Minnesota State Capitol

Minnesota State Capitol

Minnesota Capitol Building Pixabay Public Domain

Minnesota Capitol Building Pixabay Public Domain

While visiting Minneapolis-Saint Paul you must stop at the Minnesota State Capitol, the official seat of the U.S government for the state of Minnesota. This treasure is located in the state's capitol city, Saint Paul.

Get an up-close and personal look at the inner workings of Minnesota's state government while here, the capitol building holding the state senate, house of representatives, attorney general, and governor's office. There are daily free public guided tours, as well as several special field trip options.

The guided tour leaves at the top of the hour every hour and lasts about 45 minutes. One of the biggest things you will learn about during the tour is the architecture of the building, designed by world-renowned architect Cass Gilbert in 1905. The beautiful beaux-arts building features the second-largest self-supporting mobile dome in the world, as well as several pieces of fine art and decorative architecture throughout. During the tour, you will see other building highlights such as the chambers of government and he Quadriga golden horses on the roof (weather permitting). Of course, you will also hear stories of the state capitol's history, art, and architecture all along the way.

School groups have several field trip options that allow them to 'visit the chambers where government decisions are made...and learn about government processes while taking in its incredible architecture, art, and history.' Here are the specific field trip options available: I Spy, Rally Round the Flag Civil War, Taking Issue Making a Stand, Voice of the People, and Art Treasures in the Capitol.

Before you go grab a bite to eat at the German-themed Rathskeller Cafe or grab and go Lunch Counter on the second floor.