Massachusetts State House

The Massachusetts State House is one of the most impressive parliament buildings in the US and an absolute top landmark of Boston.I visited this magnificent building with my daughter (9) in the morning, right after they opened for visitors. We were absolutely overwhelmed by the friendly and knowledgeable employees that made our visit so special - even for my little daughter who could play the speaker :-) After a quick security check we could walk around freely and discover this stunning monument at our own pace. Many thanks to all the employees of the Massachusetts State House who made our visit today a very personal and special experience!

Our State House is so beautifully redone and built with prestige and magnificent art and structure. I was right at home in this mansion of mansions. The inside is massive and would take you 3 - 5 days to explore fully. The library was interestingly small and easy to browse, but because I was with my teenage daughter, whom I homeschooled, I really couldn't stay as long as I would've liked to since this was her field trip and not mine. There was a large group of protesters assembling about 50 feet from the House of Representatives, which was closed off by security, so it was pretty loud in that area. Entering the building was easy, and security was very professional and thoughtful. I enjoyed the Senator reading study hall. Seeing that they sit in a circle to have their discussions is a pleasant sight. The Nurse's and Doric Hall were my favorites because the information was packed in one area you could ponder. We ended our visit by exiting from the bottom level and going out to the small park on the side of the State House to have lunch. I can finally proclaim that I've enjoyed this field trip more than my daughter.

Was visiting the city and had to stop in to see this beautiful building with a storied past. So glad that we did. Was able to get a guided tour, and was very impressed with the knowledge and professionalism of the guide.

Beautiful state house full of history. In architecture and design the building is a piece of art. We are glad we joined a tour and got to see / learn more than we may have otherwise. Not the biggest capitol building, but very stately.

Beautiful building in the heart of downtown Boston and the perfect start to the Freedom Trail walk. Be sure to check out the statues and monuments that surround the building, and enjoy the park that’s just in front of it. It’s an incredible piece of the golden American history.

We had the opportunity/honor to visit the Massachusetts State House Capitol in JUL_FY2024 and it was an amazing experience, a great opportunity to learn more about Massachusetts history and legacy. We did a plant tour and for sure it's a remarkable building. Definitely, it's a place that deserves my respect. It was a privilege.

A really wonderful building! And it is great, that anyone can visit during the week. Just a short securitycheck. Admission is free! Don't miss this!

A really interesting piece of architecture housing some key government offices. It is really neat to walk around and see the large volume of features that are dotted about the place.

The Massachusetts State House serves as the home for the State Senate, House of Representatives, and Governor's Office. Inside, murals, statues and governors' portraits illustrate the state's history. Since its completion, the Massachusetts State House has been a site of multiple historical debates and discussions Tours are given weekdays year-round from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and are free of charge. The building is open weekdays from 8:45 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on weekends and of course holidays. The dome is partially covered with 23.5-karat gold leaf which was not the original design.

This is one of America's most historic statehouses and it's truly a sight to see!! It's positively stunning inside and packed full of interesting displays around every corner. They offer guided tours but you can also do a self-guided tour which is what I did - they provide a map with info about the major points of interest but there's so much more to see so be sure to explore! This statehouse was built all the way back in the late 1700s!! The giant gold dome wasn't gold originally - it was just wood but it started to leak so they hired Paul Revere (yes that Paul Revere!!) and his copper company to cover it in copper which was later painted gold. When you first enter, you have to go through security and then you're free to just wander around as you please pretty much lol - that really surprised me haha! I suggest you make your way upstairs to Doric Hall to start where you'll find the info desk to get a map and info on points of interest- or sign up for the guided tour if you prefer. Doric Hall is full of giant columns and has a statue of George Washington and a lovely painting of Abe Lincoln. Next you'll head into Nurses Hall where you'll find a moving tribute to all the Civil War nurses. Next to that is Memorial Hall with a beautiful stained glass dome in the ceiling and then onto the Great Hall of Flags which is really cool! After making my way up the magnificent Grand Staircase, I somehow found myself in the State Library which isn't on the map - and this ended up being my fave part!! SO AMAZING!! The sweet staff lady inside the library was so excited to tell us all about it! The thing that really drew me in was they have a display of an original drawing for John Audubon himself!! The father of birding!!! Oh I was so impressed. And they also have Bradford's manuscript of his account of early life in Massachusetts- which included the Mayflower passenger list AND the whole description of the very first Thanksgiving!! They let you read it inside the library so I couldn't resist - I sat down and read it and it was so interesting!! They didn't even eat turkey - mostly fish haha! How cool is that?? After the library, I went inside the House of Representatives and the Senate Chambers - it was really fun to get to see all that. And the staff told me about a funny "Easter egg" of sorts in each chamber - keep an eye out for the "sacred cod" haha!! The fish is supposedly good luck and represents Massachusetts' earliest business - fishing! The state house truly is beautiful- I was there twice as long as I expected to be and still don't feel like it was enough time - I definitely want to go back and explore more of the treasures in the library!! It's all free to enter as well and there's a cafe on the top floor. It's in the heart of the freedom trail, right next to Boston Common - very much worth a visit!

