Wisconsin State Capitol
A state capitol with a white granite dome, standing at the highest point of the isthmus. Guided tours are free. In summer you can climb to the observation deck and look over both lakes.
The State Capitol was completed in 1917. Its granite dome is one of the largest state capitol domes in the United States, and a gilded statue named 'Wisconsin' stands on top, watching over the city. Inside are a marble rotunda, mosaics, and murals. The Assembly Chamber and the Supreme Court can be seen on free guided tours, which run several times a day and last about 45 minutes. In summer (roughly June to August) you can climb to the outer observation deck on the sixth floor and look over Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. City regulations stipulate that surrounding buildings may not be taller than the dome.
Opening hours
Monday–Friday 08:00–18:00, weekends 08:00–16:00; guided tours several times daily
Nearby sights
- Dane County Farmers' Market
- Madison Children's Museum
- Wisconsin Veterans Museum
- Overture Center for the Arts
- Monona Terrace
- Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
- State Street
- Chazen Museum of Art