Guide to Oklahoma State Capitol Tours

By Adam Knapp

Updated 05/15/18

The Oklahoma State Capitol Building
••• Adam Knapp

Experience the history and impact of the entire complex with an Oklahoma State Capitol Tour. Operated by the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation, Oklahoma State Capitol Tours are available for visitors, residents, school field trips or other groups. Guided tours can be scheduled in advance, or there are brochures available to assist you on a self-guided tour.

What to See on the Tour

Trained volunteers take visitors on a 45-minute tour of the complex, giving pieces of fascinating Oklahoma history along the way, including the fact that ours is the only capitol with a working oil well on its grounds.

The structure itself is of Greco-Roman architecture and includes 650 rooms. See the marble floors and stairs, hand-painted ceilings, portraits of famous Oklahomans and other fantastic artwork, the newly-added dome and more.

Outside is the Oklahoma Veterans Memorial, celebrating those who fought in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

Dining Options

The capitol complex itself has no restaurants, but there are snack bars located in the basement and on the fourth floor. These snack bars serve items such as candy, soda, and sandwiches. Take NE 23rd west and find several excellent restaurants such as Cheever's, Guernsey Park, Pizzeria Gusto, and Tucker's Onion Burgers. Also, a number of fast food places are nearby, and the many restaurants in Bricktown or Midtown are only a short drive.  

Nearby Hotels

Coming from out of town to take an Oklahoma State Capitol Tour? Here are some hotel options nearby:

Location & Parking

The Oklahoma State Capitol is located at NE 23rd and Lincoln Boulevard. Take I-235 and exit eastbound on NE 23rd. Signs will guide you on to Lincoln Boulevard and to the parking areas.

Administrators of the complex recommend the south parking lot for those scheduling capitol tours. Parking is free, but the area can get crowded when the legislature is in session.

Tour Times

Admission to the Oklahoma State Capitol is free, and self-guided tours are available each day.

It is best to schedule guided tours in advance by calling ahead. Tours begin at the Welcome Center in the first-floor rotunda.