tennessee state capitol building tours

Tennessee State Capitol

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600 Capitol Blvd Nashville, TN 37243 615-741-0830

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Mon - Fri 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places

A National Historic Landmark, the Tennessee State Capitol sits on the highest hill in the central city.  Designed in the Greek Revival Style by architect William Strickland who moved to Nashville from Philadelphia, it is his last and perhaps his finest work. Strickland began his career as an apprentice to Benjamin Latrobe, the first architect of the U.S. Capitol. He died in 1854, before the completion of the Tennessee State Capitol, and, according to his wishes, was buried in the walls of the northeast corner of the building. Built with Tennessee limestone, the building employs the Ionic and Corinthian orders, the two most highly regarded in Greek architecture. To match the elegancy of the exterior, Strickland makes extensive use on the interior of cast iron, an avant garde building material of the 1840s, as seen in the highly decorative spiral staircase and library balconies.      Also on Capitol Hill are various other monuments including the tomb of President and Mrs. James K. Polk, an equestrian statue of President Andrew Jackson by Clark Mills, monuments to Civil War hero Sam Davis and World War I hero Alvin York, and six cedar trees planted to commemorate the six million Jews who died as a result of the Holocaust.

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• Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum Gift Shop 401 Gay St (955 feet NE)
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• Light Bulb Depot 715 5th Ave S (0.2 miles N)
• Walgreens 226 5th Ave N (0.2 miles SE)
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• Tennessee State Library & Archives 1001 Rep. John Lewis Way N (328 feet SW)
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• State of TN SW Corner of Charlotte Ave & Rosa Parks (894 feet SW)

THE PUBLIC TRAVELER

• May 4, 2023

Uncovering the Wonders of the Tennessee Capital Building: A Comprehensive Guide

Updated: May 8, 2023

Welcome to The Public Traveler, your ultimate guide to exploring the world like a local. In this post, I'll be taking you on a journey to one of the most significant landmarks in Tennessee – the Tennessee Capital Building. With its stunning architecture, fascinating history, and cultural significance, the Capital Building is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Nashville. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and let's explore the wonders of the Tennessee Capital Building together!

A History of the Tennessee Capital Building:

The Tennessee Capital Building was designed by architect William Strickland and was completed in 1859. The building stands 206 feet tall and features a stunning dome, which was inspired by the dome of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.

Over the years, the Capital Building has been a witness to some of the most significant events in Tennessee history, including the inauguration of several governors, the signing of important legislation, and the inauguration of President Andrew Jackson.

Today, the Tennessee Capital Building is a National Historic Landmark and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Tennessee.

What a Visit is Like:

As you approach the Tennessee State Capitol building, the first thing you'll notice is its stunning architecture. The building is designed in a Greek Revival style, with columns and intricate details that make it stand out from the surrounding area. Once inside, you'll be greeted by a spacious rotunda and a grand staircase that leads to the upper floors.

The tour of the Tennessee State Capitol building takes you through various rooms and halls, including the House and Senate chambers, which are ornately decorated with historic artifacts and portraits. You'll also have the chance to view the Governor's office and the Supreme Court chamber.

One of the highlights of the tour is the viewing of the bust of Nathan Bedford Forrest in the Capitol Rotunda. A Confederate general and early leader of the Ku Klux Klan, the bust has been the subject of controversy and calls for its removal.

Throughout the tour, you'll learn about the history and significance of the building and the state of Tennessee. You'll also have the opportunity to take in the sensory experiences of the location, such as the echoes of your footsteps on the marble floors and the aroma of the wood paneling.

Overall, the tour of the Tennessee State Capitol building offers an insightful and educational experience that highlights the beauty and history of this important landmark.

10 Interesting Facts about the Tennessee Capital Building:

The Tennessee Capital Building is the second oldest operating state Capitol building in the United States.

The Capital Building was used as a Union hospital during the Civil War.

The Capital Building's dome is made of cast iron and was originally covered in copper until the copper was removed during World War II.

The Capital Building was designed to resemble a Greek temple, with eight Ionic columns on the front and back.

The Capitol Grounds are home to several monuments and statues, including a statue of President Andrew Jackson.

