Indiana Statehouse

The Indiana Statehouse made for an interesting visit. I was lucky to get a tour from a knowledgeable and friendly guide, and the building is quite impressive. It was cool to be able to see the different chambers of government and appreciate the architecture of the place. The central atrium is also beautiful even though there’s construction going on that’s partially blocking the light. The building is definitely worth a visit for the styling alone.

Among the over 20 state and provincial capitol buildings we've toured, Indiana's is a definite top-tier favorite. Our guided tour was exceptional, largely due to Pat's excellent knowledge and engaging presentation of both history and government insights—a true credit to the state. The tour provided unique access to areas not open to the public. The grounds are immaculate, adorned with beautiful gardens, statues, and historical markers (though expect some construction on the north side). Inside, the building is monumental, featuring stunning architecture, sculptures, woodwork, stained glass, and skylights. If you're in Indianapolis, this is a must-visit!

I appreciate all the people behind the scenes doing the people's work for real. Bipartisanship was real in this place for the last two months. Thank you for allowing a check and balance.

We had a good time walking around the downtown and exploring the capitol. We did a self guided tour and enjoyed the architecture and artwork throughout. The senate and house chambers were no open but looking through the windows they weren’t very impressive. More modern than most Capitols but lacking any character and impressive craftsmanship.

Getting married at the Indiana Statehouse on April 7, 2024, was an absolute dream come true! The venue is stunning with its grand spaces and elegant atmosphere. The service provided was exceptional, and the staff were incredibly helpful every step of the way. It truly exceeded all our expectations for a perfect wedding day. Highly recommend this venue for anyone looking to create magical memories in a beautiful setting!

Architecturally attractive historic building. Lots of advocacy groups in the State Capitol today ‼️

Beautiful building! On Fridays, everyone works except lawmakers.

I enjoy touring state capitol buildings when I travel. We went through security & got a self guided tour pamphlet at the tour desk. I did call up in advance to check if they have guided tours, unfortunately they did not have one when we planned. I would recommend a guided tour, as it gets you in to the house and senate chambers. I did some research before visiting the capitol so was able to relate things. A very nice capitol building with ornate interior. It is beautiful and well maintained. The interior is modeled in the Italian Renaissance style with doors made of Indiana oak and Indiana limestone used throughout the structure. The pinnacle of the building is 256 feet high, it was the second tallest building in Indiana at the time of its completion. The four-story building is designed in the shape of a cross. A large central rotunda with a glass domed ceiling connects the four wing. The interior is marked by beautifully intricate blue stained glass dome, marble floors, granite columns, an ornate balcony, and period wall and ceiling designs. It was remarkable and best viewed from the upper floor. The Indiana Capitol is one of the few where all three branches of government still meet in the Capitol! There are stairs/or elevators to all the levels and each floor is different. The first floor houses the governor's office and the offices of the administration. Enjoyed walking around the third and fourth floors taking in the architecture and viewing the various chambers through the windows since they were not open for access. We saw the statues of past presidents and other public art structures surround the building. It's worth a visit learning something about history. This was one of the beautiful state houses I have been to and also one of the state house that didn't explain much about their rich history. We wouldn't have known much about their history if I did not do research prior visiting. We couldn't get much information on the two page pamphlet they provided. Also there was no attendant in the tour desk so no information was provided about anything. Comparatively I felt they didn't care about their visitors, so three stars. The entrance was not stroller friendly. There is paid parking and metered street parking around the building.

This historic capital building has been undergoing renovations in 2025 as can be evidenced by the scaffolding surrounding the rotunda in the photograph I have posted. It is the historic working capital building & seat of government for the state of Indiana. Open to the public as it should be the beautiful architecture and grounds are a must visit for Indiana citizens and anyone else who finds their self in the capital city of Indianapolis.

Stopped by for a tour. The tour guide let me join a big group at 10:30am. This place is beautiful and so cool! Got to meet the Comptroller, see the House of Representatives in session, sit in the Senator's chairs, and see the Supreme Court. The tour guide is so knowledgeable. After the tour, he gave me some good museum suggestions and showed me where to go.

