Capitol Square Tour - West Lawn
From the Allegan St. sidewalk, take the south sidewalk toward the building and turn left at the stairs.
Capitol Geothermal System
Beneath the surface of the west lawn is a massive geothermal system that provides the Capitol with efficient, renewable heating and cooling. 272 wells were dug about 500 feet below the surface of the earth. A liquid solution circulates through piping in these wells, absorbing the constant 55-degree heat from the surrounding earth. The solution is heated or cooled in an underground central utility plant, and then circulated to fan coil unites throughout the building.
Proceed toward the back stairs of the Capitol.
The West Grounds
Mirroring the front, east lawn, the west lawn was originally a green, park-like space. Starting in the 1930’s, the west side of Capitol Square was steadily converted into parking space for state officials and employees. As construction was completed on the geothermal system and Heritage Hall, the west side of Capitol Square was redesigned with grass, walkways, and plantings. The restoration of the west lawn brings Capitol Square much closer to its original, 19th century appearance, providing a pleasant green setting for our Capitol.
Begin to walk the curved sidewalk toward the northwest corner of Capitol Square.
Heritage Hall Skylights
A series of four skylights rise above Heritage Hall on the north side of the west grounds. Together they provide critical light to the underground structure, while simultaneously offering visitors striking views of the Capitol dome and exterior architecture.
At the corner of Walnut St. and Ottawa St., take a right to find the entrance of Heritage Hall.
Heritage Hall
Officially dedicated on November 29, 2022, Heritage Hall is a project 35 years in the making. Intended to complement but not overshadow our historical Capitol, Heritage Hall was designed by Quinn Evans Architects and The Christman Company managed its construction. This 40,000 square foot facility provides Capitol visitors, staff, and elected officials with much-needed space for education, events, and meetings.
We hope you enjoyed your tour of Capitol Square. Proceed into Heritage Hall to learn more about the Capitol, take a guided tour, or start another smartphone tour!