Extra volunteers will be on hand at the Capitol to offer free historical tours inside the building, as well as of the dome, which was closed to the public for a number of years until last year. The dome's observation deck offers 360-degree views of Denver and depending on the weather, a magnificent vista of the Rocky Mountains to the west.

"The Capitol is the best place to visit this week if you have family or friends from out of town, especially since our tours are free," said Simon Maghakyan, who is the assistant manager of Visitor Services at the State Capitol. "The climb to the century-old golden dome is something every Coloradoan must do. A structure of historic and architectural prominence, Colorado's statehouse is a true beauty not to be missed."

The first tour starts at 9 a.m. and runs every half hour until 2 p.m. The historical tours of the Capitol, which include stories of Colorado's early history and pioneers, as well as the building's architectural features, last roughly 45 minutes. The dome tours are about half an hour.

Due to construction and security, the public entrance to the Capitol is on the north side of the building, at Sherman and Colfax.

For more information about dome tours, visit http://www.state.co.us/gov_dir/leg_dir/lcsstaff/CapitolTour/DomeIndex.htm.