How to Visit the Indiana Statehouse

The Indiana Statehouse, located in the heart of Indianapolis, is more than just a government building—it is a living monument to the state’s history, democracy, and architectural heritage. As the seat of Indiana’s legislative branch and home to the offices of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor, the Statehouse serves as the epicenter of civic life in the state. For visitors, whether they are tourists, students, history enthusiasts, or local residents, a visit to the Indiana Statehouse offers a rare opportunity to witness democracy in action and explore one of the most beautifully preserved 19th-century capitol buildings in the United States.

Understanding how to visit the Indiana Statehouse goes beyond simply knowing its address. It involves navigating access points, planning your route, respecting protocols, and maximizing your experience through guided tours, exhibits, and historical context. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to ensure your visit is seamless, informative, and memorable. Whether you’re arriving by car, public transit, or on foot, this guide covers every detail—from parking and security to the best times to visit and hidden gems you won’t find in brochures.

Step-by-Step Guide

Visiting the Indiana Statehouse is a straightforward process, but attention to detail enhances the experience. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and enriching visit.

1. Confirm Your Visit Date and Hours

The Indiana Statehouse is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It is closed on weekends and state holidays, including New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Always verify the current schedule on the official Indiana Statehouse website before planning your trip, as special events or legislative sessions may alter hours.

During legislative sessions (typically January through March and April through May), public galleries are open to observe debates and committee hearings. These sessions offer a unique opportunity to witness lawmaking firsthand. Check the Indiana General Assembly’s calendar for session dates and times.

2. Plan Your Transportation

The Statehouse is centrally located in downtown Indianapolis and is easily accessible by multiple modes of transportation.

By Car: If driving, use GPS coordinates 200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204. Several public parking garages are located within a five-minute walk:

• Statehouse Parking Garage – Directly across the street at 201 N Senate Ave. Rates are $1 per hour, with a daily maximum of $10.
• City Market Garage – 150 N Alabama St, approximately 0.3 miles away. Offers hourly and daily rates with validation discounts from nearby restaurants.
• Market Square Garage – 110 E Washington St, 0.2 miles from the main entrance. Convenient for visitors exploring the Circle Centre Mall area.

Street parking is limited and often restricted during business hours. Avoid parking on Washington Street or Senate Avenue during weekdays, as these are reserved for government vehicles and permit holders.

By Public Transit: IndyGo operates several bus routes that stop near the Statehouse. Routes 2, 3, 4, 8, 11, and 15 all serve stops within a 5-minute walk. The nearest stop is “Washington St & Senate Ave,” located directly in front of the building. Use the IndyGo app for real-time tracking and route planning.

By Bike: Indianapolis has an expanding network of bike lanes. The Statehouse offers free bike racks on the east side of the building near the 200 W Washington St entrance. The Cultural Trail, a 8-mile urban path connecting downtown neighborhoods, passes directly by the Statehouse.

By Foot: If you’re staying in downtown Indianapolis, the Statehouse is within walking distance of the Canal Walk, Monument Circle, and the Indianapolis Public Library. The walk from Monument Circle takes approximately 10 minutes along Pennsylvania Street.

3. Enter Through the Correct Entrance

The Indiana Statehouse has multiple entrances, but only one is designated for public visitors:

• Main Public Entrance: 200 W Washington Street – This is the primary entrance for all visitors. It features a grand staircase, marble columns, and the iconic bronze doors. Security screening is conducted here.
• North Entrance (Senate Wing): Reserved for legislators and staff.
• South Entrance (House Wing): Used by legislative personnel and those with official business.

Do not attempt to enter through side or rear entrances. These are restricted and monitored by security personnel.

4. Pass Through Security Screening

All visitors must pass through a security checkpoint at the main entrance. The process is similar to airport security but less intensive:

• Place all bags, purses, and electronic devices on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Remove large metal objects (belts, keys, coins) and place them in a bin.
• Walk through the metal detector. If triggered, a handheld wand will be used for additional screening.
• Do not bring weapons, sharp objects, or large containers of liquids. Items such as scissors, pocket knives, and spray cans are prohibited.
• Photography and video recording are permitted in public areas, but not in restricted legislative chambers without permission.

Security lines are typically shortest in the morning (8:30–9:30 a.m.) and mid-afternoon (1:30–3:00 p.m.). Avoid visiting during legislative sessions’ opening and closing times (10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.) when foot traffic is highest.

