Louisiana State Capitol

The Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge is the tallest state capitol building in the United States, rising 450 feet across 34 floors at 900 North Third Street in downtown Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Completed in 1932 under the direction of Governor Huey P. Long, the building represents a departure from the traditional domed Renaissance Revival style that characterizes most American state capitols, instead adopting an Art Deco tower form influenced by the skyscraper architecture of the era. Huey Long, who was assassinated inside the building in 1935, is buried in the memorial garden directly in front of the structure. The building's exterior is clad in Indiana limestone and features ornate bronze doors and relief sculptures representing Louisiana's industries, wildlife, and history. The main lobby showcases polished marble floors and walls inlaid with bas-relief scenes of Louisiana's colonial and early American history. The observation deck on the 27th floor, accessed by elevator, provides panoramic views across Baton Rouge and the Mississippi River — one of the best elevated viewpoints in the state. On clear days, the view extends to the petrochemical plants lining the river corridor. Tours of the interior legislative chambers are available when the legislature is not in session, offering access to the Senate and House of Representatives chambers with their original Art Deco woodwork, brass fixtures, and mural decorations. The building is active as a working government facility, and visitors will observe staff and lawmakers during working hours. A visit of 1 to 2 hours covers the lobby, legislative chambers, observation deck, and the Huey Long memorial garden. The Capitol grounds include a sunken garden and a monument marking the spot where Long was shot.