Indianapolis, Indiana another beautiful state Capitol located in the midwest of our beautiful United States of America. December 7, 2024 10:10 am and waiting outside in the freezing cold for the doors to open promptly at 10. They did not. However, at this time, a state Capitol policeman came out and informed us that the people who normally open the doors were not yet available and we should come back either in 30 minutes or maybe three hours. He wasn't sure. I went for a walk and came back in about an hour and was able to get inside and walk around this beautiful building. Not quite as impressive as others I've visited, but still a gorgeous building with amazing architecture and art. Both the house and Senate were not open to the public on Saturday and I was not able to attend a guided tour. There were several weddings about to take place inside as preparations were being made and photographs being taken. What a great venue for an event! As has been the case at most of the state capitals, we visited these past few years, we did not do the guided tour unfortunately, and that is regretful to not learn more about the building and its history. Also, the dome is under renovation and I didn't get the deets on that. Hopefully, we will be back again soon.

If you're interested in Indiana history, government or architecture, a tour of the Indiana Statehouse needs to be on your list. Tours run every hour (currently) and are absolutely free. We called prior to showing-up to ensure that about timing, but they do not require registration unless you have a large group. Tours do not run on holidays. Our tour was led by Jeanette, who had outstanding knowledge of the building and the important workings of the people. Jeanette was friendly, engaging and encouraged questions throughout the 1-hour tour. This amazing building is actually called the Indiana Statehouse, which is located in the State Capitol, Indianapolis. The building is the second statehouse to be located on the site, replacing an earlier building in 1888. Jeanette walked us through the history of previous locations of the State Capitol and explained the construction of the current building. The current building cost was just under $2 Million. The building is a work of art with most of the construction materials coming from the state of Indiana. The structure is mainly Indiana limestone with Indiana white oak trims throughout. Most of the marble came from Vermont and granite from Wisconsin. The Statehouse is one of eight statehouses in the country to house all three branches of the State's government. We toured inside the safe that used to hold the State treasury. The tour took us inside both the House and Senate chambers, where we learned about the art and processes of each group. We also toured inside the State Supreme Court of Appeals, which remains in its original Victorian style. The stained glass dome in the center of the atrium is breathtaking and is covered by a copper dome on the outside. Eight statues hand carved by Italian artist, Alexander Doyle encircle the atrium. The art is spectacular. The building has undergone renovation throughout the years, but has been mostly restored to its original appearance with the exception of modern infrastructure updates (air-conditioning, electricity, security, etc). The guided tour is the best way to learn about the Statehouse, but you can also take a self guided tour with a pamphlet. The chambers are only accessible with the guided tour. There is also an online tour available for home bound or classroom education. Parking was better that I had imagined. There is paid metered parking around the building that is available if you get down there early in the day. It was less than $3 to park in the metered parking. We did go through security to enter the building. Entrance was opened on the East side of the building. I loved the tour.

Here for the legislative interns "Friends and Family Day." The beautiful rotunda with the stained glass ceiling.

The rotunda is the highlight of most capitol buildings and the stained-glass dome that covers the Indianapolis state capitol dome is beautiful. It adds some wow factor to what is a relatively small rotunda. The capitol was very crowded on the day I visited, President's Day 2024. There were 2 events in progress, school children on tours, and both the House and Senate were in session. I've never been to a capitol building so packed. It made it hard to take all the pictures I wanted to take. I was a part of a very small tour group, which took us all over the building, including the basement vault. It was a very informative tour that you should definitely book if you visit. The capitol is an impressive historic building. It just doesn't have the same size and scope of the most impressive capitol buildings.

We were visiting and we had downloaded a scavenger hunt to do. It was very informative and led up to the state capitol building. As we were there trying to find a middle name on the statues out front, a resident walked by and told us it's a beautiful building you should go in! So, we did just that. It was around 4:30 maybe and we came across a gentleman (with a pony tail) can't remember his name I apologize. He was probably getting ready to be done working for the day and he came to us and filled us with so much information about this beautiful place! He gave us a tour all around it. We were there on Monday 6/9 and he was absolutely fantastic! Everyone in Indianapolis was pretty great to us actually! What an awesome area. Thanks for your hospitality!

