The summer is a great time for families to take a break from the whirlwind of school and work and spend time together enjoying new experiences and making lasting memories. For those seeking a fun-filled day learning about Michigan’s government and history, look no further than a trip to the State Capitol and Michigan Historical Museum.
Built in 1879, our State Capitol is a beautiful testament to our state’s rich history. In addition to being our seat of government, the Capitol boasts majestic and dynamic architecture, monuments to the Michigan men and women who have fought for our freedoms, and paintings paying tribute to the leaders who came before us. After falling into disrepair, the Capitol underwent a three-year restoration process in 1992, and came out looking better than ever. Now, a national historic landmark, the Capitol is a building that every Michigander can be proud of, and I hope that you can pay a visit.
A guided tour is a great summer activity for children. Your kids will look forward to lying on the glass floor and being told to reach for the stars and the sky is the limit. I hope your family can make similar memories at one of Michigan’s treasures.
Guided tours are offered daily at the Capitol from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday. Reservations are required for groups of 10 or more. To schedule your family, group or school for a tour, call Capitol Tour Services at (517) 373-2353, or write:
Capitol Tour and Information Service
Capitol Square
P.O. Box 30014
Lansing, MI 48909-7514
The Michigan Historical Museum, just a few blocks away from the State Capitol, tells the story of our state’s history through five levels of artifacts and exhibits. In addition to the permanent exhibits and the building, whose glass facade make it an attraction in its own right, the museum also features special exhibits and activities the whole family can enjoy. Those interested in additional information about such events or to take an online tour of the museum can head to www.michigan.gov/museum.
Please note that there is a modest admissions fee the museum. Admission for adults is $6, Seniors pay $4, youth age six to seventeen pay $2 and those age five and under are admitted free. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
These are just some of the many attractions featured in our state’s capital city. While you are downtown, you should feel free to come visit me, so I can hear your thoughts and ideas on the issues that are important to our community. If you contact my office when you set up your tour, I will do my best to ensure I can find the time in my schedule to meet you and your family. Until then, I look forward to seeing you around the Capitol this summer!