"Cornerstone To Cupola" Tour of the Ohio Statehouse

Did you know that prisoners were once stashed in the crypt at the Ohio Statehouse? Did you know that the Ohio Statehouse had a crypt? (Just for the record, I didn't.)

You can see prisoner grafitti and lots more behind-the-scenes stuff during special event tours scheduled for Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19. The tour is NOT ADA accessible, and includes a climb up more than 70 stairs through the narrow spiral staircase to the top of the Cupola. So heels aren't a great idea...In fact, staff suggests that you dress "for attic and basement exploration."

There are three tour times each day: 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Space is limited; tours are restricted to 20 individuals per tour start time. All tours depart from the Map Room. The easiest way to the Map Room is via the Third Street Statehouse entrance. Participants will be required to sign a waiver; kids under age 18 will require the signature of their guardian.

Tickets are $10 per adult and $4 per child under the age of 16. You can only buy them through the Ohio Statehouse Museum shop. The shop is on the ground level of the Capitol building, and open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The shop also sells them online at www.statehouseshop.com, but a $2 handling and shipping charge is added to each online order.

If you can't make the July dates, the Ohio Statehouse offers less strenuous, free tours every day. Call ahead for group reservations.

Photo courtesy of the Ohio Statehouse Photo Archive.