Texas State Capitol
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The Texas State Capitol, located in downtown Austin, was built in 1888. This structure is the largest of all U.S. state capitol buildings — it is even 15 feet taller than the National Capitol Building. Uniquely, its exterior features pink granite from Granite Mountain near Marble Falls. After a fire caused severe damage to the Capitol in 1983, the building was masterfully restored and rededicated in 1988. The Texas State Capitol was listed as a National Historic Landmark in 1986, and it was honored as an addition to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970.
The Texas State Capitol sits on 51.4 sprawling acres in the heart of Austin, and the grounds feature historically significant statues and mature trees. From its location at the intersection of 11th Street and Congress Avenue, visitors can view Congress Bridge and Lady Bird Lake from the front lawn. The building is also located across the street from the Governor's Mansion.
How to Get There
The Texas State Capitol is located about 11 miles from the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in downtown Austin. Interstate 35 is the closest major thoroughfare and is only a half-mile away. Several Capital Metro bus stops are located close to the building as well.
Rent an RV For Your Visit to Texas State Capitol
Visit Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol offers free guided and self-guided tours seven days a week except for major holidays. The Capitol and its grounds occasionally host special events, cultural festivals, and public gatherings, so be sure to check the events page on the Capitol's website before your visit.
The building is open to the public for self-guided tours between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends. Guided tours run from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on weekdays and 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on weekends. On a tour, you can visit the Governor's Public Reception Hall, the Rotunda, the House of Representatives Chamber, the Senate Chamber, and other venues. The grounds are open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you want to view the historical displays and statues on the grounds, consider visiting when weather conditions are suitable.
Ticket Information
Guided tours depart roughly every 45 minutes and can be requested at the Capitol Information and Guide Services Office in room 1S.2. Pamphlets for self-guided tours are also available in this location. Both types of tours are open to the public at no cost.
Family-Friendly Options
Adults and children alike can benefit from an educational guided or self-guided tour. In fact, the building is a popular destination for local school field trips. In addition, several fun printable activity pages for kids are available online. Those visiting with a group of 10 people or more are encouraged to make a reservation in advance for a guided tour.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
For a leisurely visit to the Texas State Capitol, start with a morning stroll through the beautiful Capitol Grounds. As the sun starts to climb, head inside the Capitol Building to escape the heat. Take a guided tour to gain insights into the Capitol's architecture and historical significance. These free tours start in the Rotunda. With its ornate design and towering ceiling, this is a popular photo spot. Your tour will take you to the Senate and House chambers, the old Supreme Court Room, and the underground Capitol Extension.
After your tour, enjoy a light lunch at the Capitol Grill located in the Capitol Extension. This eatery offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, and Texan specialties. Then, head to the observation deck for panoramic views of downtown Austin. Spend some time taking photos of the city's skyline.
If you have more time to spare, wander at your own pace, examining the intricate details, artwork, and historical plaques you might have missed on the guided tour. Notably, portraits of the state's governors line the walls of each floor of the Rotunda in chronological order.
Texas State Capitol Accommodations
Campgrounds Nearby
Pecan Grove RV Park is located on a small property in the middle of downtown Austin. This Austin, Texas, campground is within walking distance of the Colorado River. What’s more, Pecan Grove RV Park is next door to the Umlauf Sculpture Garden.
Midtown RV Park is large. It is slightly to the east of downtown Austin, and this option for RV camping in Austin is a family-owned property. During your stay, you can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the grounds at Midtown RV Park
Austin Lone Star RV Resort is operated by Sun RV Resorts. It features a fitness center, and it is a gated community. In addition to great security, Austin Lone Star RV Resort is home to a playground.
Activities Near Texas State Capitol
Things to Do
Hiking and Biking
Just a short walk or drive from the Texas Capitol is the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail around Lady Bird Lake. This scenic 10-mile loop offers stunning views of the city skyline and the lake.
Geocaching
The Capitol Grounds and nearby parks provide the perfect backdrop to discover hidden geocaches while exploring the city's historical and architectural gems. In the heart of downtown Austin, where the Texas Capitol Building is situated, you can use your smartphone to embark on a modern-day treasure hunt.
Swimming
Head to Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park for a refreshing break from the Texas heat. This natural spring-fed pool maintains a consistent temperature of about 68 to 70 degrees year-round. It's less than a 10-minute drive from the Texas State Capitol.
National Sites
Weather, Safety & Accessibility
Weather & Packing
Austin generally has mild spring and fall seasons and short yet intense periods of cold weather in the winter. The summers are long and hot. While snow and ice are uncommon, severe storms often blow through the area. Because of the variability of weather conditions, it is best to review the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
Safety & Accessibility
The Texas State Capitol is a historic structure built more than 135 years ago. Some of its floors are uneven, and some hard surfaces can be slick. Care should be taken while touring the building. Wheelchairs are available for on-site use through the tour center. Be aware that motorized scooters are not permitted. Accessible parking spaces are located on the grounds.
Conclusion
A visit to the historic Texas Capitol Building is an excellent way to learn more about the state's history and government. With its convenient location in the heart of the city, this is a must-see attraction while touring downtown Austin. It will surely inspire you to discover more of what the United States offers.
FAQ
While camping is not available at the Texas Capitol Building or within walking distance, there are several destinations to consider relatively nearby. Both McKinney Falls State Park and Bastrop State Park are located in the vicinity and offer opportunities for camping, hiking, and other activities. The Austin East KOA Holiday is also in the area, and it offers RV sites, tent campsites, cabins, a pool, a dog park, and other amenities.
The Texas Capitol Building and grounds are not designed to accommodate RV parking. Nearby parking garages and street parking are only suitable for personal vehicles. In addition, public transportation and car-hire services are available for easy access to the area.
Like many government buildings, the Capitol has security measures in place. Expect to go through a security checkpoint upon entering, similar to what you'd encounter at an airport, but typically faster.
People of all ages and abilities are welcome to visit the Texas Capitol Building. All visitors are encouraged to navigate the building carefully due to the narrow staircases, slick floors, and uneven surfaces.
Only service animals are permitted inside the Texas Capitol Building. However, pets are allowed on the Capitol Grounds as long as they are well-behaved and on a leash.