Is the Texas State Capitol free to visit?

Yes, the Texas State Capitol offers free tours in the city core. Visitors can take a free guided tour to see where the Senate meets and learn about Texas history.

What are the hours of operation for the Texas State Capitol?

The Texas State Capitol is typically open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

What is the Texas State Capitol made of and when was it built?

The Texas State Capitol is an elaborate structure constructed of granite dating back to 1888. It is famous for its distinctive pinky-red hue.

What is there to do on the grounds of the Capitol?

The surrounding grounds feature landscaped gardens, monuments, and numerous walking trails, making them perfect for getting some fresh air.

What should I check before going?

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

Texas State Capitol in Austin

What to know

Completed in 1888 after beginning construction in 1882, the Texas State Capitol is a masterpiece of Renaissance Revival architecture designed by Elijah E. Myers. Known for its distinctive pinky-red hue, the massive structure is faced in Texas red granite and was the largest statehouse in the country upon its completion. The building features a three-story layout with a four-story central block, housing 392 rooms and 404 doors. Reflecting a deliberate statement of Texas ambition, the building's commissioners explicitly boasted that the capitol would be bigger and finer than other major capitol buildings. Indeed, the Texas State Capitol stands at 302.64 feet tall, making it 14.64 feet taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., which stands at 288 feet. This impressive height is measured from the south front ground level to the tip of the star on the Goddess of Liberty statue atop the dome. Today, this historic landmark in downtown Austin houses the offices and chambers of the Texas Legislature and the Governor of Texas. Visitors can take free guided tours of the grand civic architecture to see where the Senate meets and learn about the state's storied history. Surrounding the capitol building are beautifully landscaped grounds perfect for fresh air, featuring various monuments and numerous walking trails. The capitol's location in Austin is itself a testament to early Texan determination. In December 1842, during the Archives War, President Sam Houston attempted to secretly remove the Republic of Texas archives from the city. Local hero Angelina Eberly fired a cannon to alert citizens, sparking a pursuit that successfully preserved the archives in Austin, helping secure its status as the permanent capital by 1850.

Visitor tips

Take advantage of the free guided tours to see where the Senate meets and learn about Texas history.
The Capitol is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Spend time exploring the surrounding grounds to see the monuments and walk the landscaped trails.

Nearby context

Situated in the heart of downtown Austin, the Texas State Capitol serves as the anchor of the city's civic core. The surrounding streets are filled with bustling government offices, historic sites, and local businesses, making it a natural starting point for exploring central Austin. Walking south from the Capitol gates leads you directly down Congress Avenue, connecting this historic seat of power with the vibrant cultural and commercial life of the city.