The tallest state capitol in the nation offers a bird’s eye view of Baton Rouge from the observation deck. Built in 1932, during the Great Depression, the Louisiana State Capitol building is an architectural splendor.
Don’t Miss Seeing
- “Pencil” dangling from the Senate Chamber ceiling, embedded for over a half century without falling
- Bullet hole from a famous assassination
- View from 27th floor observation deck
- Marvel at the main “rotunda” Memorial Hall which features Italian marble flooring, gold covered leaves on the ceiling, and original bronze chandeliers “each weighing as much as an elephant”. (Requiring the chandeliers to be secured five floors up.)
- Find your state on one of the 49 steps leading up to the main entrance
- Stroll through the gardens designed after Versailles
History: Louisiana State Capitol
Governor Huey P. Long oversaw the construction of this skyscraper, building it at record speed, with architecture rivaling the Empire State Building. It stands 450 feet tall with 34 floors. Locally known as the “new state capitol”, it has housed the Louisiana Legislature for almost a hundred years now.
Why is a pencil embedded in the Louisiana Senate Chamber Ceiling?
On Sunday, April 26, 1970, a bomb exploded in the Senate Chamber. Since the Senate was not in session, no one was injured, however it caused lots of damage to the room. The explosive force sent a pencil-shaped piece of wood into the ceiling where it has remained dangling for over 50 years. It’s now a tourist attraction.
Famous Assassination Site
A plaque and bullet hole mark the spot where Louisiana’s most famous governor, Huey P. Long, was assassinated in 1935. (It’s located in a hallway behind the lobby elevators.) Conspiracy theories abound on who actually shot and killed Long.
Summary
A stunning view, beautiful architecture, lots of history, and free admission. This grand capitol building is worth the visit.
900 North Third Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
- National Registry of Historic Places
- National Historic Landmark
The Louisiana State Capitol and grounds appear in numerous films.
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