Widely considered as one of the most distinguished state capitol buildings in the United States, the Texas State Capitol in Austin was listed in 1970 on the National Register of Historic Places. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1986. Spaces within the State Capitol were identified based on their architectural and historical significance in the 1990's during the restoration of the building. These spaces were returned back to their 1888-1915 appearance by preservationists, and include reproduction and original furniture, decorative elements, and artwork. The State Capitol building's grandeur is showcased through these significant spaces. These spaces, however, still remain functional for the current state government.

  • When was Austin established as the capital of Texas?
    • Austin was established as the capital of the Republic of Texas in 1839.
  • What was the original Texas State Capitol like?
    • The Capitol started out as a log cabin containing:
      • Two large rooms
      • Several smaller meeting rooms
    • A stockade fence surrounded the building to protect it from Indian raids.
  • How was the current Texas State Capitol designed?
    • The Constitution of 1876 authorized three million acres in the Texas Panhandle to fund a new Capitol.
    • A nationwide design contest was held in 1880.
    • The winner was Elijah E. Myers, an architect from Detroit.
    • The new Texas State Capitol was officially dedicated on May 16, 1888.
    • During the dedication, Congress Avenue was lined with crowds.
  • Where is the Visitors Center located?
    • The Visitors Center is housed in a castle-like building that dates back to 1856-1857.
    • It is the state's oldest building containing state offices.
  • What are the Capitol Grounds like?
    • The Capitol Grounds surround the Texas Capitol and span about twenty-two acres.
    • The historic South Grounds were restored in 1955-1956 to resemble their 1888-1915 park-like appearance.
    • The restoration included:
      • Accessible walkways
      • Lighting
      • Water-conserving irrigation
      • Fire protection
  • Are guided tours available at the Texas State Capitol?
    • Yes, the Texas State Capitol offers free guided tours.
    • Tours take visitors through the Capitol's key areas and provide information about:
      • The building
      • The Texas legislature
      • The history of Texas
    • Tours begin in the South Foyer, outside the tour office.
    • They typically depart every 30 to 45 minutes and last about 30 minutes.
    • Tours in a language other than English may be available if requested in advance.
  • Are themed tours available?
    • Yes, themed tours are offered at different times of the year:
      • Women in Texas History Tour – Highlights women’s contributions in Texas.
      • Heroes of the Texas Revolution Tour – Features Texas-sized heroes involved in the 1836 fight for independence.
      • Rest in Peace Tour (October) – Features haunting tales and urban myths of the Capitol.
      • Holiday Tour (December) – Showcases the architecture that inspired the annual Capitol Ornament and explores holiday traditions of Texas' ethnic cultures.
      • Early Texas Artists in the Capitol Tour – Focuses on the artwork of influential Texas artists, displayed throughout the Capitol building.

112 East 11th Street, Austin, TX, Phone: 512-463-4630

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