Texas Legislative Session

Dates: early January-end of May, odd numbered years

Every two years, the Texas Legislature convenes in Austin at the Texas State Capitol for five months of legislative business. Although there may be special sessions called between these regular sessions, it’s during the regular sessions that travelers find it easiest to plan a visit to the Capitol to watch Texas government at work.

The first day of the session, when both the House of Representatives and the Senate convene at noon, is composed largely of formalities and the visitors’ galleries are at their peak as friends and families come to watch the swearing in ceremonies.

Most days, however, it’s easy for travelers to pop into the galleries and grab a seat to watch the action. The entrance to the galleries for both houses is on the third floor of the Capitol; be prepared to go through security before entering.

Along with watching the Legislature, try to save time in your day for a tour of the Capitol. You can take a free guided tour (or grab a brochure for a self-guided tour) from the Texas Capitol Visitors Center (located on the southeast side of the Capitol grounds).

For More Information:

• Texas Legislature site
• Texas House of Representatives site
• Texas Senate site