What are the hours for the Capitol Visitors Center?

The center is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Sunday from 12:00 pm (noon) to 5:00 pm.

What is the history of the building housing the Capitol Visitors Center?

The center is housed in the beautifully restored original General Land Office building, which was built in 1857. It is a three-story, castle-like Medieval Revival structure that stands as the oldest surviving government office building in Austin and the oldest state office building in Texas.

What exhibits and attractions can I see inside the center?

Inside, you can view rotating and permanent exhibits, such as 'A Diverse Blend: Celebrating Texas Food,' as well as a replica model of the Capitol dome with cut-away construction views. Visitors can also watch the video 'Building for the Ages' and browse the gift shop for souvenirs.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Capitol Visitors Center in Austin

Q: Where is the Capitol Visitors Center located?

The Capitol Visitors Center is located at 112 East 11th Street, on the southeast corner of the Capitol grounds in Austin, Texas.

Capitol Visitors Center

Housed in Austin's oldest surviving government building, this castle-like 1857 landmark offers interactive exhibits, a replica Capitol dome, and Texas history insights on the southeast corner of the Capitol grounds.

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What to know

The Texas Capitol Visitors Center is located in a striking, three-story, castle-like structure at 112 East 11th Street, situated on the southeast corner of the Capitol grounds. Built in 1857, this beautifully restored building originally served as the General Land Office. Today, it stands as the oldest surviving government office building in Austin and the oldest state office building in Texas. Its distinct Medieval Revival design draws from medieval and Norman styles, featuring stucco-covered limestone that was incised to resemble blocks of cut stone. Recognizing its immense historical value, the building was designated a Texas Historic Landmark in 1962 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. Inside, the center serves as an engaging gateway to Texas history, filled with artifacts, educational videos, and interactive exhibits. One of the highlights is a detailed replica model of the nearby Capitol dome, which features cut-away views showing how the massive dome was constructed. Visitors can also watch the informative video "Building for the Ages" to learn more about the Capitol's creation. For those interested in local culture, the center hosts rotating and permanent exhibits, such as "A Diverse Blend: Celebrating Texas Food," which takes guests on a flavorful journey exploring the diverse roots of Texas cuisine. Beyond its exhibits, the center functions as a practical starting point for exploring the wider Capitol grounds. Visitors can pick up free self-guided tour brochures to explore at their own pace, or take advantage of the free guided and self-guided tours offered directly by the center. Before leaving, guests can browse the on-site gift shop to find unique Texas souvenirs and gifts.

Visitor tips

Visit Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, or Sunday from noon to 5:00 pm.
Admission is free, and you can pick up self-guided tour pamphlets to explore the Capitol grounds.
Stop by the gift shop inside to purchase Texas-themed souvenirs and gifts.

Nearby context

Located at 112 East 11th Street on the southeast corner of the Capitol grounds, the Capitol Visitors Center serves as the perfect gateway to the Texas State Capitol complex in downtown Austin. After exploring the center's exhibits, visitors can easily walk the surrounding grounds, which are open daily, or head over to the main Capitol building to join one of the free 30-minute guided tours departing from the South Foyer.