Texas State Capitol
A pink granite capitol completed in 1888, taller than the U.S. Capitol. The rotunda and chambers are open for free tours.
The Texas State Capitol is built of local pink granite and stands about 92 meters tall, making it one of the tallest state capitol buildings in the United States. The rotunda floor is inlaid with the seals of six flags, and looking up, you can see the Lone Star inside the dome.
Entry is free, and free guided tours (about 30–45 minutes) run every day. During legislative sessions, you can watch proceedings from the gallery. The lawn on the south side and the axis along Congress Avenue are popular photo spots. The underground extension on the north side has skylit courtyards for natural light. Security screening is required at the entrance.
Opening hours
Mon–Fri 07:00–22:00, weekends 09:00–20:00
Nearby sights
- Bullock Texas State History Museum
- Blanton Museum of Art
- Sixth Street
- Harry Ransom Center
- Franklin Barbecue
- UT Tower
- Congress Avenue Bridge Bats
- Rainey Street Historic District