Massachusetts State House

Designed by Charles Bulfinch, the ‘new’ and current State House has served as the seat of Massachusetts government since its opening in 1798. Holding the legislative and executive branches, it sits adjacent to the former site of the historic Hancock mansion. 

Visiting Massachusetts State House

24 Beacon St.
Boston MA 02108

Links for mobile use.

24 Beacon St.
Boston MA 02108

  • Directions
  • Email
  • (617) 727-3676
  • Managed by the Secretary of the Commonwealth's Office, State House Tours Division

    Secretary of the Commonwealth

    Access Information

    • Wheelchair Accessible
    • Bowdoin Street,
      Boston, MA 02108

    • Restrooms
    • Large Print
    • Assistive Listening Device
    • Braille

    Three Branches of Government

    House of Representatives

    The Massachusetts House of Representatives has 160 representatives elected for 2-year terms. It is also home to the Sacred Cod, the good luck mascot of the House of Representatives.

    House of Representatives

    Senate

    The Massachusetts State Senate has 40 senators elected for 2-year terms. Their current chamber resides under the Golden Dome.

    Senate Chamber

    Executive Branch

    Since Massachusetts’s first freely elected governor, John Hancock, 71 governors have served as the head of the executive branch. Currently, Massachusetts’s governors hold 4-year terms and work in the West Wing of the State House.

    Executive Offices

    Choose to visit Previous or next Sites on the Freedom Trail