This hour-long tour focuses on the construction and design of the capitol building. The tour takes visitors through the north foyer, rotunda, state reception room, and legislative galleries and is acceptable for all ages. In addition to explaining the functions of each office, the tour explains the design aspects such as the bas-relief bronze doors at the entrance, glass chandeliers, and the free-standing dome.
This tour is primarily for elementary and middle school children and addresses the functions of government. The tour explains tthe three branches of government and their responsibilities and operations. Visitors are able to see the offices of elected officials, the House and Senate galleries, the state reception room, rotunda and the Temple of Justice, where they participate in a mock trial.
Organized by the Legislative Information Center, this tour is targeted toward high school students and adults and takes visitors through the legislative process in all three branches of government. Visitors see where a bill is written in the offices of elected officials, where it is voted into law in the Senate and House galleries and where it may be challenged by the judicial branch in the Temple of Justice. The tour lasts three hours and includes a lunch break.
The Governor's Mansion has been home to Washington state's highest elected official since 1910. The tour of the mansion, the oldest building on the Capitol campus, exposes visitors to 18th century design and artisan craftsmanship. The mansion is home to an extensive collection of 18th and 19th century American federal design with marble top empire tables and leather federal sofas. The tours are free and open to all in the afternoons.