Check out the history of Indiana by visiting the capital. Cool views of statues, busts, portraits and sculptures. Amazing stained glass windows. Book a tour in advance, show up same day or pick up a self-guided brochure at the desk. Don't forget to grab your stamp before you leave. Say Hi to Abe for me.

I enjoy touring state capitol buildings when I travel. We went through security & got a self guided tour pamphlet at the tour desk. I did call up in advance to check if they have guided tours, unfortunately they did not have one when we planned. I would recommend a guided tour, as it gets you in to the house and senate chambers. I did some research before visiting the capitol so was able to relate things. A very nice capitol building with ornate interior. It is beautiful and well maintained. The interior is modeled in the Italian Renaissance style with doors made of Indiana oak and Indiana limestone used throughout the structure. The pinnacle of the building is 256 feet high, it was the second tallest building in Indiana at the time of its completion. The four-story building is designed in the shape of a cross. A large central rotunda with a glass domed ceiling connects the four wing. The interior is marked by beautifully intricate blue stained glass dome, marble floors, granite columns, an ornate balcony, and period wall and ceiling designs. It was remarkable and best viewed from the upper floor. The Indiana Capitol is one of the few where all three branches of government still meet in the Capitol! There are stairs/or elevators to all the levels and each floor is different. The first floor houses the governor's office and the offices of the administration. Enjoyed walking around the third and fourth floors taking in the architecture and viewing the various chambers through the windows since they were not open for access. We saw the statues of past presidents and other public art structures surround the building. Do check out my Instagram handle @sailwithsha for more videos of this beautiful building. It's worth a visit learning something about history. This was one of the beautiful state houses I have been to and also one of the state house that didn't explain much about their rich history. We wouldn't have known much about their history if I did not do research prior visiting. We couldn't get much information on the two page pamphlet they provided. Also there was no attendant in the tour desk so no information was provided about anything. Comparatively I felt they didn't care about their visitors, so three stars. The entrance was not stroller friendly. There is paid parking and metered street parking around the building.

Very beautiful state capital. There is only one entryway for the public. You will have to go through security check. You can take a tour freely and navigate that on your own or you can have a guided tour opted for guided tour. It was very informative and very easy on the feet. Some state capitals have a gift shop and I did not see that here. There is lots of pamphlets that inform you of other places in Indiana. I learned that the furniture in the governors office is made by ladies and gentlemen, who are incarcerated in Indiana prisons, they are rehabilitated in a profession and are able to be placed in a job after so many hours of learning the profession once they are released, there was absolutely amazing furniture in the governors office. There was so much limestone in the capital and in the atrium. There's a beautiful stain glass ceiling. It was a nice tour and I would recommend going.

Situated in downtown Indianapolis, the beautiful State House has been in this location since 1889. The building is made mostly from Indiana limestone; although, it has some Carrera marble, Indiana Oak and Indiana Walnut on the interior. There are hundreds of chandeliers inside the building that used to be gas lights. If you are a lover of architecture and you want to learn about some of Indiana's history, then this building is definitely worth a visit. You can opt to tour the building on your own OR take a staff-guided tour.

Continuing to make my way to all fifty state capitols, today's visit to the Indiana State Capitol in Indianapolis is number 36 on my quest to visit all 50 state capitols. I have a collection https://www.yelp.com/collection/ucwQvyGY8sZEDHaN49HU5Q for the ones I've been to. Located in the heart of the city, it is similar to other capitols that look similar to the United States Capitol in Washington. Indiana was the 19th State to enter the Union, joining on December 11, 1816. This current building is the fifth structure (the fourth in Indianapolis - bonus points if you know where the first capitol was located) and was completed in 1888. It is shaped like a cross with executive branch offices on the first floor, the House of Representatives on the second floor's west east side, the State Senate on the second floor's east side and the Supreme Court offices on the second floor's north end. The structure was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. Unfortunately, the building is closed to visitors at this time but you can still walk the outside. On the property, you'll find a statue of Oliver Morton (governor of Indiana during the Civil War), a statue of Thomas A Hendricks (21st Vice President of the United States under Grover Cleveland), a bust of Christopher Columbus and a statue of George Washington. Other public art structures surround the building. There is paid parking and metered street parking around the building. [Review 13515 overall, 834 of 2020.]