The Senate Chamber is adorned with a hand-painted ceiling featuring the Tennessee state seal.

The Capital Building was originally designed to house all three branches of Tennessee government, but now only the legislative branch is housed there.

The Tennessee State Museum is home to over 30,000 artifacts and exhibits that showcase the state's rich history and culture.

The Capital Building underwent a major renovation project in the early 2000s to restore the building to its former glory.

The Tennessee Capital Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970.

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Beautiful Beaches: Alabama's Gulf Coast is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the United States, with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters.

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Festivals and Events: Alabama is home to numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and food to history and culture.

Insider Travel Tips:

Guided tours of the Capital Building are available daily, and reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist season.

Photography is allowed inside the building, but flash photography is not permitted.

The Capital Building is open seven days a week, but hours may vary depending on the legislative session.

Visitors are required to go through security screening before entering the building, so be prepared for lines and wait times.

The best time to visit the Capital Building is during non-legislative session periods, when crowds are smaller and lines are shorter.

The Top Things a Person Can Do for Free at the Tennessee Capital Building:

Take a self-guided tour of the building using a map provided at the front desk.

Attend a legislative session and observe the Tennessee legislature in action.

Explore the Capital grounds, including the gardens and monuments.

Visit the Tennessee State Museum, which is open to the public and free to use.

Admire the stunning architecture and artwork throughout the building.

Money Saving Tips:

Admission to the Capital Building is free, but parking can be expensive. Consider taking public transportation or walking to the building to save on parking fees.

Bring your own snacks and drinks, as food and drinks at the Capital Building can be expensive.

Consider visiting during non-peak hours to avoid crowds and lines.

Getting There:

The Tennessee Capital Building is located in downtown Nashville and is easily accessible by public transportation, car, or bike. Parking is available in nearby garages and lots, but can be expensive during peak tourist season.

Best Place to Eat Nearby:

For a taste of Southern cuisine, head to the Capitol Grille, located just a few blocks from the Capital Building. This iconic Nashville restaurant has been serving up delicious Southern dishes since 1910, and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Hours and Reservations:

The Tennessee Capital Building is open to visitors Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and on weekends from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Hours may vary depending on the legislative session. Guided tours are available daily, and reservations are recommended.

Safety Tips:

The Tennessee Capital Building is a safe and secure building, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety. Be aware of pickpockets and keep valuables secure, and be careful when walking on stairs and uneven surfaces.

A visit to the Tennessee Capital Building is a must for anyone traveling to Nashville. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural significance, the Capital Building offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of Tennessee's past and present. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, the Tennessee Capital Building is a destination that should not be missed. So, book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime at the Tennessee Capital Building. The Public Traveler approves!

Disclaimer: The information in this post was factual to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. Please call the location or visit their website to get the latest and most up-to-date information before visiting.

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Explore Nashville, TN

Tennessee state capitol.

The Tennessee State Capitol stands today much as it did when it first opened in 1859, and is a magnificent tribute to the people of Tennessee. The Capitol welcomes visitors for guided and self-guided tours.

Self-Guided Tour:

Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the Capitol Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM Central Time.

Guided Tour:

Visitors can take a 45-minute guided tour of the Capitol starting at 9:00, 10:00, 11:00 a.m., 1:00, 2:00 or 3:00 p.m. Central Time (limit 15 people per tour) at the first-floor information desk. Reservations are not required for groups smaller than 12 people.

We ask groups of 12 or more to schedule in advance by using the reservation form  here  or calling (615) 741-0830.

Visiting the Capitol

Visitors can enter at the South Motlow Tunnel entrance adjacent to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., across from War Memorial Plaza, or through the West step entrance facing the former Tennessee State Library and Archives and Tennessee Supreme Court.

No large bags or backpacks allowed.  Small personal bags or purses are permitted.

Capitol staff and self-guided brochures are located at the first-floor information desk.

Visitors with special needs please see our  accessibility page

Hand sanitizing stations are positioned throughout the building.

Mask are no longer required in the building

Planning Your Visit:

Location and Access: 600 Dr. Martin L King, Jr. Blvd., at the top of Capitol Hill.

