capitol building tour austin

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Capitol City Tours

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Tour Times:

Monday: Closed Wednesday: 10:30am Tuesday, Thurs - Sunday: 1pm

(682) 382-1235

Meeting Location:

The capitol is located 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701 . Tours start at the outdoor rotunda on the North Grounds.

Learn about the history of Austin & Texas from a locally owned and operated tour company!

Join us on an engaging tour of the Texas State Capitol Building! Learn about Texas history while admiring the statehouse and its surrounding grounds. Our 60 minute walking tour offers a look at some of the Texas State Capitol’s principal features along with captivating tales from your guide.

Texas Capitol City Tours are guided by Austin locals who know a lot of history of Austin as well as top things to do and great dining tips.

You'll get to know about the downtown area of Austin, how it came to be, the significance of different monuments and get to go inside the capitol where the fun never stops!

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Visiting the Texas State Capitol Complex

The Texas Capitol Appeals to History Buffs and Political Junkies Alike

Like the national capitol, the Texas state capitol was once considered the “people’s house.” It used to be open almost all the time, with limited security. Security has been tightened in recent years, but the Texas state capitol still welcomes the public year-round. The easiest way to view the building is to pick up a brochure on the first floor and take a self-guided tour.

Guided Tours

However, you’ll get more out of the visit with the help of a knowledgeable tour guide. Guided tours start every 15 minutes in the south foyer and last about 40 minutes. Normal business hours are Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; and Sunday noon to 3:30 p.m. A typical tour covers the building’s architecture, state history and fun facts about the Texas Legislature.

The guided tour will help you spot some of the less obvious details of the building, such as door hinges with “Texas Capitol” engraved into them. Similar attention to detail can be seen in the doorknobs and in the floor tiles. For those interested in the “wow factor,” there are also sweeping staircases and glittery chandeliers.

On weekdays, a special Women in Texas History tour is offered at 11:15 a.m., and a Heroes of the Texas Revolution tour begins at 2:15 p.m. Nature buffs may also want to pick up the Trail of Trees brochure. It highlights the history of the capitol’s well-manicured grounds, with a particular focus on the majestic oak, southern magnolia and bald cypress trees. In total, there are 25 different tree species on the capitol grounds.

Capitol Visitors Center

Located at 112 East 11th Street, the Capitol Visitors Center houses exhibits related to the history of the capitol and the state as a whole. Larger group tours of the capitol, such as school field trips, can also be arranged here.

The Capitol Visitors Parking Garage is located at 1201 San Jacinto Boulevard. You can enter from East 12th Street or East 13th Street. The first two hours are free, and each additional half hour costs $1; the maximum charge is $12. Keep in mind that you'll be exiting onto San Jacinto Boulevard, which is a one-way street heading south.

Brief History and Fun Facts About the Texas State Capitol

· The design of the capitol building was decided via a nationwide competition. Architect Elijah E. Myers, who also designed the capitols in Colorado and Michigan, won the competition. The contractors on the project were granted 3 million acres of land, which later became the famous XIT ranch in the Panhandle.

· Controversy haunted the building’s construction from the beginning. The pink granite was donated by the owners of a quarry in Marble Falls. However, to save money, the state decided to use convicts to quarry the notoriously hard rock. When local granite cutters boycotted the project due to the use of convict labor, the state brought in workers from Scotland to replace them.

· In 1993, a sprawling underground capitol extension opened. Essentially, the capitol outgrew its above-ground space and had to start building downward. The 600,000-square-foot four-level structure includes offices for Senators and House Representatives, parking, a bookstore, cafeteria and auditorium. The design features skylights that let in a remarkable amount of natural light.

· Texas’ first permanent capitol was completed in 1853, but the Greek Revival building burned to the ground in 1881.

· In the south foyer, life-sized statues of Sam Houston and Stephen F. Austin stand guard over the entryway. A huge painting in the foyer by  William Henry Huddle  depicts a major turning point in Texas History: the surrender of Mexican General Santa Anna. Tiles in the terrazzo floor depict 12 major battles fought in Texas.

· One of the oldest outdoor exhibits is the Heroes of the Alamo, built in 1891. The gazebo-shaped structure displays battle scenes. The names of the people who fought and died at the Alamo are engraved into the granite. The Alamo itself is also a worthwhile stop if you’re in the region for several days.

· Try clapping your hands while standing under the capitol rotunda and listen as the sound echoes throughout the massive structure.

· In the senate chamber, many of the original desks, made of walnut, are still in use. They’ve been modified slightly to accommodate modern technology.