Beautiful area....Massachusetts State House, Boston Public Garden and Boston Common all nestled together

For years when I would visit I would pass by this place and just admire the golden dome on top of the building. Finally I took a little tour inside this incredible place. It's beautiful. It's had a lot of history and I appreciate that.

Stunning building! As we were doing our Freedom Trail walk, you walk right past this building located on Beacon Street, so we decided to go in for more some history. When you walk in the front doors, you have to go through security and take your bags, jackets, purses, etc. off and send it through the conveyor belt for security. You then can proceed to walk around the building yourself or take a free tour. We decided to walk around ourselves. The aesthetics of this building once you get to the center area is beautiful. You'll see flags from different nations hanging on the walls, statues of former leaders and historic men and women, memorabilia, written lessons on history and so much more. We got lucky that day and were able to witness a group of women of color that were being recognized for being the first at doing something. This was a great experience and even got me choked up. Seeing the news crew and proud family and friends enjoying that moment was very special. Stunning layout and decor, a lot of history and friendly staff made this a great unexpected stop.

I've been in a lot of State Legislature buildings and they are all absolutely magnificent. If a society is going to take democracy seriously, then legislatures have to have the architectural gravitas and poise commensurate with lofty ideals. I don't know that all the representatives who were ever seated here lived up to those ideals, but this is the House that in 2006 passed historic legislation to insure healthcare insurance coverage for almost all citizens of the state. It's an awe inspiring building and worth an hour of your time. The state rangers and state police who have jurisdiction here are an impressive combination of professionalism and informative helpfulness. I watched them help two sets of European tourists and if only airline and hotel workers could be this tourist oriented at the same time making sure all visitors and workers are safe. You really don't need a tour, and the hour before closing is a good time to pop in and avoid any crowd. You go in by the Hooker's entrance and by the way, the slang term for prostitutes did originate from the general whose statue guards the entrance. He allowed "fallen doves" to follow his army around and they were such a sight they were known as "Hooker's women," though we don't really know if he was actually a customer himself. His command centers were, however, described as "dens of iniquity." At any rate this makes for an amusing photo op at the entrance.

Rich in history, the Massachusetts State House warrants a visit. Easily located off the red line, Park Street stop, the capital is open Monday-Friday. Tours are available starting at 10am, lastly about an hour. It is free.

Any trip to a state capital needs to include a trip to the capitol building. Boston is home to the Massachusetts State House. It is one of the oldest capitol buildings, so it started out small but has been expanded. It's still not as large as other big city capitol buildings, but it is stunningly beautiful. A masterpiece of Federal-style architecture. On the outside there is a dazzling gold dome. On the inside there are multiple rooms that impress. There is the rotunda and grand staircase that is common in capitol buildings. There is also a memorial hall and a hall of flags that is not to be missed. There are beautiful murals throughout the building. Some of the best you will see in any state capitol. There are also statues and portraits. The House chamber and the Senate chamber look completely different, but both have their own distinctive charm. I took a guided tour of the state house and the guide was friendly and knowledgeable. Tours start at the top of every hour. You can do a self guided tour as well. But the guided tour gives you little historical details you won't know on your own. I've been to Boston many times over the years and it should not have taken me so long to visit the State House.

