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State Capitol Building of Minnesota: Visit!

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Visit the Minnesota State Capitol!

The Minnesota State Capitol Building is open seven days a week year-round and it closes for major holidays. Admission is free, with a suggested donation of $5. Free guided tours are available; sign up at the Capitol Information and Tour Center located in Room 126 on the first floor to the right side of the main (south) entrance. For more information, visit the Minnesota State Capitol website.

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Gale Family Library Minnesota Historical Society Library

Located on the Second Floor of the Minnesota History Center 345 West Kellogg Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55102

Library Hours: Thursday to Saturday: 10am to 4pm Sunday to Wednesday: Closed  

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• Last Updated: Dec 20, 2023 3:07 PM
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State Capitol Historic Site

State Capitol Historic Site 75 Rev Dr MLK Jr Blvd Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155

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Capitol quadriga starlight tours.

Capitol Quadriga Starlight Tours 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd St. Paul, MN 55155

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Capitol Quadriga Starlight Tours

75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd St. Paul , MN 55155 United States

$10-14/MNHS members save 20%

About This Event

Take a guided tour of the restored State Capitol building and meet historical characters from the Capitol's past. The tour also includes a climb to the rooftop for a rare evening viewing of the gilded Quadriga, the golden horses, against the backdrop of the lighted skylines of the Twin Cities.

Additional Dates

• Legislature
• Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About the Minnesota Legislature

Visiting the capitol, 1 . do you have travel directions to the minnesota state capitol.

The Minnesota State Capitol is located on the north side of downtown St. Paul. It is accessible from the east and west on I-94, and from the north and south on I-35E.

Minnesota State Capitol (map) 75 Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55155

The directions are to either Ramp F (from Rice Street) or metered parking on John Ireland Boulevard, but there are other parking options available.

• From eastbound I-94: Exit at Marion Street. Turn left. Go to Aurora Avenue and turn right. Go one block, turn right onto Rice Street, then left into Ramp F.
• From westbound I-94: Exit at Marion Street. Turn right. Go to Aurora Avenue and turn right. Go one block, turn right onto Rice Street, then left into Ramp F.
• From northbound I-35E: Exit at Kellogg Boulevard. Turn left. Go to John Ireland Boulevard and turn right. Metered parking spaces line both sides of the boulevard.
• From southbound I-35E: Exit at University Avenue. Turn right. Go to Rice Street and turn left. Turn left into Ramp F.

2 . Where do I park when I visit the Capitol?

The Minnesot Department of Administration has a public parking page .This includes a map with accessible parking locations noted .

Additional parking information is available on the directions and parking page of the Minnesota State Capitol website from the Minnesota Historical Society. The accessibility page of the Capitol website has links to accessible parking information and maps. 

Keep in mind that parking is very limited during the legislative session (January-May). You may want to consider public transportation . Both the Metro Transit bus line and the Green Line light rail have stops near the Capitol.

There is a video offering parking options from the Minnesota Senate Media Services, which can also give you some pointers.

3 . Are tours of the Capitol available?

Free  indoor guided and self-guided tours are available.

Minnesota Senate Media Services has a brief video tour as well.

4 . Who is allowed on the floor of the Senate?

The only people admitted on the floor of the Senate Chamber are members of the Senate and House, constitutional officers, ex-governors of Minnesota, judges of the Trial and Appellate Courts, members of Congress, members of the press, and Senate staff.

See also the FAQ: Are visitors allowed to attend sessions of the Senate and House?

5 . Who is allowed on the floor of the House?

The only people admitted on the floor of the House Chamber are members of the House and Senate, constitutional officers, ex-governors of Minnesota, judges of the Trial and Appellate Courts, members of Congress, members of the press, and House staff. The House rules note that a "family member of a member" is also allowed. In addition, some allowances are made for special visitors to go onto the House floor. The House rules contains a complete list of those admitted.

6 . Are visitors allowed to attend sessions of the Senate and House?

Yes. Public galleries are accessible from the third floor of the Capitol.

No passes are required except for opening day and when the Legislature meets in joint session. The Sergeant-at-Arms may be contacted for seats for groups in the galleries.

