If you want something fun and exciting to do in Little Rock, Arkansas, look no further! One of the most remarkable attractions in Little Rock is visiting the State Capitol. So you’re probably thinking, what is so cool about the State Capitol?
Well, for one, the architect is impressive! Another reason the State Capitol is a must-see destination is the different memorials on the premise. Lastly, you get a behind-the-scenes look at the State Treasurer’s Office, Senate Chamber, and the Governor’s Reception Room. These are just a few of the many rooms in the State Capitol.
Getting Started
There is so much to see when touring the building. You can choose between a self-guided tour or a group tour with a guide. You can tour the state Capital on Weekdays from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm.
The tours are FREE, and walk-in visitors are welcome. Furthermore, you are permitted to take photos on your tour, so grab a camera before you come to snap a few of your favorite rooms and experiences.
When you arrive, you will go to the Visitors Service Desk on the Ground Floor to either sign up for a tour or grab a map for your self-guided tour.
If you want an educational experience for your children, print the Capitol Quest Guide online and bring it to fill out during your tour.
It’s an excellent way for your children to learn about the different architectural styles and the Arkansas State Capitol Building.
Touring the Building
When you tour the Arkansas State Capitol Building, you get a ‘behind the scene look at the building’s various rooms.
One room to explore in the State Capitol is the Governor’s Reception Room. This room is where bills are signed and press conferences are held.
Another area of the Capitol you can experience is the Rotunda, a luxurious space where certain members of Congress give speeches and hold meetings.
You can also tour the State Treasurer’s Office with an 11-ton vault door (talk about heavy).
The Old Supreme Courtroom is another area of the Capitol where legislative committee meetings are held.
These are just a few rooms you can experience while touring the Arkansas Capitol State Building.
Arkansas State Capitol Architect
Fun Facts about the Arkansas State Capitol
- Arkansas State Capitol was designed and built as a replica of the U.S. Capitol.
- George Mann and Cass Gilbert designed the Arkansas State Capitol Building.
- Construction on the Capitol Building started on November 27, 1900, and was completed on January 1, 1915.
Fun Fact: Arkansas State Capitol Building reaches over 213 feet in height
The total cost to build the Arkansas State Capitol Building was $2,200,000.00. Which is not as surprising if you see the luxurious building in person.
The building has six bronze doors over 10 feet tall and four inches thick, three stunning Chandeliers and a 24-karat gold-plated cupola.
Furthermore, you will notice granite throughout when walking through the State Capitol Building, adding to the overall luxurious appearance.
Additionally, the entire exterior of the building is made of limestone.
The Capitol Grounds
The Capitol Grounds features various replicas and memorials that you can explore through a self-guided tour. You can experience several different monuments and memorials. According to the Arkansas Government site, these include:
- Monument to Confederate Soldiers
- C.G. “Crip” Hall
- Kelly Bryant Markers
- Monument to Confederate Women
- Vietnam Veterans Memorial
- Medal of Honor Memorial
- Law Enforcement Officers’ Memorial
- War of 1812 Memorial Fountain
- The Eternal Flame
- War Prisoners’ Marker
- Bauxite Boulder
- Granite Mountain Boulder
- Testament: The Little Rock Nine Salute
- American Revolution Bicentennial Monument & Fountain
- Arkansas Firefighters Memorial
Each monument and memorial have a unique meaning and are dedicated to a particular purpose. Some monuments pay tribute to those who have devoted their lives to the greater good of our country.
For example, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is dedicated to over 400 Arkansans killed during Vietnam.
Another memorial is the Arkansas Fallen Firefighters Memorial is dedicated to those who lost their lives in the line of duty. Other monuments, such as the Eternal Flame, symbolize meaning dedicated to freedom.
Touring the Arkansas State Capitol Building is not only a fun way to spend your day but also allows for an educational experience. You get a behind-the-scenes look at the rooms where the press and legislative meetings occur and pass bills.
Furthermore, the building itself is worth visiting. With over $2,200,000.000 in cost to build, it’s not a surprise the building is gorgeous. If you want something to do throughout the week, you should consider visiting the State Capitol for a tour.
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