Massachusetts' wonderful State Capitol building may not be one of the oldest sights on Boston's Freedom Trail, but it's worth checking out nonetheless. It's spectacular rotunda (known as Memorial Hall) showcases a gallery of historical murals beneath a breathtaking stained-glass skylight that sits beneath the building's 23-karat golden dome. The adjacent Nurse's Hall, also sculpted out of Italian marble, honors the state's Civil War Army nurses, which includes notable names like Dorthea Dix, Clara Barton and Louisa May Alcott. And don't forget to duck into the impressive House and Senate chambers, both of which are accessible from the building's third floor when the legislature is not in session. Free guided tours are available, but our family enjoyed our 30-minute, self-guided walk through the building. It's a fantastic way to begin your exploration of the city's historic Freedom Trail sites, and one of the best examples of Federal architecture anywhere in the country.

Beautiful state house. Just fronting the boston commons. Entrance is at the side. No parking space

Beautiful building inside and out. Definitely do the self-guided tour. After some friendly conversation we were even able to go out on the governor's balcony. Be sure to talk to everyone and ask questions.

Surprisingly well decorated building, and it was fun to walk around and see all the murals and flags. Friendly, helpful interns too.

Marvelous piece of architecture. Beautiful... This place can be spotted in Boston by the gold gleaming dome roof which stands out amongst the buildings. It also falls in line of freedom trail. Magnificent, truly amazing and beautifully well kept. I immediately knew I was going to like Boston, and I wasn't wrong. There are multiple historical buildings around and I truly enjoyed the sense of history there was throughout the city. It's really nice to see historical buildings amongst the modern architecture.

The Massachusetts State House can be found on Beacon Hill right across from Boston Common. The building is absolutely beautiful, and it marks the beginning of the Freedom Trail. We were very rushed for time, so we elected not to go inside this time out, but we very much enjoyed taking in the exterior and taking pictures of the State House. It's Golden Dome is quite striking! Tip: Next time, when we have time to look around the interior, I look forward to checking out "The Sacred Cod"; this is an emblem within that symbolizes one of the ways some of the original settlers in The Bay State made their living - by fishing :-)

The Massachusetts State House is right across the Boston Common and is right at the start of the Freedom Trail, unfortunately for me during my visit, the gates were closed and there wasn't a way to tour the building (possibly due to COVID), so I had to admire this spot from the outside but am looking forward to hopefully touring it on the inside during my next visit.

Want to learn about the government of one of the oldest states in the union? Do you appreciate majestic classical architecture? Excited to see the real-life "Sacred Cod" and "Holy Mackerel" with your own eyes? Then come visit the Massachusetts State House! The State House is where the Massachusetts government works. This includes the state senate, house of representatives, and governor. The building is free and open to the public - though you'll need to pass through security, and obviously some areas are off-limits for the public (you can't just go barging into all the senators' private offices). But you can appreciate the grand halls (of which there are many) and the chambers where the legislators convene to debate and pass laws. And appreciate them you shall! The architecture and artwork here are magnificent. From large rotundas and grand staircases to marble sculptures and massive paintings, the State House is a sight to behold. It truly gives you a sense of awe and appreciation for the history of Massachusetts. If you come at the right time, you can have a tour guide walk you through the building and explain everything. But a self-guided tour is fine too, and there are pamphlets which explain the significance of the various rooms and monuments. So whether you're a tourist walking the Freedom Trail or a longtime Massachusetts native who wants to learn more about your state government, check out the State House for a fun and educational adventure you won't quickly forget.

