Capital cities are more than official seats of government and administrative centers. Each offers its own distinctive characteristics and ways to explore its unique history, beauty and charm.
Albany, NY
Albany represents the oldest chartered city in the U.S. Located along the Hudson River, the city offers many waterfront activities. Visitors can take a historic downtown architectural tour, a scenic boat tour, stroll or bike along the Hudson or explore the Albany Pine Bush preserve.
Sailing on the Chesapeake Bay in Annapolis (Photo Credit: Noreen Kompanik)
Annapolis, MD
Annapolis is famous for its maritime history and is home to the United States Naval Academy. The town includes cobblestone streets, colonial-era buildings and a lovely waterfront. The best way to experience Annapolis is by sailing on the Chesapeake Bay.
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta is known for its role in the Civil Rights Movement and the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The National Historic Park offers an in-depth look at his life and legacy. Other places to explore include the impressive Georgia Aquarium and the iconic World of Coca-Cola.
Augusta, ME
Maine’s charming capital is located on the Kennebec River. Outdoor enthusiasts will love hiking the Kennebec River Rail Trail, a 16-mile-long path perfect for walking, biking, and snowshoeing in the winter months.
Austin, Texas skyline at sunset. (Photo Credit: Ryan Conine/Adobe)
Austin, TX
Quirky laid-back vibe with serious state pride, Austin is into the live music scene, food culture and outdoor adventures. Lady Bird Lake is ideal for kayaks and paddleboarding. Don’t miss the bizarre bat watching at Congress Avenue Bridge, where 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge just before sunset.
Baton Rouge, LA
Located along the Mississippi River, Baton Rouge sports a rich history, vibrant culture and Cajun and Creole influences. Home to Louisiana State University (LSU), the town is famous for its blues, jazz and zydeco music. Steamboat cruises and plantation swamp tours are well-received.
Louisiana State Capitol building at dusk, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Ball Studios)
Bismarck, ND
The city with the lowest winter temperature of all state capitals offers Midwestern charm, outdoor activities and a myriad of places to explore. The Missouri River is a big draw for kayakers, fishermen and boaters. Hiking is popular, as is cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing and sledding.
Boise, ID
Laid-back Boise offers year-round adventures. The Boise River Greenbelt sports 25 miles of parks and trails, while Table Rock, a popular but challenging hike, is worth it for the panoramic views at the top. Harris Ranch is great for hiking and fishing, while winter brings skiing and snowboarding.
Boston, MA
History oozes from every corner of Boston. The Freedom Trail, a 2.5 walkable route, is ideal for immersing in 16 historical sites that played a major role in the American Revolution. Docked in Charlestown, the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship afloat, offers tours and stunning views. You won’t find a better sight perspective than at the top of Bunker Hill Monument.
Carson City, NV
This hidden gem in the Sierra Nevada Mountains offers a delightful small-town vibe. The Kit Carson Trail through downtown visits 58 historic sites, including old homes, churches and buildings dating back to the mid-1800s. The Carson River is great for kayaking, canoeing and fishing, and picturesque Lake Tahoe is a short drive away.
Charleston, WV
Charleston presents a mix of Southern hospitality, Appalachian culture and modern-day appeal. Past the impressive gold-domed West Virginia State Capitol building and elegant Governor’s Mansion, Charleston is great for the outdoors enthusiast. The Kanawha River offers riverfront walks, kayaking, biking and scenic views and the Kanawha State Forest boasts over 9,000 acres of hiking, mountain biking and wildlife watching.
Rodeo action at the Cheyenne Frontier Days festival in Wyoming. (Photo via Cheyenne Frontier Days)
Cheyenne, WY
Cheyenne is the epitome of Western charm, serving as the gateway to Wyoming’s awe-inspiring nature. Known for its cowboy culture, Old West historic sites and wide-open spaces, visitors can attend one of the largest and famous rodeos in the world and get outdoors for horseback riding, ranching, hiking, biking and fishing.
Columbia, SC
Named after Christopher Columbus, Columbia is steeped in Southern history and ideal for nature buffs. Congaree National Park is home to a pristine bottomland hardwood forest with boardwalks, hiking trails and canoeing. Lake Murray offers walking trails, as does Riverfront Park, along with a historic canal with stunning river views.
