The New York State Capitol, the seat of the New York State government, is located in Albany, the capital city of the U.S. state of New York. The capitol building is part of the Empire State Plaza complex on State Street in Capitol Park. Housing the New York State Legislature, the building was completed in 1899 at a cost of US$25 million (equivalent to $778 million in 2020), making it the most expensive government building of its time. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971, then included as a contributing property when the Lafayette Park Historic District was listed in 1978. The New York State Capitol was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1979.
Legislative sessions had been held at different buildings in different places before Albany was declared the State capital in 1797. From that time until 1811, the State Legislature met at the Old Albany City Hall. The first State Capitol was designed by Albany native Philip Hooker, started in 1804, inaugurated in 1812 and remained in use until 1879 when the current building was inaugurated.
Monday | 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
Tuesday | 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
Wednesday | 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
Thursday | 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
Friday | 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM |
Saturday | Closed |
Sunday | Closed |
Norman A Bernstein | Mar 4, 2018
Probably one of the most beautiful and unique government buildings in the U.S.! An architectural playground that must be seen in order to really appreciate its grand, awesome, and highly stylistic design. Definitely worth the trip to Albany to see it. This is what one would expect to find in the "Empire State". I would add a + to it's Five Star rating! The adjacent Empire State Plaza contains a very impressive set of marble-clad office towers, as well as the New York State Library and Museum.
Chris Carlsson | Feb 22, 2018
Beautiful state capital. It has amazing stairs on each side of the building so it is great to get different pictures around the structure. I was not able to go in, but looking thru the doors it was even beautiful. I was there in the fall so there were a few trees that were turning colors. Easy to explore the rest of the area from there.
melody evans | Feb 21, 2018
Best experience ever! I traveled with an Advocacy group and spoke with 10 senators. Everyone was great and listened to our concerns. I advise everyone to visit the capital and check out the million dollar staircase. Absolutely beautiful!
Scott Johnson | Feb 17, 2018
This historical building is beautiful. It is well worth taking a few hours to walk around and check it out. Make sure you walk the million dollar staircase. If you can time it right, try to be there when either the Senate or Assembly is in session. It is very interesting to see government in action. Also make sure you see the flag display.
Yoel Falkowitz | Dec 30, 2017
The capitol building of the great state of New York is something worthwhile visiting for everyone especially New Yorkers. The building is a magnificent architecture with spectacular beauty. Stone walls, pillars, staircases and dimly lit hallways. And the most beautiful thing is the general assembly hall. Just walking through the hallways is half the adventure. The capitol building also connects to other buildings via underground tunnel.
Jonathan Duda | Apr 14, 2018
Don't let the security and metal detectors thwart you. You're perfectly allowed to freely roam the halls of this gem of a landmark. In addition to the stunning architecture, the MC Escher-esque staircases, and countless carvings to admire, there are rotating exhibits throughout.
Michael Soethout | May 2, 2018
The Capitol area is very nice and the Capitol is a impressive building. There is some very nice architecture there. The elected officials are okay.
Kyle Gibson | May 25, 2018
Amazing. Grew up and have lived in the Albany area for 31 years and have never been to The Capitol, just toured it the other day (free) and couldn't have been more impressed. So much architecture and history and the tour guide was great. Strongly urge anyone who hasn't to take a tour or just wander the halls (totally open to the public during business hours Monday-Friday).
Jemma Hanson | Jun 9, 2018
The capital in New York has historic beauty, it is a must see at least once. The assembly and Senate chambers are lovely and were refreshed in the last 5 years. If you want to see the people's house visit the capital in New York❤
Kara Yakel | Jun 17, 2018
The tour is free and takes an hour. You can also do a self guided tour. Either one I'd reccomend. The architecture is amazing! Something to see if you're in the Capitol area.
Steve McCoy | May 26, 2018
Gorgeous buildings! Politicians! History! Intrigue! Ok, but seriously, skip all the other stuff and take/ get a tour if this beautifully restored architectural gems. Kinda makes Albany a place to really want to visit!
Jennifer Palmerson | Jun 29, 2018
A truly historic building, every corner provided thought provoking artifacts and information to quell my curiosity. The pamphlet provided allowed for an informative self-guided tour. Guided tours with knowledgeable guides are also available. An impressive building and worthy of any time spent exploring its hallways.
Chris Johnson | Jul 12, 2018
Very impressive inside and out. Go during session to see all the action. I’m a big fan of the modernist capitol plaza across the street.
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