(12/5/19) This is a must-see when visiting Boston. Beautiful building inside and out. Each floor holds something different. Both chambers of the legislature are compelling, as they always are in buildings of this reverence. The security staff is very friendly and engaging. We were talking with the guard on the observation level of the Senate chamber. She was very interesting. She shared stories of living in Boston and we shared stories of living in Wilmington, NC. We talked about weather, Boston life, hurricanes and the building itself... She was a joy to converse with, which is one of the great things about going to new places. Talking with locals gives you such an invaluable perspective on other people's lives and the interesting places they live. Then, right before the senate convened, a group of raucous, ill-mannered high school students entered the gallery and our conversation was lost as they proceeded to demonstrate their lack of decorum and proper upbringing. The guard now had her hands full. We wished her well and thanked her for the wonderful conversation. The rest of the building is much the same way. Friendly folks, eager to help or chat. The people in the house chamber were so willing to show us around and fill us with information, I was giddy. They are so knowledgeable and friendly. It truly is a beautiful building. Each floor has something different to see. And it's free. I've been to several buildings of this stature; U.S. Capitol (pre- and post-911), Annapolis, Richmond, Raleigh, Columbia, etc. This is by far my favorite State House I have visited. Just gorgeous. And the staff makes it that much more terrific. I would encourage you to tour this State House, one of the most important in the history of our country, and engage the staff, they love tourists and imparting their knowledge and experience to them. (I forgot to mention one thing. Directly across the street from the front entrance to the State House is the memorial to Robert Gould Shaw, the union officer in charge of the 54th Massachusetts regiment, the first regiment of black soldiers. If you've ever watched the movie "Glory" you know who he is. Standing in front of the frieze by Augustus Saint-Gaudens is very humbling. Colonel Shaw gave his life for the truly noble cause of equal rights before the notion barely existed.)

Freedom Trail sites in Boston...we saw 13 of 16, and checked into only 9 because some are closed...June 2016...overall 4 stars... #1 of 16...Boston Common...5 stars...wonderful park area where people can meet and walk, or eat at one of the food stands that dot the area. It is a huge park in the city and well worth visiting. A great place to start your tour of the Freedom trail. All cities should have a public park area of this size and fame. Free. #2 of 16...Massachusetts State House...5 stars...This was our first stop on the Freedom Trail and IMHO it is the best. It is a magnificent piece of architecture that the State of Massachusetts (technically they are a Commonwealth) allows the public to visit practically every day of the year for no charge. Inside you'll find both the State Senate meeting room and the State Representative hall. In both cases, when the Houses are in session you are allowed to visit in the spectators balcony. We visited during the summer when the Houses were not in session and so we were allowed on the floor of both Houses...this was a very neat experience. There is also a Flag Hall worth seeing, and many other interesting places to investigate. Make sure you visit...this was worth it. Free. #4 of 16...Granary Burying Ground...5 stars...very neat burial grounds. Free entry and you'll see where Sam Adams, John Hancock, Paul Revere, and Benjamin Franklin's parents are buried. Interesting old monuments on the grounds. Worth the look. Free...although there is a guy at the entrance who loans you diagrams for a donation...worth it. #5 of 16...Kings Chapel...3 stars...Neat old church...you can see the original booths that were awarded to members based on their donations to the church. Worth the look. Free. #10 of 16...Old State House...2 stars...neat old building but they want $10 each for visitors to look at the small museum. Not worth the trouble...walk by and see the nice old architecture and move on. Not Free. #11 of 16...Boston Massacre Site...2 stars...sort of like the Fort Dearborn site in Chicago...it is a brass plaque set in the concrete on the corner. Walk on by and move on. Free. #12 of 16...Fanueil Hall...5 stars...very neat area of old warehouses in Boston. These have largely been turned into shops and places to eat. This is a big venue...with three distinct sets of warehouses. You could easily spend all day just here. Worth the visit. Free. #15 of 16...USS Constitution and Charlestown Navy Yard...5 stars...if you made it this far you must go see the USS Constitution...it is a piece of American history unlike any other. This ship is still on the active rolls of the US Navy. It is currently in dry dock and being refurbished (which seems to happen every 20 years) but don't let that hold you back. You'll go through a cursory security check and then can get on deck for a self-guided tour. There are also many sailors on board to answer any questions. An American landmark. Don't miss this one. Free. #16 of 16...Bunker Hill...3 stars...Site of an actual battle that played a large part in forming the United States. That said, it is a monolith on top of a small mountain overlooking Boston. Worth the visit, but you'll probably have to drive here to the North End of Boston and park your car. Still and all worth the visit. Free.

I forgot to write a review of the beautiful State House when I was in Boston last February. It was closed because it was a weekend, but you can still walk around the outside taking pictures and enjoying the majesty of the building. A beautiful structure and you can see if from anywhere in the Boston area - it is quite literally "the Hub.". You might not be aware, but the property on which the State House is homed was once owned by John Hancock. Yes, the guy with the dramatic signature and with the insurance company named after him. (They have a big glass building across the way.) Pop quiz. Massachusetts is one of four states that refers to itself as a "Commonwealth." Can you name the other three?

