunset red granite exterior (sourced from the state itself) sure does make a statement while keeping things proud and local.

From inside the rotunda, you’ll see a dizzying view of the dome, surrounded by portraits of past Texan governors and presidents. Confused? Well, before Texas joined the United States as the 28th state, it used to be an independent republic with its own presidents.

2. Iowa Capitol Building, Des Moines

Iowa’s Capitol Building in Des Moines is one of the most beautiful and dramatic in the country. Completed in 1886, it features a stunning golden dome and an eclectic mix of architectural styles (Renaissance, Neoclassical, and Boroque being the dominant ones).

It’s surrounded by manicured gardens and a wide staircase that leads up to a statue of Abraham Lincoln at its entrance. It’s also the only state capitol with five different domes. But here’s the fun part: the central dome is covered in real gold leaf.

The interior is over-the-top ornate. It’s crafted with 29 different types of marble, glass tile mosaics, stained-glass ceiling panels, beautiful woodwork, and plenty of murals. All this considered, it doesn’t surprise me that it took 15 years to complete this building.

1. Wisconsin State Capitol, Madison

If you thought these buildings couldn’t get more beautiful, you would be wrong. Topping off the list, the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison is hailed as the most impressive in the Midwest.

The dome is made from Bethel Vermont Granite, making it the only granite dome of any state capitol building. On top of it stands a bronze-gilded statue of a female named ‘Wisconsin’ with an eagle and a badger, the state animal. Measured in volume, it’s one of the biggest domes in the world.

As you walk inside, you’ll be overwhelmed by the volume of artwork, crystal chandeliers, mosaics, murals, and marble. And I mean a lot of marble – 43 different types from six countries – to be precise.