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Colorado State Capitol: A Glimpse into Colorado's History and Governance

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Explore Colorado's history and government within the walls of Denver's iconic State Capitol, featuring a gleaming gold dome and unique architecture.

The Colorado State Capitol Building, located in Denver, is a neoclassical architectural marvel with a distinctive gold dome, reminiscent of the U.S. Capitol. It houses the state's government and offers free tours showcasing its history, art, and unique Colorado materials.

A brief summary to Colorado State Capitol

  • Monday 7:30 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 7:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 7:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 7:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 7:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early for tours, as they are limited to 30 people and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to climb to the dome observation area; it's a 99-step climb.
  • Don't miss the 'One Mile Above Sea Level' marker on the west steps and snap a photo.
  • Check out Mr. Brown's Attic for an engaging look at Colorado history and the Capitol's construction.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Colorado State Capitol is conveniently accessible via public transportation. From Denver Union Station, take the Line 15 bus to the Colfax Ave & Sherman St stop, which is a short walk to the Capitol. Alternatively, several bus routes and light rail lines stop at Civic Center Station, one block from the Capitol. A one-way local fare is approximately $3.

  • Walking

    From the 16th Street Mall, head east towards Civic Center Park and continue to the Capitol Building. The walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 20-25 minutes. Enjoy the scenic views of downtown Denver and the Civic Center as you approach the Capitol.

  • Ride Share/Taxi

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, as well as taxis, provide direct access to the Colorado State Capitol. From Denver Union Station, a taxi or ride-share will cost approximately $7-10 and take only a few minutes. Be sure to specify the Colfax Avenue entrance for easy access.

  • Driving

    Parking is not available on-site. Metered street parking and paid parking lots are located near the Capitol. Parking rates in nearby lots range from $8 to $17 per hour. Check online parking apps for availability and to reserve a spot in advance.

Discover more about Colorado State Capitol

Located at 200 E Colfax Avenue in Denver, the Colorado State Capitol Building is more than just a center of government; it's a living museum of Colorado history and artistry. Designed by architect Elijah E. Myers, its construction spanned from 1886 to 1908. The building's exterior is clad in white granite from Gunnison, Colorado, while the interior boasts the world's entire known supply of Colorado Rose Onyx, a rare rose marble. The floors are constructed of Yule Marble from Marble, Colorado. The gleaming gold dome, a tribute to the Colorado Gold Rush, was first gilded in 1908 with 200 ounces of gold donated by Colorado miners. Rising 272 feet above ground, it's a prominent feature of Denver's skyline. Inside, stained glass windows depict significant figures and events in Colorado's history, while the rotunda displays portraits of U.S. presidents. A unique feature is the 'One Mile Above Sea Level' inscription on the 15th step on the west side, marking Denver's official elevation, though later surveys placed the true mile-high mark on the 13th step. The Capitol offers free guided tours Monday through Friday, providing insights into its architecture, history, and the workings of Colorado's government. Tours include a visit to the dome observation area, accessible via a 99-step climb, and Mr. Brown's Attic, an exhibit dedicated to Colorado history. The building is open to the public from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays.

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