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The California State Legislature is comprised of the Assembly and Senate, similar to our national government. The elected officials, along with the Governor, serve their constituents at the state’s capitol in Sacramento. Located in the northern part of the state, Sacramento also houses the California State Capitol Building, where each of these elected officials has an office. If you are in town and looking to check out this piece of our state’s history, this post outlines 8 reasons you must tour the California State Capitol Building in Sacramento.
1. The History
Even though the west coast does not have as rich a history as the east coast, California’s politics date back to its start. According to the State Assembly, the California State Capitol Building we see today was completed in 1874. Though it has gone through remodels since then, its appearance has remained the same.
California has seen changes throughout the years. Most notably, the migration of dreamers in the midst of the dust bowl. Our state has fresh fruit growing year-round and is filled with potential. The dust bowl was preceded by the gold rush in 1849 (hence the San Francisco 49ers). These two events have established our state of dreaming of a bigger and better life.
Though there have been multiple renovations and additions to the building, the state’s history is honored by recreated rooms. For example, there is a recreation of the 1902 Secretary of State’s main office. The Secretary of State’s role has changed since 1902 and this office demonstrates that.
2. The Current Events
Sacramento now sees the daily lives of our politicians fighting to get a bill on the ballot. When touring the California State Capitol Building, you are reminded how rich our state’s history is while also seeing the day-to-day activities. Walking the halls, you are able to see the closed doors to our elected officials’ offices. Oh, the conversations that must go on behind those doors….
As I write this post, Roe v. Wade has been overturned for less than a week. Politicians are hard at work. The government is working to get a version of Roe v. Wade on the ballot in November. I can only imagine how busy the legislatures are right now.
3. The Exterior Architecture
The California State Capitol Building reminds me of the Capitol Building in Washington DC. Though this building is not on a hill, it does sit at the top of a park and paints the same picturesque backdrop. Just like in Washington DC, this vast white building is most recognizable by its dome and pillars. This must have been a popular style back in the day!
Whether you visit during the day or see it at night, the building is a spectacular sight. I wonder if our assemblymen or senators are still in awe of their workplace day after day. On your tour, you are walking through the same doors as the legends Ronald Reagan and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
4. The Interior Architecture
The Capitol Rotunda is the inside of the dome. According to the Capitol Museum’s official website, this area is considered the “heart of the California State Capitol”. It is grand in appearance and has so many exquisite details you could spend hours studying it all.
5. The Dome
You recognize the dome exterior of the building, but what about when you get inside? As you stand in the middle of the first-floor rotunda, look up! Complete with intrinsic details, The inside of the dome is just as beautiful on the interior.
6. The Legislative Chambers
The Senate Chambers
These chambers see senators file in and debate over a proposed bill or law. Politicians elected to serve in the senate serve four-year terms.
The Assembly Chambers
This red room is home to those elected into the assembly. These politicians serve two-year terms. Hopefully they like the color red!
7. The California State Capitol Park
Tucked behind the California State Capitol Building is a park by the same name. According to its official website, the park covers over 40 acres of land and is home to several memorial sites. The park gives a grand welcome to visitors as I was in awe of the tree lined path.
Click here to see all of the historic sights on the park’s Visitor Information Guide.
8. The Pictures
Whether you visit during the day or swing by at night, you are guaranteed a view of the California State Capitol Building. At night, the structure is illuminated so you can still see the dome piercing the sky. During the day, snap a picture in front of the dome with your friends and family.
Plan Your Visit Now
When I visited, it seemed I had full access to the California State Capitol Building. I wandered around at my own pace and snapped pictures and read the different history plaques. I am not sure how I stumbled into that… hopefully I was not trespassing!
Fortunately, tours are readily available. Click here for hours, directions, and more!
Looking for more? Check out the complete guide to 24 hours in Sacramento.
Whether you are planning a trip to Sacramento or are just looking for inspiration for your next vacation, I hope you enjoyed reading about my favorite places. The only thing better than visiting these spots and enjoying them is getting to share them with friends and family. Please comment if you have visited the California State Capitol Building and tell me how you liked it.
I am always open to recommendations. If you have any favorite spots in Sacramento, please share them below!
Cheers!
