Florida State Capitol | Tallahassee

The Florida State Capitol in Tallahassee is the political and symbolic heart of Florida’s government. It includes two main structures:

The Historic Capitol, which has been restored to reflect its 1902 appearance and now serves as a museum.

The New Capitol, a modern 22-story high-rise building that houses Florida’s executive and legislative offices.

Together, these buildings illustrate the evolution of Florida’s government and architecture, while serving both historical and practical purposes.

1. The Historic Capitol

Location: 400 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399
Hours:

Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Sunday & Holidays: 12:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Admission: Free (donations welcome)
Contact: (850) 487-1902

Overview:

The Historic Capitol is the original statehouse of Florida. The current building was constructed in 1845 (the year Florida became a state), with renovations in 1902 that added the now-iconic red-and-white striped dome. When the state government outgrew the building in the mid-20th century, efforts to demolish it were halted by preservationists. It was restored and opened as a museum in 1982.

Museum Features:

Restored 1902 Interiors: Visitors can walk through the original Senate and House chambers, Supreme Court chamber, and the Governor’s office, all restored to appear as they would have in the early 20th century.

Stained Glass Dome: The rotunda’s glass dome is a distinctive architectural feature that adds to the building’s historical elegance.

Permanent Exhibits: Cover a wide range of topics including:

Civil rights in Florida

Florida’s legislative history

Political campaigns and media

The evolution of voting and democracy in the state

Temporary Exhibits: These rotate and explore themes like women in politics, historic court cases, and public policy milestones.

The Historic Capitol is an educational and immersive experience for those interested in the history of Florida’s governance and legal system.

2. The New Capitol

Location: Same address as above (adjacent to Historic Capitol)
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission: Free
Contact: (850) 488-6167

Overview:

Completed in 1977, the New Capitol is a stark contrast to its historic counterpart. Standing 307 feet tall with 22 floors, it is one of the tallest state capitol buildings in the United States. Designed by Edward Durell Stone and Associates, it reflects modernist architectural values and serves as the operational center of Florida’s government.

Key Features:

Legislative Chambers: Houses the Florida Senate and House of Representatives. Visitors can observe live sessions during the legislative season (typically March–May).

Executive Offices: Includes the offices of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Chief Financial Officer, and Commissioner of Agriculture.

Observation Deck (22nd Floor): Offers panoramic views of Tallahassee and surrounding areas. On a clear day, you can see landmarks like Florida State University, Cascades Park, and the rolling hills of North Florida.

Art and Murals: The building features artworks that represent Florida's diverse culture and natural beauty.

Rotunda and Lobby: Hosts displays of state symbols, such as the state seal and flags, and seasonal public exhibits.

Visiting Experience

Tours:

Self-Guided Tours: Available any time during operating hours.

Group Tours: Can be scheduled through the Florida Welcome Center or Historic Capitol.

Audio Tours: Offer a narrated experience of both buildings, ideal for in-depth historical context.

Security:
Visitors to the New Capitol must pass through security screening. Bags are checked, and identification may be required for access to some areas.

Accessibility:

Fully ADA accessible

Elevators and ramps are available throughout both buildings

The New Capitol has accessible restrooms and entrances

Parking and Nearby Attractions

Parking:

Limited public parking is available near the Capitol.

Kleman Plaza Parking Garage (two blocks away) is the most reliable option.

Street parking is also available but may be restricted during legislative sessions.

Nearby Sites:

Florida Historic Capitol Museum (on site)

Museum of Florida History (within walking distance)

Knott House Museum

Cascades Park: Urban park with walking trails, fountains, amphitheater, and historical markers including the Prime Meridian marker

Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Florida Women’s Hall of Fame: Monuments located on the Capitol grounds

Summary

The Florida State Capitol is both a working seat of government and a monument to the state’s history and democracy. The juxtaposition of the preserved 1902 Historic Capitol with the towering New Capitol encapsulates Florida’s transition from a developing Southern state into a modern political and economic powerhouse. The Capitol complex not only plays a vital role in the daily governance of Florida but also provides the public with a deep and meaningful connection to the state’s political heritage.