The Oklahoma State Capitol is the house of government in the state of Oklahoma. Explore public areas in the 650-room building and discover its fine collection of art and furnishings. The state capitol’s elaborate architecture and spacious grounds have a distinctive feature: this is the only state capitol complex in the United States with working oil wells on site. Learn the building’s history and find out about the momentous events that have taken place here.
The grand neoclassical and Renaissance-revival structure was completed in 1917 after a vote was held to change the capital from Guthrie to Oklahoma City. Take a moment to appreciate the building’s architecture. Note the locally sourced Oklahoma pink-granite base, which is accentuated by Indiana limestone. Due to budget constraints during the building’s construction, the dome in the original plans by Soloman Andrew Layton and S. Wemyss-Smith had to be omitted. Today, however, you’ll see a grand central dome rising up behind the neoclassical portico. The dome was added in 2002 to finally complete the architects’ original vision.
Enter the building to see its central staircase, which is made from local black granite. Find the museum and explore the state capitol’s historical exhibits. Learn about the history of the state government and the capitol building’s estate.
Take a self-guided tour or join a docent-led tour to explore some of the building’s rooms. In the west wing, you’ll find the offices and chambers of the Oklahoma House of Representatives. The offices and chambers of the Oklahoma Senate are located in the east wing. Visit the Oklahoma Veterans Memorial on the northern side of the complex or check out the tribal flag plaza. Restored stained-glass windows and fine art pieces are featured throughout the building. After your tour, visit the state capitol’s gift shop.
The Oklahoma State Capitol is located northeast of downtown Oklahoma City. Admission is free and self-guided tours are available daily. Docent-led tours are available six times a day from Monday through Friday. Reach the complex easily by car or bus from downtown Oklahoma City.
