The Arizona State Capitol Museum is located on the Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza. The dome is built from copper and the building itself is a simple design out of granite. The Capitol Museum is the original Capitol building, dating back to 1900 and built 12 years before Arizona became a recognized state. Starting in 1960 the legislature moved to the building behind the Museum because they outgrew the old building.
Inside the Museum you will find an array of murals showing Arizona’s scenery, how it developed and progressed to becoming a state. The murals tell the story of Arizona. A statue of Arizona’s first governor, George W. P. Hunt, many notable photos, as well as the original house and senate chambers are in the museum. Outside you can journey around the Wesley Bolin Plaza and enjoy a grassy area encompassing 2 blocks of sculptures and monuments.
The anchor from the USS Arizona, which sank during the Pearl Harbor invasion by the Japanese in 1941, is mounted on the eastern end of the plaza. The anchor serves as a memorial to those who died aboard the ship serving their country. There are other memorials for both Korean and Vietnam war veterans.
The Museum is open from 8am- 5pm weekdays, admission is free. The Wesley Bolin Plaza is accessible during day light hours only and is free. If you make arrangements in advance you can schedule a guided tour through both the Museum and the Plaza. Tours run 2 times a day. A great place to visit while staying at vacation rentals in Scottsdale, Az.