Courtesy of Maryann Horch
The Virginia Capitol was designed by Thomas Jefferson and has been used as the prototype for countless capitols, courthouses and municipal buildings for more than 200 years.
Hours:
M-Sa. 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Su. 1-5 p.m.
Price:
Free
Type:
History Centers, Monuments & Historic Sites
The Virginia Capitol is one of Richmond's finest historic treasures. Designed by Thomas Jefferson more than 200 years ago, this magnificent structure has been home to Virginia's General Assembly since 1788. Visitors are welcome daily for free tours of the building and surrounding Capitol Square, highlights of which include the original marble George Washington sculpture by Jean-Antoine Houdon and a view of the Executive Mansion, the oldest continually inhabited governor's residence in America. Stop in for lunch at Meriwether's Café, or take a peek at a legislative session in progress from one of the public galleries in the House and Senate Chambers.