Discover the North Carolina State Capitol: A Historic Gem in Raleigh

 

The North Carolina State Capitol building stands tall in Raleigh, North Carolina, a beacon of history and government. This important building has played a huge role in the state's past and continues to serve as a symbol of its proud heritage.

Raleigh: A City with History and Charm

Raleigh is the capital city of North Carolina and a major city in the central part of the state, known as the Piedmont region. It's often called the "City of Oaks" because of all the beautiful oak trees that line its streets. Raleigh is a planned city, meaning it was designed from the ground up, with the State Capitol building at its very center.

Raleigh is part of what's called the "Research Triangle," a group of cities that also includes Durham and Chapel Hill. This area is famous for its universities, like North Carolina State University in Raleigh, Duke University in Durham, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. This makes the region a hub for education, science, and culture.

Beyond the city limits, you'll find other charming towns like Cary, Apex, Wake Forest, and Garner, which are all close by and offer their own unique attractions and communities.

A Look Back in Time: The Capitol's Story

The story of the North Carolina State Capitol begins in 1792, when Raleigh was chosen to be the state's capital. An earlier statehouse was built on the same spot, but sadly, it burned down in 1831. The current building, which is still standing today, was completed in 1840.

It's a fantastic example of Greek Revival architecture, a popular style at the time that copied the look of ancient Greek temples. You'll notice its cross-shaped design and the impressive dome in the middle. The building was made with strong materials like gneiss, a type of granite, for the outside walls, and brick and stone inside. It cost a lot of money to build back then – over half a million dollars!

For many years, the Capitol housed all parts of North Carolina's government, including the legislature, the Supreme Court, and the State Library. Over time, as the state grew, these different branches moved into their own buildings. The Supreme Court and State Library moved out in 1888, and the General Assembly, which makes the laws, moved to a new State Legislative Building in 1963.

Today, the North Carolina State Capitol mainly serves as the office for the Governor and Lieutenant Governor. You can still visit and see the grand rotunda, which has a statue of George Washington, and plaques honoring important North Carolina leaders. Outside, there are monuments celebrating three U.S. Presidents from North Carolina: Andrew Jackson, Andrew Johnson, and James K. Polk, as well as memorials to women of the Confederacy and war veterans. The Capitol was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1973, showing just how important it is to the state's history.

Exploring Around the Capitol

When you visit the North Carolina State Capitol, you're in a great spot to explore other amazing places in Raleigh. Right nearby, you'll find:

  • North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: This is the largest natural history museum in the Southeast, with amazing exhibits on dinosaurs, local wildlife, and hands-on activities that are fun for all ages. You can learn more about it here: North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
  • North Carolina Museum of History: This museum tells the story of North Carolina's past, from its earliest people to modern times. It has a huge collection of artifacts and interesting exhibits. (Note: The museum is currently undergoing renovations, but you can still find information and some programs online): North Carolina Museum of History
  • Pullen Park: Just a short drive away, Pullen Park is one of the oldest public parks in North Carolina, dating back to 1887. It's a wonderful place for families, with a carousel, train rides, paddle boats, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Find out more here: Pullen Park

There are many more family-friendly activities in Raleigh, including:

  • Marbles Kids Museum: An interactive museum designed to inspire creativity and learning in children.
  • North Carolina Museum of Art: Features impressive art collections and an outdoor park with sculptures.
  • William B. Umstead State Park: Offers miles of hiking and biking trails for outdoor adventures.

For even more ideas on what to do in Raleigh, check out Visit Raleigh's Family Fun Guide.

The North Carolina State Capitol is open to visitors Monday-Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM and Saturdays from 10 AM to 5 PM. You can take a self-guided tour or join a free public guided tour on Saturdays at 11 AM and 2 PM. For more visitor information, visit The State Capitol Foundation website.

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Driving Directions from North Carolina State Capitol to Apal Building Company

To get from the North Carolina State Capitol at 1 E Edenton St, Raleigh, NC 27601, to Apal Building Company at 3721 Junction Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27603, here are the general directions:

  1. Head east on E Edenton St toward N Blount St.
  2. Turn right onto N Blount St.
  3. Turn left onto E Peace St.
  4. Merge onto US-401 N/Capital Blvd via the ramp to Louisburg/Wake Forest.
  5. Take the exit toward Triangle Town Center/Millbrook Rd.
  6. Turn right onto Millbrook Rd.
  7. Turn left onto Atlantic Ave.
  8. Turn right onto Junction Blvd.
  9. Apal Building Company will be on your left.

You can also get real-time directions using Google Maps.


Apal Building Company
3721 Junction Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27603
(919) 371-5835

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