The Most Beautiful State Capitol, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the state Capitol you think is the most beautiful!

Updated on May 8, 2024 06:20

For travelers and patriots alike, state capitols stand as proud symbols of heritage and governance, combining rich history with distinctive architecture. Deciding the most beautiful capitol, however, is a subject of spirited debate. Each brings its own unique blend of artistic and architectural elements that reflect the character of the state it represents. By participating in this ranking, you contribute your voice to a broader community discussion, helping paint a clearer picture of public admiration for these monumental buildings. Such rankings also serve as a useful guide for those planning visits to these historical landmarks. Your vote ensures that the list remains current and reflects a diverse range of opinions.

What Is the Most Beautiful State Capitol?

1

43
votes
Utah State Capitol - Salt Lake City, UT

This stunning building features marble columns, intricate murals, and a stunning rotunda. The Capitol also boasts incredible views of the surrounding city and mountains.
The Utah State Capitol, located in Salt Lake City, UT, is a magnificent government building that showcases stunning architecture and breathtaking views. It sits atop Capitol Hill, overlooking the city and offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. This iconic landmark serves as the seat of government for the state of Utah.

Construction Period: 1912-1916

Architectural Style: Neoclassical

Materials Used: Utah granite, sandstone, copper

Height: approx. 286 feet

Total Area: 288,000 square feet
2

58
votes
Montana State Capitol - Helena, MT

Architect Charles Emlen Bell

This neoclassical building is known for its stunning dome and beautiful marble interior. The Capitol also features a stunning collection of artwork and historical artifacts.
The Montana State Capitol, located in Helena, MT, is a stunning example of Neoclassical architecture and is considered one of the most beautiful state capitols in the United States. Situated on a hill overlooking the city, the Capitol building is an iconic landmark and a symbol of Montana's rich history and government. With its elegant design and grandeur, it continues to impress visitors from around the world.

Year of construction: Between 1896-1902

Architectural style: Neoclassical

Height: 165 feet (50 meters)

Materials used: Montana sandstone and granite

Dome diameter: 90 feet (27 meters)
3

28
votes
Texas State Capitol - Austin, TX

Elijah E. Myers

This massive building features a stunning dome, beautiful rotunda, and intricate stonework. The Capitol also boasts a vast collection of artwork and historical artifacts.
The Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful state capitol buildings in the United States. Its stunning architecture and rich history make it a prominent landmark in the state.

Architectural Style: Renaissance Revival

Height: 308 feet (94 meters)

Construction Period: 1882-1888

Total Floor Area: 360,000 square feet (33,000 square meters)

Materials: Sunset Red granite, limestone
4

14
votes
M.O. Stevens · Public domain

Oregon State Capitol - Salem, OR

Trowbridge & Livingston

This beautiful building features a stunning rotunda, intricate murals, and a beautiful marble interior. The Capitol also boasts a stunning collection of artwork and historical artifacts.
The Oregon State Capitol is a beautiful building located in Salem, Oregon. It serves as the legislative branch of the state government and houses the offices of the Governor and other state officials. The Capitol's architecture combines both classical and modern elements, creating a unique and visually stunning structure.

Architectural Style: Neoclassical

Year Completed: 1938

Height: 166 feet (51 m)

Materials: Marble, granite, brass

Total Floor Area: 150,000 square feet (14,000 m2)
5

22
votes
New York State Capitol - Albany, NY

Henry H. Richardson

This beautiful building features a stunning dome, intricate stonework, and a beautiful marble interior. The Capitol also boasts a vast collection of artwork and historical artifacts.
The New York State Capitol, located in Albany, NY, is a stunning architectural masterpiece that serves as the seat of the government for the State of New York. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful state Capitols in the United States, featuring a unique blend of architectural styles and intricate details.

Architectural Style: Romanesque Revival

Construction Period: 1867-1899

Materials: White granite, sandstone

Height: 220 feet

Dome: Hammered copper, gilded with gold leaf
6

13
votes
Colorado State Capitol - Denver, CO

Elijah E. Myers

This stunning building features a beautiful dome, intricate stonework, and a stunning rotunda. The Capitol also boasts a vast collection of artwork and historical artifacts.
The Colorado State Capitol in Denver, CO is a majestic building that combines neoclassical architecture with modern influences. It stands as a symbol of the state's history and progress, attracting visitors with its grandeur and impressive design.