Beautiful capital that was completed in 1888 and cost almost $2 billion. We went through security and walked inside, stood at the rotunda. We found the info booth & got a complimentary self guided tour. We are took the elevator to 4 and looked down on the chambers from the galleries.

Four down and 46 to go. Our goal is to visit ALL of the U.S. state capitols and we can now cross off Indianapolis from our bucket list. The reason for this goal (some would say unusual) is to learn more about the history and architecture of the bodies of government that make up this great nation. Indiana's capital is traditional, but not in stuffy/showy way. Listed on the National of Historic Places, this building is somewhat smaller than the other capital buildings but it makes up for it for being bright, airy, and rich with history. Built between 1878 and 1888, this building is well worth visiting when in Indianapolis. The massive four story rotunda, towering marble pillars, ornate doors and ceilings as well as the decorative stairways makes this place an architects dream. For example, If you travel to the fourth floor you can see the original chandeliers which were installed designed to run off gas or electricity. But don't get you hopes up to see the building lit up using gas, they were converted to electric years ago. The building is home to all four main elements of Indiana's State Government: The Governor' Office, House of Representatives, Senate, and the State Supreme Court. Built in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, the structure is made with Indiana limestone, Indiana white oak, imported Italian marble. We were very impressed by the level of the tour. Our docent did an excellent job pointing out significant items and answering our questions. Definitely a place to tour! "Indiana is a state that works because conservative principles work every time you put them into practice."-- Former Vice President Mike Pence

THEY ARE CLOSED ON SATURDAY. You know, update your website and signs you have posted, with both saying open 10-2pm on Saturday. I travel across the country and trying to visit all capital buildings, guess i'll always have an asterisk on this place bc im not coming back to this city. If you can't do simples things like update a website, or remove signs from your doors, it makes you wonder if your competent enough to run a state. And send that to the governor. I ran into two others also trying to access the tour/walking tour, they were not happy either.

The beauty from within really. Once upon a time, I use to work next door. The SOB (State Office Bldg ) now known as IGCN & IGCS (Indiana Government Center North/South). On yucky days, we were able to walk through the tunnels into the Embassy Suites then to the Circle Centre Mall. Of course this was in dinosaur times but it seems like yesterday IRL for this Hoosier Noticing how this place encouraged a visual impaired fellow Hoosier do a set of concession stand(s) thus allowing my fellow colleagues & etc to remain honest is still a gift that keeps on giving even some eons later. Being from a teeny town, I never knew this was a thing. Being an mid aged grown up now , I appreciate this in a very wonderful positive way. Thanking each state government employee who does it for next to nothing & returns to repeat. You're much loved The rotunda is super gorgeous for sure. Each door hung to every tile placed are all a work of art for each person who calls Indiana home IMO Take care, Amy

Despite having worked within the Indiana State Government for the past 13 years, I've never gotten around to actually reviewing our pretty wonderful Indiana State Capitol building. Built in 1888, this is the fifth building to house the state government. The State Capitol specifically houses the Indiana General Assembly, the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, the Indiana Supreme Court, and other state officials. There's also an official Indiana State Education Center that is often visited by school groups. Constructed of Indiana-sourced Oak and Limestone, the Indiana State Capitol is four stories high and is available for public tours. There's an information booth on the area and questions are incredibly welcome. Guided tours are available from 9 am - 3 pm weekdays and on Saturdays at 10:15 am, 11 am, Noon, and 1 pm. You can schedule a guided tour on their website or obtain a brochure for a self-guided tour. For a building built in 1888, the Indiana State Capitol is surprisingly accessible though certainly not perfectly so. If you're aware of downtown Indy, you know that parking is a hassle and this is especially true around the Indiana Government Center. There is nearby metered parking, including accessible spots, and some nearby parking garages. The public entrance is accessible and the security checkpoint staff is good with disability. The closest accessible street parking is at Senate Avenue and Ohio Street. For visitors who cannot climb stairs, utilize the lower west door from Senate Avenue. You will turn left, go down the hall, turn right and then left again after the entry and this will lead you to elevators to take you to the main (2nd) floor. Yes, it's a little confusing. Be prepared because, as noted, there's a security checkpoint with metal detectors. Considered to have been built in the Grand Neo-Classical style, the State Capitol is an incredibly beautiful sight to behold. While it's not quite as open as some capitols I've visited, you can see the legislature in action (when in session...or you may see legislators around), view oral arguments in the Supreme Court, or simply observe as Indiana's leaders go about their work. Most of the leaders are fairly accessible, with some obvious limits, and there's no question you'll see security around. I don't visit the State Capitol as often as I'd like, though it's accessible for state employees via a tunnel system and while this system is somewhat challenging in a wheelchair it is generally considered accessible. Even for state employees, there's security checks in place. The Indiana State Capitol is definitely one of those spots you often forget to visit, though you can't help but see it from downtown. I love periodically taking a lunch break and sitting by it and appreciating all the little monuments and memorials that are nearby. If you've never visited, I highly recommend it.

