A long journey to the Capitol dome

DENVER - After being closed to the public for nearly six years, the dome at the State Capitol has reopened.

Starting Tuesday, visitors got a guided tour of the dome.

It closed in 2001 after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and has since undergone safety upgrades. Now that it’s open again, visitors are getting to see more than ever.

However, there are some things that haven’t changed; like the way up to the top.

“Hold on to the rail, watch your step and be careful,” said tour guide Simon Maghakyan.

It's been five and a half years since the public has walked up the stairs up toward the dome, there are 99 steps in all. It all starts on the 3rd floor of the Capitol and goes straight up a narrow, winding staircase to the top.

“The staircase we're standing on now has always been here and this is how people have always got to the dome,” explained Maghakyan.

These days are no different - if you want to see the dome, you've got work for it.

“You guys made it; welcome to the dome,” said Maghakyan to a tour group.

More than 100 feet up in the rotunda, visitors get to stand inside the 24kt gold-laced dome. There are only 12 others like it in the nation.

“It's just an amazing building,” said Lucy Tschappler, one of those in the tour group.

The views from the top aren't bad either. Visitors get a 360-degree look at the city behind one of several windows lining the dome. Before, you could step right out onto the balcony, but it is still closed due to construction.

Down the stairs you'll find something no one's seen until now: Mr. Brown’s Attic.

The newly designed space was named after the man who donated the land for the Capitol: Henry Brown.

The attic gives visitors a look back in time through pictures to see how the Capitol came together, right down to the dome, from its copper beginnings to its golden future.

For many it’s worth the journey to see it.

“Today was just awesome,” said Eagle Scout Alec Szuch.

The Capitol is now offering guided tours of the dome by reservation only, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information you can visit www.colorado-dome.org or call 303-866-3834.