Location: 200 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO

Style: Neoclassical architecture with modern elements

Construction: 1890-1901

Materials: Colorado white granite, Colorado rose onyx, brass, stained glass

Height: 272 feet (83 meters)
7

24
votes
Wisconsin State Capitol - Madison, WI

George Browne Post

This stunning building features a beautiful dome, intricate stonework, and a stunning rotunda. The Capitol also boasts a vast collection of artwork and historical artifacts.
The Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison, WI is a magnificent example of neoclassical architecture that stands as a symbol of the state's rich history and governance. Its grandeur and beauty attract visitors from all over the world.

Architectural style: Neoclassical

Construction period: 1906-1917

Height: 284 feet

Material: Wisconsin granite

Dome diameter: 53 feet
8

5
votes
Arizona State Capitol - Phoenix, AZ

James Riely Gordon

This beautiful building features a stunning dome, intricate stonework, and a beautiful marble interior. The Capitol also boasts a vast collection of artwork and historical artifacts.
The Arizona State Capitol, located in Phoenix, AZ, is a magnificent building that serves as the seat of government for the state of Arizona. Its distinctive design and grandeur make it one of the most beautiful state capitols in the United States.

Architectural Style: Neoclassical

Construction Period: 1898-1900

Materials: Granite, Copper, Sandstone

Height: 125 feet (38 meters)

Dome Diameter: 56 feet (17 meters)
9

-2
votes
North Carolina State Capitol - Raleigh, NC

This stunning building features a beautiful dome, intricate stonework, and a stunning rotunda. The Capitol also boasts a vast collection of artwork and historical artifacts.
The North Carolina State Capitol, located in Raleigh, NC, is a stunning neoclassical building that serves as the seat of the state government. It has stood as a symbol of North Carolina's history and democracy since its completion in 1840. The Capitol's architectural beauty and historical significance make it one of the most beautiful state capitols in the United States.

Style: Neoclassical

Construction: Brick masonry

Height: 97 feet (30 meters)

Exterior Material: Native North Carolina granite

Interior Material: Marble and plaster
10

11
votes
California State Capitol - Sacramento, CA

This beautiful building features a stunning dome, intricate stonework, and a beautiful marble interior. The Capitol also boasts a vast collection of artwork and historical artifacts.
The California State Capitol in Sacramento, California is a stunning architectural marvel that serves as the seat of government for the state. It stands as a symbol of the state's history and political significance.

Architectural Style: Neoclassical

Construction Period: 1860-1874

Materials: Granite, sandstone

Height: 210 feet (64 meters)

Area: 166,700 square feet (15,470 square meters)

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Ranking factors for beautiful state Capitol

Architectural design

The overall design and style of the building, including features like domes, columns, and other unique aspects that make it stand out. Consider the architectural style (e.g. neoclassical, Gothic, modern) as well as the coherence and aesthetic appeal of the design.
Landscaping and grounds

The attractiveness and maintenance of the surrounding grounds and landscaping, including gardens, walkways, and other features that contribute to the Capitol's appeal.
Interior design and artwork

The beauty, elegance, and historical significance of the interior design, including features like rotundas, murals, frescoes, and sculptures.
Historical significance

The importance of the building in terms of the state's political history, as well as any historical events or noteworthy political figures connected to the Capitol.
Preservation and maintenance

How well the building has been preserved and maintained over the years, taking into account any renovations or restorations that have allowed it to retain its original beauty and significance.
Integration with surrounding cityscape

The Capitol's relationship with its surrounding cityscape, including how well it blends in, stands out, or complements the local architecture and environment.
Accessibility and visitor experience

Ease of access for visitors, the availability of guided tours or information, and the overall experience for visitors to the state Capitol.
Environmental sustainability

Consideration of energy efficiency, use of sustainable materials, and other environmentally friendly practices in the Capitol's construction, maintenance, and operation.
Cultural relevance

The representation of the state's culture, values, and identity in the Capitol's design, artwork, and history.
Public opinion

Local and visitor opinions on the Capitol's beauty and appeal can also be taken into account, either through surveys, reviews, or other forms of public input.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful state Capitol. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Capitol is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

3791 views
201 votes
10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Utah State Capitol - Salt Lake City, UT
Montana State Capitol - Helena, MT
Colorado State Capitol - Denver, CO
California State Capitol - Sacramento, CA

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Capitol once every 24 hours. The rank of each Capitol is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most beautiful state capitol

The United States is home to 50 state capitals, each with their own unique history and charm. These state capitals serve as the heart of their respective states, hosting legislative bodies and housing administrative headquarters. But beyond their functional importance, state capitals also boast stunning architecture and rich cultural significance. From the grandeur of the domed capitol buildings to the intricate details of their interiors, state capitals are often considered some of the most beautiful landmarks in the country. In this poll, we ask: What is the most beautiful state Capitol?