Guided and Self-Guided Tours
As Connecticut’s original state capitol from 1797 to 1873, the Old State House is regarded as one of the oldest remaining state houses in the nation. Explore the home of Connecticut’s early state government, including restored legislative chambers, executive branch offices, and courtroom with interactive tours that let you experience this historic landmark on your own, or with one of our experienced guides.

Old State House at 800 Main St. (near State St.) / bird's eye views facing north, and rotated to show front, from MS Bing; street and 3D view from Google Maps; and 3D model from Google 3D warehouse.

Immerse yourself in more than 300 years of Connecticut history. Build - and rebuild - the city of Hartford over time, and discover ways our community has come together to solve yesterday's and today's problems in the Connecticut Historical Society's interactive multimedia exhibit.

Is that really a two-headed calf?  Did that horn come from a narwhal…or a unicorn? Find the answers to these and other questions for yourself at this authentic re-creation of Joseph Steward’s “Museum of Natural and Other Curiosities” that occupied the building in 1798.

New tours and visitor experiences are under development to take visitors deeper into the drama and complexity of Connecticut state government, past and present. Whether you're a new or returning visitor to Connecticut's Old State House, we hope to see you soon.

Located in downtown Hartford and easily accessible from both I-91 and I-84, Connecticut’s Old State House is operated by the Connecticut General Assembly's Office of Legislative Management. The building is air conditioned/heated and handicapped accessible.

Hours:
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last ticket sold at 4 p.m.)
Regular Schedule (following Columbus Day weekend to July 4th holiday):
Open Monday - Friday

Summer Schedule (following July 4th holiday through Columbus Day weekend):
Open Tuesday - Saturday

Admission rates are subject to change

Inclement Weather:
In case of inclement weather, check the following sources for closing or delayed opening information:

Radio:    WTIC 96.6 FM
                WDRC 1360 AM
                WDRC 102.9 FM

TV:          WFSB - 3
                NBC 30
                News Channel 8

Online:   www.wfsb.com
                www.nbcconnecticut.com
                www.wtnh.com

Old State House Smoking Policy:
For the health and safety of our visitors and collections, Connecticut's Old State House, as well as its stairs and porticos, are tobacco-free. Smoking is permitted in a designated outdoor area, equipped with a receptacle for the proper disposal of ashes and other refuse associated with the use of tobacco products.

The designated smoking area is located outside the fence on the central row side of the Old State House, just west of the gate.

Address and Contact Information:
Old State House
800 Main Street
Hartford, CT 06103
Phone: 860.522.6766
Fax: 860.522.2812
Email: ctoldstatehouse@cga.ct.gov