Austin is the capital of the state of Texas — a designation it has held since 1839 and one that has shaped its identity as the center of Texas political, cultural, and increasingly economic life. Consequently, the Texas State Capitol building in downtown Austin is both a working seat of government and one of the most visited landmarks in the state. This guide covers everything about Austin as the Texas state capital, the Capitol building, and how Texas state government operates.
Austin as the Texas State Capital
Austin was designated the capital of the Republic of Texas in 1839 by President Mirabeau Lamar, who chose the site at the confluence of Shoal Creek and the Colorado River as a central location in the young republic’s territory. Furthermore, the capital designation was briefly contested when President Sam Houston attempted to move the capital to Washington-on-the-Brazos during an emergency, but Austin residents refused to surrender the government archives — an episode known as the Archive War of 1842. As a result of that stubborn defense, Austin retained its capital status and has remained the seat of Texas government continuously to the present day.
The Texas State Capitol Building
The current Texas State Capitol building was completed in 1888 from Texas sunset red granite quarried near Marble Falls. Furthermore, the Capitol stands 308 feet tall — intentionally designed to be 14 feet taller than the US Capitol in Washington DC as an expression of Texas pride. The building sits at the north end of Congress Avenue on Capitol Hill, visible from miles away across the Austin skyline. As a result of its distinctive dome and prominent position, the Texas State Capitol is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the state.
Texas State Legislature
The Texas Legislature meets in the Capitol building in regular session every two years — beginning in January of odd-numbered years — for 140 days. Furthermore, the legislature consists of the Texas Senate with 31 members and the Texas House of Representatives with 150 members. In contrast to states with annual legislative sessions, Texas’s biennial schedule means each legislative session carries enormous weight as the state’s only opportunity to pass laws, set the budget, and address policy for the following two years. As a result, session years in Austin bring significant political activity and media attention.
Other Texas Government in Austin
Beyond the Legislature, Austin hosts all major Texas state government functions. The Governor’s Mansion — a historic antebellum structure — sits adjacent to the Capitol on Lavaca Street. Furthermore, all major state agencies including the Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Education Agency, Texas Health and Human Services, and dozens of others maintain headquarters in Austin. As a result, Austin’s economy benefits significantly from the permanent state government workforce of tens of thousands of employees regardless of the private sector technology boom.
Visiting the Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol is open to the public for free self-guided and guided tours throughout the year. Furthermore, the Capitol Visitors Center in the historic General Land Office building adjacent to the Capitol provides exhibits on Texas history and government. Tours are available Monday through Saturday and on Sunday afternoons. As a result of its free admission and central Austin location, the Capitol is one of the most accessible and meaningful historical sites in Texas for visitors of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capital of Texas?
Austin is the capital of the state of Texas. Austin has served as the Texas state capital since 1839 and is home to the Texas State Capitol building, the Governor’s Mansion, and all major state government offices.
When did Austin become the capital of Texas?
Austin was designated the capital of the Republic of Texas in 1839 when President Mirabeau Lamar moved the capital from Houston. Austin has remained the state capital continuously since Texas joined the United States in 1845.
Where is the Texas State Capitol building located?
The Texas State Capitol building is located at 1100 Congress Avenue in downtown Austin, Texas. The Capitol sits at the north end of Congress Avenue on Capitol Hill and is open to the public for tours.
Is the Texas State Capitol taller than the US Capitol?
Yes. The Texas State Capitol stands 308 feet tall — 14 feet taller than the US Capitol in Washington DC. Texas intentionally designed its capitol to be the tallest state capitol in the United States.
What government functions happen at the Texas State Capitol?
The Texas State Capitol houses the Texas Legislature — the Texas Senate and Texas House of Representatives — which meets in regular session every two years beginning in January of odd-numbered years. The Governor’s office and Lieutenant Governor’s office are also in the Capitol complex.
Learn more about Austin Texas in our Things to Do in Austin Texas guide. You can also explore our Texas Guide for more state history and government information. Additionally, read our Texas Map guide to understand Austin’s central geographic position in the state.