There is no private parking for the Tennessee State Capitol. During the week, visitors must park in paid lots or at street parking meters. On weekends, visitors may park free in the state employee parking lots around the State Capitol.

All street metered spaces are free to the public Monday-Friday after 6 p.m. and Saturday after 12 p.m. (Note: some meters may have reserved jackets and are closed to public use during these times.)

Click here for a complete list of parking lots and fees

Walking, Biking & Public Transportation:

The Tennessee State Capitol is centrally located in Downtown Nashville. Walking Tour maps that include tours of both downtown as well as in and around the area are available for purchase at Nashville Civic Design Center for $5. 

Bike racks are located at 6th Avenue North and Union Street. There is also a Nashville Bi-Cycle bikeshare dock located in that area. Bikes can be rented at Nashville B-Cycle.  Click here for more information about rates and stations.

There is a nearby stop on the free service offered by the  Music City Circuit .  Click here for more information on route and hours of operation.

The Tennessee State Capitol stands today much as it did when it first opened in 1859, and is a magnificent tribute to the people of Tennessee. This graceful structure was designed by noted architect William Strickland who considered it his crowning achievement. When Strickland died suddenly during construction in 1854, he was buried in the north facade of the Capitol.

The cornerstone for the building was laid on July 4, 1845, and construction finished in 1859. The grounds of the State Capitol contain statues honoring Sam Davis, Sgt. Alvin York, and Presidents Andrew Jackson and Andrew Johnson. The tombs of President and Mrs. James K. Polk are also located on the Capitol grounds.

One of the oldest working capitols in the United States, the Tennessee State Capitol serves as home of the Tennessee General Assembly and houses the governor’s office. The building, one of 12 state capitols that does not have a dome, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and named a National Historic Landmark in 1971.

Photography:

Taking photographs is allowed in the State Capitol, but you must turn your flash off.

Language Assistance Policy:  The State Museum is committed to providing programs for the educational and cultural enrichment of all our visitors and program participants. We respectfully request that individuals or groups who wish to request language assistance because of a limited ability to speak or understand English please contact the museum at least five (5) business days prior to the date of the requested museum program or service.  Please follow this link for more information.

Please note: the Tennessee State Capitol is closed to visitors on weekends and state holidays.  Click here for a list of state holidays.

600 Dr. Martin L King, Jr. Blvd., at the top of Capitol Hill. Nashville , TN 37243

For the most up-to-date hours and information, please contact Tennessee State Capitol directly.

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Touring the Tennessee State Capitol Building

North America , Tennessee , United States

I have a weird fascination with visiting state capitols, so when I found myself with an unexpected afternoon in Nashville, I headed in for a visit. It’s a great activity if you’re looking for free things to do in Nashville or if you’re a just a history buff. The Capitol is located near Broadway Street, and can be easily reached on foot from the main tourist area. You can visit the Tennessee State Capitol building by yourself or as part of a free guided tour during opening hours, so head on over and check out the beautiful architecture. The Capitol building was constructed just prior to the Civil War and has all of the gorgeous touches you’d expect from a grand government building from that era. You’ll even find the tomb of the architect on site, as he was buried right in his own creation after dying during construction.

Guided tours of the Tennessee State Capitol

You can take a free Tennessee State Capitol tour on weekdays on the hour from 9-11 and 1-3 pm. Visitors can meet at the information desk on the main floor right across from the visitor entrance. The tours last a little under an hour and give you the history of the building and some of the most important rooms. Groups of 10 or more can make tour reservations, but everyone else can just drop in when they’re able to. A tour guide will walk you through all of the main rooms and chamber in the building and give you some history about the sights you’re viewing.

Visiting the Tennessee State Capitol without a tour

I happened to hit the capitol during a time when there were no tours available (noon aka lunchtime – the tour guide has to eat too). I decided to explore on my own with the help of a visitor’s guide with a numbered map showing important locations. I tend to prefer wandering at my own pace anyway, so I was perfectly happy to visit the Capitol without a tour. The brochure was one of the better ones I’ve gotten from various state capitols and had explanations of the functions of various important rooms as well as some history about the history of the capitol building.

