The North Dakota State Capitol is only one of four skyscraper capitols in the United States. That is one of the many interesting facts about our Capitol building. The building is filled with state memorabilia and hidden gems, like the so-called "monkey room", which is near the Secretary of State's office. This area of the Capitol features a wood wall, in which the grain evokes images, including monkeys, thus the nickname it was given. As you walk through the building, you will find the Rough Rider Hall of Fame. This is along the ground floor of the Capitol and showcases prominent North Dakotans. Conversely, when you head to the top floor, or observation deck, there are 360-degree views of Bismarck and surrounding areas. On a clear day, you are able to see up to 35 miles away from this floor of the Capitol. There are also historic photos along with rotating works from local artists throughout the observation deck.
Sacagawea (Sacajawea), Shoshone Indian woman who, as interpreter, traveled thousands of miles with the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804–06), from the Mandan-Hidatsa villages in the Dakotas to the Pacific Northwest. Read here to learn more about Sacagawea.