Pennsylvania State Capitol Tours

Pennsylvania State Capitol showing heritage architecture and interior views
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Visit a majestic palace in the heart of Harrisburg and wander Pennsylvania’s halls of power in a building created as a tribute to art, freedom and democracy.

Such is the grandiose elegance of the Pennsylvania State Capitol that the palatial structure is impossible to miss when exploring Harrisburg. Don’t just observe it from the outside, however step into its storied chambers to see even more of its beautiful design. Tours of the building offer a glimpse into Pennsylvania’s seat of government and allow visitors to appreciate the artistry of the rooms.

President Teddy Roosevelt himself presided over the opening of the Capitol in 1906. The extravagant building was constructed in the American Renaissance style, also seen in Washington D.C., and was intended as “palace of art.” Different projects added extra elements to the building over the following century, yet it maintains the elegant turn-of-the-century style that makes the National Historic Landmark so distinctive.

Amble around the square outside and admire every detail of the impressive exterior. Get out your camera for shots of the fountain by the East Wing, with the eye-catching building in the background. The 272-feet (83-meter) high dome in the Capitol's center is flanked on either side by symmetrical wings dotted with circular windows.

Delve into the heart of the building on a guided tour. For half an hour, you can explore the interior of one of Pennsylvania’s most impressive public buildings. Gaze upward at the domed ceiling of the Rotunda, where a circle of red and golden beams emanate from the center. Different styles are employed throughout the building, which draws on influences such as Roman and Victorian architecture.

Wander the halls of the Governor’s Reception Room, surrounded by hardwood panels, and the painting-lined Senate Chamber, which is lit by art nouveau chandeliers. The route takes you behind the scenes of Pennsylvania’s legislature, into the House of Representatives and the Supreme Court Chamber. Tours happen twice an hour throughout the week and four times a day on the weekend.

Find the Pennsylvania State Capitol in central Harrisburg, next to the State Museum and the Susquehanna River. On-street parking is available in the blocks surrounding the building.

Plan a trip to see Pennsylvania State Capitol

Inn at Cemetery Hill
The Lodges at Gettysburg
Union Hotel
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Reviews of Pennsylvania State Capitol

4.3
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
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" "5 - Excellent 49.17355371900826%
4 - Good
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" "4 - Good 35.12396694214876%
3 - Okay
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" "3 - Okay 13.636363636363637%
2 - Disappointing
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" "2 - Disappointing 1.2396694214876034%
1 - Terrible
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" "1 - Terrible 0.8264462809917356%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler
Sep 6, 2019

Mondays and Tuesdays the museum is closed, so plan your trip around that.

5/5 - Excellent

Shirley
Oct 31, 2018

This location is a very easy drive into the city of Harrisburg.  It takes about 15 minutes- research where you prefer to park before you go into the city.  Prices vary a great deal!

5/5 - Excellent

William
Sep 8, 2018

The State Museum of PA is a must visit. Excellent in all aspects, but parking is an issue

5/5 - Excellent

William
Sep 8, 2018

The Pennsylvania State Museum is a MUST see. Excellent in every aspect.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Pennsylvania State Capitol

Hilton Harrisburg
Hilton Harrisburg
3.5 out of 5
One North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA
Hilton Harrisburg
Crowne Plaza Harrisburg-Hershey, an IHG Hotel
Crowne Plaza Harrisburg-Hershey, an IHG Hotel
3.5 out of 5
23 S 2nd St, Harrisburg, PA
Crowne Plaza Harrisburg-Hershey, an IHG Hotel
☆ Luxury Executive Home ♥ of the City + Courtyard
☆ Luxury Executive Home ♥ of the City + Courtyard
Harrisburg
☆ Luxury Executive Home ♥ of the City + Courtyard
Charming HBG Haven: Cozy 1BR Apt
Charming HBG Haven: Cozy 1BR Apt
Harrisburg
Charming HBG Haven: Cozy 1BR Apt
Stylish, Private 2 Bed Apt
Stylish, Private 2 Bed Apt
Harrisburg
Stylish, Private 2 Bed Apt
Across from Capital and only 20 minutes from Hershey Park
Across from Capital and only 20 minutes from Hershey Park
Harrisburg
Across from Capital and only 20 minutes from Hershey Park
Downtown HBG Gem: 2BR Apt
Downtown HBG Gem: 2BR Apt
Harrisburg
Downtown HBG Gem: 2BR Apt
Downtown Unique 2BR w Parking
Downtown Unique 2BR w Parking
Harrisburg
Downtown Unique 2BR w Parking
Quality Inn Riverfront
Quality Inn Riverfront
2.5 out of 5
525 S Front Street, Harrisburg, PA
Quality Inn Riverfront
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.