No visitors are allowed on the floor of the Senate. Some visitors are allowed on the House floor, but they must obtain permission.

No smoking is permitted on the floor of the Senate, the House, or in the galleries.

Public photos are prohibited. Staff photographers in both the House and Senate are allowed to photograph proceedings.

Applause, demonstrations, and food and beverages are also prohibited in the galleries.

7 . Is photography allowed in the Capitol building?

There are few restrictions for taking photographs in the Capitol - including using tripods/monopods or flash photography.

The restrictions are:

• If a photo shoot requires a lot of equipment (i.e. Stand-alone lighting, taking up public space for a length of time, etc.), permission is required. Contact the Minnesota Department of Administration's Facilities Management Office at 651-201-2300.
• In the public galleries of the House and Senate chamber while the legislature is in session, public photos are prohibited. Staff photographers in both the House and Senate are allowed to photograph proceedings.

8 . Who do I contact to schedule an event at the Capitol?

Approval and coordination of special events and public rallies within Capitol Complex buildings and grounds is managed by the Department of Administration .

• For information on event permits, equipment rental, and event resources visit the Public Events Web page.
• To find an event, check the Capitol Complex Events Schedule Web page.

See also the FAQ: How do I schedule a press conference or reserve a room at the Capitol?

9 . How do I schedule a press conference or reserve a room at the Capitol?

Please use the Capitol Complex Reservations page to book a room. In the Capitol building, there are meeting rooms for the public on the third floor. You can drop in to the Public Business Center in room 318. There are other rooms that you can reserve on that floor including: Cass Gilbert Library Room (317A), or conference rooms (309A, 316, 317, 317B). The G20A conference room is on the ground floor and is reservable. The press conference room in the Capitol is Room B971. For questions about access to Capitol spaces contact the Department of Administration at 651-201-2300.

If you would like to reserve a Senate hearing room, please fill out the Request for Use of Senate Facilities form . Contact the Senate Sergeant at Arms at 651-296-0866 with any questions.

To reserve a House hearing room, please contact the House room scheduler at 651-296-0306.

If you’re looking for available space to work without a reservation, you can use the Public Business Center in room 318 in the Capitol or the Legislative Reference Library in 321 Capitol. In the Minnesota Senate Building, there are many chairs throughout the hallways or you can drop by the Legislative Reference Library on the 3rd floor.

See also the FAQ: Who do I contact to schedule an event at the Capitol?

10 . Is there a guide to the Capitol for visitors with disabilities?

Yes. The accessibility page on the Minnesota State Capitol website from the Minnesota Historical Society contains information such as entrances available for visitors with limited mobility and services available for visitors with hearing or visual impairment.

For more information, call: 651-259-3292 TTY: 651-282-6073 or email: [email protected]

11 . What food services are available in the Capitol?

The Transportation Building cafeteria is open all year: Monday - Thursday from 8:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

During session, the Rathskeller Café in the basement of the State Capitol is open Monday - Thursday from 8:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

There is a convenience store on the second floor of the State Capitol operated by Services for the Blind, which is open periodically during session.

On nice weather days, you may see food trucks lined up on John Ireland Blvd.

The Rathskeller (Capitol Café) is in the basement of the State Capitol Building and will be open from 8:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Monday - Thursday and 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on Fridays.

Weekly menus are available online.

The Rathskeller Café (Capitol cafeteria), located in the basement, is open during the legislative session. Cafeterias in other Capitol Complex buildings are open year-round. The cafeterias closest to the Capitol building are in the Centennial Office Building and the Transportation Building. Weekly menus are available online.

12 . Is there a map of the Capitol available?

There are several maps available from the Minnesota Department of Administration about the Capitol Complex area. The State Capitol Complex Visitor Map (PDF) is a full map of all buildings, parking facilities and public transportation locations in the Capitol Complex.

The Geospacial Information Office has an Interactive Map of the Capitol Area (Web page). Click on a location to get directions via Google Maps.

13 . Are lactation rooms available?

There are lactation rooms available in the Capitol, Minnesota Senate Building, and the State Office Building. 

