Oregon State Capitol
Oregon's third Capitol was built in 1938. In December attend the <i>Holidays at the Capitol</i> celebration. Our gift shop features a wide variety of gift items
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Photos from flickr™ in and around Oregon State Capitol (0.5 mile radius)
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A Capitol Idea
Built in 1938 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Oregon's state Capitol building is a Modern Greek structure and Salem’s most recognized landmark. This is actually Oregon's third Capitol building; previous structures were destroyed by fire. Take a docent or self-guided tour and plan to be impressed. Adorning the marble lobby are prominent wall murals that illustrate Oregon’s history in fine detail—from the native Kalapuya Indians that were Salem’s first residents, to the immigrants and pioneers that arrived from the East by riverboat and wagon. A huge bronze replica of the State Seal is embedded in the floor. Overhead, the Capitol dome rises 106 feet and is elaborately painted with 33 stars to signify Oregon as the 33rd state to join the union. If you’re looking to burn off a few calories, do more than just look up—peek into the Governor’s office and House and Senate Chambers on the second floor and then continue hiking up 121 spiraling steps to the dome’s outdoor viewing area. Weather permitting, you’ll get a great bird’s eye view of the city and a close-up look at the gilded Oregon Pioneer statue perched atop the building. The Capitol grounds and adjacent Willson Park are lovely and feature fountains and statues symbolic to the state’s history. Be warned-- lots of squirrels congregate in the massive Sequoia trees and they expect to get fed!
Keywords: Free, All year, Organized Tour, Walking tour, Less than 3 hours, In the city, Everyone, During the week, Easy to reach
Trustiness: 86%
Interesting historical stop
I spend a lot of time in the Oregon state capitol and know the building now quite well. The first time I went though I was very impressed with the beauty of the building that was not the orginial site for the state's capitol. I would recommend visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Should you wish to visit your legislator, they are generally very approachable and their assistants can help you set a brief meeting when you are there. Do not go on Monday or Friday should you wish to meet your state delegate. Parking is a big challenge and make sure you don't let the meter expire, since you will get ticket. Metered parking is available all around the capitol.
Keywords: Free, Just you alone / As a single, With teens, Historic Site, Interesting, All year, Historic, Museum (History), With a group, With kids, As a senior citizen, As a couple, Need a car, Easy to reach
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