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Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the Union, but its magnificent capitol building is topped with the fourth largest self-supported dome in the world — after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, the Minnesota State Capitol and the Taj Mahal. Much of the grand neoclassical structure, which was built between 1895 and 1901 on a hill just north of downtown Providence, is open to the public weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Highlights of the visit include the rotunda beneath the massive dome, a mural inside the dome showing founding father Roger Williams establishing the colony at Providence, a period portrait of George Washington painted by Rhode Island artist Gilbert Stuart, and the ornate State House Library. Visitors also get to see the original Royal Charter granted by King Charles II of England establishing the colony of Rhode Island in 1663.

The State House entrance is on Smith Street west of State Street, and visitors should be prepared to pass through a security checkpoint to enter the building. For more information, call 401-222-2357 or visit www3.sec.state.ri.us.