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Colorado State Capitol: A Mile-High Landmark

Visit Colorado's State Capitol in Denver: A historic building with free tours, stunning architecture, and a golden dome.

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The Colorado State Capitol Building, located in Denver, is a neoclassical architectural marvel topped with a distinctive gold dome. Serving as the seat of Colorado's government, it offers free tours and a glimpse into the state's history and political processes.

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.
  • Don't miss the 'One Mile Above Sea Level' marker on the 13th step on the west side of the building.
  • Explore Mr. Brown's Attic, an exhibit area dedicated to Colorado history.
  • Consider taking the free guided tour to access the dome observation area.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Colorado State Capitol is easily accessible via public transportation. Several bus routes and light rail lines stop near the Capitol. The closest light rail station is Civic Center Station, a few blocks northwest of the Capitol. From Union Station, take the bus route 15 or 15L to Colfax Ave & Sherman St. A standard ticket costs $2.75. Be sure to check the RTD website for the most up-to-date schedules and routes.

  • Walking

    The Colorado State Capitol is located in downtown Denver and is easily walkable from many nearby attractions. From the Denver Art Museum, walk east along 14th Avenue for about 0.6 miles. From the 16th Street Mall, walk south on Broadway to Colfax Avenue, then east one block. The walk is mostly flat and should take about 15-20 minutes. Be aware of pedestrian signals and crosswalks.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Denver. A taxi ride from Denver Union Station to the Colorado State Capitol typically costs between $7 and $10. From other downtown locations, expect to pay around $9 for a short trip. Taxi fares have a base fare of $3.50, plus $2.80 per kilometer. Be sure the driver sets the meter. There is not a separate night fare.

  • Driving

    While driving is an option, parking near the Colorado State Capitol can be limited and expensive. There is no on-site parking available for the public. Metered street parking and paid parking lots are located nearby. Parking rates in nearby lots range from $8 to $17. Consider booking a parking spot in advance using services like SpotHero or ParkChirp. Be aware of street parking regulations and time limits.

Unlock the Best of Colorado State Capitol

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Discover more about Colorado State Capitol

The Colorado State Capitol Building, an iconic landmark in Denver, serves as the center of Colorado's state government and a museum of its history. Designed by architect Elijah E. Myers, its architecture intentionally mirrors that of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C.. Construction spanned from 1886 to 1901, with the building opening in November 1894. The gold dome, added in 1908, commemorates the Colorado Gold Rush. The building's exterior is constructed from granite quarried near Gunnison, Colorado. Inside, you'll find rare Colorado Rose Onyx, a rose marble, and Yule Marble from Marble, Colorado. The interior features murals, stained glass, and portraits of U.S. presidents. Visitors can explore Mr. Brown's Attic, a mini-museum dedicated to Colorado history. A major safety upgrade project was completed in 2009, adding modern safety features while blending with the original architecture. The Capitol is located at the eastern edge of Denver's Civic Center. The west steps of the building feature an inscription marking the elevation of one mile above sea level. Free guided tours are available, offering insights into the building's history, art, and architecture.

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