The Tennessee Senate Chamber

You can visit the Senate Chamber two different ways if the Senate isn’t in session at the time. I was able to walk in at the ground level to see the relatively small room, though visitors are only allowed in the very back. Afterward, I discovered that the gallery was also open, so I climbed the long staircase up a level to see it from above too. I liked the view much better from up there.

The Tennessee House Chamber

The House Chamber can also be visited if the House isn’t in session at the time. Just like the Senate Chamber, you can enter the very back of the room, though the House Chamber is much larger. You can then climb another long staircase to get up to the gallery and see even more of the room. It’s cool to see the touches of technology in the room that otherwise looks very much like it’s from a different century.

A post-Civil War bullet hole

One of the interesting spots pointed out in the guide was a mark on one of the huge banisters from a bullet that was fired during the debate surrounding the ratification of the Fourteenth Amendment after the Civil War. For more info on that, check out this great story about how there came to be a pockmark from a bullet in the railing that’s been left unrepaired for over 150 years.

The Capitol Library

I love libraries, so this was my favorite room in the state capitol. I really wanted to climb the gorgeous spiral staircase, but sadly, it was barricaded off. I was unable to let my library nerd fly free, but it was happy just to enjoy the beautiful décor.

The Tennessee State Capitol grounds

Out on the grounds surrounding the Tennessee State Capitol, you’ll find tributes to the Tennesseans who’ve served as president. Statues honoring Andrews Jackson and Johnson can be found, and the other Tennessee native to occupy the White House, James Polk, is buried on the grounds with his wife.

Various other memorials dot the grounds commemorating individuals and tragedies. If you take your time to explore, you’ll find a Holocaust Commission memorial as well as one for Africans on the Middle Passage (the journey enslaved Africans endured on their way across the Atlantic), which is especially important here as slave labor was used for some of the construction of the Capitol building. If you’re into architecture, you can also view broken columns and limestone fragments that were removed during a renovation.

Tennessee State Capitol Hours

The Capitol building is open and accessible to the public from 8-4 Monday-Friday. If the legislature is in session, the building’s hours may be extended to allow public viewing of the Senate and House. The building is closed on weekends and public holidays.

Getting to the Tennessee State Capitol

The Capitol Building is located just blocks from the main tourist area on Broadway, so parking is a little tricky. I managed to find a metered spot on the street just a couple of blocks away after circling around a few times, but it wasn’t easy. There were several garages around, but I didn’t want to pay the full flat rate for only a couple of hours. Once you’re parked, the building is easy to find as it’s located atop a hill. Look for the dramatic giant dome and head toward it.

Numerous bus routes have stops within two blocks of the Capitol, so getting there via public transportation should be a breeze. You’ll be able to take bus lines 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 9, 10, 15, 17, 18, 19, 22, 23, 24, 25, 27, 33, 34, 36, 37, 42, 43, 44, 52, 60, 61, and the Megabus will all get you close. Check out the bus maps and routes here .

You can also easily walk to the Tennessee State Capitol from the main touristy area on Broadway. It’s a little over half a mile away and can be done in about fifteen minutes. Visitors enter on the west side of the building and must pass through a security screening before entering. Find out more information on the official website here .

Don’t forget to save this post for later on Pinterest!

This post is interesting and I was particularly intrigued to read about the Holocaust Commission memorial and the slave labor. Thanks for including details of public transport..it is these small details which matter to budget family travelers like us 🙂

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Nice self-guided tour - Tennessee State Capitol

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Nice self-guided tour

We got a pamphlet with a self-guided tour. It was informative, easy to follow, and we were glad we stopped.

We walked the whole area on a Sunday; lovely outside area with great views. President Polk’s gravesite is on the campus. The outside also includes statues of President Johnson and President Jackson along with a replica of the liberty bell. The Next day we came back, and received a very nice and knowledgeable tour about the history of the building, the state and many other neat facts. We were than allowed to view some of the rooms on our own. Really, nice experience. highly recommend.

When visting Nashville, the State Capitol building is a great option when you want to get away from Broadway St. We really enjoyed the tour, the building is amazing and demonstrates some great architectures. I will say, be in shape for the walk if you are not driving. The capitol is high on a hill, which makes views of Nashville really nice. We took many photos from the balcony on the second level. Visiting the site is free as was the tour!