Columbus, Ohio skyline from Bicentennial Park. (Photo Credit: Christian Hinkle/Adobe)
Columbus, OH
Home to the championship Ohio State Buckeyes, Columbus offers a myriad of land to water experiences. From conservatories and botanical gardens to the renowned Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, quirky neighborhoods and the iconic Ohio State Fair, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this diverse town.
Concord, NH
The town may be small, but the New England village is big on charm and history. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast or looking for a peaceful escape, Concord is your place. The New Hampshire State House is one of the oldest in the U.S. in continuous use. Historic sites abound and coastal parks offer walking trails and tide pools.
Denver, CO
Visitors to the mile-high city can dive into the local culture through its food and beer scene (with over 150 breweries), Union Station, museums, botanical gardens, zoo and city park. Venture just outside the city proper and you’ll find Cherry Creek State Park with hiking, biking, horseback riding and a reservoir for boating and fishing.
Denver’s Union Station (Photo by Noreen Kompanik)
Des Moines, IA
Originally named “Fort Raccoon,” the city offers a 5-mile path along the Des Moines River with lovely views and walking and biking trails in its parks. The Iowa State Capitol is an architectural masterpiece with a golden dome dominating the skyline. Historic East Village is filled with charming Victorian-style buildings, art galleries and more.
Dover, DE
Once an important stop on the Underground Railroad, Dover is loaded with historical sites in First Heritage State Park, the place to immerse in its early colonial and revolutionary past. Dover Air Force Base is home to the Air Mobility Museum. Outdoor activities include walking, fishing, and the 16,000-acre Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge with wetlands and observation towers.
Frankfort, KY
The only Union capital overtaken and occupied by the Confederacy during the Civil War, Frankfort is nestled along the banks of the Kentucky River. There are numerous 18th and 19th-century landmarks and museums to explore, along with bourbon tours, celebrating the spirit created in the 1780s.
Harrisburg, PA
Harrisburg is home to the longest stone arch bridge in the world. The Pennsylvania State Capitol is an architectural gem, and the museums deep dive into Pennsylvania’s history and the Civil War. Numerous parks offer panoramic views of the Susquehanna River and the surrounding area.
Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford, Connecticut. (Photo Credit: saebaryo / flickr)
Hartford, CT
Teddy Roosevelt took the first presidential automobile ride on the streets of Hartford in 1902. The Mark Twain House is where the legendary author penned some of his best-known works and the Harriett Beecher Stowe Center celebrates her life and work. Situated along the Connecticut River, Hartford offers a plethora of outdoor activities.
Helena, MT
Helena was once named “Last Chance Gulch” due to its mining history. The small city bursts with charm, natural beauty and history. The Mountain West region is known for its historic sites, picturesque hiking trails and lakes.
Honolulu, HI
Located on the island of Oahu, Honolulu’s Hawaiian culture meets a bustling modern city vibe. Waikiki is Honolulu’s iconic surfing beach and Iolani Palace is the only royal palace located in the U.S. The Diamond Head hike provides sweeping views of the city and coastline, Hanauma Bay is a stunning snorkeling destination, and a visit to Pearl Harbor is a must.
Hanauma bay in Honolulu on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. (Photo Credit: Ryan Tishken / Adobe Stock)
Indianapolis, IN
Often referred to as “Indy,” the capital city is best known for its sports. The Indy 500 is the crown jewel of the racing world, and city worships its NFL and NBA teams. Indianapolis also has numerous museums, a zoo, and prestigious Purdue University.
Jackson, MS
The “City with Soul,” founded in 1821, was crucial during the Civil Rights Movement- hosting Freedom Riders, Medgar Evers’ activism and protests. Visitors can explore impressive Craftsman, Colonial and Queen Anne homes and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum + Museum of Mississippi History is a must-see.
Jefferson City, MO
Missouri’s capital brims with rich history, scenic river vistas and cultural charm. Trailhead Plaza showcases Lewis & Clark statues and great views of the Missouri River. Built in 1871, the Renaissance Revival Governor’s Mansion offers guided tours. If you’re into walking and biking, the Katy Trail along the river features magnificent landscapes.