Whether you love Indiana history, appreciate art and architecture, or geek out on civics, the Indiana Statehouse is a place every Hoosier should visit at least once. Yes I know, you probably went once on a school field trip. But be honest, you probably weren't paying attention through most of that, so it's worth it to go again and really experience it this time. The mature trees around the grounds are quite lovely, especially in the fall. And one of the sycamores located just south of the main entrance grew from a seed that went to the moon -- THE MOON! Don't' believe me? Google "NASA moon trees." Yep, totally true! The building's architectural elements are also really remarkable, both inside and out. Corinthian columns, marble floors, carved wood doorways, glowing chandeliers. Of course, the crown jewel is the glass ceiling in the dome. Happening beneath this colorful masterpiece, you'll often find public demonstrations and gatherings about key issues for the state legislature. But as long as you're quiet and respect that this is an important workplace, you can still walk around and enjoy the building even when they're in session. I also think the building is interesting for its significance in our state's government process. And as you walk past the house and senate chambers, you'll also see beautiful statues and paintings depicting many of Indiana's key historical figures. Definitely take a tour if you have time, you'll learn so much!

Love this building! I've been in a here a few times, but in February 2020, I was able to get a tour from Judge Joe Baker along with my son's fourth grade class. The history of the building is amazing. It took 10 years to build this great building. Look at the pictures, then when it is all clear, head here and take a walk, look around, and take a minute to be in awe.

Wife and I stepped on this establishment when we were in Indianapolis last weekend for the Luke Combs concert. We saw this beautiful looking building until we decide to climb up on the steps walk around it's beautiful atmosphere and enjoy the sights this is truly one of the best state capitals that I have seen in my ears. Very nice looking place five out of five stars

Lovely old building with ornate architecture inside an out. Was only in one area so I cannot give a full review of it. What I saw of it was nice.

I am not impressed. But you are reading a review from a man who has been to all 50 states. Denver and Santa Fe being some of my favorite state capitols. Most copy the D.C. dome top. Gold elevator doors. Marble columns/floors. Dated water fountains potentially polluted with lead. Romanesque interior columns. Usually (4) floors. Yeah they all follow a pattern. Free to visit. Street parking is cheap. What bothered me was that the woman at the desk told us we couldn't get a tour unless we were students. That's a bugger. The 1st floor had all the Indy exhibits. However, they looked like high schoolers made them. Denver was far more professional in the breadth/depth/presentation of the material. Santa Fe had a whole section dedicated to local artists. Same with Phoenix's state capitol building. Gotta feature that local art. What I liked about Phoenix is they had infographics on how New Mexico & Arizona was about to become one state before they entered statehood, specific laws Arizona passed, and they were honest about the last state to recognize MLK day. This State Capitol seemed barren. Just go up to the 4th floor via the elevator. Then walk down. It's all the same. 15-30 minutes at best.

