Texas Capitol

The Texas Capitol is Austin’s seat of state government and a landmark built from Texas granite. Completed in 1888, its Renaissance Revival design is crowned by a dome above the downtown skyline. Inside, look up in the rotunda, where portraits represent Texas governors and Republic presidents, then visit the House and Senate chambers when they are open to visitors. Free guided tours cover the building and Texas history; the grounds add monuments, statues and lawns for a walk around the Capitol.

A statehouse built to make an impression

The Texas Capitol opened in 1888, replacing an earlier statehouse that burned in 1881. Architect Elijah E. Myers designed the building in the Renaissance Revival style. Texas granite gives the exterior its distinctive red tone, while the dome and classical details set the Capitol apart in downtown Austin.

The building is the seat of the Texas Legislature, which consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate. It also houses the governor’s office. Its role as a working government building shapes what you can see inside: access to legislative rooms can depend on whether official business is taking place.

What to look for inside

The rotunda is a natural place to pause and look upward. Portraits of presidents of the Republic of Texas and state governors line the space. The building also contains marble statues of Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston, along with a painting of David Crockett.

The House and Senate chambers are among the most notable rooms. Paintings of figures from Texas history line the walls above the desks. Visitors may be able to see inside the chambers when they are not in session. A guided tour helps explain the rooms and the building’s place in Texas government; self-guided visits let you move through its halls at your own pace.