Come to your Capitol and look around. Through the front door and across the rotunda, you’ll find the information kiosk. Here you can join a historical tour of the building or tower, or get a brochure to go on your own self-guided walk.
During legislative sessions, you can observe your Legislature in committee and chamber floor sessions, meet with your legislator, testify, or submit testimony in writing.
Located on the first floor you’ll find the Capitol History Gateway exhibits. These exhibits highlight ways in which ordinary citizens have affected state legislation, and ideas for how you can too.
Of course, the Capitol isn’t the only historical building in town. Be sure to visit State Capitol State Park and the Willamette Heritage Center, and take the walking tour of downtown Salem.
If it’s your first time here, we hope you leave inspired to return. Our state needs citizens like you to continue building a stronger Oregon.
Schedule Space at the Capitol
Are you planning to request space for a meeting or event at the Capitol? First review the Building Use Policies and Guidelines. To request space, email your request to capitol.events@state.or.us. You can also call the Capitol Events Desk at 503-986-1384.
Visitor Information
Food
Inside the building, the cafe (503-585-4266) serves light breakfast and lunch. On sunny days, picnics are popular on the capitol grounds. See our Salem page for other options.
Parking
Metered parking is available around the Capitol and cost $1.50 per hour. Free parking can be found within about eight blocks from the Capitol at the Liberty and Chemeketa parking structures . All-day City of Salem parking passes are sold in the Capitol, in room 49, and may be used at any Capitol Mall parking meter within the area defined on the back of the pass. For additional information call 503-986-1180.
Capitol Store
The Capitol Store is a perfect place to shop. Oregon artisans and authors are prominently featured along with a wide variety of souvenirs. Shipping and gift wrapping are available. The store is open from 9 a.m. to
4:30 p.m. Call 503-986-1391, or email capitol.giftshop@state.or.us for more information.
Accessibility
The Capitol staff works with individuals to ensure universal access to public hearings. Find out more on the ADA accessibility page.
Seasons at the Capitol
Your Capitol changes with the seasons: bustling during lawmaking sessions and lively during special and seasonal events.
- Guided Tour Season: January - November
- Guided Tower Tour Season: June 16 - September 30
- Self-Guided Tour Season: Year-round
- School Tour Season: September 2 - June 1
- Legislative Session: February 1 - 28 (even numbered years)
- Legislative Session: February 1 - July 5 (odd numbered years)
- Cherry Blossom Season: March 1 - April 15
- Holidays at the Capitol: December 1 - December 24