Capitol - Room 104A is the Mother's Room. It is located on the first floor of the Capitol Building near the elevators/stairwell between the North and West corridors.

Minnesota Senate Building - Two rooms are available: G007 and G008. They are each labeled "Nursing Mother Room" and are located on the ground floor across from the double elevators.

State Office Building - One room is available. A key can be requested from House Human Resources on the first floor. During the legislative session the room is in high demand, so there may be a wait to access it. [Note: The State Office Building is temporarily closed to the public for construction.]

14 . Are public hearings wheelchair-accessible?

Note: The State Office Building is temporarily closed to the public for construction.

Hearing rooms in the Minnesota Senate Building and the State Office Building are accessible to individuals using wheelchairs.

The State Capitol is wheelchair accessible except for the roof. Please see the accessibility page of the Minnesota State Capitol website for more details.

The Capitol Complex has designated parking and entrance ramps to provide easy access to the buildings, including the Minnesota Senate Building, State Office Building, and Capitol. The Minnesota State Capitol Directions and Parking page has more detailed parking information.

For individual assistance, contact:

• Minnesota State Capitol at 651-296- 2881
• Senate Sergeant at Arms at 651-296-1119 for help in the Minnesota Senate Building and Senate Chamber in the Capitol Building.
• House Sergeant's Office at 651-296-4860 for help in the State Office Building and House Chamber in the Capitol Building.

Wheelchair-accessible public access computers for using the Legislative website are available at:

• The Legislative Reference Library, 3238 Minnesota Senate Building.
• The Legislative Reference Library, 321 Capitol.
• House Public Information Services, 3300 Centennial Office Building (3rd floor), 658 Cedar Street.

15 . Are there wheelchairs available?

Two wheelchairs are available, courtesy of the Minnesota Historical Society, at the Capitol Information and Tour Center for visitor use in the State Capitol only. Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please contact the Minnesota Historical Society with questions: 651-259-3292.

16 . Where are the best locations for drop off and pick up for Metro Mobility?

The address for the Minnesota State Capitol is 75 Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard and that street location will work for vehicles under 8.2ft. If you are arriving or departing in a larger vehicle, use the bus cut-out on Cedar Ave: 44°57'16.6"N 93°06'03.5"W. Please see the accessibility page on the Minnesota State Capitol website for more details.

Minnesota Senate Building

The address for the Minnesota Senate Building is 95 University Ave W. There is a drop off and pick up location on Park St. to the west of the building: 44°57'23.1"N 93°06'13.2"W.

Centennial Office Building

The address for the Centennial Office Building is 658 Cedar St. Disability access is at the east entrance. Enter from the driveway between the Centennial Parking Ramp and the building from Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard: 44°57'14.1"N 93°06'01.0"W.

The security desk is located on the street level and is staffed from 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Monday - Friday.

State Office Building

[Note: The State Office Building is temporarily closed to the public for construction.]

The address for the Minnesota State Office Building is 100 Rev Martin Luther King Jr Blvd. There is a turnaround on Fuller Ave south of the building that is used for drop off and pick up: 44°57'14.2"N 93°06'18.0"W.

17 . Where is the lost and found?

The official repository for lost and found items at the Capitol Complex is the Facilities Management Office in G10 in the Admin Building .

If you lost something recently, please contact these offices first:

• Capitol Building: Capitol Information and Tour Center located in Room 126 on the first floor to the East side of the main entrance (South entrance).
• Minnesota Senate Building: Senate Information desk located on the ground floor.
• State Office Building: the Sergeant's Office located in room G-85 on the ground floor.

18 . What public spaces are available in the Capitol, the State Office Building, and the Minnesota Senate Building?

If you'd like to reserve a room, please use the  Capitol Complex Reservations page . In the Capitol building, there are meeting rooms for the public on the third floor. You can drop in to the Public Business Center in room 318. There are other rooms that you can reserve on that floor including: Cass Gilbert Library Room (317A), or conference rooms (309A, 316, 317, 317B). The G20A conference room is on the ground floor and is reservable. The press conference room in the Capitol is Room B971. For questions about access to Capitol spaces contact the  Department of Administration  at 651-201-2300.

