Visitors to Central Texas shouldn’t miss out on touring the Texas State Capitol complex. Legend, tradition and history combine for an inspiring and impressive educational tour of the Capital Complex.
Capitol complex
Located on 11th Street between Lavaca and San Jacinto in Austin, the Capitol complex covers 22 acres. The complex includes the original Texas General Land Office, which was built in 1857. This building served as the Land Office for about 60 years. Today it is the oldest surviving state office structure and houses the Texas Capitol Visitor Center and the Texas Capitol Gift Shop.
Of course, the Capitol itself is the main attraction. Completed in 1888, the Texas Capitol was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986. In 1993, an extension to the Capitol was added on the north side. However, you won’t see it when you approach the Capitol, as the extension was built underground so that the original view of the Capitol remains.
While on Capitol Hill, most people like to see the legislative chambers. The House of the House, the largest room in the Capitol, is located on the western side of the second floor and houses 150 representatives when the House is in session. The original flag of the Battle of San Jacinto and other artifacts are displayed in the Chamber of the Chamber. It is also on the second floor, but on the east side, the Senate Chamber still contains the original Senator desks purchased in 1888. A collection of 15 historical paintings adorn the walls of the Senate Chamber.
Other landmarks on Capitol Hill include the original Governor’s Office, the original Supreme Court Room, and the original State Library. Additionally, several monuments, including one dedicated to the heroes of the Alamo, are located on the grounds of the Capitol Complex. Free walking tours of the Capitol are conducted daily (except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Years, and Easter) and begin at the south entrance.
Also close
While you’re in the neighborhood, don’t forget to visit the Texas Governor’s Mansion. The Governor’s Mansion is located across the street from the Capitol Complex at 1010 Colorado. Tours are available Monday through Thursday, except for a two-week period in late July, early August, and major holidays.
Also nearby is the Bullock Texas State History Museum. Located just blocks away at 1800 N. Congress Avenue, Texas History includes interactive exhibits, an IMAX theater, gift shop, and other fun educational features.
Between these three attractions, the Texas State Capitol, the Governor’s Mansion and the State History Museum, visitors will have no trouble spending a full day absorbing tidbits of Texas history in an entertaining way.
