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The Missouri Capitol Building is a grand structure located on a bluff overlooking the Missouri River and visible for miles. This Renaissance style building was built in 1918 after fires destroyed the first two Capitol buildings. The Capitol not only serves as Missouri’s legislative headquarters, it also ranks as Jefferson City’s leading tourist attraction. The Capitol grounds cover three acres in downtown Jefferson City. Tours reveal a museum, incredible architecture, and more than 10 million dollars of artwork. For tour information contact (573) 751-2854.
The All Missouri Veterans Memorial is located on the northeast corner of the Capitol grounds and offers a beautiful view for its visitors. The memorial was dedicated November 11, 1991, and features a limestone colonnade, a waterfall, reflecting pools, and a walking path.
The Missouri Law Enforcement Officers Memorial was dedicated in 1994 and is located on the northwest corner of the Capitol grounds. The memorial honors all Missouri law enforcement officers who have sacrificed their lives while serving and protecting the citizens of Missouri. Seven large plaques display the names of the officers that died in the line of duty.
The Missouri State Museum can be found on the first
floor of the Capitol building. Visitors will see exhibits, dioramas, and
displays that showcase Missouri’s cultural and natural history.
The East Wing houses a memorial to Missouri soldiers. Call (573) 751-2854
for details.
The Governor’s Garden is located on the Capitol
complex near the Governor’s Mansion. The Gardens were first constructed
in the 1930's and have expanded over the years to include flowers, pools,
and walkways. Each year the Governor’s Garden hosts a variety of
events including concerts, outdoor dramas, and weddings. For more information
call (573) 751-7929.
The Governor’s Mansion is located just east of the Capitol Building in downtown Jefferson City. It was constructed in 1871 and cost $75,000 to build. This incredible Renaissance Revival has been restored to its original splendor. Mansion tours reveal elaborate period furnishings, marble fireplaces, and stenciled ceilings. Call (573) 751-7929 for additional information.
The Cole County Historical Museum is located across the street from the Governor’s Mansion in a building that was constructed in 1871, the same year the mansion was built. The museum offers a variety of Cole County historical artifacts and a complete history of the county. Visitors can view a collection of ball gowns worn by former Missouri first ladies. For more details call (573) 635-1850.
In 1804, while exploring the Louisiana Purchase Territory, Lewis and Clark passed through what would become Jefferson City. The Lewis and Clark Marker commemorates their famous expedition. The marker was first dedicated in 1953 by the Jane Randolph Jefferson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The marker was rededicated in 2001 and is located in Howard Cook Overlook Park in the Missouri River.
The Jefferson Landing State Historic Site consists of three restored buildings: the Lohman Building, Union Hotel, and Maus House. The buildings reflect how Jefferson City appeared in the early 19th century. Close to demolition in the 1960's, the buildings were restored and renovated to their original appearance. For tour information call (573) 751-3475.
The Lohman Building is believed to be Jefferson City’s oldest structure. The three-story limestone building was built in 1839 and served as an inn, store, tavern, and warehouse. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today visitors can tour the Lohman Building and visit its museum that highlights area history. For more details call (573) 751-3475.
Union Hotel, another building in the Jefferson Landing State Historic Site, was built in 1855. The hotel was originally called the Missouri Hotel and was a busy place until steamboat traffic declined in the 1870's. Today the hotel is home to the Elizabeth Rozier Exhibit Gallery and Jefferson City’s Amtrak Station. Call (573) 751-4210 for more information.
The Christopher Maus House was constructed on Jefferson
Street in 1854. This house is a great example of nineteenth century homes
in Jefferson City. Maus House has been renovated inside and out and is
home to the Missouri Mansion Preservation. For more information call (573)
751-3475.
The Missouri Law Enforcement Museum provides a look at
Missouri law enforcement throughout the years. The museum has exhibits
on weapons, law enforcement memorabilia, as well as five completely equipped
patrol cars that date back as far as 1931. The museum is located at 1510
East Elm Street. For more details call (573) 751-3313.