The Utah State Capitol stands on a hill at the north end of downtown with the whole city spread beneath it, and it is a building that rewards the climb. Designed by Richard Kletting in a Neoclassical style and completed in 1916, it is built of Utah granite with a copper-clad dome, and the grand interior features marble from several states, ornate chandeliers, and a rotunda decorated with murals and sculpture that tell stories of the state's history. The building is free to enter, open on weekdays, and unusually welcoming: you can walk the corridors, peer into the House and Senate galleries when the legislature is out of session, and stand on the steps for one of the best views in town. The building was closed for several years for a major restoration and seismic upgrade that finished in 2008, and the work was thorough. The structure was placed on base isolators, huge rubber and steel bearings that allow it to sway in an earthquake, a necessary precaution on the Wasatch Fault. The result is a building that looks as it did a century ago and is among the safest in the region. It also hosts a respectable art collection and a gift shop, and guided or self-guided tours are available.
What to look for inside
The rotunda is the heart of the building, with murals in the dome and paintings depicting Native American, pioneer and early industry scenes, and the galleries around it display works by Utah artists and historic exhibits. The central staircase and the brass and marble details are worth a slow look.
The gold room, the Supreme Court chamber and the legislative chambers are beautifully decorated, and the building's mix of rich materials and public openness is part of the experience. If the legislature is in session, which runs from January through early March, the building buzzes with activity and visitors can sit in the galleries to watch the process.
The setting is as important as the interior. The Capitol sits at the top of State Street, and from its steps you see the whole grid of the city laid out to the south, the Oquirrh Mountains beyond, and the Great Salt Lake glinting in the distance on clear days. The grounds are landscaped with monuments and memorials, including the Mormon Battalion and a number of statues related to Utah's history, and in spring, the cherry and apple trees bloom around the building.
Just to the east are the quiet streets of the Avenues, with Victorian homes, small parks and cafes, and a short hike up Ensign Peak is nearby for even bigger views.
Practical sense
The Capitol is typically open on weekdays during business hours and closed on weekends and state holidays, so check before you go. Free self-guided and guided tours are offered; a guided visit adds good stories about the architecture and the politics. There is a security screening at the entrance, so avoid bringing large bags. Parking is available on the grounds, and the walk up from downtown is steep but doable, or you can take a short rideshare.
Combine the Capitol with a morning at Temple Square, then stroll the Avenues for lunch. Its elevated position makes it a good place to get your bearings at the start of a trip and a lovely spot to return to at sunset.
What to expect
The experience
A free self-guided or guided visit through the rotunda, galleries and historic chambers, with views from the front steps.
Best time
Weekday mornings; the legislative session brings extra activity in winter; sunset from the steps is lovely.
How long
About an hour.
Tips
Check weekday hours, expect a security screening, and look up at the rotunda murals.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Architecture and history fans who want a free, beautiful stop with views.
- Families
- Kids enjoy the dome and the echoing halls; it is quick and easy.
- Couples
- A pleasant sunset spot above the city.
- Pair with
- Temple Square and a stroll through the Avenues.
- Time needed
- One hour.
Good questions
Is the Capitol free to visit?+
Yes. Entry is free and open to all, with self-guided and guided tour options.
Is it open on weekends?+
Generally it is open on weekdays and closed on weekends and state holidays. Check hours before you go.
What is the base isolation system?+
A seismic upgrade that rests the building on rubber and steel bearings so it can sway in an earthquake on the Wasatch Fault.
When does the legislature meet?+
The general session runs for about 45 days from January into March, when the building is busiest.
How do I get there?+
It sits at the top of State Street on Capitol Hill. Parking is on the grounds, or take a rideshare from downtown.