I didn't set one toe inside the building, but this 5 star rating is based in the treasure chest of art and history I found all over the grounds and exterior of the building. I walked across the street from my hotel to visit, and what did I see? Well, I saw the amazing Oliver Morton and George Washington monuments, the sad but inspirational 9/11 memorial, the solemn Lincoln Funeral Train marker, the gorgeous Thomas A. Hendricks Statue, and the simple Christopher Columbus monument. And that's just on the lawns around the building. The building itself is a jewel with domes and columns and golden eagles all over. There is breathtaking artwork details everywhere. I saw incredibly detailed statues on the top of the building- statues of Indians, farmers, and laborers. I'm sure I missed some more, because I didn't walk all the way around this huge property. By the way, this was my first trip to Indianapolis and I was eminently impressed by the city.

Our State Capitol is a beautiful addition to the downtown area. The greenery around the place is refreshing and the local artwork that they installed might make tourists believe that Indiana is more progressive than it actually is. I come here often for rallies for work and personal interests. The interior is just as beautiful, although the basement and the food stand in the basement could use some major help. Packaged donuts and sodas and hot dogs? Eek. Security is usually quite easy and they keep things moving at a rather quick pace. Some tips for your trip: - if you can (during the winter months), dress lightly. They ask that you remove all jackets so that can be a pain if you have many layers on; - don't bring any foods or beverages - you'll have to purchase once you're inside (so eat beforehand if you'll be there a long time) - don't be afraid to ask someone for help. There is a help desk on the main floor in the center so they can direct you in the right location; - parking can be a pain so Uber-ing or Lyft-ing might be the best option as parking around the area is always busy.

It is quite lovely inside, but it is not my favorite state capital building I had visited. Maybe it was because it was such a cold and dreary day, or maybe it just wasn't as inviting as all the others I have visited, but something seemed missing here. I didn't have access to all of the senate chambers like I have at some of the other state capitals I've visited. The self-guided tour was more boring, and not as impressive. Perhaps if I had taken a guided tour, I would be more excited about the history and the stories held in the walls of this building. Oh- and parking outside of the building was kind of a pain in the ass. I fed the meter, but the meter would only let me pay for like 12 minutes at a time or something ridiculous, so I had to keep inserting my card to add time. The exterior of the building is okay, but not as grand as I had hoped.

I am in Indianapolis for the week so I thought I would check out the state capital building since I try to go to as many as possible. I have to say, this is one of the nicer ones I've been to! To begin, they do check your backpack and you have to go through a metal detector but the security was extremely friendly and I had no problems. I took a tour of the building which lasted about 45 minutes and my tour guide (I don't recall her name) was wonderful and knew a ton of information. The building itself is really beautiful. The rotunda is amazing, but I do have to say that the chambers for the house and senate weren't as impressive as some others I've been to. The judicial branch is also attached to the building so all three branches are within it which seems to be different than a lot of other states. What I did find unique about this tour though, is they allow you to go into the governor's office which a lot of capital buildings do not. There is not a gift shop in the building which was a bit of a let down but I highly recommend stopping by for a tour if you're in town! You won't be disappointed and it's 100% free!

Visited the Statehouse in order to watch the interviews for the next Indiana Supreme Court Justice. It was very interesting to hear the questions asked by the Indiana Judicial Nominating Commission. Definitely a great learning experience if you are preparing to interview for any type of position. Realizing the thoughtfulness that is required to adequately prepare for such an interview is humbling. If you haven't been to the Statehouse you should schedule a visit. Things to know: 1. There is typically some type of event going on in the Rotunda (the center section) advertising a resource of the state. This past week we had the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and the Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) programs advertise their services, which ultimately is for the protection of children in the court system. 2. Parking is limited. There are tons of parking garages, but they are for stage employees. However, there is plenty of metered parking all around the area.

Such a gem of a place. Cornerstone placed on 9/28/1880, and designed by Edwin F. May, who died before it was completed. Stands where the more diminutive former capitol stood--the one where Abe Lincoln's body would lay in state en route to burial in Springfield. The stained glass ceiling at the center of the building is the eye-feast equivalent of one of the best meals you could imagine. Above it, the dome stretches into the sky. Beautiful place for a wedding; I'd love to see it featured in a movie. It's just that pretty. Though not many get to tour behind the scenes, I was lucky enough to have that opportunity. (You can search for Historic Indianapolis Indiana Statehouse if you're interested.) Lots of interesting statues, light fixtures, and tiny details. Learned on my tour that politicians back in the day would park their horses in the basement. How wild is that? It's a favorite- you shouldn't miss it. You do have to go through metal detectors to get in!

