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Historic building · Des Moines, Iowa
Iowa State Capitol
Seat of Iowa government, atop a hill east of downtown, with five domes—the main one covered in gold leaf—and a law library with iron staircases.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Iowa State Capitol
The Iowa State Capitol was built between 1871 and 1886 on the hill east of the Des Moines River. It is the only state capitol in the country with five domes: the central, taller dome is covered with 23‑karat gold leaf and gleams over the city. The four smaller domes sit at the building’s corners.
Inside are the two chambers of the Legislature, the governor’s office, and the Supreme Court. The five‑story law library has spiral staircases and cast‑iron galleries. On the ground floor there is a model of the battleship USS Iowa and a collection of dolls dressed as the state’s first ladies. The murals on the main staircase depict the region’s settlement.
Guided tours of the building are free and run at various times on weekdays; on some days visitors may climb up to the dome gallery via narrow stairs. The surrounding lawn has monuments and a view of downtown Des Moines. Check days and reservations on the website before you go.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours.
Best time
On weekdays, when guided tours are offered. During Legislative sessions, from January to April, the building is busier.
How to get there
It is about 1.5 km from downtown, across the river, on top of East Village. You can walk or take the city bus; there is visitor parking.
Tip
To climb to the dome gallery, wear comfortable shoes and confirm in advance whether the tour is scheduled that day.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Iowa State Capitol
Is there a fee to visit the Iowa State Capitol?
There is no admission charge, including for guided tours. Check hours on the Legislature’s website.
Can you go up the dome of the Iowa State Capitol?
On some guided tours, yes, up to an internal gallery. The stairways are narrow and the number of people is limited; confirm in advance.
Why is the dome of the Iowa State Capitol gilded?
It is covered with thin sheets of 23‑karat gold, which were replaced during restorations over the 20th century.