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.

View Postcards