Minnesota State Capitol

The Minnesota State Capitol is the seat of Minnesota’s state government in Saint Paul, completed in 1905 and designed by architect Cass Gilbert. It houses the offices of the governor and the state legislature.

Public areas include a central rotunda beneath the building’s dome, legislative chambers for the Senate and House, and historical courtroom and office spaces. The building is noted for its monumental classical architecture and interior stonework.

Constructed from 1896 to 1905 to replace an earlier capitol, the building was designed by Cass Gilbert and has served continuously as the state’s primary governmental building. A comprehensive restoration and infrastructure upgrade was completed in 2017.

Situated in Saint Paul, Minnesota, on the city’s Capitol grounds, the building sits in the state capital near downtown Saint Paul and serves as a focal point for civic events and ceremonies.

• Architect and dates: Designed by architect Cass Gilbert and constructed between 1896 and 1905.
• Restoration: Underwent a major restoration and systems upgrade completed in 2017 to repair stonework, restore interiors, and update mechanical systems.

What to See #

• Rotunda: Central circular public space beneath the building's dome, commonly used for displays and public access routes.
• Senate Chamber: Chamber used by the Minnesota Senate for legislative sessions, located on the Capitol's second floor.
• House Chamber: Chamber used by the Minnesota House of Representatives for legislative business, positioned opposite the Senate Chamber.