· In a sign of how important agriculture was to the state in its early days, an Agricultural Museum was created within the capitol soon after the building was completed. In addition to displaying information about some of the state’s early food crops, the room is chock full of antiques from the 1800s and early 1900s.

Dining Nearby

The capitol’s site in the heart of downtown Austin means that  several restaurants, in every price range, are within walking distance .

Other Attractions

Another historic building, the  Paramount Theatre , is three blocks south of the capitol on Congress Avenue. It hosts red-carpet movie premieres, plays, stand-up comedy and concerts. 

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Texas State Capitol Tours

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• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday: 1 PM
• Wednesday: 10:30 AM
• Thursday - Sunday: 1 PM
• All Tickets: $20

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Call us to book a private tour - perfect for social distancing - 512.659.9478

The Texas State Capitol

One of the benefits of visiting Austin, the capital city of Texas, is touring the impressive capitol building at 1800 Congress Avenue. It may look familiar – the architect, Elijah E. Meyers, modeled it after the capitol building in Washington D.C., However, because it’s located in Texas, it is 14 feet taller than the Federal Capitol Building, and after an underground extension was completed in the mid 1990s, surpassed the federal building in square footage as well.

The importance and the prominence of the Capitol Building for the city of Austin cannot be overstated enough, and the city has taken care to preserve the views of the capitol from around the city. Until the 1960s, no building was permitted to be taller than the capitol building. But when the University of Texas built the 26-story Westgate Tower, controversy sparked, creating what is now know as “Capitol View Corridors.” All in all, there are now 39 Capitol View Corridors in the city, which block the development of buildings that would impede the view of the capitol from various points in the city.

The main entrance to the Texas capitol building is located on the south side of the structure, famously approached via Congress Avenue, whose buildings frame the capitol, providing an iconic, treasured promenade to the entrance. Above the doors at the main entrance, there are six seals located on the building, representing the six independent countries that which have laid claim to Texas over the centuries. To enter, you’ll go through a short security. On the other side of security, is the South Foyer, where all tours depart.

The capitol has a myriad of knowledgeable tour guides who are happy to answer questions while they direct you through the various places around the building or grounds. The tours vary in subject matter, ranging from the basic capitol tour, which explores the building’s rooms and architectural highlights, as well as tours which focus on Women in Texas History, Heroes of the Texas Revolution, and there are a variety of seasonal tours throughout the year: an African American Trailblazers Tour in February, a Hispanic Heritage Tour in September, a Rest in Peace Tour in October which explores the ghost stories of the capitol, a Texas Veterans Tour in November, and a Holiday Capitol Tour in December, which explores the different holiday traditions from a variety of ethnic cultures in Texas. Tours generally depart every half hour, but on busy days are known to depart every quarter hour, and all tours are free.

If you’d rather explore at your own pace, the South Foyer also provides two different maps: the capitol building map, and the capitol grounds map. Each map locates and describes points of interest for their respective area, which range from war and veteran memorials, to sculptures and portraits of important people from Texas’ colorful history, to the legislative rooms in the building. As you depart, make sure you visit the Capitol Gift Shop, which has two locations. There is one in the downstairs extension, and one in the Capitol Visitor’s Center, located on the southeast side of the building. There you can find a variety of unique Texas-themed gifts ranging from salsas to belt buckles, coffee mugs, framed works of art, and of course, the official Capitol Christmas ornament, which designs a new style each year.

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Stops: No stops Tour departure point : Austin Visitor Center

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Our signature Austin sightseeing tour but with even better views! Discover where the locals eat, drink, and enjoy the true Austin scene. Learn about historic neighborhoods and marvel at the gorgeous views of the lake and Austin hills. Our custom glass top convertible Mercedes tour bus will keep you comfortable while our expert guides keep you entertained. 

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Stops: at least 5 Tour departure point : Austin Visitor Center

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TEXAS HISTORY TOUR

Austin history tour: the capitol, lbj library, tx state history museum.

Texas is a large state with a big history, much of which is gloriously celebrated in Austin. Our Texas History Tour provides a continuous shuttle between three of the city’s major attractions so you can soak up the nostalgia at your own pace. First stop is the magnificent State Capitol building with its manicured grounds and awe-inspiring dome, the place where state lawmakers have plied their trade since 1886. We’ll then jump to the 1930s when a young Lyndon Baines Johnson emerged on the scene as a teacher and local politician…and future President of the United States. At the LBJ Library and Presidential Museum we’ll discover LBJ’s public and private life, including the JFK years, the Vietnam War, the Great Society, and more. We wrap things up at the extensive Bob Bullock Texas History Museum, where we’ll discover the important events and people that shaped the Lone Star State.

