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Michigan State Capitol
Photo of the Capitol and two people walking on the sidewalk.
Michigan State Capitol
About the State Capitol
Michigan’s present Capitol—the state’s third—has a long and interesting history dating back to the 1800s. In 1992 it was designated a National Historic Landmark by the United States Secretary of the Interior, meaning that the Michigan State Capitol is recognized as a nationally significant historic site that possesses exceptional value to the people of our country. Explore the history of Michigan’s Capitol from art and architecture to technology and politics.
History of the State Capitol
Michigan's Three Capitols
Michigan has had three capitol buildings, and two capitol cities.
Michigan’s first capitol, located in downtown Detroit. Originally built to be a territorial courthouse, it served as Michigan’s seat of state government from 1835-1847. It then became a school. Photo Courtesy of the Archives of Michigan
Michigan's First Capitol
Michigan’s first capitol, located in downtown Detroit. Originally built to be a territorial courthouse, it served as Michigan’s seat of state government from 1835-1847. It then became a school.
Michigan’s second capitol, located in Lansing. Constructed of wood, this building was always intended to be a temporary home for Michigan’s government. It served as the capitol from 1848-1878. Photo Courtesy of the Archives of Michigan
Michigan's Second Capitol
Michigan’s second capitol, located in Lansing. Constructed of wood, this building was always intended to be a temporary home for Michigan’s government. It served as the capitol from 1848-1878.
An early exterior image of the Michigan State Capitol c. 1890. Note the large gas lampposts in the foreground. Photo Courtesy of the Archives of Michigan
Michigan's Current Capitol
Michigan’s third state capitol was dedicated on Jan. 1, 1879. More than 40 years after Michigan entered the Union, the state finally had a seat of government to be proud of. One of the first to take inspiration from the just-remodeled national Capitol in Washington, D.C., Michigan’s new statehouse became, in turn, the model for other state capitols.
Capitol Tours
Visitors to the Capitol can take a guided or self-guided tour of the Capitol building. Guided Capitol tours are a free service provided by the state of Michigan. Group Zoom Tours and American Sign Language Tours are also available. Visitors are also welcome to take a self-guided tour of Capitol Square.
Visit the Capitol
A Capitol Idea
The Michigan State Capitol is partnering with the Library of Michigan to showcase and share images, historical documents, and other Capitol treasures. This collection will continue to grow, so check in frequently.
Explore Resources
Michigan Capitol Postcard Collection
Search and view postcards of the Michigan State Capitol.
Michigan State Capitol Commission
The Michigan State Capitol Commission operates, manages, maintains, restores, and improves the Michigan State Capitol, and Capitol Square.
Learn About the Commission