California's Capitol On A Rainy Day: Photos

SACRAMENTO, CA — Sacramento was chosen as California's capital city in 1854. Construction on the stately gold-domed Capitol began in 1860 and was completed in 1874.

The Capitol annex was constructed between 1949 and 1951, housing legislative offices, committee rooms and the Governor’s offices.

A total reconstruction of the building was undertaken in 1976 to strengthen and reinforce the weakening structure. The project was completed in 1982 when the Capitol was reopened to the public.

Free guided tours are available on the hour most weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sign up for tours at the Information Desk in the first Floor Rotunda. The tours are limited to 20 people on a first-come, first-served basis. Schools and groups of 10 may make a reservation by calling Reserve California at 1-866-240-4655.

If you would like to see the legislature at work, here is a calendar of the legislative session, including recesses.

Free guided tours of Capitol Park are also available, on a limited basis:

• Summer tours: April – October, Sunday and Wednesday 11 a.m.
• Winter tours: November – March, Sunday and Wednesday 1 p.m.
• Registration is not required, but is recommended.

The Capitol is located at 10th and L Streets in Sacramento.