If you have the time to spare and like history and/or architecture then this is a worthwhile walkthrough that doesn't take up a lot of time and is the best of all prices: Free!

We took a tour of the Capitol. Our guide was informative, interesting and funny. He willingly answered all questions and provided much detail to the experience. It was also lovely to experience open balconies!

My wife and I strolled around the beautiful grounds recently. The architecture of this building is gorgeous.

Explore the Tennessee Presidential Trail

We look forward to seeing you in tennessee. come explore our u.s. treasures like the tennessee presidential trail. please visit the individual sites for more information on hours of operation as you plan your next trip..

President Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson’s The Hermitage, home of the 7th U.S. President, is one of Tennessee’s top historic sites located just 15 minutes from downtown Nashville. See how America’s history was shaped in Nashville’s backyard as you discover the story of an era, a people and a leader who helped shape a young nation’s future. Tour the mansion and exhibit, watch an award-winning documentary on Jackson, stroll through the gardens, enjoy a wagon tour and enjoy interactive visitor experiences. 

Andrew Jackson's The Hermitage 4580 Rachel's Lane Nashville, TN 37076 615-889-2941

Admission for General's Tour (standard tour): Adult $22 & Seniors (62+) $10 For hours and complete list of tours and ticket prices, visit www.thehermitage.com . 

President James K. Polk

James K. Polk, the 11th U.S. President, expanded the borders of the United States to the Pacific Ocean, added three states to the Union, started the Naval Academy, commissioned the Washington Monument and issued the first postage stamp. Guests to the James K. Polk Home and Museum, located in Columbia, Tennessee, just 50 minutes south of Nashville, enjoy a 30-minute guided tour of the main house and see the rest of the site on their own, including the Sisters’ House visitor center, the detached kitchen, the gardens and Polk Presidential Hall exhibition center.

President James K. Polk Home & Museum 301 W. 7th Street Columbia, TN 38401 931-388-2354

Admission: Adults $12, Seniors (60+) $10 For hours and information, visit www.jameskpolk.com .

President Andrew Johnson

The Andrew Johnson National Historic Site and National Cemetery, in Greeneville, Tennessee, located 1.5 hours east of Knoxville, interprets the life and legacy of the 17th President. Andrew Johnson’s presidency, 1865-1869, illustrates the United States Constitution at work following President Lincoln’s assassination and during attempts to reunify a nation torn by civil war. His presidency shaped the future of the United States and his influences continue today. 

Andrew Johnson National Historic Site & Cemetery 101 College Street Greeneville, TN 37743 423-638-3551

Admission: Free For hours and more information, visit www.nps.gov/anjo  

Tennessee State Museum

The Tennessee State Museum is home to 13,000 years of Tennessee art and history. Designed to bring history to life, it features a “Tennessee Time Tunnel” surveying the state’s rich history, six permanent exhibitions showcasing the Museum’s robust collection, a hands-on Children’s Gallery, a state-of-the art digital learning center, Museum store and a two-story Grand Hall. Changing galleries host exhibitions on Tennessee arts, crafts, music and history. The permanent exhibitions have many artifacts on view from each of the three U.S. presidents from Tennessee. 

Tennessee State Museum 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd. Nashville, TN 37208 615-741-2692

Admission: Free For hours and information, visit www.tnmuseum.org

Tennessee State Capitol

Opened in 1859, the Tennessee State Capitol is a magnificent tribute to the people of Tennessee. This graceful structure was designed by noted architect William Strickland, who considered the Capitol his crowning achievement. When Strickland died suddenly during construction in 1854, he was buried in the north facade of the Capitol. The grounds of the State Capitol contain statues of several notable figures in history, including President and Mrs. James K. Polk. One of the oldest working capitols in the United States, the Tennessee State Capitol serves as home of the Tennessee General Assembly and houses the governor’s office.  

Tennessee State Capitol 600 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Nashville, TN 37208 615-741-1886

Admission: Free For hours and information, visit www.tnmuseum.org/state-capitol

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