This is a magnificient building both inside and outside. To see the interior, you must join a tour. We didn't sign up in advance but they just let us join the next tour anyway, which included the Senate Chamber, the Supreme Court, and the House Chamber. The tour guide mentioned of the liberal use of gold in the decoration and it costs $13 million when it was built in the early 20th century. It was beautiful and well worth a visit.

This place is absolutely stunning. We always try to visit a state capitol building whilst in the US and I have got to say all the others are going to pale into insignificance after this one. We were so lucky to catch the final tour of the day, you can do a self guided tour but would really recommend the half hour guided tour, gives a building soul! Just me and hubby on the tour and the lady was really nice and definitely knew her stuff, what a beautiful place to work. The paintings are amazing as are the glass windows and dome, I have seen European palaces less glitzy than this! Make sure you pick up the A4 size free brochure as a souvenir on your way out. 100% recommend a visit here. Parking outside on the streets is on a meter and is $4 an hour.

We sauntered up to the Capitol grounds on a chilly Thanksgiving. The building is scaled monumentally, set on a hill in Harrisburg. It is more ornate and detailed then the average capitol, with some truly spectacular artwork. We were surpised that even on Thanksgiving, the front door was open for the general public to proceed through security. This allowed you straight into the atrium under the dome - where you could look up at the spectacular murals and artistry. There were some modest historical exhibits around the periphery and the beginnings of the Christmas tree and holiday decorations being installed. While we didn't get to go on a broader tour, even standing udner the dome is worth the effort, particularly if you can find easy street parking nearby, as we did on a holiday.

Make sure you sign up for a free tour online; otherwise, you won’t be able to go beyond the lobby. The Pennsylvania Capitol is breathtakingly beautiful, and the tour is well worth it for anyone traveling through the state. You don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy the historical tour—it’s a captivating experience for everyone. Highly recommended!

Very interesting side trip. I was surprised at how much you could roam around through the building on your own. We did the free tour and it was fascinating to learn about the various rooms and artwork. It was very well done and I would schedule a visit if in the area again.