Colorado State Capitol: A Glittering Golden-Domed Gem

📍 Location: 200 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80203 A Last-Minute Tour Turned Highlight ⏰ Arriving at 3 PM—just in time for the final tour of the day—proved serendipitous! The guided tour grants access to the dome’s observation deck, offering panoramic views of Denver that alone are worth the visit. Architectural Splendor ✨ The Golden Dome (Real Gold!): Gilded with 24-karat gold leaf in 1908 (renewed in 2013), it blazes under sunlight—though my photos caught it on a moody, overcast day. Fun fact: The gold commemorates Colorado’s mining heritage (and no, it’s never been stolen!). 📏 Mile-High Marker: The 18th step on the west entrance bears a plaque marking Denver’s exact 5,280-foot elevation—but crouching for a photo here is awkward (worth it for the bragging rights!). Inside the Capitol 🏛 Under the Dome: Senate & House chambers dazzle with stained glass and walnut paneling. Peek in during sessions—you might witness lively debates (or what looks like arguing!). Presidential portraits line the walls—notice anyone missing? (Spoiler: The previous president’s photo was discreetly removed.) 👗 Photo Ops Galore: Spotted a bride in a flowing gown posing on the grand staircase—join the tradition! Free self-guided tour booklets (available in 10+ languages) deepen the experience. Why It’s a Must ✅ Free admission (tours included!) ✅ History + politics + skyline views—all in one ✅ Instagrammable AF (gold, marble, and that mile-high step) #Denver #ColoradoCapitol #GoldenDome #TravelColorado #ArchitectureLovers