Experience the ultimate Texas state history tour!

• A dream tour for history lovers!
• Visit the Capitol, history museum and LBJ Presidential LIbrary
• Perfect for corporate groups

People love our Corporate / Private Experiences!

On a recent group tour, we were delighted by a bus tour with Steven and Joe of Austin Detours. They rode on our bus with us, describing some of the sites in Austin with humor and extensive knowledge. We made stops at the beautiful Capital building, and at LBJ’s Library where Steven took half of our group, while Joe took the other half for an educational look at amazing places. They made for a wonderful experience in a crazy, weird city.

So much fun, the tour guides are fun and allowed a stop in SOCO at the end of the tour for an ice cream at The Science of Cream. They are so informative, you can’t go wrong with these tours. I highly recommend them!! You won’t be disappointed

The tour itself was great, got to visit a lot of places in just 2 hours, lots of things to check off the bucket list. Sierra out guide was very knowledgeable, friendly and fun. Learnt a lot about Austin / Texas history

A great tour to introduce us to Austin. Learned lots about Austin. Sonny was very entertaining too. It was a small tour which meant all our questions were answered.

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Book a Tour

Reservations are recommended .

The Capitol Visitor Center is open Monday-Saturday from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tours begin every 10 minutes until 3:20 p.m. All tours are led by our professional tour guides and visit the  Crypt , the  Rotunda  and  National Statuary Hall . The tour does not include the  Senate and House Galleries . The tour route is subject to change.

Reservations are recommended, but not required. Visit the  schedule a tour  page to select a day/time for a reservation. Same day passes may be available. Visitors without reservations are encouraged to arrive at the Capitol Visitor Center as early in the day as possible, but no later than 2:30 p.m., to obtain passes.

All tours, programs and activities are free of charge.

Visitors enter through the Capitol Visitor Center, located underground on the east side of the Capitol. Please leave time to go through security and review the U.S. Capitol’s  prohibited items list  before your visit.

You can begin your Capitol experience at the Visitor Center by visiting Exhibition Hall , perusing our Gift Shops or getting a bite to eat at the Capitol Cafe.

For information on tours offered in Mandarin and Spanish, please view the Foreign Language Tours page.

How Do I Cancel My Reservation?

You can cancel your reservation through your account in the Capitol Visitor Center’s online reservation system.

• Go to  https://tours.visitthecapitol.gov  (A new page will open.)
• Beneath the blue banner reading “Reserve a Tour of the Capitol,” click on the link to log in. (A sign in/signup dialog box will open.)
• In the sign in section, log in with your email address and password.
• Search for reservations by clicking “More” in the “My Reservations” tab.
• Once you have located your reservation, click the link to “Cancel.”

Texas Capital Forum & Coalition

Visit Texas State Capitol

The Texas State Capitol, the fourth building to serve as the seat of Texas government, is situated in Austin. This magnificent building was built from 1882-88 under the direction of Lindsay Walker. It was opened to the public on San Jacinto Day, April 21, 1888. Designed by Elijah E. Myers, the Texas State Capitol building is the largest of all the State Capitol buildings. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in the year 1970 and designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1986. The Building is known for its Renaissance Revival style architecture. In fact, it is a unique example of late 19th-century public architecture, characterized by round arches, classical orders, and asymmetrical composition.

The structural exterior of the State Capitol Building is made of ‘Texas Pink Granite’, which is now marketed with the name “sunset red” granite. The portraits of every past Texas Governor are displayed within the rotunda, which also serves as a ‘whispering gallery’. The lobby of the building features sculptures by Stephen F. Austin and Elisabet Ney of Sam Houston. The Texas State Capitol is nearly 15 ft (4.5 m) higher than the National Capitol and has more floor space than any other Capitol building. A major attraction on the grounds of the Capitol is the granite monument of the Ten Commandments, which became the center of a 2005 U.S. Supreme Court case, Van Orden v. Perry.

