Alaska State Capitol, Juneau (must see)

The Alaska State Capitol is one of the more unusual state capitol buildings in the United States. Completed in 1931, the building was originally constructed as a federal and territorial office building before becoming the home of the Alaska Legislature after Alaska achieved statehood in 1959. Unlike many state capitols, it has no dome, grand staircase, or expansive grounds. Its six-story brick and concrete design, finished with Indiana limestone and Tokeen marble details, has the appearance of a practical government office building rather than a traditional seat of government.

Inside, however, the building contains exhibits and artwork that highlight Alaska’s history, culture, and political development. Free self-guided tours are available on weekdays, beginning in the lobby with two large murals, Harvest of the Land and Harvest of the Sea, which depict Alaska’s traditions of hunting, fishing, and resource use. Visitors are also greeted by a bust of Elizabeth Peratrovich, the Tlingit civil rights leader whose advocacy contributed to the passage of Alaska’s Anti-Discrimination Act of 1945. On the second floor, the Senate and House chambers display historic photographs of Juneau and portraits honoring Alaska’s first U.S. senators.

Although modest compared with many other state capitol buildings, the Alaska State Capitol offers insight into the state’s history and government. Its interior spaces, including legislative chambers, committee rooms, and historic artwork, reveal the development of Alaska from a territory into a state. A replica of the Liberty Bell outside the building provides an additional connection between Alaska’s political history and the broader story of the United States.