Free guided tours of the Nebraska State Capitol are offered every day the building is open. A guide takes you through the public rooms of the Capitol and tells the story of its architecture, its art and the government that works inside it.
When tours begin
Tours leave on the hour, except at noon.
- Monday – Friday: 9, 10 and 11 a.m., and 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m.
- Saturday and holidays: 10 and 11 a.m., and 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m.
- Sunday: 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m.
The Capitol is open every day except Thanksgiving Day, the Friday after, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Holidays follow the Saturday schedule, and special events can change a day’s tours, so call the tour office if you are planning around one.
Where to meet
Tours begin at the north entrance on the second floor. Come in through the ground floor entrance and go up to the second floor. The elevator in Room 1009 reaches the second floor, where the tour office is; see Parking and Accessibility for the accessible entrance and parking.
What to know
- Tours are free. If you are not sure whether a particular day or time is running, call the tour office first.
- The tower and observation decks are closed during HVAC construction. Memorial Chamber information and observation deck views are available online.
- No pets are allowed in the Capitol. Service animals as defined by the ADA are welcome.
- Please read the rules and regulations for use of the Capitol.
Groups and school tours
Teachers and group leaders should call the tour office to schedule a visit. See School Tours for what to have ready when you call. Spring is the busiest season for school groups, so call early.
On your own
You can also explore without a guide, inside or out.
- The Exterior Walking Tour is a self-guided tour of the outside of the Capitol, available whenever the building is closed.
- The Centennial Mall walking tour follows the Native American themes along the mall.
- Educational Materials include self-guided tours for families, scouts and bird watchers.
- The Virtual Capitol lets you look around from home.
Contact the tour office
Capitol Tour Office: (402) 471-0448