If you would like to reserve a Senate hearing room, please fill out the  Request for Use of Senate Facilities form . Contact the Senate Sergeant at Arms at 651-296-0866 with any questions.

The State Office Building is temporarily closed due to construction. You would usually contact the House room scheduler at 651-296-0306 to reserve a House hearing room.

If you’re looking for available space to work without a reservation, you can use the Public Business Center in room 318 in the Capitol or the Legislative Reference Library in room 321 Capitol. In the Minnesota Senate Building, there are many chairs throughout the hallways or you can drop by the Legislative Reference Library on the 3rd floor.

19 . How will the State Office Building renovation project affect my visit?

The State Office Building is now closed to the public for construction. The tunnel between the State Office Building and the Capitol is also closed.

Please check with individual legislative offices for the most recent update on their location and availability.

20 . What hours are the Capitol and legislative buildings open?

The Minnesota State Capitol  building hours are: 

• Monday – Friday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Saturday: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
• Sunday: Closed

The Minnesota Senate Building is open Monday – Friday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm during session, with reduced hours in the interim. 

The State Office Building is temporarily closed to the public for construction.

The tunnel between the State Office Building and the Capitol is temporarily closed during construction. The tunnel between the Minnesota Senate Building and the Capitol is open Monday – Friday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. The tunnels between buildings are open the same hours as the buildings they connect.

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A 1905 masterpiece returned to its original grandeur. Designed by Cass Gilbert, the Minnesota State Capitol is considered an architectural treasure. From gleaming marble to vibrant art, the Minnesota State Capitol’s comprehensive, four-year restoration — the largest preservation effort since it first opened in 1905 — was completed in 2017 and does not disappoint. The Capitol is open to visitors for self-guided or guided tours. Please check our website for hours.

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• 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd
• St. Paul, Minnesota 55155
• Phone: (651) 296-2881
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Minnesota State Capitol Tours – Free Guided Tours

Step inside the Minnesota State Capitol through its historic tours. Situated in the heart of Saint Paul, this current Capitol building boasts a remarkable interior. It showcases a stunning blend of old-world charm and modern functionality.

Take a Minnesota State Capitol Tour and learn about the stories and unique insights behind this iconic symbol of Minnesota’s governance.

As a proud Minnesotan, this is a must see attraction. We took at tour just after it reopened after its historic renovations, and just went back to show the kids. It was more impressive the second time around!

What is the Minnesota State Capitol?

The Minnesota State Capitol is a magnificent building located in Saint Paul, Minnesota. It serves as the seat of the state government and is a significant landmark in the Twin Cities. The Capitol building is not only a hub for politics but also a testament to the rich history and art of Minnesota.

The Minnesota State Capitol building was built in 1905. It’s a famous building that shows off the amazing designs of its creator, Cass Gilbert.

The Capitol has a beautiful dome, fancy marble decorations, and a big open space called a rotunda. If you’re interested in history or architecture, you definitely need to check it out. It’s a place that will leave you in awe!

Third Minnesota State Capitol

This is actually the third State Capitol of Minnesota. The First capital burned in 1881 during a legislative session. The second capitol was completed in 1883.

They soon realized that the new capitol was not big enough, wasn’t fireproof and has poor ventilation. Work started on the current Minnesota State Capitol Building in 1896. 

A Quick overview of Capitol History

The Capitol’s architectural design is awe-inspiring. From the roof to the dome and the chambers within, every detail is meticulously crafted.

The architect, Cass Gilbert, used was inspired by Beaux-Arts and Neoclassical design. He wanted it to look elegant and impressive. Cass Gilbert went on to design the U.S. Supreme Court Building.

On the outside, there are sculptures that decorate the building, like the famous Quadriga. The exterior is adorned with sculptures of eagles. The most recognizable is the famous Quadriga which symbolizes progress and prosperity.

It has the second-largest self-supported marble dome in the world. The capital building is made from a combination of Limestone, Marble and Granite.