The Texas State Capitol Building sits on the highest point of the City of Austin. It offers a breathtaking view towards the Colorado River from its southern façade and anchors the northern periphery of the downtown commercial district. The main campus of The University of Texas at Austin has located just four blocks to the north. The Texas State Capitol Complex is in the heart of downtown Austin and has become a popular tourist attraction in the city. The main features of the Complex include the Capitol, the Capitol Extension, the Capitol Visitors Center, Visitor Parking facilities, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. The entire complex is managed by the State Preservation Board, which provides various amenities and facilities that both employees and visitors, whether on state business, observing the legislative process, visiting from the University of Texas campus, strolling the grounds, learning about Texas history, buying a unique gift, or simply enjoying the magnificent architecture of the complex buildings.

Address: 201 E 14th Street, Austin, TX 78701-1614 Telephone: (512) 463-5495 Hours: Mon – Fri, 7 AM – 10 PM; Sat & Sun, 9 AM – 8PM Website: www.tspb.state.tx.us

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Texas Capitol (History + Fascinating Facts)

Share the post "Texas Capitol (History + Fascinating Facts)"

When visiting Texas, it’s a must to visit the Texas State Capitol. It is a National Historic Landmark and well known to be one of the U.S.A’s most eminent State Capitols. It is the seat of the government in Texas, and here you will find the chambers and offices of the Texas Legislature.

Designed by E.E. Myers, the Texas State Capitol building is in Austin, Texas. The cornerstone of the red granite building was laid in 1885 and contained a zinc box with mementos. The official dedication of the Texas Capitol was on May 16, 1888, and attended by Senator Temple Houston.

Facts About The Texas Capitol

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Work on the Texas State Capitol building began in 1882 after a design by architect Elijah E. Myers. While work was completed by 1888, a new underground extension was added by 1993. It is the sixth-tallest of the State Capitol buildings, reaching 302.64 feet.

The current Texas Capitol replaced the 1853 Capitol building, which was destroyed by fire and is actually the fourth Capitol building in Austin. Although it was initially intended to be built of limestone, it was eventually constructed from the local red granite, which was given by the owners of Granite Mountain in Burnet County.

• Location : Austin, Texas, located in the downtown area
• County : Travis County
• Land Area : 51.4 acres
• Height : 302.64 feet
• Built : 1885
• Architect : Elijah E. Myers
• Architectural Style : Renaissance Revival Design, modeled after Washington Capitol
• Total cost : $3,744,630.60

Even before a fire destroyed the Texas capitol building in 1881, the Texas government had set aside lands and funds to begin the construction of a new building. They used a competition to select an architect, and eleven different designs were entered into the Texas Capitol competition.

• The competition was won by an architect from Detroit, Elijah E. Myers
• Myers entered the competition under a pseudonym and is the only architect to have designed three Capitol buildings
• The original design was meant to be constructed from limestone, but the local limestone was unsuitable due to iron particles
• The design was simplified, allowing the engineers to use Texas red granite for Granite Mountain
• The quarrying was done by convicts and later by imported Scottish granite cutters.

The construction of the Capitol was plagued by difficulties. Problems occurred both in the early stages and after the work was completed. Specific parts of the original Capitol have been moved to preserve them and placed on display to the public.

• Using Scottish granite cutters violated the Contract Labor Act and sparked a boycott.
• Although completed in 1888, the copper roof leaked, and the Capitol Board refused to accept it.
• The east wing was damaged by a fire in 1983, and the State Preservation Board was created to restore it.
• The original iron and zinc Goddess of Liberty, which graced the top of the building, was removed after nearly a hundred years.
• A new goddess was cast from molds made from the original, and this new aluminum statue was placed on the dome in 1986.

Where Is The Texas State Capitol?

You’ll find the Texas Capitol building in Austin, Texas, in the downtown area. The address is 1100 Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas, 78701. Once a tiny frontier town called Waterloo, it was eventually renamed Austin after Stephen F. Austin. It became the state capital and the home of the Capitol building.

• Waterloo Park
• Texas Governer’s Mansion
• State Library and Archives
• Sam Houston Building

The Texas Capitol occupies a large area of land in downtown Austin . It is surrounded by the university and government buildings and has many museums nearby. To the east lies Waterloo Park, which has many walking trails, and hosts events such as festivals.

The Capitol building sits on beautiful extensive grounds and is home to 22 monuments. There are several other notable buildings on the grounds.

The building is accessed via Congress Avenue, off 15th Street. There are four upper levels, a ground floor, and two underground levels in the extension.

• Visitor Galleries
• Historic Courtrooms
• Legislative Library
• Legislative Chambers
• Agricultural Museum

The Texas Capitol can be visited, and the standard opening hours are 7am to 10pm. The information desk for the Capitol and tours is located in the south lobby on the 1 st  floor, and free daily tours begin here.

