Fodor's Expert Review Virginia State Capitol
Richmond
Government Building
Free
Thomas Jefferson designed this grand edifice in 1785, modeling it on a Roman temple—the Maison Carrée—in Nîmes, France. After an extensive renovation, the Capitol has a handicapped-accessible entrance on Bank Street. A visitor center is in the adjacent Bell Tower, and the expanded Capitol features an exhibit gallery, gift shop, and Meriwether's Capitol Café. Indoor guided tours last one hour and include the Old House and Senate chambers, the Rotunda, and two restored rooms. A map for self-guided tours is also available.
