Did you know that the Virginia State Capitol was designed by Thomas Jefferson in 1785? You bet! This legendary building is more than a government building. It's living history. If you're taking a trip to Williamsburg to virginia capitol tour you certainly don't want to miss a tour of the Capitol. But what do you have to look forward to? Let's take a look and see what makes this place so unique.

A Warm Welcome at the Williamsburg to Virginia Capitol Tour 

You walk in and immediately go to the Capitol Visitor Center. It's your starting point and the beginning of the entire tour. Helpful staff will welcome you and assist you in getting started. They'll provide maps, give you answers, and direct you to the exhibits.

You'll locate the entrance on the Bank Street side of the Capitol. It's open daily except for major holidays. The best part is that admission is absolutely free! That's correct — it won't cost you a cent.

The Visitor Center has a tiny theater where you can view a brief video. This movie provides a neat history of the building. Following the movie, visit the underground gallery.It contains pictures, historical documents, and interesting facts.

You will learn about the Capitol's renovations and discover how builders expanded it underground. Pretty neat? Don't forget to grab a brochure or ask about guided tours. Now, let's move on to the main attraction.

Stepping into History: Touring the Capitol Building

Once inside, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. The Williamsburg to Virginia Capitol Tour is full of stunning architecture and rich history. Jefferson wanted the building to look like a Roman temple. And it does! It's modeled after an ancient structure in southern France.

The tour also takes you through some of the most well-known rooms in the Capitol. You'll visit the Rotunda, where a life-size statue of George Washington stands. It's the only one he sat for himself!

Then you'll see the House and Senate chambers, which are still in use by lawmakers today.

You can't sit at their desks, but you can get a good look from the gallery above.

A few of the tours take a glimpse of the old House Chamber. That's where the legendary Aaron Burr trial was held. At all times during the tour, guides tell anecdotes relating to Virginia's contributions to U.S. history.

It's not strictly old news, either. You'll learn about how laws are created nowadays. That brings the building to life. Now that you've peeked inside, let's discuss what's outside.

Learning about the Capitol Grounds and Monuments

Once you're done inside, take a walk around the Capitol grounds. The outdoor areas are just as full of history as the building itself. Start with the Washington Equestrian Monument. It's right in front of the Capitol and hard to miss.

This huge statue shows George Washington on horseback, surrounded by other Virginia heroes. It's one of the largest bronze statues in the U.S.

As you walk around the gardens, you will notice memorials to notable people such as Patrick Henry and Edgar Allan Poe. The Bell Tower, constructed in the 1820s, currently houses a visitor center for the Executive Mansion.

First, relax and then take in the serene atmosphere. Make sure to take your camera with you before you leave home. Moreover, these locations provide perfect photo opportunities. Moreover, if you visit in spring, you will find that the flowers in the garden of the Capitol Square are simply lovely.

Before you go, stop by the Executive Mansion nearby. It's the nation's oldest still-in-use governor's residence. Even with restricted tours, you should still view it from the outside.. Speaking of preparation, let's prepare you for your visit.

Tips for Planning Your Virginia Capitol Tour

Now that you have an idea of what to anticipate, the following are some rapid-fire tips for planning. First, visit the official website to get the most up-to-date hours and tour times. These changes depend on the legislative calendar.

Guided tours are typically offered Monday through Saturday. They take approximately an hour and begin at the Visitor Center. You may also take a self-guided tour if you like to pace yourself.

Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking and standing. The marble floors can be tough on your feet. And because it's a government facility, you'll have to undergo a rapid security screening at the entrance.

Don't bring big bags or food inside. They normally permit water bottles. Most sections allow taking pictures, but they might prohibit flash. Ask a guide if you're unsure.

If you're visiting with a group or class, call in advance to schedule a time. Group tours book up quickly, particularly during the school year. Now that you are prepared, what else can you do around there?

Discovering Nearby Attractions After Your Tour

After you finish your Williamsburg to Virginia Capitol Tour don't skip off yet! There's plenty to do close by. Richmond is full of museums, parks, and historic sites.

Right down the street is the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. It has nice exhibits about the state's history, so both adults and children will find something to like.

Or drive over to the American Civil War Museum. It's just a short drive and presents moving stories from all perspectives of the war. Like the Capitol, it's educational and engrossing.

Hungry? Great dining spots are close by in the Shockoe Slip district. From Southern cuisine to fresh seafood, there's something for everyone. And many of the eateries are within walking distance. Need a breath of fresh air? Take a stroll down the Canal Walk or visit Brown's Island to see the James River. Both spots are ideal for unwinding after a day of class.

And if you're overnighting, there are lots of hotels close by. Whether you have a budget to keep or can afford luxury, Richmond has something for everyone.

Final Thoughts

A tour of the Williamsburg to Virginia Capitol Tour Building is more than a glimpse at old walls. It's a stroll through American history. You will visit the place where lawmakers create laws, listen to incredible stories, and catch the essence of democracy in motion.

Whether you're a history lover, a student, or just curious, this tour offers something special. And with free admission and helpful guides, it's a great value too.

So plan your trip, grab your camera, and get ready to explore one of the most historic places in the United States.