• Capitol tours run weekdays 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
• Saturday 9:30n am – 3:30 pm
• Sunday from noon – 3:30 pm

What To Do In The Texas Capitol

The Capitol building is well worth visiting, not only for its historical importance but for the exhibits, the stunning grounds, and the impressive architecture. You can follow a free thirty-minute tour or grab a pamphlet and follow a self-guided tour. The 22 acres of surrounding land are home to historic buildings and 22 monuments.

• Featured exhibits change, but you can expect to see the Capitol Dome Model and the history of the Texas Revolution Soldiers.
• Picture galleries and Monuments
• Historical Galleries and Spaces

While the Capitol still functions as the seat of Texas Government Legislature and the Ofiice of the Governer of Texas, many spaces are still open to the public, and you can view them throughout the day. It is free to tour the grounds and the Capitol, though some places will not be open to tours as they are used for official business, or must be preserved.

The exhibits in the Capitol are varied, covering historical blueprints and imagery to recreate the life of Texas Revolution Soldiers. You can expect to see models of the Capitol dome, digital stations showing the timeline of the Capitol, films showing the history f the Capitol, and even a LEGO Capitol made from 65,000 bricks.

Three different galleries boast paintings, documents, and artifacts from the history f Texas and the Capitol. In the Governors and Presidents Gallery are old and modern portraits of governors and presidents who hailed from Texas, which included George W. Bush.

In the Capitol Artwork gallery, scenes from battles and the history of Texas include Dawn at the Alamo and Fording the Pecos River.

In the Artifacts and Documents Gallery, you’ll see furniture and artifacts from the Capitol building, the Goddess of Liberty, and sheet music.

The beautifully maintained grounds surrounding the Texas Capitol are home to 22 monuments commemorating people and events in Texas history. There are equestrian statues for the Texas Cowboys and Texas Rangers and monuments to Vietnam Veterans, Texas Children, and Pioneer Women. All monuments are free to visit.

Some areas in the Capitol have historical significance but are not open to the general public due to preservation requirements or official functions. These include The Lt. Governor’s Reception Room, the House Speaker’s Apartment, and the Subterranean Vault. Explore these in the Hidden Spaces Gallery.

Reconstructed views of historically and architecturally significant places in the Capitol are found in this Gallery. These spaces still function as intended and are used by the current state government.

By using original or reproduction furniture, artwork, and décor, preservationists have maintained these rooms as they would have appeared between 1888 and 1915.

• The Capitol Grill – located in Capitol Extension, Room E1.002, the Capitol Grill offers breakfast and lunch on weekdays.
• The Star Café – located in the Bullock Museum, 2 nd  floor, you can enjoy breakfast, sandwiches, wraps, coffees, and desserts from Tuesday to Sunday.
• Texas Chilli Parlour – An American and Southwestern Bar 0.2 miles from the Texas Capitol, famous for their brisket
• Caffe Aragona – A café with quick meals, pasties, and coffess, only 0.2miles from the Capitol
• Quattro Gatti – Italian restaurant and pizzeria 0.2 miles from the Texas Capitol
• Hotel ZaZa Austin – 0.2 miles from the Capitol; fitness center, outdoor swimming pool, bar, private parking
• The Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel – 0.1 miles from the Capitol; pet-friendly, swimming pool, hot tub, fitness center
• JW Marriott Austin – 0.2 miles from the Capitol; parking, swimming pool, spa, fitness center
• Residence Inn Austin Downtown – 0.2 miles from the Capitol; pet-friendly, swimming pool, fitness center, parking

Texas Capitol FAQs

The Capitol Vistors Parking Garage has parking available for visitors. The first two hours are free, but you’ll be charged $1 for each subsequent half hour. The maximum parking fee is $12. No overnight parking is permitted.

The Texas Capitol is open to the public between 7 am – 8 pm on weekdays and 9 am – 8 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. The Capitol is closed on the following days: Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

It is free of charge to visit the Texas Capitol building and grounds. All tours, whether guided or self-guided from pamphlets, are free. The building is open to the public, and the only costs are parking or buying items from the gift shop.

Since it is home to so much Texan history, it is worth visiting if you have a keen interest in history. However, it is worth visiting because of its beautiful grounds, stunning architecture, and many monuments. Guided tours are free, and the enthusiasm of the tour guides will make exploring the Capitol fascinating.

