State capitals are more than just a hub of political activity. They’re the heart and soul of a state in city form, and they weren’t picked at random. These cities were carefully chosen for their strategic location, economic significance, and political clout. And with that comes great responsibility.
But not all state capitals have managed to hold onto their titles. As time passes, history unfolds, borders are renegotiated, and priorities shift.
Some cities that were once the center of their states have since lost their crowns. But this doesn’t mean they faded into the background. Quite the contrary, in fact. Many of these former capitals are now vibrant cities with rich histories and beautiful architecture – all thanks to their former capital status.
7. Natchez, Mississippi
Perched high up on the Mississippi River, Natchez was the first capital of Mississippi. But its reign didn’t last long. It was the capital from 1817 to 1821 – four short years, to be exact. Although, it is important to point out that it was also the capital of the Mississippi Territory before it became a US state.
The city played a big role in the cotton trade and has many stories to tell of the African American experience – both about freedom and slavery.
After 1821, the power center shifted to Jackson because of its more centralized location in the state. Makes sense since Natchez is on the Louisiana border…
Mississippi made up for its short political role with its strong Southern charm, antebellum architecture, and magnificent estates like Longwood and Rosalie Mansion.
The river views are reason enough to visit, but I’ll always recommend a drive along the state’s stretch of the Natchez Trace Parkway.
6. Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg was the capital of Virginia for 81 years. It only lost its title during the Revolutionary War, when leaders like Thomas Jefferson (yup, the second president of the United States) decided it wasn’t the best option for capital. Its location along the James River and proximity to the coast made it vulnerable to attacks from the British. Naturally, Richmond seemed like a much more secure choice.
Between 1699 and 1980, Williamsburg played a major role in America’s colonial era and Revolution. Today, the city has turned its past into its present, particularly if you visit the Living History Museum at Colonial Williamsburg.
And it’s not only in this museum where history takes center stage. The entire city today is an embodiment of the colonial era. It’s also home to one of the country’s oldest universities and the Busch Gardens theme park.
5. Detroit, Michigan
Before it was known as the Motor City, Detroit had a more politically charged role as Michigan’s capital between 1805 and 1847. But as settlers moved west, Lansing was chosen as a more central location.
Moving the political faction of the state allowed Detroit to become the industrial powerhouse we know it to be today. It’s a little bit gritty, but what else do you expect from the center of the automobile manufacturing industry? It’s this grit, combined with an uber-cool local population, that allowed the art and culture scene to blossom. And boy oh boy, did it blossom alright.
Having experienced its biggest growth boom during the early 20th century, the city is now scattered with Art Deco buildings. It has the perfect mix of industry and art — and we’re all for it.
4. Newport, Rhode Island
Back in the Gilded Age, America’s elite flocked to Newport to sip iced tea on the summery beaches – and it’s easy to see why. It has a European flair, surprisingly lovely weather, and is absolutely gorgeous to look at.
But before elites like the Vanderbilts built their summer homes here, the city served as Rhode Island’s joint colonial capital city with Providence until 1900. Providence then took over the entire role, leaving Newport to focus on nothing but its stunning coastline and sailing culture.
What Newport lacks in government power, it more than makes up for in beautiful coastal views and historic manor homes. Seriously, the architecture here is next level. Just check out The Breakers and Marble House for a little taste of the Gilded Age grandeur. It’s also home to the oldest synagogue in the country.
3. New Orleans, Louisiana
The Crescent City briefly served as Louisiana’s capital twice, once in 1722 and again in 1866. The city was founded in 1718 by the French and quickly grew to become the state’s economic and political hub. But as it grew bigger and bigger, the state feared that politicians were too focused on the capital city, and not enough on the rest of Louisiana.
Baton Rouge then took the title, erecting the tallest state capitol building in the US — but that’s a story for another time. Back in New Orleans, culture thrived, mixing Spanish, French, and Creole populations.
The French Quarter is a must-visit. With its decorative balconies and lively vibes (especially along Bourbon Street). Few places have as much buzz and energy as this city.
2. Savannah, Georgia
Moss-draped oak trees and cobblestone streets are what first pop to mind when I think of Savannah. But did you know that the city served as Georgia’s colonial capital between 1733 and 1786?
It was eventually replaced by Augusta, and later, Atlanta, but none were as charming and quintessentially Southern as Savannah.
The city was one of the few Southern cities not destroyed during the Civil War – and it is just as well. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re walking through history. Well-preserved architecture, picture-perfect squares and parks, and oh, that Southern charm…
Places like Forsyth Park, the Mercer-Williams House, and the hauntingly beautiful Bonaventure Cemetery showcase the city’s storied past.
1. San Francisco, California
It’s not hard to imagine San Francisco being the Californian state capital. Maybe it’s because of the capitol-like Civic Center and the eclectic gathering of cultures that call the city home.
Well, San Francisco did serve as the temporary capital for a brief moment in 1862 because of flooding in Sacramento. The inland city of Sacramento was favored for its security from coastal attacks and natural disasters — San Francisco does lie on the San Andreas Fault, after all.
Despite this, the city never lost its allure and is still one of the country’s most iconic places. It’s famous for its technological boom, Golden Gate Bridge, and eerily foggy weather. Fun fact: the fog is so thick and legendary that it has its own name.
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