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

Explore Colorado's history and government within the walls of Denver's iconic State Capitol Building, topped with its gleaming golden dome.

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The Colorado State Capitol Building in Denver is a neoclassical architectural marvel, serving as the seat of Colorado's government. Its gleaming gold dome, constructed from Colorado gold, is a tribute to the state's rich mining history. Visitors can explore its historical exhibits, admire its stunning interior, and even stand one mile above sea level on its west steps.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Colorado State Capitol

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

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200 E Colfax Ave, Denver, Central, Colorado, 80203, US
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

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    Getting There

    Public Transport

    The Colorado State Capitol is conveniently located one block southeast of Civic Center Station. This station is accessible via light rail from the 16th Street Mall. From Union Station, take the light rail or bus to Civic Center Station. A one-way local fare is $2.75. Be sure to check the RTD website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes.

    Walking

    From the 16th Street Mall, head east towards the Civic Center Park. The Capitol Building is located at the east end of the park, easily visible with its gold dome. Walk southeast through the park to reach the Capitol's north entrance at Colfax Avenue and Sherman Street. Allow approximately 20-30 minutes to walk from Union Station.

    Ride Share/Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide direct access to the Colorado State Capitol. Simply provide the address, 200 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80203, as your destination. A ride from Union Station typically costs between $7 and $10, depending on traffic. Be prepared for potential surge pricing during peak hours.

    Driving

    Parking is not available on-site at the Capitol. Metered street parking and paid parking lots are available nearby. Several parking garages are located within a few blocks, including the Art Garage and Capitol Center. Expect to pay between $8 and $17 per hour. Limited disabled parking spaces are available in the Capitol circle, accessible from 14th and Sherman, on a first-come, first-served basis. Tour buses can load and unload passengers on the corner of Grant and Colfax.

    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 for the 99-step climb to the dome observation area.
    Visit Mr. Brown's Attic for exhibits on Colorado history and the Capitol's construction.
    Note that the 13th step on the west side of the building is the true one-mile-high marker.
    Consider a virtual tour if you cannot visit in person.

    Discover more about Colorado State Capitol

    The Colorado State Capitol Building, located at 200 E Colfax Ave in Denver, is more than just a government building; it's a living museum of Colorado history and a testament to neoclassical architecture. Designed by Elijah E. Myers and completed in 1901, the building intentionally echoes the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C.. Its exterior is constructed from Colorado white granite, while the interior boasts the entire known supply of Colorado Rose Onyx, a rare rose marble, and Yule Marble. The building's iconic gold dome, first gilded in 1908 to commemorate the Colorado Gold Rush, rises 272 feet above the ground and is covered in copper panels with gold leaf from a Colorado mine. Visitors can take a free guided tour to learn about the building's history, admire the stained glass windows depicting Colorado's past, and view portraits of U.S. presidents. A climb to the dome observation area offers panoramic city views, while the 13th step on the west side is marked as one mile above sea level. The Capitol houses the Senate, House of Representatives, the Governor's Office, and other key state government functions. Free tours are available on weekdays, offering insights into Colorado's legislative process and history. The building is open to the public from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
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