Washington Capitol Campus Tours: Plan the Perfect Visit

A visit to the Washington State Capitol Campus isn’t complete without a guided tour of the Legislative Building. These free, walking tours are offered daily and typically last about 50 minutes.

You can also wander Campus and take in the many memorials, gardens, and special events featured on the grounds.

WHEN ARE CAPITOL TOURS OFFERED?

Capitol Tours are available Monday-Friday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m.; and on weekends and holidays at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT TO SEE ON THE CAPITOL BUILDING TOUR?

Inside the Capitol Building visitors will see legislative offices, beautiful and stately architecture, imagery of George Washington, including a golden Washington seal, a Tiffany chandelier, and exquisite paintings. Make sure you bring a camera!

HOW DO I SIGN UP FOR A TOUR?

Simply go to the visitor welcome desk inside of the Legislative Building, and one of their helpful volunteers will get you checked in. No prior appointments are necessary. Contact Department of Enterprise Services by visiting their website here.

Overlooking the Sunken Garden at Washington State Capitol Campus in Olympia, WA

BOTANICAL TOURS

Spring and summer is the perfect time to enjoy all the beautiful blooms at the various gardens throughout the campus. Guests are free to walk the gardens on their own, or you can reserve a guided botanical tour of the Capitol Campus grounds are by appointment only. Please email tours@des.wa.gov or call (360) 972-0753 to schedule. Botanical tours can be for individuals or groups of up to 25 people.

Explore the Capitol Campus Gardens

Sunken Gardens - Renovated and Reopened

WHERE DO THE TOURS START AND END?

Tours begin from the visitor welcome desk inside the front (or north) side of the building. An accessible entrance is also available on the west side of the building. From the accessible entrance, follow the signs for Capitol Tours or ask one of the friendly staff members for directions.

Tours end at the accessible entrance on the west side of the building, next to the Legislative Gift Center.

DO I HAVE TO TAKE A GUIDED TOUR?

Guided tours are optional. Visitors are welcome to explore the Legislative Building on their own when it is open. The Capitol Campus grounds also offer an easy stroll among gardens and memorials.

Resources for planning a self-guided tour are available here.

CAN I ALSO TOUR THE GOVERNOR'S MANSION?

For the remainder of 2024, The Governor's Mansion Foundation tours are on the first and second Wednesday of May, June, October, November, and December. Please visit the Governor's Mansion Foundation website, click on tours, and schedule your tour.

CAN I BOOK GROUP OR SCHOOL TOURS?

Yes! Contact the Department of Enterprise Services by visiting their website here.

ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL EVENTS OR EXHIBITS CURRENTLY HAPPENING AT THE CAPITOL BUILDING?

Special events happen sporadically throughout the year, for the most up-to-date information check the Capitol Campus Activities and Events Calendar. If you are interested in hosting a private event at the Capitol Building, click here.

WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO PARK?

Half hour parking is free in the dedicated section of the visitor lot, or you can pay to park for a longer stay. Parking is currently $2 an hour. Contact Department of Enterprise Services by visiting their website here.