Museum with political artifacts, photos & interactive exhibits in a historic government building.
Since 1845, the Historic Capitol has symbolized Florida state government. Restored to its 1902 appearance, the Historic Capitol stands as an icon at the center of Florida’s Capitol complex; the modern-day nerve center of Sunshine State government. Under the stained-glass dome, political history and tradition come alive in the exhibits.
Through photographs, recordings, and audiovisual displays, visitors experience the people and events that have shaped today’s Florida. Restored areas include the 1902 Governor’s office and chambers of the House of Representatives, Senate, and Supreme Court. Together with exhibit panels, photographs, and interactive multimedia, the museum offers a journey through the colorful history of representative government in Florida. More than 250 artifacts in 21 rooms invite visitors to trace the evolution of Florida government from territorial days to the present.
Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 4:30 pm
Saturday 10:00 am - 4:30 pm
Sundays and Holidays Noon - 4:30 pm
Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day
Admission is free, however donations to support our educational programs are appreciated.
Arrival Information
Reception Desk
When you arrive at the Historic Capitol, please check in at the Reception Desk located on the first floor Rotunda. The first floor is one level above ground and is reached by climbing the stairs on either the east or west sides, or by using an accessible entrance on the northwest side and using the elevator. A staff member or docent will greet you, welcome you to the building, provide background information about the museum, and be available for general assistance. There are exhibits on all three floors, and visitors may download an audio tour prior to arrival. If you are with a group, please confirm with the staff member the size of your group, the amount of time you have for the visit, and the educational program options you desire.
Proper Behavior
The Historic Capitol can be quite busy, especially during the legislative session and around elections. We often have more than one group as well as many individual drop-in visitors. Your cooperation in maintaining a quiet atmosphere for other visitors is appreciated. Please have at least one adult per ten students, and typical "library manners" apply. Food and drinks are not permitted in the Museum. Water fountains are available next to the restrooms. Special access is available from the northwest entrance on the courtyard side and with elevators to each floor.
Small Exhibit Rooms
Many of the Museum's exhibit rooms have limited space; therefore, groups of not more than 10 students and a chaperone may be in a small exhibit room at any given time.
Self-Guided Tours and Programs
Directions and Parking
The Historic Capitol is located in the Capitol Complex, at the intersection of Apalachee Parkway and South Monroe Street. Although the museum does not have dedicated parking, there are several parking lots in the area. There is a large public parking garage in Kleman Plaza, close to the Capitol Complex. When the legislature is in session, parking can be especially challenging.
Spaces for visitors with disabilities are located on west side of the House Office Building in the north side loading zone.