Definitely worth a visit. The State House is located on top of Beacon Hill opposite Boston Common and is one of the city's most recognizable buildings with its golden dome. We enjoyed just exploring the beautiful interior on our own. The marble-floored corridors and rooms are beautiful and contain interesting works of art and murals depicting the state's unique heritage. The Memorial Hall with its red Sienna marble is particularly striking. The State House is open Monday-Friday from 8:00-6:00. They have docent led tours that last about 45 minutes, but if you're doing it on your own, give yourself about 30 minutes.

Many people start the Freedom Trail near or around the Massachusetts State House. Boston is the state capitol with a magnificent building smack dab in the center of Boston, right across the street from Boston Common. The building is just spectacular on the inside and outside. The classic building has extensive and ornate displays of marble, gilded decorations, and lots of artwork, even beyond what you would normally expect. Once you pass through the requisite security check, you have free reign to explore the building - although some areas are blocked off. The place likely gets busy during session, but is well worth a trip anytime. The restrooms are a little cheesy downstairs, but overall this is a great stop on the Freedom Trail and worth a visit.

The Massachusetts State House is a good start to the Freedom Trail. I went up here after spending some time at the Boston Common. The building is located on the top of Beacon Hill, and I must say it's a beautiful building with magnificent pieces of artifacts, sculpture, and art inside recalling many periods of Massachusetts history. However, my experience probably would have been better if I had a guided tour because I didn't know what the heck I was staring at.

Outstanding and free but even if they charged it would be worth it. Tremendous architectural beauty and history screaming from the walls. Tours run every 30 min or you can simply walk around the 3 floors and soak it all up. Not to be missed.

This was a wonderful visit! It's unfortunate that you can only go on weekdays since most people work during the week but I managed to score a day off to visit. Beautiful old building with plenty of History. They offer tours and it was completely worth it. You just need to make sure you go on a weekday! Be sure to check out the Women's Hall of Fame hallway since some smart person realized that a lot of these old buildings are memorials to men and often leave out the opposite but equal sex. Great place to learn about Massachusetts government.

I love visiting State Capitol buildings and I had to stop in when visiting Boston last month. The tour is free and I opted to do the self-guided tour since the guided tours were filled with school groups. The building is beautiful inside and out and I particularly enjoyed the stained glass under the dome as well as the artwork throughout the building. It's easily accessible as the building is right next to Boston Common and is off the Freedom Trail. I definitely recommend coming here if you enjoy touring historical buildings!

Mongo find building with steeple. Mongo like old buildings. A lot. Mongo think very pretty inside. A lot. Mongo see lots of old things from history. Some history make Mongo happy. Some history make Mongo sad. But Mongo learn a lot. Mongo take pictures. A lot! And even though the name on steeple building is spelted wrong - Mongo think you will like Mas-a-chew-sits State House! A lot!

Last stop on my Freedom Trail walk. They offer free tours on the weekdays but I came to late. Located right across from Boston Common. The building itself is big and designed like a typical government building. I did like the dome on top though. I wish I could have gone inside but still a nice walk by.

The seat of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts! You can walk right up to the capitol building fence, and voice your concerns to government. Long live the freedom of speech that our forefathers fought for! This is a stop along the Freedom Trail, which is visible from the Common, and from all over town. It was originally built on land donated by John Hancock to the state, as it was an old ranch of his. The top was only somewhat recently gilded in 24k gold, as it was originally built out of wood. Did you know that during WWII, they painted it grey so that enemy bombers wouldn't be able to see it? When I went, the gates were locked, and there were armed policemen standing outside of the gate looking stern and uninviting. So I didn't go in. But I was happy to see a veteran out in front of the building protesting, keeping the government in the know about his grievances. It's a nice looking building, but our capitol in Texas is bigger... :P

I love Massachusetts. Capitol offers free tours hourly starting at 10 during the week. You may do a self-guided tour other times. It was quite busy.