Juneau, AK
Alaska’s picturesque capital city offers a myriad of unique outdoor activities, which include float planes, packrafting, icefield trekking, whale watching and the 1800-foot tram ride to Mt. Roberts offering stunning panoramas of downtown Juneau and beyond.
A Royal Caribbean whale watching excursion in Juneau delivered as promised, with bonus elements including a warm, sunny evening and a stunning sunset. (Photo Credit: Gordon Searle)
Lansing, MI
Lansing is the birthplace of the Oldsmobile and Magic Johnson’s hometown. Interestingly enough, it has a network of underground steam tunnels located under Michigan State University, and the hidden Red Cedar River actually flows under parts of the downtown. Adado Riverfront Park features public works from international artists and the town boasts a thriving community theater tradition.
Lincoln, NE
Lincoln is more than cornfields and football. It’s a vibrant, artsy, youthful, outdoorsy city. The Nebraska State Capitol is more like a skyscraper than a dome, but it offers incredible plains vistas from its observation tower. Over 130 miles of trails are located here, including the MoPac Trail, a former railroad turned bike path that stretches into the countryside.
Little Rock, AK
Little Rock, nestled along the banks of the Arkansas River, maintains a throwback small-town appeal with gracious hospitality. The Old State House and Museum and the Clinton Presidential Library are must-visit sites. One of the most emotional, thought-provoking experiences can be found at Little Rock Central High School, where the African-American Little Rock Nine students’ steadfast determination and bravery helped propel the Civil Rights Movement throughout the South.
Madison, WI
The only U.S. state capital built on an isthmus, Madison sits between two lakes, offering incredible views in nearly every direction. Home to the University of Wisconsin, the capital is one of the greenest cities in the U.S., with more parks per capita than most large cities. The area is great for outdoor enthusiasts with kayaking, paddleboarding, biking and cross-country skiing as top activities.
Montgomery, AL
The first U.S. city with an electric streetcar system, Montgomery is renowned for its pivotal roles in both the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement. No visitor should miss the Rosa Parks Museum, Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. rose to national prominence, and the Equal Justice Initiative memorial.
A bus similar to the one where Rosa Parks made her stand against Jim Crow segregation laws. (Photo Credit: Flickr / sabudama)
Montpelier, VT
As the least populated U.S. capital, Montpelier is deeply rooted in Vermont’s fierce independent spirit. The gold-domed Vermont State House Capitol is one of the oldest and most stunning in the U.S. Surrounded by the Green Mountains, the city has trails, rivers and forested hills within walking distance. A hike up Hubbard Park to the Stone Tower offers impressive eye shots, and in winter, cross-country skiing is popular.
Nashville, TN
Home to the Grand Ole Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame, diverse Nashville is more than the capital of country music. The city is home to major league teams, has a full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Centennial Park, is part of the American Whiskey Trail and is famous for its Belle Meade Plantation.
Oklahoma City, OK
This complex city is an interesting mix of Native American heritage, frontier grit, horses and modern innovation and the only U.S. capital with an active oil well on the lawn. Its resilience is highlighted in the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, a tribute to the 1995 bombing, which killed 168 people. The Boathouse District on the Oklahoma River features whitewater rafting and kayaking.
Olympia, WA
Olympia is a quirky, creative, eco-conscious destination situated at the southern tip of Puget Sound with stunning scenery of the Olympic Mountains. The downtown spills into a boardwalk and marina of Percival Landing with kayaking spots, and Budd Inlet offers the chance to see seals, herons and orcas.
Desert sunset with mountain near Phoenix, Arizona (Photo Credit: Jenifoto/Adobe Stock)
Phoenix, AZ
The “Valley of the Sun” has deep indigenous roots and otherworldly landscapes set in the Sonoran Desert, one of the most biodiverse deserts in the world. Jaw-dropping nature can be seen in places like Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak and South Mountain Park. If you’re into desert hiking, this is nirvana.
Pierre, SD
The sleepy Midwestern town near the historic Lewis and Clark Trail has preserved its small-town charm, mostly by not being on an interstate highway. The Missouri River runs through Pierre, offering magnificent scenery with fishing, boating and stunning sunsets. Lake Oahe, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the U.S., is popular for walleye fishing and camping.
Providence, R.I. Photo by Paul Heney. (Photo by Paul Heney.)
