Poised on the banks of the Kanawha River, the capitol’s dome rises 293 feet above the grounds where numerous statues denote figures important to the state’s history. Be sure to look for Vesta, Ceres and Neptune as you tour the exterior and, inside, a hand-carved replica of the great seal and motto of West Virginia: Montani Semper Liberi: “Mountaineers Are Always Free”.

Charleston

304-558-4839

General Hours:
 • Monday - Friday: 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Guided Tours:
 • Monday - Friday on the half hour: 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
 • Saturday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
 • No tours Sundays and holidays

Tours start at rotunda information desk. Reservations are encouraged for the capitol during the busy summer months.

Guests are also encouraged to visit the governor's mansion while on site. Tours are offered Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. by reservation only.

Tours of both buildings may be canceled for government events.

Map to the Capitol Building in Charleston
West Virginia Capitol Website


Images from the Capitol


Comment on Charleston, West Virginia


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Comments from readers

We visited the capitol in Charleston, West Virginia recently. We did a self tour and we were able to get into the building as it is WIDE OPEN - however, the House & Senate are usually closed during this time. We were disappointed but they were having a mock session with school kids and they said we could watch. It was very interesting and besides we were able to see inside. We also were able to get our book stamped at the Cultural Center.

-Mrs. M

How to use the stamp

If the stamp IS there but you don't know how to use it, please see Operating the Capitol Collection Stamp here on our website.

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