Colorado State Capitol — Attraction in Denver

I've been to many state capitols and although Colorado's is on the smaller side, it is one of the most elegant. The designer was Elijah Myers, probably the top civic architect of his time. He had previously designed the Texas and Michigan capitols plus many other civic buildings and definitely knew what he was doing. The Legislature provided a budget of $1 million and Myers' design came in at just under that amount. The building was too small from the day it opened in 1894, but it is a gem of civic construction.

A committee of major movers and shakers was appointed to supervise construction. The first thing they did was to fire the architect (fortunately he had prepared extremely detailed drawings and specifications). The next move was to upgrade the main construction material from sandstone to granite. The committee proceeded to go way over budget, but manhandled additional appropriations through the Legislature. The architect's fee was a percentage of the total cost, so getting rid of him was probably a cost-saving ploy. The final price was about $3 million.

The exterior of the dome is copper. There was general dissatisfaction with its appearance as it weathered, so the dome was covered with gold leaf in 1908. This has been redone several times due to weathering and hail damage.

Electricity was not considered reliable in 1894, but with tremendous foresight, all of the fixtures were wired for both gas and electric use. Thus, virtually all of the fixtures in the building have been preserved and are mostly original.

A series of huge restoration and systems upgrades have recently been completed after almost 20 years of effort. Major problems with fire safety have been corrected and the legislative chambers restored to their original condition. This is now the only capitol building with a LEED Gold certification.

This building is really extraordinary. Only about one third of the space is actually occupied by offices and the House, Senate, and Supreme Court chambers. The rest is mostly grand public spaces that are extremely well-defined including the foyers from the main entrances, the grand staircase, the atrium, and the dome.

The Supreme Court moved out many years ago and is now in a new judicial building across the street so its former chambers are used for the occasional ceremonial event or large committee meeting.

The building is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Visitor Information Desk (north side, first floor) is open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Free guided tours run on the hour from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. They leave from the information desk and are limited to 30 people, first come, first served. The tours take about an hour and do include a visit to the dome which offers spectacular views of the city and the Rocky Mountains.

The stairs to the dome begin in Mr. Brown's Attic (Henry Brown donated the building site in 1868), an interesting space wedged between the skylights of the two legislative chambers. This is filled with a number of exhibits about the construction of the building and the State of Colorado. There are also numerous windows that provide a good look at the internal construction of the building. Visitors are welcome to take self-guided tours, including this space. You can see the entire building, walking around by yourself, except for access to the dome.

Please note, if you're visiting from out-of-town, that the building is not open on weekends. Elevators only go to the third floor. It's 99 steps from there to the dome. The formal entrance at the west exterior staircase is not open to the public. There's an accessible public entrance on the south side facing 14th Avenue, under the staircase, and another public entrance on the north side facing Colfax Avenue, up the stairs.

The annual legislative session is 120 days, from early January to early May. Visitors cannot access the main floor of the Senate and House chambers during this time, but there are large observation balconies in each chamber that provide...

The Colorado State Capitol is a true gem, steeped in a rich and captivating history that dates back long before it became a state in 1876. This magnificent building, with its stunning Beulah Rose Onyx walls and Colorado Granite and Marble, stands as a testament to the state's remarkable past.

The Capitol's architecture is simply breathtaking, with every detail meticulously crafted to transport visitors back in time. As you step inside, you can almost feel the weight of history pressing against the walls, inviting you to uncover the countless stories that have unfolded within these hallowed halls.

The Ute Indian and Southern Ute Indian history is intricately woven throughout the building, reminding us of the indigenous peoples who once called this land home. The state flag, with its striking representation of the sky, snow, rocks, and sun, serves as a vibrant symbol of Colorado's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The government's annual session from January to May adds a dynamic energy to the Capitol, as lawmakers gather to shape the state's future. The Hall of Presidents, with its impressive collection of portraits, offers a glimpse into the political leaders who have guided Colorado's journey.

While the temporary removal of the 45th and 47th Presidents' portraits may have sparked some curiosity, it only serves to highlight the Capitol's commitment to preserving its rich history and honoring the diverse perspectives that have shaped the state.

Visiting the Colorado State Capitol is a truly immersive experience, where you can feel the weight of history and the pulse of the present intertwine. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone seeking to deepen your understanding of this remarkable state, a visit to the Capitol is a must-add to your Denver itinerary.

As I reluctantly depart this impressive landmark, I'm left with a profound sense of appreciation for the enduring legacy of Colorado. Though my journey has come to an end, the memories and lessons I've gained will forever enrich my understanding of this great state. The Colorado State Capitol is a true gem, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking to explore the depth and diversity of this...

The Colorado State Capitol building, located in Denver, is an iconic landmark that stands as a testament to the state's rich history and architectural beauty. Completed in 1908, this stunning structure is known for its distinctive gold dome, which was gilded with gold leaf from Colorado mines in 1908 to commemorate the Colorado Gold Rush. The dome is a striking feature that gleams brightly in the sunlight and serves as a beacon for the city.

The Capitol building's design is a classic example of 19th-century Neoclassical architecture, with its elegant Corinthian columns, intricate stonework, and grand staircases. The interior is equally impressive, featuring stained glass windows, marble floors, and detailed murals that depict Colorado's history and natural beauty.

One of the highlights of visiting the Colorado State Capitol is the opportunity to take a tour and learn about the state's legislative process, as well as its historical and political significance. The building also houses the Colorado General Assembly and the offices of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor. Visitors can climb up to the observation deck below the dome for a panoramic view of Denver and the Rocky Mountains, which is an experience not to be missed.

In addition to its architectural and historical significance, the Capitol is also a place of civic engagement and public discourse. It hosts numerous events, rallies, and ceremonies throughout the year, making it a vibrant part of Colorado's community life.

Overall, the Colorado State Capitol is not just a government building; it is a symbol of the state's heritage and a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture, history, or politics. Its grandeur and historical richness make it a jewel in Denver's crown, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and the workings of...