The only material not sourced from Minnesota is the Marble. To keep it Minnesota in nature, they had all the raw marble shipped in and cut in Minnesota. 

Capitol Restoration

The capitol recently went through a $310 Million dollar restoration project between 2013-2017. 

The restoration brought back the original appearance of the paintings and murals adorning the capital. Also, they also did some much-needed repair work to the marble on the exterior.

They fixed up the skylights of the dome structures. In the renovations, they moved offices and made almost 40,000 square feet for public gathering spaces. 

Can you visit the Minnesota State Capitol? 

Yes, the capitol is open to the public 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Monday Through Friday and Saturdays from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM. They close on most national holidays.

You are fere to walk around and explore the different rooms and exhibit during public hours. 

the Minnesota State Capitol Tours

There are two different tours offered, guided or  self-guided tour . The self-guided itinerary is available in the Tour Office. You’ll get to explore on your own the different aspects of the capitol

Why should you take a guided tour of the Minnesota State Capitol?

Taking a guided tour of the Minnesota State Capitol is the way to go in my personal opinion.

You’ll get an overview of capitol history, art, and functioning of the Minnesota state government.

They also tell the story of the artwork, historical elements and decorative parts. But the real perk is getting into locked rooms you wouldn’t normally see.

Key highlights of the guided tour

During the guided tour, you’ll get to visit various rooms and chambers. You’ll get to sit inside the Supreme Court, enter the Setnet and House Camber, view the governor’s reception area, and even stand onto the roof.

Free guided tour availability

Good news for visitors! The guided tours of the Minnesota State Capitol are free of charge. They run at the top of the hour, and last about 45 minutes long.

What can you expect during the tour?

A visit to the Minnesota State Capitol a journey told through history, art, and architecture. Depending on the time of year and weather, you will get to see some or all of these things on the tour. Here’s what you can expect during the tour:

The Rotunda

The grand Rotunda is the large room in the center of the building. The is where you can view the inner dome and the impressive artwork. 

In the glass display cases, you’ll see State Flags that Minnesota soldiers carried into battle during in the Civil War and the Spanish-American wars. This is on the first floor.

I also recommend visiting the second floor to peer down on everything and get a closer look at the artwork. 

Minnesota House of Representatives Chamber

The house chamber is the largest room in the building. It is used for both the house of representatives and joint sessions. Around it you’ll see the name of four French explorers, LaSalle, Hennepin, Perrot and Du Luth. When on the tour, you’ll be let into the gallery. 

Minnesota Senate Chamber

The senate chamber is very similar to the house chamber but on a smaller scale. They have a viewing chamber behind the president of the senate’s desk. You can view it during legislative sessions.

I’ve been on the tour twice and have gotten access to the floor of the chamber on one tour. If it’s not open, or if you don’t take an official tour, can you peer in through the locked gates. 

Governor’s Reception Room

The Governor Reception Room is decorated with white oak and overlayed with gold-tinted meatal leaf. There is a large hand-carved mahogany table in the center designed by the original architect. This room is a workspace and also used for press conferences. 

The Minnesota Supreme Court

The Minnesota Supreme Court is accessible during tours too. It has three rows of benches for visitors. It has notable artwork surrounding it symbolizes the legal system through different periods of time. And leaving you’ll see the statement “Where Law Ends Tyranny Begins”.

The Quadriga aka the Horses and Chariot

One of the highlights of the tour is getting to stand one the roof and see the Quadriga. It’s more commonly known as the golden horses and chariot.

They’ll take you up a spiral staircase with 65 steps and lead you out. Around the capitol, you’ll reach the statues and get one of the most impressive views of St Paul. 

The sculpture is made from gilded copper hammered around a steel frame. It is covered with gold leaf. The leafing needs to be replaced every 20 years.

Rathskeller cafeteria

On the ground floor you’ll find the Rathskeller Cafeteria. This is designed to resemble a German Dining tall. It was restored in 1999 with the original German mottoes and floral designed. It’s open for dining during the legislative’s session.

The vault is under the main rotunda, showing the foundation of the capitol. This was not included on either guided tour I took, but we were encouraged to explore on our own. It was impressive. You’ll find picture in the halls of the original construction.