Providence, RI
Providence, home to Brown University, is an artsy, historic and idiosyncratic town with 17th-century colonial buildings, Gothic churches and Federal-style mansions. Its dark, gothic undercurrent is fascinating for those into the ‘dark arts.’ The allure, however, is that Providence is built around three rivers and close to Narragansett Bay, offering incredible sailing.
Raleigh, NC
Though it’s part of the Research Triangle along with Duke University and UNC-Chapel Hill, Raleigh manages to retain its Southern charm. The city with Southern soul is filled with oak-lined streets and impressive parks. Its extensive greenway system offers over 100 miles of paved paths connecting parks, lakes and neighborhoods, and most of its museums are free.
Richmond, VA
The capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War, Richmond is one of the best street art cities in the country. The James River runs through downtown with Class III-IV rapids within city limits. The natural playground offers kayaking, tubing and swimming. If you’re into the beer scene, Richmond is considered the Craft Beer Capital of the South with 40+ breweries.
The California state capitol in Sacramento is a wonderful piece of architecture surrounded by sensational gardens. (Photo Credit: Jim Byers/TravelPulse Canada)
Sacramento, CA
The state capital is full of surprises with its gold rush history, political power, creative spirit and picturesque tree-lined streets. Old Sacramento celebrates the Wild West days with wooden sidewalks, horse-drawn carriages and Gold Rush Museums. Two rivers (the Sacramento and American) converge in the city, offering kayaking, paddleboarding and fishing.
St. Paul, MN
The capital boasts more shoreline along the Mississippi River than any other American city. The home of F. Scott Fitzgerald offers gritty river-town charm, cozy cafes, history, character, civic pride and a love of ice hockey. In the winter, pond hockey is popular and extreme downhill skating takes place right through the city streets.
Salem, Oregon. (Photo Credit: Flickr/Edmund Garman)
Salem, OR
Salem’s Oregon State Capitol is one of the only Art Deco-style state capitols in the U.S., crowned with the Oregon Pioneer, a gold-leaf statue honoring early settlers. The Willamette River runs through the city, offering scenic rides via ferry. Silver Falls State Park is home to an unforgettable hiking loop with waterfalls, and the area is known for its world-class Pinot Noir wines and its cherry blossoms.
Salt Lake City, UT
Named after the massive Great Salt Lake, saltier than the ocean, the city is known for its brine shrimp and its surreal alien-like landscapes. Temple Square is the city’s spiritual and visual centerpiece and world-class skiing is only about 30 minutes away.
Santa Fe, NM
Santa Fe is the oldest state capital and the highest elevation at 7,000 feet above sea level. If you’re into art, you’ll find unforgettable immersive experiences at its host of galleries scattered throughout the easily walkable town, including those featuring authentic Native American forms of art.
Santa Fe, New Mexico (Photo via Noreen Kompanik)
Springfield, IL
With its grand, stately buildings and location along legendary Route 66, the city is most famous as the home of Abraham Lincoln. Springfield has one of the best presidential museums in the country – emotional, interactive and beautifully curated. Lincoln’s Tomb is an impressive granite monument and the Lincoln Heritage Trail runs through much of the city, connecting to other historic sites such as the Lincoln home and Old State Capitol.
Tallahassee, FL
The Panhandle capital city is culturally more like Georgia or Alabama with its magnolia trees, welcoming front porches and sweet tea. Home to several universities, including Florida State (FSU), the area is hilly, green and forested with parks and gardens. Wakulla Springs is one of the deepest freshwater springs in the world, where guests can swim in crystal clear water, take a riverboat tour and visit locations where parts of Tarzan and Creature from the Black Lagoon were filmed.
Topeka, KS
The city blends prairie-town friendliness with Midwestern grit, and is a place where American ideals were challenged and changed. Topeka is the home of Brown v. Board of Education, the 1954 landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision that struck down racial segregation in public schools. Guests can visit the National Historic Site located at Monroe Elementary School.
Trenton, NJ
Trenton’s industrial legacy is celebrated as a city that was a national center for steel, rubber, ceramics, wire rope, Lenox china and automotive parts. The famous slogan “Trenton Makes, the World Takes” lights up in giant red letters on the Lower Trenton Bridge over the Delaware River.
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