Imagination is an amazing thing, isn’t it? Whether we lose ourselves in a book, like Harry Potter, or create our own stories, we can travel to faraway places, meet characters that we probably wouldn’t run into in real life, and have a lifetime of experiences in mere minutes. Then there are those things that spark our imagination. Take this breathtaking destination in Iowa as an example. Step inside, and you might expect to run into Harry, Hermione, and Ron.
A majestic building overlooking Des Moines, the Iowa State Capitol Building may not conjure images of Harry Potter at first glance.
Google/Matthew Matyjek
However, when you stroll through the front door and begin exploring this breathtaking destination in Iowa - and the State Law Library, in particular - your imagination will likely whisk you straight to Hogwarts.
Google/John Hsieh Tucked on the second floor, the State Law Library sits between the Senate and House chambers.
With sweeping staircases, towering bookcases, and glittering chandeliers, the interior of the Capitol Building looks as though it’s stepped straight from the pages of Harry Potter - or an old-fashioned fairy tale.
Google/Jordan Baer
The home of Iowa’s state government since 1886, the Capitol Building also houses the State Law Library, well-known as one of the world’s most beautiful libraries.
Google/Bob Carey
You’ll quickly see why this library, which boasts a collection of more than 105,000 books, has earned such accolades. The 45-foot ceiling features stain-glassed inserts and intricately-designed railings that lead up spiral staircases.
State Library of Iowa
The State Law Library welcomes lawmakers, those in the legal community, and the public to check out its vast collection of legal literature.
Google/Scott Mason
While you might not find the Harry Potter series on the shelves, you can delve into Iowa’s rich history. The Iowa Collection features non-fiction books focused on Iowa’s history, notable Iowans, and more.
Trip Advisor/David C. You are permitted to take photos and videos in the State Law Library where the public is allowed access.
Head over to the Iowa State Capitol website, where you can sign up for a guided tour.
Google/Darrell Hornick Even if you can’t make it to the State Capitol, you can still tour it virtually. Go on a virtual tour.
Is there another destination in Iowa that reminds you of Harry Potter or Hogwarts? Tell us about it in the comments! Then take a peek at these 13 magical spots in Iowa that are straight out of a fairy tale.
Google/Matthew Matyjek
Google/John Hsieh
Tucked on the second floor, the State Law Library sits between the Senate and House chambers.
Google/Jordan Baer
Google/Bob Carey
State Library of Iowa
Google/Scott Mason
Trip Advisor/David C.
You are permitted to take photos and videos in the State Law Library where the public is allowed access.
Google/Darrell Hornick
Even if you can’t make it to the State Capitol, you can still tour it virtually. Go on a virtual tour.
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Address: 1112 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50319, USA
