This was an unplanned, fun and educational surprise. I happened to step inside the building after picking up a few items from the farmers market outside the building. I had noticed people meandering in and out of its doors on this particular Saturday morning that was also Veterans Day.
After taking a peek at the beautiful interior, I noticed a young man at the information desk and found out a tour would take place in fifteen minutes. I thought, why not since I was already there. It turned out to be a fun, and interesting hour.
To learn of the buildings 284.4 height, 100% Bethel White granite from Vermont and that Wisconsin was considered a bread basket state prior to being known as a dairy one. The interiors marble is comprised from Greece, Algeria, Italy and France as well as other materials from other states. The dome is one of the largest by volume in the world with a beautiful painting at the top called “Resources of Wisconsin.” There are 100 badgers in the capital as statues, in paintings, etc.
You’ll tour the Governor’s Conference Room, The Supreme Court, Senate Chamber, Assembly Chamber, GAR Memorial Hearing Room and the North Hearing Room. The latter has walls that are of Italian marble. With in the walls we viewed snail fossils. Above, the skylight is made of leaded glass. Throughout the tour you will also observe original furnishings, paintings and their meanings and significance as well as the history and purpose of each room. After the tour you can take an elevator to another level, climb a short flight of stairs and step outside to view the city as well as the beautiful statues along the capitol dome.
Overall: It was worth taking time out of my busy day to gain a little history on an interesting state.Take advantage of the free, tour narration booklet for even more information.
Could do with informing the populace more on the issues at hand. Very corrupt, mostly corporate puppets. Also, why did you have to kick out all the peaceful protesters that one time?
The beautiful building where the top state politics happen. Take a tour to see everything it is beautiful and historic.
The Wisconsin State Capitol is one of the most beautiful capitol buildings in the USA. Its beautiful architecture is absolutely captivating. The best way is to join in the frequent guided tours that happens every day and get to the know the various features and the history of the place. Its a building that forms an inevitable part of this nice little city's history and culture.
Around the building are sprawling parks where one can sit and relax. In the afternoons, the place is filled with great food trucks. There are free concerts during afternoons which you can enjoy over lunch.
Its a place worth spending your time and the majestic settings is a great photo op.
One of the finest Architectural Building design. Capitol building tour was awesome. After entering the building felt like i am in ancient times. Paintings and sculptures are amazing. One should visit this building, if they are in Madison,WI.
its fantastic that this building is open to the public. If you are visiting definitely go up to the dome and look out on Madison. Also its worth just checking out the architecture. Additionally its free.
This is probably the most beautiful state capital. Well groomed all around. Well done Wisconsin!
Stopped by during a road trip to Minneapolis. You can park along one of the sides for either 10 minute or 1 hour parking. We strolled about and it has information inside and a decent view outside as well. There are public restrooms available throughout the building.
Wow! Beautiful building. Wandered around for a couple hours, from the basement to the observation deck on top. Very nice air-conditioned get away on a hot day American craftsmanship at its best. Helpful and nice staff around but you can wander on your own unmolested too. The views from the top of the isthmus, the lakes, the university and city layout are not to be missed. Best free attraction in town! Unless your a tax payer, in that case your paying plenty for admission.
This is an incredible building. Didn't get too much time there since we got there right before they closed, however, had a lot of fun exploring and finding random open doors to go explore in. The observation deck was closed and we were really looking forward to this, so that was a bummer. Still a fun experience. I got to pretend I was a part of local Government in one of the rooms that was left open!! :)
Its a must see for anyone visiting the area and people who live in the area and have never been there.
Most beautiful capital building that I have ever walked in. Wonderful artwork throughout and maintained exceptionally well.
I've been trying to visit all the State Capitals over the past few years and this still rates as my favorite. Architecture inside and out is stunningly designed with the arches around the dome perfectly framing views to other parts of the building. Make sure you get the tour
Great building. I have done the tour. Friendly staff and great at Christmas time or when visiting farmers market.
Beautiful Capitol building!! A wonderful place to visit, so much to see you will probably have to come back a few times. Gorgeous stone and wood work. They have a self guided tour you can take and look for hidden secrets, like fossils in the stone of the wallsyou can get a pamphlet from the information desk.