Meeting Rooms and Public Art

Throughout the capital you’ll find various meeting rooms. Mostly on the second floor. There is a also an art gallery. They host different events along with a chance to learn more about the capital. 

How to plan your visit to the Minnesota State Capitol?

To make the most of your visit to the Minnesota State Capitol, it’s important to plan ahead. Here are some essential aspects to consider:

Available tour hours

The guided tours run during the top of the hour. Make sure to check the official website or contact the Minnesota Historical Society for the updated tour schedule. They also have field trips and custom tours available.

How to get a guided tour of the MN State Capitol?

It’s pretty east to get a tour. Just show up. Walk into the capitol through the main steps. Take the first right and you’ll reach a small room number 126, the Capitol Information and Tour Center. This where all tours start. It also serves at the capitol’s gift shop.

If you show up a few minutes late, they’ll let you know where you can join the current tour. Otherwise, you can wait for the next tour to start. 

Location and directions to the Capitol

The Minnesota State Capitol is located in Saint Paul, Minnesota. It is easily accessible by public transportation and has ample parking facilities for those who prefer to drive. Detailed directions can be found on the official website or obtained from the visitor center.

On the weekends, as long as there is no event going on outside, you’ll probably have ample opportunity to park in visitors lots, or on the street. Capitol Parking costs $2 an hour. There is no charge for parking on the weekends.

Minnesota native and Midwest travel expert Jennifer provides insider tips and budget-friendly trip ideas for families looking to explore the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Through her travel blog DayTripper28, she draws on first-hand experience to recommend the best hidden gems, outdoor adventures, road trips, and weekend getaways around Minnesota and the Midwest. With her passion for uncovering local flavors and culture along the backroads, Jennifer shares affordable itineraries for creating memorable experiences across the region.

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Shadows and Spirits Tours at Minnesota State Capitol

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ST. PAUL ( WJON News ) -- This fall you can see the Minnesota State Capitol the way it would have looked when it opened back in 1905.

The Shadows and Spirits tours will be happening during two weekends in October.

Site Manager Brian Pease says the tour is different than the regular day tour and it is a unique experience to see the capitol in the evening.

We recreate all the historic lighting in the building, so it is as if you are walking into the building in 1905 when it opened to the public for the first time.  And, as you tour through the building, you run into historical characters who tell you stories about different parts of the building or some role they might have played.

Pease says the tour starts at the Capitol Rotunda with stops at the Governor's Reception Room, the Senate and House Chambers, and the Supreme Court.

Pease says it took nine years to build the capitol which opened to the public in 1905 as a showplace.

It had electric lights, which is one of the neat parts of lowering the lights this is what is would have looked like in 1905 if you were here in the evening, because they didn't have a lot of options with electric bulbs at that time.

The one-hour guided tours are October 19th through the 21st and October 26th through the 28th. Pease says this is their biggest special event of the year and the tours usually sell out, so if you want to go you should reserve your tickets soon .

The cost for tickets is $15 for adults, $13 for seniors, $11 for children.

The Minnesota State Capitol was completely repaired and restored from 2013 through 2017.

If you can't make it to one of the special evening tours, the Capitol does have regular day tours Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

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Field Trips: Minnesota State Capitol

Visit Minnesota’s beautifully restored 1905 capitol and learn about government process while taking in its incredible architecture, art, and history. Legislators are notified to meet reserved student groups after the tour, if their schedules allow.

Watch video Minnesota State Capitol Field Trip on YouTube

Field trip options

General capitol tour.

Grades K–12 Explore the capitol’s history, art, and architecture. Students visit the chambers where government decisions are made. Weather permitting, visit the quadriga (golden horses) on the roof of the capitol. Reservations are required for groups of 15 or more, and must be made two weeks in advance.

Ages 3-5 Pre-schoolers learn about Minnesota’s state symbols on a seek-and-find tour of the State Capitol.

• Tuesdays, June – December.

