The Texas Capitol is the crown jewel of Austin, and one of the most iconic buildings in all of America. If you’re visiting Austin for a weekend getaway or longer, be sure to check out this architectural marvel! Just remember that it’s not just any old building; the Capitol was designed to reflect Texas’ unique culture and history, so you’ll learn something even if you’ve visited before.
The Texas Capitol is located right in downtown Austin, not far from hotel accommodations and popular attractions like the University of Texas at Austin campus, Zilker Park, Barton Springs Pool, and Lady Bird Lake. The nearest airport to this destination is Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), and it’s a short drive from there.
Visitors can start their tour on the ground floor, where they will see beautiful murals depicting stories of early Texas settlers. A large statue dedicated to Stephen F. Austin greets you as you walk toward the main entrance and exhibits about state government are available for visitors who want to learn more details about how the state operates.
The main attraction at the Texas Capitol is a staircase that leads to the second floor, where visitors will find an observation deck with stunning views of downtown Austin. An outdoor garden and historical markers depicting important moments in Texas history can be found here as well. The top floor features even more great photo opportunities, including spectacular shots of the city skyline.
Visiting the Texas Capitol is a must-do for any tourist planning to visit Austin, and it’s even more popular with those who plan on attending UT at Austin as well! Whether you’re enjoying a short vacation or spending four years in one of America’s most beautiful college towns, don’t miss out on this iconic landmark.
It can get pretty hot in Texas during summer so you must stay hydrated at all times. A bottle of water will be more than enough to not let you get too thirsty.
The Capitol is very big and it can be overwhelming for children, so parents should always keep this in mind when taking their kids with them on a visit. You might want to carry some coloring books or toys that your kid loves playing with at home, as these will make the visit much more enjoyable for both of you.
In case the weather is not what you expected, it can be a good idea to bring an umbrella with you as well. It would also be smart to wear some comfortable shoes so that your feet won’t hurt at the end of the day from all those walking tours around downtown Austin.