Which State Capitol Buildings Are Good Tourist Destinations? by Bryce Aide

Over the last few years, I’ve started going to various state capitols, with the intent of ranking all 50 Capitol Buildings. So far, I’ve visited nine. We’ll start with the worst, and finish with the best.

#9 – ATLANTA, GEORGIA

I wasn’t able to get into the building (got there around five minutes too late), and the exterior is boring as shit. On the outside, there are a bunch of Confederate statues, which is the main reason this is at the bottom. 

#8 – SALEM, OREGON

ABSOLUTE DOGSHIT. One fucking hallway, no tours, and extremely unclear where you can and cannot go. This doesn’t even go into the dogshittiness of the town. Goddamn garbage building. The only thing this complete waste of material has going for it is the design. And that still sucks a little bit of ass.

#7 – SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA

Not even technically the capitol building, but a museum. Let me see Newsom, bastards. Also, far too much Reagan meat-riding, with an entire gift shop dedicated to him. The giant framed portrait of Schwarzenegger was very nice.

#6 – INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA

Not a bad building, but it feels a little empty. Nice tour, though. Going on St. Patrick’s Day and seeing the green river gives a nice boost to its score.

#5 – NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

Kickass entrance, ceiling is gorgeous, and there are balconies. Some clearer signage about where you can and cannot go would be appreciated (I almost got arrested for going to the wrong floor).

#4 – TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA

Similar to California, not actually the capitol, but a museum. This one gets praise, however, for the work put into it. Lots of cool videos, interactive histograms, and a nice view. The actual capitol building looks sick as fuck (giant ass tower).

#3 – SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS

Plenty of info about the most goated president (Lincoln), tunnels to other government buildings, and beautiful decor. It feels humble, like it doesn’t need recognition.

#2 – SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH

Hexagon tiling? Lovely brown marble? Beehive designs everywhere? Yes, yes, and yes. Hours are very nice, much of the building is open, lovely views of surrounding mountains (although there’s no balcony), and the lighting is just ohhh. Great stuff.

#1 – MADISON, WISCONSIN

WISCONSIN ON TOP, BABY! Easily the best. You can see essentially the entire building (plus the balcony!), it’s open on the weekends, it hosts the farmer’s market, the tours kick ass, and it’s a unique design. 10/10.