Colorado State Capitol | Denver

The Colorado State Capitol is the seat of the Colorado General Assembly and the Governor of Colorado, located in Denver, Colorado.

This building houses the legislative and executive branches of Colorado's state government.

Visual Characteristics

The Capitol building is constructed primarily of Colorado Yule Marble, a white crystalline marble. It features a distinctive gold dome, gilded in 24-karat gold leaf. The building stands four stories high, with a neoclassical architectural style characterized by its symmetrical facade, Corinthian columns, and prominent portico. The exterior is accented with granite from Gunnison County.

Location & Access Logistics

The Colorado State Capitol is situated at 200 East Colfax Avenue, Denver, Colorado, 80203. It is located in the central business district, approximately 1.6 km (1 mile) east of the Denver Civic Center Park. Public parking is available in nearby garages, such as the Denver City and County Building Garage, located at 144 West Colfax Avenue. Several RTD bus routes serve the area, including routes 0, 6, 10, 15, 19, 32, and 38, with stops directly on Colfax Avenue.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Colorado State Capitol began in 1886 and was completed in 1901. The architect was Elijah E. Myers. The building's original purpose was to serve as the administrative center for the state government, replacing the previous territorial capitol. The Yule Marble used in its construction was quarried in the Elk Mountains near Marble, Colorado, a significant geological resource for the state.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can take guided tours of the Capitol building, which depart from the west entrance. Tours typically include access to the House and Senate chambers, the Hall of Flags, and the Governor's office. The building is accessible for public viewing during business hours. Photography is permitted within designated areas.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on each floor of the Capitol building. Limited seating is provided in public areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the building. No food vendors are located within the Capitol itself, but numerous dining establishments are situated within a 0.5 km (0.3 mile) radius in the surrounding downtown area.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal interior lighting and fewer crowds, visiting during weekday mornings between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM is recommended. The building is open year-round, Monday through Friday, excluding state holidays. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

The Colorado State Capitol building is famously marked by a "Mile High Step" on its west steps, indicating the exact elevation of one mile (1.6 km) above sea level. This marker is actually the 15th step from the ground on the south side of the west-facing staircase. The building's gold dome is a prominent feature, reflecting the state's historical association with gold mining.

Nearby Landmarks

• Denver City and County Building (0.2km West)
• Denver Art Museum (0.5km Southwest)
• Civic Center Park (0.8km West)
• Colorado Convention Center (1.2km Southeast)
• 16th Street Mall (0.9km West)