Rally ‘Round the Flag Civil War Tour

Grades 4-6 What was it like to be a Minnesota Civil War soldier? Why is the capitol a time capsule of Civil War history? Students explore these questions and participate in activities focused on Civil War artifacts and artwork in the building.

• $8 per student

Taking Issue, Making a Stand

Grades 7-8 Students tour the capitol to find out how and where citizens get involved in government, then conduct their own legislative hearing to debate a real issue.

• Group must have a minimum of 10 students to participate due to activities during the program.

Voice of the People

Grades 9-12     Students see legislators in action. After a guided government focused tour, students observe an actual legislative hearing. Offered during legislative session only.

• Tuesday – Thursday, February 4th through March 20th
• 3 Hours (9:00 am – 12:00 pm and 11:30 am – 2:30 pm)

Self guided tours

Art treasures in the capitol.

Ages 8 and up     Students search for art in the capitol using a self-guided tour booklet, becoming junior art historians.

• $2 per student

Academic standards

All programs support state of Minnesota academic standards in social studies.

Prepare For Your Day

Before your field trip.

• If your group tour numbers changes please notify us at [email protected] or 1-888-387-5008 .
• Notify us if you require special accommodations or services.
• Prepare your students for their Capitol visit by watching the Minnesota State Capitol Field Trip video . Students can prepare questions to ask during the tour.
• Review proper behavior in a public building i.e. stay with the tour group, quiet voices, no squeaking of shoes, no running, jumping or climbing.

The day of your field trip

Group leaders.

• Upon arrival, have your group gather and wait on the front steps of the Capitol (south side of Capitol). Guides will meet each group at the start of the tour from that location.
• Assign one teacher or adult to check-in your group at the Capitol Information & Tour Center (Once inside the 1st Floor south main entrance, this room is located to your right).
• After checking in, break the larger group into equal-sized smaller groups as instructed by the tour check-in staff.
• Tour leaders and chaperones are responsible for the proper conduct of their groups, and must accompany each tour.
• We request one adult for every five children under five years of age.

Drop off/pick up

• Passengers may be dropped off and picked up at the curb cutouts on Cedar Street on east side of Capitol facing south or on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
• The Cedar Street dropoff is the closest drop off point.
• No parking is allowed on Cedar Street.
• Buses can park on Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. if the driver stays with the bus. Be aware of MTC bus shelters and crosswalks as no parking is allowed in those areas.
• Cars can park at meters on the street or in state parking ramps/lots.
• Bag lunches may be eaten on the Capitol Mall. Please bring garbage bags for your waste.
• Do not use lawn areas when posted for chemical treatment.
• If you bring bag lunches and want to use the Capitol Complex cafeterias please call for a special use permit at 651-201-2300 .
• Lunches can be purchased at the Centennial Building cafeteria or the Dept. of Transportation cafeteria. For more information call 651-224-3004 .
• Accessibility
• The ground floor entrance (under the south main steps) is open for wheelchair and other special needs access.
• Upon request, the guide will meet your reserved group at this entrance.

Legislators

Your legislators will be invited to greet your group after the tour for approximately 5-10 minutes.

For the safety of our visitors, the Quadriga, or golden horses is open only when the weather permits.

Space availability

• The Capitol is a working office building and some areas may be closed to tours during the time you have reserved.
• Since this is a public building your reservation does not guarantee others will not join your tour.

Request a field trip

1-888-387-5008   [email protected]  

75 Dr. Martin Luther King Drive  St. Paul, Minnesota 55155

General tour free.  For additional lessons:

• $8 per student, $80 minimum group fee
• District staff free
• One free adult per 10 students. Additional chaperones invoiced at student rate.
• Admission costs are for anyone age 4 and over
• Memberships and 6th grade passes are not valid on field trip days.

Billing information

No payment will be accepted the day of the field trip. All schools will be invoiced after their trip. For more information see our Program Policies .

Cancellation fee

Cancellations must be received 14 days before your trip. See our Program Policies . Contact us at [email protected] if you need to reschedule.

• Call the department of administration at 651-201-2300 for indoor lunch reservations.

Scholarships, grants, and subsidies

Apply for the Legacy Field Trip Support Fund or other grants and subsidies .

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