The Capitol offers free tours hourly starting at 10a on weekdays. Alternatively, a bit earlier and throughout the day you can do a self-guided tour. The self-guided brochure was informative and also a good map. Online there is information for a self-guided exterior tour. There are also some exhibits in the second floor area where tours start from. The entrance for visitors is to the right of the building's' front and center. I snuck in just before a big school group so the metal detector line was quick for me, but note this area may get bottlenecked.

I need to add and comment on how beautiful the inside is in addition to the greatness of the outside. I got a chance to actually wander through the House today while going to the State Library: the paintings and exhibits in the house are beautiful. Whether you're a fan of former Governors like David I. Walsh or Eugene Foss, or like nice wall paintings of the various events in Massachusetts history, the State House is an artistic treasure. On top of all of this, the State Library has a great record of past state documents. Some of them are in better shape than others, but it's a cool collection of the annals of Massachusetts history.

I had an excellent tour at the MA State House, which covered the history of the building, the governors, the exhibits and included entrée into the House of Representatives during voting on a bill. The Senate was away at the time. It was enriching, educational and entertaining. Glad I finally took the leap -- and went on the free guided tour.

Unfortunately, the day we came to visit it was closed to the public and actually surrounded by police. It was during the protests against the police system. So our review is from the pure outside aesthetics of the building. It's pretty, and there some steps that lead up to it from the Boston Common that sets for some great selfies! The history that comes with this building is great. To think Paul Revere and Sam Adams used to use this space!

Went on a tour here, guide had great knowledge of building's history and fun facts about it. You can also do a self-guided tour following the brochures at the front desk. Would give it 5 stars but the guide talked really fast, in a kind of monotone. I took my English class here and students had a hard time hearing what he was saying. I heard him giving another tour and this seems to be his speaking style, which [for docents, tour guides] might be a bit too fast. I think this might be more an experience thing, having been a docent myself I know it gets easier to public speak with time. A couple years ago there was an older guy who did the tours and he did an excellent job engaging students and talking with us. He even let us see the governor's office and talk with the staff, so hats off to him.

We were following the Freedom Trail from Boston Common; and, the State House is the 2nd stop on the walking tour. It was Saturday, so we didn't even try to go in; but, the building is impressive; and, we took lots of photos. The memorials are likewise impressive, with one dedicated to the fallen Sailors and Solders of war; and, another to the patriots that died in the Civil war. We were duly impressed and reverent of the site.

The Massachusetts State House is a stop along the Freedom Trail right off the park. It's a great looking place, especially with the gorgeous gold dome. We weren't able to catch a tour but I'm sure it would have been fun to learn more about this historical site.

Unfortunately wasn't able to take the tour of the State House since I came on a weekend and they are only open on the weekdays. When you spot the State House from Boston Common, you're just drawn to it to want to explore it further. From the Boston Common, you'll need to walk up the white cement steps to get the grand majestic view of the entire State House with its golden dome top and it's regal presence on that street. Don't forget to round the corner and check out the statue facing the State House as it honors those who have fought for our country (The Memory of the Just is Blessed). #2 of the Freedom Trail.

I hate Massachusetts. Pedestrians jaywalk all day long. The roads are full of potholes bumps and one ways, the roads suck. It's cold dark and dreary almost every day. Stupid bikers in the way all the time. Cops waiting around every corner to bust you ambulances running up and down the street constantly getting in the way it's a nightmare this place is a shithole. Everything is expensive and they stick it to it every chance they get. They're constantly doing construction of some sort blocking the roads even more than all the other crap. None of the politicians give a crap they just want to take your money and give it to illegal aliens.

The Massachusetts State House is good start to the Freedom Trail. I went up here after spending some time at the Boston Common. It's located on the top of Beacon Hill and I must say it's a beautiful building with magnificent pieces of artifacts, sculpture and art inside recalling many periods of Massachusetts history. I recommend going here if you are a tourist or a resident of Massachusetts.

There are tours on Mon-Fri that you need to ring to reserve. I got there too early so did a self guided tour, which the guy told me is the same as the 1 I booked. A few of the floors were closed due to the holidays.

"Courage--judgment--integrity--dedication--these are the historic qualities of the Bay Colony and the Bay State--the qualities which this state has consistently sent to this chamber on Beacon Hill here in Boston and to Capitol Hill back in Washington." -President-Elect John F. Kennedy Delivered to a Joint Convention of the General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The building is gorgeous, the commonwealth is progressive, and the state constitution is the oldest written constitution in effect in the world today. I'm a liberal from Massachusetts. And proud of it.

