The Texas Capitol Building stands as a magnificent symbol of the state’s rich history and legislative authority. Located in Austin, this historic building is not only an architectural marvel but also a hub of political activity and public interest. In this post, we will explore the Capitol’s history, hours, tours, its role as the seat of government, the State History Museum, room reservations, the gift shop, and some interesting trivia. Understanding the Texas Capitol’s significance provides a deeper appreciation for Texas’s cultural and political heritage.
History of the Texas Capitol
The Texas Capitol’s history dates back to the late 19th century. The original capitol building, constructed in the 1850s, was a modest structure that eventually became inadequate for the growing state. In 1881, a fire destroyed this original building, prompting the need for a new, grander capitol.
The current Texas State Capitol, completed in 1888, is a testament to Italian Renaissance Revival architecture. Architect Elijah E. Myers designed the building, which stands 308 feet tall, making it taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. The exterior is made of “Sunset Red” granite from Marble Falls, giving the building its distinctive appearance. The Texas Capitol was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986, recognizing its historical and architectural significance.
Hours of Operation
The Texas Capitol is open to the public year-round, offering access to its stunning architecture and historical exhibits. The standard visiting hours are:
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
During legislative sessions, the hours may extend to accommodate public interest and participation. Visitors should check the official Texas Capitol website for any changes or special closures, especially on state holidays.
For parking, refer to our convenient parking guide for information about nearby garages and on street parking .
Capitol of Texas Tours
Tours of the Texas Capitol provide an enriching experience for visitors. Knowledgeable guides lead these tours, offering insights into the building’s history, architecture, and legislative functions. Tours are available daily and are free of charge. The standard tour schedule is:
- Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM
Special group tours can be arranged by contacting the Capitol Visitor Center in advance. Self-guided tours are also an option, with informational brochures available to enhance the experience.
Seat of Government
The Texas Capitol serves as the seat of government for the state. It houses the offices and chambers of the Texas Legislature, including the House of Representatives and the Senate. The building also accommodates the offices of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Speaker of the House.
The legislative sessions, held biennially, bring lawmakers from across the state to the Capitol to discuss and pass legislation. The public can attend these sessions, providing a transparent view of the legislative process. The building is not only a place of historical significance but also a working government building where crucial decisions are made.
State History Museum
Adjacent to the Texas Capitol is the Bullock Texas State History Museum. This museum offers a comprehensive look at Texas’s history through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations. Highlights include:
- La Belle Exhibit: Featuring the remains of a 17th-century French shipwreck.
- Texas Revolution Gallery: Showcasing artifacts from the battle for Texas independence.
- Texas Oil and Gas Industry: Exploring the state’s economic transformation through oil discovery.
The museum provides an educational complement to the Capitol, helping visitors understand the broader context of Texas history.
Reserving Rooms
The Texas Capitol offers several rooms for public reservation, suitable for meetings, events, and educational purposes. These rooms include:
- Capitol Extension Auditorium: A large venue ideal for conferences and public hearings.
- Legislative Conference Rooms: Smaller rooms suitable for meetings and seminars.
- Capitol Rotunda: Available for special ceremonies and events.
To reserve a room, individuals must submit a request through the State Preservation Board. It’s advisable to book well in advance due to high demand, especially during legislative sessions and peak tourist seasons.
Texas Capitol Gift Shop
The Texas Capitol Gift Shop offers a wide range of souvenirs, books, and memorabilia. Located in the Capitol Extension, the shop features items that celebrate Texas’s unique culture and history. Popular items include:
- Texas-themed apparel: T-shirts, hats, and jackets with Texas symbols and slogans.
- Books: Histories of Texas, biographies of notable Texans, and legislative guides.
- Collectibles: Miniature replicas of the Texas Capitol, state flags, and commemorative coins.
The gift shop is open during Capitol visiting hours and provides a perfect opportunity to take a piece of Texas home with you.
Trivia About the Texas Capitol
- Architectural Feat: The Texas Capitol is one of the largest state capitols in the United States, with over 360,000 square feet of floor space.
- Height Comparison: At 308 feet tall, it is taller than the U.S. Capitol by 14 feet.
- Materials: The building’s exterior consists of nearly 12 million pounds of Sunset Red granite.
- Historical Preservation: The Capitol underwent a major renovation in the 1990s, preserving its historical integrity while modernizing facilities.
- Whispering Gallery: The Capitol’s rotunda creates an acoustic phenomenon where a whisper can be heard across the room, adding to its allure.
Conclusion
The Capitol stands as a beacon of Texas pride, history, and governance. From its grand architecture and historical significance to its role as the seat of government, the Capitol is a must-visit destination in Austin. Whether you’re interested in taking a guided tour, exploring the State History Museum, or simply enjoying the beautiful grounds, the Texas Capitol offers something for everyone. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for a memorable keepsake, and keep an eye out for the fascinating trivia that makes this building truly unique.
The GovExperts team welcomes you to the Texas State Capitol and hopes you have a wonderful visit! If you have an issue or business with the State of Texas, let’s talk about how we might be able to of assistance! Call us 512-480-0049 today!