Visit the Nebraska State Capitol 

Need to freshen up on your history? Book a Lincoln hotel and spend some time at Nebraska's State Capitol. It may be a breeding ground of diplomatic madness, yet it’s also the center around which local culture and economy takes place. Invariably, this gorgeous building features a vast amount of history and—if you visit at the right time—you can probably mix it up a little with a gathering of protestors, if that’s your taste.

A Little History

This 15-story building was designed by architect Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue. Finished in 1932 after nearly 10 years of construction, the building is 400 feet tall and Nebraska’s third state capitol building. During your visit, make sure to snap a couple pics of the 19-foot bronze sculpture on top known as “The Sower,” which represents the state’s unique agricultural history. The capitol is open daily except Thanksgiving weekend, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. So plan accordingly!

Explore This Architectural Wonder

Take the elevator up to the 14th-floor observation deck. Here, you'll find the Memorial Chamber lined with murals showcasing Nebraska's history. Step out on the actual deck and you'll see the boulevards that spread out in all directions from the capitol. The grid design of the roadways connects the grounds of the building with state and federal offices, museums and the University of Nebraska. Look all around you as you walk through the Vestibule, the Rotunda and the Foyer rooms. You'll find mosaics at your feet and on the ceilings, as well as statues and other artwork adorning its sculptured walls.

Indulge in the Capitol Tour

Tours take place on one level, and there are benches for rest stops along the way. If you can't walk the entire length of the building, ask for a wheelchair at the security office in the Rotunda. Need an accessible entrance? You'll find one on the north side of the building under the main steps; accessible parking is right outside on K Street. Tours are offered each day on the hour except at noon.

Events at the Capitol

If legislation is in session, you might be able to observe the action from the balcony. You are welcome to take pictures without camera flash and, as long as you are quiet, officials don't usually mind having an audience. You might get lucky and catch a musical concert or a news conference being held somewhere in the building or on the grounds. Even weddings are sometimes held here. If you visit on Thursday afternoons, it’s possible to tour the Governor's Residence from 1 to 4 p.m. For a souvenir, check out the Landmark Store on the ground floor in the south hall.