References:

• Seat of Texas Legislature : capitol.texas.gov
• Entry Times and Fees Texas Capitol : tspb.texas.gov

Christian Linden

Christian Linden is a seasoned writer and contributor at Texas View, specializing in topics that resonate with the Texan community. With over a decade of experience in journalism, Christian brings a wealth of knowledge in local politics, culture, and lifestyle. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Communications from the University of Texas. When he's not writing, Christian enjoys spending weekends traveling across Texas with his family, exploring everything from bustling cities to serene landscapes.

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Texas Capitol Visitors Center

Located in the restored 1856-57 General Land Office building. The three-story castle-like structure is the oldest state office building in Texas. The Visitors Center details Texas history through exhibits and videos. Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. The center offers free, guided tours and self-guided tours as well as group and specialty tours.

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The Most Beautiful Building In Every US State

Posted: January 2, 2024 | Last updated: January 2, 2024

Awe-inspiring architecture

From significant government buildings to historic residences and even train stations, this diverse collection of constructions have been deemed the most beautiful in the US. Thanks to research compiled by Angi based on TripAdvisor rankings, we take a look at the most attractive building in every state.

Click or scroll through to see if your favorite made the list...

Alabama: Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Mobile

Alaska: St Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Sitka

Arizona: Chapel of the Holy Cross, Sedona

Blending into the surrounding red rocks, this chapel was built in 1956 by visionary architect and sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude. It was designed to reflect the spiritual essence of the Sedona landscape. Staude was inspired by the powerful steel frameworks of skyscrapers – a theme that's explored with its central iron cross, which serves both a structural support and aesthetic purpose. The striking design is rounded off with a 210-foot-tall (64m) central nave and windowed altar.

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Arkansas: Thorncrown Chapel, Eureka Springs

California: Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Santa Barbara

Colorado: Colorado State Capitol, Denver

Connecticut: Connecticut State Capitol, Hartford

Delaware: Grand Opera House, Wilmington

A perfect example of why historic preservation matters, this gorgeous Beaux-Arts building was originally finished in 1871 but has recently undergone major renovation and modernisation. The interior is just as impressive, with over 1,200 seats in an auditorium that's reached via a grand staircase through the lobby. It's a beloved institution and has hosted opera, ballet and live music, with Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra among those taking to the stage.

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Florida: Stetson Mansion, DeLand

Built for John B. Stetson, the inventor of the Stetson hat, this Florida mansion was finished in 1886 and features 16 distinct rooms across more than 8,000 square feet (743sqm) of living space. Apart from ornate woodwork and stained-glass windows, the mansion has a few surprises up its sleeve. Those who join a tour will be shown to a hidden door, among other unique features. The house was also home to writer and poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning and even featured on TV show  Ghost Hunters .

Georgia: Cathedral of St John the Baptist, Savannah

This cathedral in Savannah has a striking Gothic facade that's hard to miss. It was built in 1873 and its exterior is adorned with intricate carvings, statues and stained glass. On the inside, soaring vaulted ceilings and a great pipe organ awe most visitors. 

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Hawaii: Byodo-In Temple, Kaneohe

Idaho: Idaho Falls Temple & Visitors Centre, Idaho Falls

One of the oldest operating temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (informally known as the Mormon Church), the Idaho Falls Temple was opened in 1945 and is a stunning example of Art Deco architecture. The white granite facade appears to glisten in daylight, while its spire, topped by a golden statue of the Angel Moroni, stands 143 feet tall (44m). Although it's an active place of worship, visitors can take a tour of the temple grounds and learn about the history of the fascinating building and the church.

Illinois: Holy Name Cathedral, Chicago

In a city where great architecture abounds , it's quite the accolade to be named the most beautiful building. That honor goes to the 19th-century Holy Name Cathedral, a Gothic Revival marvel. The cathedral's spire stands out at 210 feet (64m) and is a familiar sight in Chicago's skyscraper-punctuated skyline. A Catholic place of worship, the cathedral is just as majestic inside too, with wood carvings and stained glass on almost every wall.

Indiana: Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Notre Dame

Iowa: Capitol Building, Des Moines

Kansas: Kansas State Capitol Building, Topeka

A marvelous building inside and out, the Kansas State Capitol was finished in 1903. Its central dome, topped by a bronze statue, is said to be visible from a mile away, but the building's most impressive feature lies inside. The rotunda is adorned with a mural that depicts key moments in the state's history, including the struggles of the Civil War. Self-guided tours are available to those who want to discover its grand hallways, marble staircases and ceremonial and legislative offices.

