Iowa State Capitol 🇺🇸

Located atop a hill in Des Moines, the Iowa State Capitol, or Iowa Statehouse, serves as the seat of the Iowa General Assembly and state executive offices. Constructed between 1871 and 1886, this landmark holds the distinction of being the country's only five-domed capitol. Its exterior features a striking central dome covered in pure 23-carat gold leaf, reaching 275 feet above ground, surrounded by four smaller domes and expansive grounds featuring monuments such as the Lincoln and Tad statue.

Inside, visitors encounter rich craftsmanship boasting 29 varieties of marble and native Iowa woods like walnut and oak. You can explore the grand marble staircase, the impressive rotunda carrying Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address quotation, and Edwin H. Blashfield’s sweeping Westward mural.

Do not miss the Victorian-styled Law Library, which highlights four stories of balcony shelves surrounding a central atrium. Interesting exhibits throughout the hallways showcase preserved historic military battle flags, an 18-foot scale model of the battleship USS Iowa, and a unique collection of porcelain dolls dressed in miniature replicas of Iowa First Ladies' inaugural gowns. Serving as both a working government hub and a cultural museum, it offers memorable history and panoramic views over downtown Des Moines.

What to see at Iowa State Capitol

• The only five-domed capitol building in the United States, topped with 23-carat gold leaf
• A four-story, Victorian-styled Law Library featuring balcony shelves and a central atrium
• Edwin H. Blashfield's monumental Westward mural situated over the grand marble staircase
• Historic displays including military battle flags and a detailed 18-foot scale model of the USS Iowa
• A collection of porcelain dolls wearing miniature replicas of Iowa First Ladies' inaugural gowns

Visiting tips

Schedule your visit on a weekday if you wish to step inside the four-story Victorian-styled Law Library, as it is only open to the public on weekdays.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Weekdays

How to get there & what’s nearby

Iowa State Capitol is easy to reach on Des Moines’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Des Moines travel guide.