5. Begin Your Tour: The Ground Floor

Once cleared, enter the rotunda—the heart of the Statehouse. This circular, domed space features stained-glass skylights, marble floors, and 24 statues representing historical figures from Indiana’s past. Take a moment to admire the ceiling fresco, painted by artist William F. Fiedler in 1888, depicting the “Spirit of Indiana.”

On the ground floor, you’ll find:

• The Hall of Governors: A corridor lined with portraits and biographies of every Indiana governor since statehood in 1816.
• The Indiana Hall of Fame: Features bronze busts and plaques honoring notable Hoosiers such as James Whitcomb Riley, Kurt Vonnegut, and Lilly Pulitzer.
• Visitor Information Desk: Staffed by knowledgeable volunteers who provide maps, brochures, and answer questions.

Take a free self-guided tour brochure from the desk, or download the official Statehouse mobile app for an audio-guided experience.

6. Explore the Second Floor: Legislative Chambers

Take the grand staircase or elevator to the second floor to view the two legislative chambers:

Indiana House of Representatives Chamber: Located on the south side of the building, this chamber seats 100 members. Notice the ornate woodwork, green leather seats, and the Speaker’s rostrum. A plaque marks the spot where President Abraham Lincoln’s son, Robert Todd Lincoln, witnessed his first legislative session in 1865.

Indiana Senate Chamber: Located on the north side, this chamber seats 50 senators and features red leather seating, symbolizing the British House of Lords. The chamber’s ceiling includes a stained-glass window depicting the state seal.

During legislative sessions, the public galleries are open. Sit quietly, turn off your phone, and observe the proceedings. No talking or applause is permitted. If you wish to speak to a legislator, contact their district office in advance.

7. Visit the Third Floor: Historical Exhibits and Art

The third floor houses the Statehouse’s most significant historical collections:

• The Indiana State Museum Exhibit: A rotating display of artifacts, including Native American tools, Civil War memorabilia, and early state documents.
• The Governor’s Reception Room: A formal space used for ceremonies and official functions. The room features a grand piano, crystal chandeliers, and a portrait of Governor Oliver P. Morton, a key figure during the Civil War.
• The Supreme Court Room: Although the Indiana Supreme Court no longer meets here (it relocated in 1973), the room has been preserved with its original mahogany paneling and judicial bench. A short video explains the evolution of Indiana’s judiciary.

Look for the “Spirits of the Statehouse” plaques embedded in the floor—each marks the location of a historic event, such as the signing of the 1851 State Constitution.

8. Explore the Basement: Crypt and Service Areas

While not always open to the public, guided tours occasionally include access to the basement, which contains:

• The Statehouse Crypt: A small, solemn chamber where the remains of former governors are interred. Only two governors—Jonathan Jennings and William Hendricks—are buried here.
• Original 1880s Boiler Room: Displays the building’s original steam heating system, a marvel of 19th-century engineering.
• Archives Storage: Limited access to preserved legislative records and microfilm of historic newspapers.

Request basement access when booking a guided tour. It is not available during self-guided visits.

9. End Your Visit: The Gift Shop and Outdoor Gardens

Before leaving, stop by the Statehouse Gift Shop located near the main exit. It offers unique souvenirs including replica Statehouse models, books on Indiana history, local art, and Hoosier-themed apparel. Proceeds support preservation efforts.

Step outside to the surrounding grounds. The Statehouse sits within a 10-acre park featuring:

• The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument: A short walk east across the Circle.
• Heritage Garden: A tranquil space with native Indiana plants, benches, and interpretive signs about the state’s flora.
• Statues and Monuments: Including the “Indiana Pioneer” statue and the “Lincoln Memorial” bust.

These outdoor areas are perfect for photos and quiet reflection after your tour.

Best Practices

To ensure your visit is respectful, safe, and deeply rewarding, follow these best practices:

1. Dress Appropriately

While there is no formal dress code, the Statehouse is a seat of government and a place of historical reverence. Avoid wearing clothing with offensive slogans, overly casual attire like flip-flops or tank tops, or costumes. Comfortable walking shoes are essential—there are over 100,000 square feet of marble and hardwood floors to explore.

2. Respect Quiet Zones

Legislative chambers, the Governor’s Reception Room, and the Crypt are designated quiet zones. Speak in hushed tones, keep phones on silent, and avoid loud conversations. This is not only courteous—it’s required by Statehouse policy.