Kentucky: New Capitol Building, Frankfort

Built in 1910 to replace the earlier capitol building – which is still standing in downtown Frankfort and now serves as a museum – the new capitol is actually the fourth capitol building since Kentucky achieved statehood in 1792. It's a sprawling Beaux-Arts confection, with decorative lunettes above the chamber doors which depict significant historical moments in Kentucky. 

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Louisiana: St Louis Cathedral, New Orleans

Maine: Saint Ann's Church, Kennebunkport

Maryland: The Baltimore Basilica, Baltimore

Massachusetts: The House of the Seven Gables, Salem

Michigan: The Guardian Building, Detroit

Minnesota: Cathedral of Saint Paul, St Paul

Mississippi: St Mary Basilica, Natchez

Constructed from unusual red brick, this 1842 church is built in the Gothic Revival style. You'll find lots of flourishes in its interior, from ornate woodwork to carvings and other decorative elements on the altars. Don't forget to cast your eyes upwards at the glorious pastel-blue ceiling. Located in the heart of downtown Natchez, it's an active place of worship, open to visitors daily.

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Missouri: Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, St Louis

Often referred to as the New Cathedral to distinguish it from the original church that was destroyed by fire in 1849, this dazzling cathedral incorporates elements of both Gothic and Byzantine architecture. One of its most striking features is the two massive bell towers that rise 210 feet (64m) above ground. If that wasn't enough to impress you, the interior is even more awe-inspiring with a grand nave that features more than 40 million pieces of coloured glass in its mosaic ceiling. 

Montana: Cathedral of St Helena, Helena

Nebraska: Nebraska State Capitol, Lincoln

Nevada: St Mary in the Mountains Catholic Church, Virginia City

Dating back to 1868, this historic church in Virginia City has been a fixture in the community for over 150 years and is one of the oldest continuously-operating churches in the state. A beautiful Gothic Revival building, it's surprisingly simple on the inside, with ornamented altars and understated woodwork.

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New Hampshire: Castle in the Clouds, Moultonborough

Also known as Lucknow, this historic estate was built in 1913 as the summer home of the millionaire industrialist Thomas Plant and his family. Its nickname draws inspiration from its location atop a mountain, opening up views of the surrounding countryside. Following the homely motifs of the Arts and Crafts movement, the building was also known for hosting parties of the most influential people of the time. Now, it's a popular events venue that's typically open to visitors. 

New Jersey: Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May

New Mexico: Cathedral Basilica of St Francis of Assisi, Santa Fe

Fusing Spanish, Native American and English influences, this unique building incorporates elements of various cultures that have been a part of New Mexico history. A striking Romanesque Revival building, its history dates back to the 16th century, when the Spanish built the first church in this spot. The current structure was finished in the late 19th century and one of its most striking aspects is the stained-glass windows, designed by artist John C. Beyer to depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of saints.

New York: Grand Central Terminal, New York City

Probably the most famous train station in the world, Grand Central Terminal really is grand. Opened in 1913, it features a ceiling fresco in the Main Concourse depicting the constellations of the zodiac and the building itself has been designated a National Historic Landmark due to its magnificent Beaux-Arts facade.

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North Carolina: Biltmore, Asheville

One of the country's most spectacular pieces of architecture, this Gilded Age mansion was constructed in 1889 by George Vanderbilt, grandson of the business magnate Cornelius Vanderbilt. The largest residential home in the US, it spans nearly 180,000 square feet (16,722sqm) with more than 250 rooms. It took six years to finish. Visitors can tour the property and even spend the night in one of the historic cottages.

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North Dakota: North Dakota State Capitol Building, Bismarck

Ohio: Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, Akron

A rare example of a Tudor Revival building in the US, this eye-catching estate was built in the early 20th century by Goodyear Tire and Rubber company co-founder F. A. Seiberling. The estate comprises a 65-room manor house and gardens as well as an impressive art collection. Visitors can take a guided tour that snakes through the house and areas of the garden, as well as the Gate Lodge – the birthplace of Alcoholics Anonymous. Note that it is temporarily closed until 1 April.

Oklahoma: Oklahoma State Capitol, Oklahoma City

Completed in 1917, this building is a stunning example of Greco-Roman architecture. Thanks to a major restoration project, much work was done to modernize the building while maintaining its historic character. A steel-enforced and plaster cast dome tops off the spectacular construction. The building is open to public and visitors shouldn't miss the many artworks, murals and sculptures displayed throughout. The complex is also famous for its oil wells and, outside, you'll find the only state capitol grounds in the US with active oil rigs.

