The first legislative session was held in the new state capitol in 1877. The growth of the state had increased the need for more file storage and office space than the Old State Capitol allowed. Today it is the center of state government and houses the offices of the Governor, Lt. Governor, Secretary of State, Comptroller, and Treasurer, as well as the House of Representatives and Senate Chambers. Visitors can watch Illinois politics in action from balcony-level seating when the legislature is in session. (Accessible entrance at west side.)

The Illinois Firefighter Memorial, located on the southeast corner of the Stratton Office Building, this memorial stands in honor of the firefighters of Illinois who have given their lives in the line of duty and to those who heroically serve with courage and pride.

The Illinois Police Officers Memorial, located on the southwest corner of the Capitol, was dedicated on Oct. 29, 1990, in memory of the Illinois police officers killed in the line of duty.





Admission:
Free