3. Do Not Touch Artifacts or Statues

Many of the statues, plaques, and historical items are over 130 years old. Even gentle touching can cause wear. Use the provided informational plaques to learn details—do not rely on touch to explore.

4. Bring Only Essentials

Large backpacks, tripods, and luggage are not permitted inside. A small purse or crossbody bag is acceptable. Water bottles are allowed, but consumption is restricted to designated areas. Food is not permitted in the building.

5. Plan for Accessibility

The Indiana Statehouse is fully ADA-compliant. Elevators are available at all major staircases. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are permitted. Sign language interpreters can be arranged with 48 hours’ notice by contacting the Visitor Services office.

6. Time Your Visit Strategically

For the most immersive experience:

• Early Morning (8:30–10:00 a.m.): Fewest crowds, ideal for quiet photo opportunities in the rotunda.
• Lunchtime (12:00–1:00 p.m.): Staff and legislators are in and out—great for observing the rhythm of government.
• Afternoon (2:00–4:00 p.m.): Best time to catch a legislative session in progress.
• Friday Afternoon: Often the quietest day of the week, with fewer legislative activities.

7. Engage with Staff and Volunteers

The Statehouse employs trained docents and volunteer guides who are passionate about Indiana history. Ask questions. They can share anecdotes not found in brochures—like how the Statehouse survived a 1930s fire, or which statue was nearly melted down during WWII for scrap metal.

8. Avoid Photography in Restricted Areas

While photography is allowed in public areas, it is prohibited in the Governor’s office, legislative committee rooms, and any area marked “Authorized Personnel Only.” Flash photography is discouraged near delicate artwork and documents.

9. Bring a Notebook or Journal

Many visitors find the Statehouse inspires reflection. Consider bringing a small notebook to record observations, quotes from plaques, or questions for further research. This transforms your visit from a sightseeing trip into a personal learning journey.

10. Extend Your Visit

The Statehouse is part of a larger civic district. After your tour, consider visiting nearby attractions:

• Indianapolis Public Library – Central Branch: A Beaux-Arts masterpiece with rare Indiana manuscripts.
• Indiana Historical Society: Just two blocks away, with interactive exhibits on state history.
• Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields: A 152-acre campus with gardens and world-class collections.

Tools and Resources

Maximize your visit with these official and third-party tools:

1. Official Indiana Statehouse Website

Visit www.in.gov/legislative/statehouse/ for:

• Current legislative schedules
• Guided tour booking system
• Historical timelines and virtual 3D tours
• Downloadable educational materials for teachers

2. Indiana Statehouse Mobile App

Available on iOS and Android, the official app offers:

• Audio-guided tours in English and Spanish
• Interactive floor maps with real-time location tracking
• Push notifications for last-minute closures or special events
• Photo gallery of the building’s art and architecture

3. Indiana Historical Society’s “Statehouse Explorer” Digital Archive

This free online archive includes:

• High-resolution scans of original blueprints from 1880
• Oral histories from former Statehouse staff
• Digitized legislative journals from 1816–1900

Access at www.indianahistory.org/statehouse-archive

4. Google Arts & Culture: Indiana Statehouse Collection

Explore ultra-high-definition images of the building’s interior and exterior, including details of stained glass and frescoes, through Google’s Arts & Culture platform. Includes curated exhibits on “Architecture of Democracy” and “The Making of a Capitol.”

5. Local Tour Operators

Several licensed tour companies offer specialized Statehouse experiences:

• Indiana History Tours: Offers 90-minute guided walks focusing on political history and hidden stories.
• Architectural Heritage Tours: Focuses on the building’s neoclassical design, materials, and construction techniques.
• Family-Friendly Statehouse Adventures: Designed for children with scavenger hunts and interactive quizzes.

Book through their websites or at the Visitor Information Desk.

6. Educational Resources for Teachers

Indiana educators can request free curriculum kits aligned with state standards. These include:

• Lesson plans on separation of powers
• Primary source documents from the 1851 Constitution
• Student worksheets on civic participation

Request materials via email at education@statehouse.in.gov.

7. Social Media Channels

Follow the Indiana Statehouse on:

• Facebook: @IndianaStatehouse
• Instagram: @indianastatehouse
• Twitter/X: @INStatehouse

These platforms post daily updates, behind-the-scenes content, and announcements about special events like “History Night” or “Legislative Shadow Day” for high school students.

Real Examples

Real experiences from visitors illustrate the depth and impact of a Statehouse visit.

