Idaho State Capitol

The Idaho State Capitol is a Beaux-Arts government building in Boise, built from granite, sandstone and marble. The four floors contain executive offices, two legislative chambers and public spaces beneath a gilded-topped dome.

Construction began in 1905 and ended in 1920 after several phases, designed by architects John E. Tourtellotte and Charles Hummel. During the Great Depression the dome received its characteristic gold-leaf covering.

The circular rotunda beneath the inner dome serves as a central meeting point for visitors and displays the seals of all Idaho counties. On the walls of the first floor you can view portraits of past governors.

Guided tours are available on weekdays and show the executive offices, legislative chambers and rotunda. Access is barrier-free through the main entrance and an elevator to all floors.

The dome is crowned by a bronze eagle figure that measures more than 3 feet (1 meter) and faces east. In the basement you can see the original boiler rooms and utility tunnels that belonged to the building technology of the 1900s.

Location: Boise

Inception: 1912

Architects: John E. Tourtellotte, Tourtellotte & Hummel

Architectural style: Beaux-Arts

Floors above the ground: 4

Elevation above the sea: 826 m

Made from material: granite, sandstone, marble

Address: 700 W Jefferson St, Boise, ID 83702

GPS coordinates: 43.61770,-116.19961

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:28