Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
LakeMonona;theuniversityisattheotherend,alongLakeMendota.StateStreet,themain
pedestrian thoroughfare, runs between them.
MM
Wisconsin State Capitol
Standing300feetatopthemostprominentaerieinMadison(andfor25yearsadailypainin
the butt for yours truly to bike up), the stately white bethel granite
Wisconsin state capitol
(2 E. Main St., 608/266-0382,
www.tours.wisconsin.gov
) is the largest in the country and
definitely one of the most magnificent. After the first two burned, the current building was
constructed beginning in 1906 over 11 years and cost $7.25 million—$0.25 per state resid-
entperyearofconstruction.(Neveragainwouldsomethinglikethisbepossibleonthepub-
lic nickel.) It resembles the nation's capitol building from afar; thus, Hollywood uses it oc-
casionally. The powers that be in DC took this as a sign of homage, but then realized plans
were to build Wisconsin's capitol taller than DC's. So ours had to become shorter, though
its volume is greater (holds more beer, of course). The interior features 43 different types
of stone from eight states and six foreign countries, including semiprecious marble nonex-
istent today. The mosaics, imported and domestic hand-carved furniture, massive murals,
and hand-stenciling make the building priceless. If you don't arrive in time for a tour, the
observationdeckisalsogenerallyopeninsummer,withsuperbviews.Thebuildingisopen
8am-6pm, with free tours hourly 9am-11am and 1pm-3pm Monday-Saturday, as well as
Sunday in summer.
