The State Capitol in Harrisburg offers daily 30-minute tours, as well as a Welcome Center with activities for children. President Theodore Roosevelt described the Capitol as “the handsomest capitol I ever saw.”
The Capitol was dedicated on October 4th, 1906, and is a National Historic Landmark.
The Capitol Rotunda features a 52-million pound dome that’s modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
The marble Grand Staircase and three-tiered gallery were inspired by the Paris Opera.
The Senate Chamber is walled with green marble from Ireland.
The House Chamber is decorated with 24-karate gold leaf and crystal chandeliers.
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court features a stained glass dome.
The Governor’s Reception Room is used for news conferences and bill-signings.
A printable kids activities book and kids Pennsylvania coloring book are available.
More Pennsylvania Capitol Teacher Tools can be found here.
The State Capitol is definitely worth a trip! After my first visit with friends, I want to go back and bring my family. Your photos came out a lot better than mine! Thank you for capturing the building’s beauty!