To be honest, when I took my students on a field trip here a few weeks back, I was a bit skeptical that it would be ho-hum for them. I was mistaken. Sure, students were awed by the beauty and magnanimity of the space. It's an amazing building, with history writ into every square inch. But the tour was engaging, cordial, and rife with stories, told in a fresh and engaging way. It was clear that our tour guide was passionate about the history of this building and the importance of youth civic engagement. The best part, to me, was that our tour guide led with the fact that Hoosiers owned this building. They paid for it, and so they owned it, and my students immediately realized that what happened inside mattered to them. This makes for a great tour and a great resource for educators.

The State Capitol looks unassuming and dull from the outside. DO NOT MISS THIS STATE CAPITOL! We booked a 9a tour on a Friday in January and were the only tourists. Kristine gave us a wonderful tour and was quite knowledgeable. She took us into the house and senate chambers as well as the supreme court. This is a beautiful building that has been restored and is very will maintained. Most of the materials used are from Indiana which is impressive. The building was completed in 1888 and is filled with beautiful art. The most exciting part of the tour, though unplanned, was when our guide alerted us to the Governor walking through the rotunda. We asked him to take a picture with us. He was very nice and chatted for a minute. We've toured Illinois and Wisconsin's capitols and Indiana's is the most beautiful of them inside.

This is an unlikely post for me because I never really considered rating a State House. However, I genuinely enjoyed my experience, and never really considered the impact that I can make by simply showing up. Entering the space was easy (there are metal detectors), but the agents were kind and efficient. Once inside, there was a liaison to guide me through the building. I was able to peak in on a legislative session, and engage with multiple representatives about issues that were important to me. And once all of that was done, I was able to take in all of the history that surrounded me. This was a good experience, and I will definitely stop in again.

Despite having lived in Indiana since 1998 -- and downtown, with the capitol visible from my window -- I must admit I had never been inside until it was suggested as a possible wedding ceremony location. I was stunned. Stunned! It is overwhelmingly beautiful inside. Since the first visit, I've been back a few times. I always feel kind of suspicious wandering around, like someone is going to yell, hey! You can't be here! Especially when I saw the governor walk by me. As a wedding location, it's ideal. We wanted something downtown but without the downtown price tag. For $750, you get the space for 4 hours, free parking, free set up ... I'm really happy. And it sounds really swank to say we're getting married at the state capitol!

Great state capitol. Love walking around and taking it all in. Indy has a great down town. Just head down and walk around. Lots to see around the capt.

This review format is in tribute of jessica t. from San Francisco. If you haven't friended one of Yelp's most inspiring writers, than you can at http://jessicarules.yelp.com: Absolutely gorgeous. Awesome in size and scope. I left here inspired at what government CAN do. This building was built with the combination of philosophy and art, commerce and farming, law and civil disobedience, and justice and liberty. Don't take my word for it. The center rotunda under the blue stained glass has statues dedicated to each one of those polar pairs. Plus the tours are free and full of wonderful details. If you are a student, and need to write a paper, take a camera and tape recorder. Guaranteed an A! Here's a free hint courtesy of me: They do weddings here for free! Yes, no rental fee on the Indiana State Capitol Building because you already own it, Mr. and soon to be Mrs. John Q. Taxpayer. The trick is getting it reserved. There's a long line and reason for it! A National Historic Landmark that one would be absolutely remiss to pass up while visiting the Hoosier State capitol. That is all. Trust!

Most of the reviews about this Capitol are based on it being the most fab building in Indianapolis. I'm coming from having been to around 13 State Capitol building. This is by far the most boring and nondescript. There isn't much to look at, there's not many exhibits, information, previous people who've served here etc. A pretty stain glass 'dome' and some nice statues, does not a state capitol make. Just cause it's small, doesn't mean that it has to be unmemorable!

