Texas Capitol

The basics

To get a solid understanding of the state's past and present, stop by the capitol—zip by for a photo or, better yet, walk in for a guided Texas Capitol tour. The building is part of most downtown Austin small-group tours, and some Segway and bike tour guides can explain the history of this important building and its presence in Texas politics throughout the years.

Things to know before you go

• The Texas Capitol is ideal for fans of history and politics.

• No need for Texas Capitol tickets; free 30-minute guided tours of the capitol's interiors are available every 30 to 45 minutes, seven days a week.

• The Capitol Visitors Center, located east of the main capitol building, houses various artifacts and information for visitors, as well as a gift shop.

• All capitol buildings are accessible to wheelchair users.

How to get there

The Texas Capitol is located on Congress Avenue in downtown Austin, between 11th and 15th Streets, just west of I-35. Parking is available at the Capitol Visitors Parking Garage on San Jacinto Street. It's usually free for the first two hours, but there may be a fee during events.

When to get there

The capitol is a busy building throughout the year, filled with visitors, constituents, and legislators when in session. Tours are available between 8:30am and 4:30pm Monday through Friday, 9:30am to 3:30pm Saturday, and 12pm to 3:30pm Sunday. Specialty themed tours, such as women in Texas history, heroes of the Texas Revolution, African-American trailblazing Texans, and a Halloween ghost tour, are offered at various times during the year.

Part-time legislature

The Texas state legislature is in session for only five months every two years, and legislators earn just $7,200 per year. That arrangement began in the 19th century, when Texas lawmakers had a more difficult time traveling from their districts to Austin. Despite modernized transportation, there is little indication that lawmakers will change their biennial schedule.

Can you tour the Texas State Capitol?

Yes. Guided and self-guided tours of the Texas State Capitol and grounds are offered for free, daily. Guided tours start inside the South Foyer between 9:30am and 3:30pm, depending on the day. Self-guided tour brochures are available online or at the Capitol's north entry or outside Capitol Room 1S.2.

Is the Texas Capitol open to the public?

Yes. The Texas State Capitol building and grounds are open to the public. Visitors can explore the complex by stopping at the Visitors Center and taking a self-guided tour or free guided tour, offered daily. The Capitol grounds cover 22 acres (9 hectares), also explorable via self-guided tour.

Can you visit the Texas Capitol without a tour?

Yes. The Texas Capitol is open to visitors weekdays between 7am and 6pm and from 9am to 6pm on weekends. You do not need to join a guided tour to explore, and self-guided tour brochures are available at the Capitol's north entry, outside Capitol Room 1S.2, or online.

What is included in the Texas State Capitol tour?

There are guided and self-guided tours available at the Texas State Capitol. The guided tour covers the Capitol building, while there are separate self-guided tours for both the building and grounds. Building tours cover the history and use of 13 areas, including the South Foyer, Senate Chamber, Rotunda, and Dome.

What is the dress code for the Texas Capitol?

There is no dress code for visitors at the Texas Capitol, but legislators and staff generally wear business attire. Like any other place of business, appropriate attire is expected. This shows respect for the institution, the people working there, as well as the important legislative work being carried out.

How long is a tour of the Texas State Capitol?

The free, guided tours of the Texas State Capitol departing daily from the South Foyer generally last about 30 minutes. In contrast, self-guided tours can be tailored to specific schedules or timing using the brochure found at the Capitol's north entry, outside Capitol Room 1S.2, or online.

Ways to explore

To get a solid understanding of the state's past and present, stop by the capitol—you can pause outside for a photo or, better yet, join a guided tour. The building is part of most downtown Austin small-group tours, and some Segway and bike tour guides can explain the history of this important landmark and its presence in Texas politics throughout the years. Double-decker bus sightseeing tours also pass by, as well as small-group driving tours, and self-guided app tours will take you there too.

Accessibility

The Texas Capitol is fully accessible to wheelchair users. The accessible entrance is the north entrance.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Photo ID, small bag

What to wear

Comfortable flat footwear, light layers

Not allowed

Drones, food or drink, disruptive behavior

Amenities

Gift shop, visitor parking garage, restaurant

Address 

Located in downtown Austin, the Texas Capitol is set between 11th and 15th Streets, just west of I-35. Visitors can drive, use a rideshare, or take the city bus to reach the grounds.

Driving

From Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, get on State Hwy 71W, continue on the US-183N, then later take the TX0111 Loop exit toward Cesar Chavez St. Follow the signs for the Texas Capitol, where there is free parking for two hours.

Public transportation

Several bus lines, such as bus #485, stop near 11th Street and Congress Avenue; from there, it’s a 3-minute walk to the Texas Capitol.

Best times to visit

It’s best to come early in the morning if you can, close to opening time, for a quieter experience and fewer crowds.

Best days to visit

The building is always a hive of activity, but Mondays through Wednesdays are usually quieter.

Best months to visit

For mild weather to explore the grounds, October through April are good months to visit. July and August tend to be hot and busy.

Special events

A big day on the annual calendar is Texas Independence Day in March, when there’s typically a parade, live music, and historical events.