Texas Capitol — Attraction in Austin

The Texas State Capitol is the largest state capitol in the US in terms of square feet. Only the US Capitol is larger. It's taller than the US Capitol by 23 feet. When it was built it was the 7th largest building in the world. It contains 2 1/4 acres of area, with 8 1/2 acres of floorspace. 7 football fields of offices underground. Known to be the most impressive and breathtaking area of the Capitol is the Rotunda. This circular room is directly off the South Foyer and provides entrances to every part of the Capitol. On the walls of the Rotunda are portraits of Texas's former governors and past presidents of the Republic of Texas. These paintings line the walls of the Rotunda all the way up to the fourth floor of the Capitol. The floor of the Rotunda, as well as most of floors throughout the Capitol, is made of terrazzo. Terrazzo is a mosaic flooring made by embedding small pieces of marble or granite in mortar and then polishing it until it is bright and shiny. The seals on the floor trace Texas history by representing the six flags that have flown over the state. The seal in the middle represents Texas as a Republic with its single white star and oak and olive branches symbolizing strength and peace. Directly below this seal is Texas in the United States. The other seals represent Texas under Spain, Texas under France, Texas under Mexico, and Texas under the Confederacy. This is the amazing Capitol dome which resembles the Nation's Capitol in Washington. The Texas star in the center of the dome is actually eight feet in diameter and looms 266 feet above the Rotunda's floor. The word "Texas" surrounds the star. If you clap your hands while standing in the middle of the Rotunda, you'll experience the amazing echo the domed ceiling produces. Capitol Extension from above. Immediately north of the Capitol is the underground extension which was built in order to provide more space for committee rooms, offices, an auditorium, a public dining room, and the Capitol Bookstore. The extension covers over 600,000 square feet of space and has four levels with the two lower levels being for employee parking. Tunnels connect the extension to other state buildings. The extension has the feeling of being outdoors due to the massive skylights that provide natural light and spectacular views of the Capitol dome. There is also an outdoor rotunda that shows you how deep underground you really are! The Chamber of the House of Representatives is the largest room in the Capitol and used today as it was originally intended in 1888. There are 150 members including the Speaker of the House who presides over the body. Due to this large number, members vote using key pads mounted on their desks. Representatives do not speak from their desks but at the podiums at the front and back of the room. There are some very important historical paintings in this room that date back nearly 100 years. In fact, the original 1836 San Jacinto Battle Flag, one of only two flags remaining from the revolution, hangs in the House Chamber during sessions. You can find the House Chamber, offices, the old Supreme Court and the House gallery in the west wing of...

Austin, Texas - the Live Music Capital of the World! Here are some exciting experiences to explore in this vibrant city:

Outdoor Activities Kayaking on Lady Bird Lake: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and enjoy the scenic views of the Austin skyline. Hiking at Barton Creek Greenbelt: Explore the beautiful trails, waterfalls, and swimming holes in this 809-acre nature preserve. Zilker Park: Visit this 361-acre park, which hosts various festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year.

Music Scene 6th Street: Experience the heart of Austin's music scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. Continental Club: Catch a live performance at this iconic music venue, which has hosted legendary acts like Stevie Ray Vaughan. Austin City Limits Live: Attend a taping of the famous PBS music show or catch a live concert at this state-of-the-art venue.

Food and Drink Franklin Barbecue: Savor the famous slow-smoked brisket and other delicious BBQ delights at this critically acclaimed joint. Torchy's Tacos: Enjoy creative, mouth-watering tacos and queso at this Austin institution. Craft Beer: Explore the thriving craft beer scene, with popular breweries like Zilker Brewing Co., Austin Beerworks, and Live Oak Brewing Company.

Cultural Attractions Texas State Capitol: Take a guided tour of the historic Capitol building and its beautiful grounds. Bullock Texas State History Museum: Learn about the Lone Star State's rich history through interactive exhibits and artifacts. South Congress Avenue: Explore this vibrant neighborhood, known for its eclectic shops, galleries, and street art.

Events and Festivals SXSW: Attend the world-renowned music, film, and interactive festival, which takes over the city every March. Austin City Limits Music Festival: Enjoy two weekends of live music, food, and fun in Zilker Park every October. Austin Food + Wine Festival: Savor the best of Texas cuisine and wine at this annual festival.

These are just a few of the many amazing experiences Austin has to offer. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, live music, or delicious food, Austin has something...

We had some time between wedding events. My family and friends stopped to see the Pecan Street Festival. The sun was just too strong to enjoy it. The Texas State Capitol Building was just a few blocks away and after reading the earlier reviews, we thought it would be a nice (air conditioned) diversion. And, it was.

We got there just in time for a Docent who was starting a tour. The tour was under an hour and the building was huge. Even though we saw a small part, there was so much it was hard to take in.

Of course, in the times we live, you go through metal detectors before you are allowed to enter. For Texans with carry permits, no guns are allowed. You start right in the entryway where there are some beautiful oil paintings of the fall of the Alamo, the surrender of Santa Ana. Just a little further in start oil paintings - portraits of Texas Governors, all of the way back to the President of the Republic of Texas. And, the Capitol Dome is gorgeous from the inside.

There are multiple levels to the building, both above and below ground. After walking through the main level of the old building, we went up to see the chambers of the Senate and the House. The paintings, the furniture, the decor was magnificent. While the Docent did not know everything about every item, what she did know was more than enough. One very interesting item was the desks were actually original to the building. There were two changes made to the desks over time: (1) there is now a phone on each desk and (2) where the inkwells used to be, there are now microphones.

Then, we went down. Since the government has grown over the years and there was no way to build additions upward, they build underground and to the side. From the lower level, there was a beautiful view of the original Capitol building and the dome. We saw more history - busts, two walls dedicated the Texas Medal of Honor winners and more paintings.

At the end, of course, you pass the gift shop.

If you are in Austin you have to see this. It will be well worth your time....