Example 1: A High School Civics Class from Fort Wayne

In March 2023, a group of 32 students from Wayne High School visited the Statehouse as part of their American Government course. Their teacher, Ms. Elena Rodriguez, arranged a guided tour and scheduled time to observe the House Judiciary Committee debate a bill on school safety.

“Seeing the legislators ask questions, argue points, and vote was transformative,” said student James Carter. “I thought government was just TV debates. But here, people were actually listening, changing their minds, and working together.”

Afterward, the class wrote letters to their state representatives—18 received personal replies. One student later interned at the Statehouse during summer break.

Example 2: A Retired Teacher from Evansville

After 40 years of teaching Indiana history, Doris Miller returned to the Statehouse for the first time since 1972. “I used to show slides in class,” she said. “But standing in the same room where the 1851 Constitution was signed… I felt like I was holding history in my hands.”

She spent two hours in the archives room, tracing her grandfather’s name in the 1903 legislative journal. A volunteer helped her make a digital copy. “Now my grandchildren have a piece of our family’s past,” she said.

Example 3: International Visitors from Japan

A group of 10 university students from Kyoto University visited in October 2022 as part of a comparative government program. They were particularly struck by the Statehouse’s lack of overt security barriers compared to other capitol buildings.

“In Japan, government buildings feel distant,” said student Aiko Tanaka. “Here, the doors are open. The statues are of everyday people. It felt democratic—not just in structure, but in spirit.”

The group later wrote a blog post titled “The Quiet Power of the Indiana Statehouse,” which was shared by their university’s international relations department.

Example 4: A First-Time Visitor with Mobility Challenges

John Williams, a Vietnam veteran and wheelchair user from Terre Haute, visited the Statehouse with his daughter. He was concerned about accessibility but found the building “surprisingly welcoming.”

“The elevators were clean, the ramps were smooth, and the staff didn’t treat me like a ‘special case’—they treated me like a visitor. I sat in the Senate gallery and watched a bill pass about veterans’ healthcare. I cried. Not because I was sad, but because I felt seen.”

John now volunteers as a tour ambassador for accessible history tours.

FAQs

Do I need to book a tour in advance?

Self-guided visits require no reservation. However, guided group tours (10+ people) must be booked at least one week in advance. Individual visitors can join daily public tours, which run every hour on the hour from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Can I bring my pet?

Service animals are permitted. Emotional support animals and pets are not allowed inside the building, but there are designated pet relief areas outside the main entrance.

Is there a fee to enter?

No. Admission to the Indiana Statehouse is free for all visitors. Donations to the Statehouse Preservation Fund are appreciated but not required.

Are there restrooms available?

Yes. Restrooms are located on the ground, second, and third floors. Family and accessible restrooms are clearly marked.

Can I take photos in the legislative chambers?

Yes, as long as you are not using a tripod, flash, or recording audio. Photography is not permitted during live votes or when legislators are speaking.

Is the Statehouse open on holidays?

No. The building is closed on all federal and state holidays. Check the official website for holiday closures each year.

Can I meet with my state representative?

Yes. Each legislator has a district office in the Statehouse. Contact their office in advance to schedule a meeting. Walk-ins are accepted but may require a wait.

Are there child-friendly activities?

Yes. The Visitor Information Desk offers a “Junior Statehouse Explorer” activity kit with puzzles, coloring pages, and a scavenger hunt. Children under 12 receive a free badge upon completion.

What if I need to leave something in storage?

There is no coat check or locker system. Only small personal items are permitted. Large bags must be left in your vehicle or at a nearby storage facility.

Is the building air-conditioned?

Yes. The Statehouse has a modern HVAC system, but the historic structure retains cooler temperatures in winter and warmer air in summer. Dress in layers.

Conclusion

Visiting the Indiana Statehouse is more than a tourist activity—it is an act of civic engagement. Whether you come to observe democracy in motion, admire its architectural splendor, or connect with the stories of those who shaped Indiana, the experience leaves a lasting impression. The Statehouse does not merely house government; it embodies the ideals of transparency, participation, and historical continuity.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—from planning your transportation to respecting the quiet dignity of its halls—you ensure that your visit is not just memorable, but meaningful. You become part of the living tradition that began in 1888, when the first citizens walked through its doors, and continues today as students, veterans, artists, and families gather beneath its dome.

So plan your visit. Walk through those bronze doors. Look up at the ceiling. Listen to the echoes of debate. And remember: this building belongs to you. Not as a spectator, but as a participant in the ongoing story of Indiana.