State Capitol & Legislative Office Building

The gold-domed marble and granite Victorian Gothic building, opened in 1878, is adorned with spires, statues, medallions, bas-reliefs, stained glass, and stenciling. It houses working government offices including the legislative chambers and the Governor’s office. Historic displays include the 18-foot tall Genius statue that once topped the dome, a replica of the Liberty Bell, a statue of Revolutionary War hero Nathan Hale, Israel Putnam’s tombstone, the Marquis de Lafayette’s camp bed, a model of Civil War Admiral David G. Farragut’s flagship Hartford and the wooden figurehead from the original ship, the statue of Civil War Governor William Buckingham, and the battle flags of Connecticut regiments from the Civil War. Begin the one-hour tour at the neighboring Legislative Office Building (300 Capitol Ave.). Monday through Friday (excluding state and federal holidays) tours are offered at 9:15 a.m., 10:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and 1:15 p.m. (in July and August 2:15 p.m. also). Self-guided tours, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. A Visitor Information Center is located in each building.

Tour time: 1 hour

Other amenities: Dining Nearby, Restaurant, Self-guided tours