Wisconsin State Capitol — Attraction in Madison

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...

If you and a stranger happen to converge at the entrance to the Wisconsin State Capital at the same time, they will likely smile and gingerly wave you forward. "After you," they'll say, that friendly concession a trademark of "Wisconsin nice." You'll make your way through the bulky wooden revolving doorway and into the granite hallways, and if it's your first time here, you'll be surprised at it's grandeur, elegance, and the ornate frescos adorning the walls and ceilings. It's truly one of the most beautiful state capitals in the United States.

If you're lucky enough to visit at the right time, meet in the rotunda on the hour for a free tour. The tour is informative and fun, and you even get to see the courtroom, the senate chamber, and the assembly chamber. The tour guides are knowledgeable and willing and able to answer your questions. As of this review writing, tours were offered Monday through Saturday at 9am, 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm, and Sunday at 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.

If you come around noon, you're likely to hear protesters singing anti-Governer Walker songs and exercising their first amendment rights. During the holidays, the Capital is decorated and a large Christmas tree sets a festive mood. If you're visiting during the summer, take the stairs or take the elevator, but make sure you make it to the sixth floor museum and observation deck, which offers unparalleled views and is only open during the summer.

I hope you get a chance to visit and enjoy our beautiful Capital building. The unique architecture and atmosphere wow me every...

Absolutely gorgeous capital building with a lot of history. I really like how this is the central focal point of Madison. Truly makes you feel like you’re in an energetic capital city compared to other states where the capitol building isn’t as prominent in the skyline or as easy to locate.

Entrance is free to the public, or at least was when I came on a weekend. You can walk right into the rotunda which is very breathtaking. Restrooms are only accessible on the ground floor it seems. I believe there’s free tours higher up in the building, so if you’re here for a decent amount of time I’d ask someone about that.

Only negative I experienced here was parking. I came early in the morning and found a spot easily, but whenever there’s huge events downtown, parking seems to be a total disaster here due to how compact the city is. Some parking garages can be a hassle to find a spot in, so I’d definitely budget some extra time to...