capitol building

RandyKasal

In comparison to other state capitals, this one is a beauty. Gold leaf domed exterior. Beautiful woodwork and marble inside.

770randyl

The Iowa capitol gives visitors the opportunity to walk into the office of the governor, see replicas of battleships carrying the name Iowa, and see flags carried into battle during the Civil War. The trip to the balcony is alone worth the visit. Knowing the name of a legislator will get you the opportunity to visit the floor of the senate or house during session. You'll also have the opportunity to sit in the balcony to see the legislative process in operation. Lunch is available downstairs.

238susanw

You have to come and see for yourself, but when you leave you will agree. Iowa has one of the most beautiful capitols there is.

wakondarev

The Iowa State Capital Building is a magnificent structure. Beautiful, classic architecture. Very interesting place to visit. Allow at least a couple of hours. .

Moorepet

While the DSM Capitol building isn't Washington DC, it a true gem with the art, artistic structures and law-making. It is must see with our exchange students. Every time we have visited we meet very interesting and kind elected officials who spent time chatting with us.

jamesgT7081NM

Incredible building. Interesting history. Friendly guides and friendly people. I liked every part of this. Be sure to do it in nice weather so you can take in the exterior and surrounding sculptures and things too.

virginiar357

There is so much to learn about the legislative process, advocating, the history of the building, and the architecture, that it was a wonderful place to visit for many reasons. Be sure to sign up for a tour!

442kathies

The design of the Iowa State capital building is on par with many European buildings. The building is well maintained and the opportunities for photos is extensive. Well presented historical cases offer a slice of Iowa History from Civil War Flags to made to order Inaugural dresses displayed in miniature on dolls. The art work is also interesting and the stories about the artists and their intent are worth the time to listen in on a tour.

HanDingX

I got invited by the representative of a northern county of Iowa state to sit on the major chair of the house! She took pictures for me and showed me around the library of Law.You can almost get in every room and have a conversation if they're not very busy.Nice well decorated building besides. Old building could last this long in good shape? Wonderful experience.

StudentTraveler14

My significant other was visiting me and decided we would wander over to the capitol building. It was way beyond our expectations. We went on a Saturday and we fortunate to catch a tour that had started so we could go into the rooms normally locked on the weekend. The library was absolutely gorgeous. If you take a tour, you must go up into the dome. It is one of the most beautiful buildings I have ever been in.

214virgilh

these 8 days in DC were the best--was on many bus tours and seen all the exhibits and thebattle fields. Arlington and all they have to offer there--and then you must see the exhibits there for each of the wars--mine was the Korean---and all the buildings just loaded with history.to see it all and read everything it would take a month--and we will be going back next springfor two weeks this time. every one should visit it for a week. I took over 900 pictures on one camera and more on the other.. and that was only half what we wanted and next time we will take the rest. And what ever you do don`t miss Gettysburg. Virgil Hempstead

A6765KTjohns

The citizens of the state of Iowa have a treasure to be really proud of in their state capitol! The architecture is incredible. Young and old can find something spectacular in this complex. A must see for anyone. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff make it even better.

shannbamm

Free tour! It was really cool to just take it all in. Very pretty architecture. My son enjoyed learning about the history of the state of Iowa. Even the grounds outside of the building have some great monuments. Would definitely go back again.

donnamM7069PC

We had very limited time to see as much as possible. There is not cost and open on Saturday. The building is absolutely gorgeous! As we worked our way around, we did capture information via a tour group. I overheard the guide mention that access to the library is only granted through the guided tours. He graciously allow my party entry with the group so that we did not miss this opportunity. Although we flew through, trying to see everything as quickly as possible, we thoroughly enjoyed it. A must do while in Des Moines.

itraveleverywhere

We try to take in state capitol tours when we can. We had Marilyn take us on a one and a half hour tour of the capitol and she did a great job. She included wonderful stories about the capitol and its construction. The building is incredible and has recently completed an extensive renovation/preservation and we are glad to report that it is in excellent condition.