Frequently Asked Questions and Official Answers

Do we have to go on tour to go to the top?
No, the tower observation decks are open, weather and project activity permitting, all public hours. The north tower elevators go to the 14th floor observation decks. There are views from the top of the Capitol in the Memorial Chamber section of the On-Line Guided Tour.

How long do the tours take?
Depending on the time of year and group size tours take 30-55 minutes. Summertime public tours take 30 minutes; school tours take 55 minutes.

Where is the accessible entrance?
On the north side of the Capitol, under the main steps. Accessible parking is located on K Street at the north side of the building.

Is there much walking on the tour?
The tour traverses the 400 foot length of the Capitol and takes place on one level. There are benches along the route. Wheelchairs are available at the Capitol Security Office in the northeast corner of ground level Rotunda. Phone Security at (402)471-2400.

Do I need to call in advance to schedule a tour?
Generally only school tours and large groups of 20 or more need to call in advance, walk-ins are welcome to join any tour, but you may want to call to see if a large group is already scheduled or a special event scheduled which may interfere with your full enjoyment of the Capitol.

Are weddings allowed in the Capitol?
Weddings and wedding photography are allowed in the Capitol on a very limited basis following Office of the Capitol Commission Wedding and Wedding Photography Guidelines. Private activities such as weddings and wedding photography cannot block public access to any part of the Capitol. Please contact the Tourism Supervisor at (402) 471-0449 with questions about getting married in the Nebraska State Capitol. Advance notice on a Wedding Information Form or Wedding Photo Form is required and groups who do not provide advance notice may be unable to use the Capitol due to conflicts with other groups or activities.

Does the Capitol have a Gift Shop?
The Landmark Store is located on ground floor of the Capitol in the south hall. The Store is operated by the Nebraska State Historical Society and is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Please call (402)471-2062 for more information.

What special events are held in the Capitol?
Noontime musical concerts, informational displays, news conferences, programs sponsored by non-profit or not-for-profit groups of statewide or larger scope and official state ceremonies are held in the Capitol. For information about scheduling a special event in the Capitol contact the Tourism Supervisor at (402) 471-0449.

Are photographs allowed in the Capitol?
General photography or videography of the Capitol for personal use is allowed in the Capitol and on tour, however it is appropriate to ask the guide before including them in an image. Photography and videography sessions using the Capitol as a background are allowed with prior notice, and no special equipment or lighting may be brought in or set up without prior approval. For information about the guidelines for using the Capitol for photography and videography sessions please contact the Tourism Supervisor at (402) 471-0449. Please contact the Tourism Supervisor with any questions about photography and videography in the Nebraska State Capitol.

Can we bring our lunch or snacks to the Capitol?
Visitors are encouraged to eat their lunches and snacks in the courtyards or on the pedestrian mall north of the Capitol. Picnics are not allowed in the public areas of the Capitol. The cafeteria is open for breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday.

Where can we park a RV while visiting the Capitol?
One hour recreational vehicle parking is allowed south of the Capitol , turn right from K Street onto 16th Street east of the Capitol, go two blocks, then turn right on G Street. Parking is indicated by bus parking signs.

Can the public visit the Governor’s Residence?
The public is welcome to tour the Residence on Thursday afternoon between 1:00 and 4:00 p.m. For information please call (402) 471-3466.

When is the legislature in session?
The Unicameral Legislature  begins in January of each year and meets 90 legislative days in odd numbered years and 60 legislative days in even numbered years. The Legislature holds public hearings during the first half of each session. 

How big is the Nebraska State Capitol?
The Nebraska State Capitol is 400 feet tall and the square base of the Capitol is 437 feet on a side.

When was the building constructed?
1922 - 1932

How much did it cost?
$9.8 million

Who was the architect of the Nebraska State Capitol?
Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue

Was the Capital always in Lincoln?
No, the territorial Capital was in Omaha, only since statehood in 1867 has Lincoln been the Capital.

Who thought up the ideas for the artwork in the Capitol?
University of Nebraska Professor of Philosophy Hartley Burr Alexander

How tall is the Sower, the statue on top?
The Sower is 19 1/2 feet tall on a 12 1/2 foot tall base of corn and wheat shocks.

What’s in the Capitol tower?
Government offices

Can I get a copy of my birth certificate in the Capitol?
No, Vital Records is located on the 1st floor of Gold’s Galleria at 10th and N Street in Lincoln.

Where is the museum that used to be in the Capitol?
The Nebraska State Historical Society’s Museum of Nebraska History, is located at 15th and P Streets. Please call (402) 471-3270 for more information about the Museum of Nebraska History. The Nebraska Hall of Fame, administered by the Nebraska State Historical Society, is located in the Capitol.