Salt Lake City and County Building

The Salt Lake City and County Building is an administrative building in Richardsonian Romanesque style in downtown Salt Lake City featuring a distinctive clock tower that rises 256 feet. The facade showcases carefully worked stone and elaborate masonry details that give the structure its commanding presence on the plaza.

The building was constructed between 1891 and 1894 and served as the state's temporary government center from Utah statehood in 1896 until the current State Capitol opened in 1915. It held this role for over two decades before shifting to a shared county and local government function.

The building emerged from social divisions in Salt Lake City, with its design expressing a deliberate architectural identity that reflected competing visions for the city. Visitors today can sense these historical currents in how the structure commands the downtown plaza.

The building is accessible to visitors through organized tours that provide entry to various rooms and historical information. It is advisable to check tour availability in advance and plan your visit during business hours for the best access.

During the 1980s the structure underwent major restoration work to make it earthquake-resistant and restore its original appearance. This comprehensive renovation was one of the most expensive preservation projects of its kind in the region.

Location: Salt Lake City

Inception: 1894

Architectural style: Richardsonian Romanesque

Part of: Washington Square

Address: 451 South State Street, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114

GPS coordinates: 40.75958,-111.88681

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:24