Oregon: Pittock Mansion, Portland

Built by Henry and Georgina Pittock, two prominent Portland residents in the early 1900s, this mansion is a striking vision of French Renaissance architecture. Surrounded by nature, the mansion is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore multiple rooms, the Pittock family's private art collection and venture out into the landscaped gardens.

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Pennsylvania: Fallingwater, Mill Run

Rhode Island: The Elms, Newport

South Carolina: Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, Charleston

South Dakota: Chapel in the Hills, Colonial Pine Hills

A unique church, reminiscent of fantastical Arendelle in  Frozen , this wooden structure is actually based on a traditional Norwegian stave church. The chapel was finished in 1969 and is constructed entirely out of wood, featuring intricate carvings, including a hand-crafted altar and an antique pipe organ. Visitors can not only use it as a place of worship but also learn about the history and traditions of Norwegian stave churches – which they may not expect to do in a place as far away as South Dakota.

Tennessee: Nashville Parthenon, Nashville

Texas: Texas State Capitol, Austin

Utah: Temple Square, Salt Lake City

Vermont: Vermont State House, Montpelier

Virginia: George Washington's Mount Vernon, Mount Vernon

The historic plantation home of America's First President George Washington, Mount Vernon is an immaculately-preserved, 21-room estate that draws in thousands of visitors more than two centuries after Washington's death. Museum displays explore the lives of the enslaved people who once lived and worked on the estate, while tours cover everything from farming techniques to life in 18th-century America.

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Washington: Seattle Public Library, Seattle

West Virginia: St Peter's Roman Catholic Church, Harpers Ferry

Wisconsin: Wisconsin State Capitol, Madison

Built in a Neoclassical style we've seen in plenty of state capitol buildings on this list, this one was completed in 1917 and remains one of the state's most recognisable landmarks. The towering dome rises 187 feet (57m) and is made of white granite. At the top sits a statue of a globe-clutching lady known as Wisconsin, which represents the state's motto, 'Forward'. The two interior must-sees are the rotunda, modeled after the Pantheon in Rome, Italy and the Senate chamber, which is reminiscent of the Parthenon in Athens.

Wyoming: Wyoming State Capitol, Cheyenne

Completed in 1890, the Wyoming State Capitol has been the heart of the state's political life for over a century. Grand and imposing, the exterior is dominated by a soaring dome, while the interior is equally as impressive, with grand staircases, ornate decorations and a rotunda modeled after the US Capitol in DC. If you take a tour, you'll see that the Senate chamber is adorned with paintings of Wyoming's early pioneers and other famous figures.

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Samsung gets $6.4 billion to build massive semiconductor plants in central Texas

Updated April 15, 2024 at 12:02 PM ET

The Biden administration is giving Samsung $6.4 billion to help build massive new semiconductor chip plants in central Texas, the latest in a series of investments that the government hopes will transform the U.S. manufacturing sector.

Samsung itself is expected to invest $40 billion in the project, which will build new plants in Taylor , Texas, which is northeast of Austin, and expand the company's existing plant in Austin. The tiny chips will be used in technology that's needed for everything from artificial intelligence, to medical devices like pacemakers.

President Biden visited the company's Pyeongtaek campus in South Korea two years ago. The new Texas plants will include facilities dedicated to research and development, and will have the ability to not only manufacture the chips, but package them, too. Many chips that are made in the U.S. still have to get sent to Taiwan to get packaged.

"We're saying for the first time ever, Samsung can conduct in the United States of America core research and development, support the future and manufacturing at scale and advanced packaging all in Texas," Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told reporters on a conference call.

She described the facilities Samsung is building as "massive" — the first one will be the size of 11 football fields.

The White House estimated that the new plants will create 17,000 construction jobs and more than 4,500 manufacturing jobs . But it will take until the end of the decade for all the plants to be fully functional.

Officials also said it will make an impact on national security, because the investments including commitments from Samsung to manufacture semiconductor chips directly for the U.S. Department of Defense.

"It will boost our production capacity for chips in critical U.S. industries, including aerospace, defense and autos. And in doing so, will bolster our national security," Lael Brainard, Biden's top economic adviser, told reporters.

Officials said the investment, which comes from the CHIPS and Science Act President Biden signed into law in 2022, is their final major announcement on Biden's plans to bring semiconductor manufacturing back to the United States.

Earlier this year, Biden announced grants to Taiwanese company TSMC for a large manufacturing project in Arizona, and U.S. company Intel for plants in Arizona, Ohio, New Mexico and Oregon.

Copyright 2024 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.