I visited the Indiana State Capitol in the spring of 2004. It was the 9th Capitol I had visited. I was absolutely blown away by the Indiana State Capitol. In fact, when people press me to say which one is my favorite capitol, I pick this one. When you walk into the rotunda of the Indiana State Capitol, and look up into the amazing blue stained glass canopy, glowing in the natural sunlight filtered through the dome.... all I can say is "wow." I thouroughly enjoyed the artwork at this capitol. Most State Capitol artwork is pretty boilerplate. Grandiose paintings of Greek heroes, scenes from state history, so on and so forth. The Indiana capitol really takes the artwork to another level. Different styles and themes, like the wonderful art deco painting and modernist chandelier in the Assembly chamber. Just great. Of all the capitols I've seen, I think this one is my favorite. It is simply spectacular.

I am a fan of history and politics and this is one of the best buildings in Indiana to learn about it all. I enjoy standing there and picturing lawmakers walking the halls and making deals. I love seeing the state seal on door knobs that are older than I am. I love being reminded that the building's construction was budgeted at $2 million and came in at $1.8 million. You know it's history when a government project comes in under budget and the money is returned to the taxpayers. It might sound weird, but I love to bang my fist against the walls. That fist is hitting Indiana limestone that is millions of years old. Indiana limestone that built many of the great buildings in Washington, Yankee Stadium, and 35 state capitol buildings. This building and I also have our own history. My departed grandmother worked in the State Auditor's office and I remember walking around while visiting her on the job. I once saw Governor Bob Orr making his way to his office. I walked the halls while taking a break as a page for my state representative. I interviewed Governor Evan Bayh in his office while working for a kid's news program. There are a lot of great sites in Indiana, but few have the history and importance found in our statehouse.

I get the pleasure of working in the most beautiful building in the state. Come take a tour! I am in the House! :)

We stopped here before checking out of Conrad and it was worth it. Tours every hour starting at 9 but the nice front desk gave us a personal tour. We were amazed by all the marble floors and ceiling. I would have to say that this is comparable to the Wisconsin capital. A lot of history with great staff who even let us visit the speaker of the house office too. Super convenient to the hotel which made it easier to visit. Great for history buffs as well as children.

This was a surprisingly nice place! Great exterior and interior with lots of great colors. Especially liked how the earth tones contrasted with the deep blues. All in all, Indiana State House was a great building! They recently restored it back to a more original form by taking out the fluorescent lights. Good riddance to that! Tour guide was great!

It was cool to visit another state's capitol. However you seen one you've seen 'em all.

They give excellent tours for anyone new to the area in town.

This is one of the largest capital buildings in the United States. I was very impressed. You will learn a lot about Government in Indianapolis. You even get to see the Governor's office. Tours are free, so what are you waiting for?!

I've been to maybe 10-12 state capitols. This one compared well in terms of the classic greco-roman architecture and size but it's not a very hospitable place. The security guards at the door seemed mildly irritated to run me through the metal detector etc. The supreme courtroom was roped off and you could only look from outside. The guards on each floor were neutral to grumpy if you greeted them. One of them yelled at me for attempting to talk to a receptionist. In every other state capitol the receptionists have been welcoming and friendly and I've never beed treated with hostility. Even the secret service outside the Whitehouse was shockingly friendly and helpful. At other capitols you are free to visit and admire the congressional chambers but here they were closed off and required some sort of approval to enter. Other rooms had signs warning people not to even enter without an appointment and to call or email so-and-so to be considered. So the building was nice and majestic but there didn't seem to be much in the way of educational features, tours, and many of the parts of the building were inaccessible with no real friendly faces to help understand the place.

The Capitol and Government building was really nice. I loved the whole canal system behind the building and how everything is connected. Great place to take a stroll and take in some great scenery.

Just as nice as any other state capitol building I've been to. Easy views of the Senate and House sides. You do have to go through a metal detector and xray like the airport. Worth going into. Lunch at Cafe Patachou across the street.

This building is beautiful! You can go in anytime it's open. Ask the front desks in each office for a tour. There's a pretty cool old safe in the Treasurer of State office.

What a lovely and inspiring structure! My third grader and I recently experienced a self-guided tour. The blue hues in the dome pull you up. Note how the capitals atop each column on each floor have a different design. Couple this beautiful structure with downtown Indy and you have a great day trip!