The Statehouse harkens back to our European routes. If you're sitting at the bottom of the Common by the fountain, it is a lovely view up the hill to this gold-domed structure--a classic monumental view that recalls Edinburgh, Paris and Prague. It's so nice you'll even be able to ignore the homeless guy peeing on the bench next to you. Simultaneous, it's also uniquely American, designed in the stately, simple style of Charles Bullfinch--the first American architect. The building is pleasing to look at from far away and up close. It engages with you, while also allowing you to admire it. It is a true monument. And then when you get inside, the wonders continue. There are absolutely gorgeous frescoes and marble columns all over the place. It's amazing that the State House and Government Center can exist in the same city.

You do have to go through security, but it's cool that you can go right into the current gold-domed state capitol bldg and either take a guided or self-guided tour. Interesting displays, sculptures, art, hall of flags, floor mosaics and more. We even got to go in to see the representatives desks with the voting mechanisms on them. Getting out was not quite as straightforward as getting in. We wandered around and came out the side entrance. This building is at one end of the Freedom Trail, facing Boston Commons.

Not only is the State House interesting, it's free! The Freedom Trail takes you right up to the front of the State House. Just go to the right and you'll see the entrance to the building. Go through security and turn left and up the elevator to the start of the tour. You can catch a guided tour or do the self guided tour with paperwork available at the tour desk manned by bored interns. Fun to peep into the legislative chamber. Loads of history here. Since most people start the Freedom Trial at the Boston Commons, the State House would be the first real stop. Don't miss it. Well worth the price of admission.

After running some errands downtown I decided to take tour of the state house after visiting the Granary Cemetery. You go through the security and then head up to the second floor and wait in one of the lobbies. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and the tour ran about 45 mins. Interesting stories, displays, historical artifacts and art. Recommended!

Yes, the state house in Boston still runs like a government building, but you can go in and get a free 45 minute tour that gives you the historical rundown of the building and of Boston. There are so many different rooms that each serve as a historical reminder to Boston's importance in the creation of this nation. You just need to walk up to the information desk and wait for someone to come up and give you a tour. I really love the architecture and the little bits and pieces of this building that make it completely unique to Boston. Besides, who doesn't like walking in through the Hooker gate to get into a building? Definitely a good building to check out, and Boston has so much history, what's another piece of knowledge to your plate?

One of our first stops on the Freedom Trail, the State House is a can't miss, especially with its 23 karat gold dome roof! Erected in 1798, the building is right across the street from Boston Common. It was also built on land owned by John Hancock. My friends and I just visited the exterior of the landmark, but you can arrange for a guided tour. You must make a reservation in advance; tours are offered Monday - Friday from 10:00am - 3:30pm and last 45 minutes. We were content just taking pictures outside, since the Freedom Trail would take us 6 hours to walk completely. If you're looking to walk the Trail in one day, I'd suggest doing the same. COST: FREE VIEWING TIME: 10 minutes GUIDED TOUR TIME: 45 minutes

The Mass. State House's Website says they offer free guided tours every 45 min if I read correctly, but with the availability of seasonal tour guides, they seemed to go off every 15 min or so and last about an hour. I was impressed by the knowledge and experience of the tour guides. There was a lot to see in that hour because the house is spacious and we were able to get into senate chambers, the house and the executive offices. Highlight for me was the impressive "Hall of Flags" exhibit which features all of the towns of Massachusetts that have their own flag designs. It is a neat three story room covered in glass and air conditioned. I also liked seeing the "front entrance" of the building which is restricted for dignitaries such as the President of Portugal who recently visited in 2019. However, the last sitting U.S. President to use the grand entrance was Taft for the grand opening of Fenway! (President Elect Kennedy visited pre-inauguration, and President Clinton visited during renovations.)

The State House tour is FREE and very informative. While the building was humming with activity, the tour guide took her time to explain the beautiful art and interesting architecture. Anyone interested in American history would enjoy this tour! Note that you must pass through a metal detector to be admitted to the building. The bookstore mostly offers legislative materials but also has a small selection of local history books and postcards.