Mingle with the leaders of the state at Michigan State Capitol, one of the most distinctive and impressive landmarks in the city of Lansing. Wander around the perimeter of the elegant, neoclassical building, then join one of the tours to witness the inner workings of Michigan’s legislature.
Visit the third version of a State Capitol building in Michigan. Before Lansing had the title of capital city, Detroit was chosen as the governmental center of Michigan and had its own capitol. After Lansing was surprisingly chosen as the new capital in 1847, a wooden building was quickly built but failed to meet the standards required for state government. Come to Lansing today to see Elijah E. Myers’ design for the permanent capitol, which was built between 1872 and 1878.
Gaze upward at the stunning exterior of the building, which is covered in neoclassical features. Look for columns with Corinthian and Ionic capitals and marvel at the cast-iron dome that towers above the building.
Take a tour of the interior to learn about the different aspects of the building’s history and its current usage. Enter through the sparse ground floor, once an armory, before walking up to the more ornate first floor. The floor of the rotunda is made from shards of thick glass, while the inner dome leaves visitors in awe of its hand-painted designs.
See portraits of Michigan’s past governors on the second floor in a gallery of paintings depicting each politician. This floor also houses the current governor’s office, as well as the house and senate chambers. Watch the politicians in action from the public viewing galleries on the third floor. After your tour, wander around the grounds of Capitol Square, which is lined with colorful flowerbeds.
Michigan State Capitol is located near several other attractions. Find Aldado Riverfront Park to the east and the Michigan History Museum to the west, both accessible in about 15 minutes on foot. Tours are available every 30 minutes from Monday to Saturday, excluding public holidays.
