New York State Capitol
New York State Capitol
4.5
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
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 - 7:00 PM
About
The New York State Capitol has served as the seat of government for New York since the 1880's. Over 125 years old, the building is a marvel of late 19th-century architectural grandeur. Built by hand of solid masonry, it took 5 architects and 32 years to complete. Over the years meticulous restoration has been done to maintain and protect the Capitol for future generations of New Yorkers.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
855 reviews
Excellent
611
Very good
203
Average
35
Poor
3
Terrible
3
hrobinson1114
Nashville, TN2,675 contributions
Mar 2022 • Solo
I can’t rave enough about this building, the architecture, or our tour guide, John! He was so nice and congenial and knowledgeable. You could tell he wanted us all to be interested and to have a good time!
Some fun facts: the New York State Capitol cost twice what it cost to build the US Capitol. It was so costly and such a king project, when Teddy Roosevelt became governor, he stopped the project dead in its tracks, declaring it “finished.” This was so abrupt that you can see where some of the stone mason work was never completed.
Also, the senate chamber is literally wallpapered in 23 karat gold.
The tour is free and about an hour, and I highly recommend it, as it’s the only way you can see the senate chambers and the governors ceremonial office.
The building itself is open 7AM-7PM. There are three grand, picturesque staircases. Grand masonry work everywhere, with surprises around every corner. Art work on ceilings, a hall of governors with artifacts belonging to them.
I went on a Friday when neither the senate or assembly were in session, which is how I wanted it, because the building was essentially deserted. You could go on a busier day when they are in session if you’d like to see the assembly debate and vote (can’t watch senate right now, as the chamber is smaller and doesn’t allow for social distancing).
Parking at the Empire plaza visitor parking is 10 dollars (free under 90 minutes). Lots of restaurants nearby. I loved this place and loved the tour, and kudos to John!
Some fun facts: the New York State Capitol cost twice what it cost to build the US Capitol. It was so costly and such a king project, when Teddy Roosevelt became governor, he stopped the project dead in its tracks, declaring it “finished.” This was so abrupt that you can see where some of the stone mason work was never completed.
Also, the senate chamber is literally wallpapered in 23 karat gold.
The tour is free and about an hour, and I highly recommend it, as it’s the only way you can see the senate chambers and the governors ceremonial office.
The building itself is open 7AM-7PM. There are three grand, picturesque staircases. Grand masonry work everywhere, with surprises around every corner. Art work on ceilings, a hall of governors with artifacts belonging to them.
I went on a Friday when neither the senate or assembly were in session, which is how I wanted it, because the building was essentially deserted. You could go on a busier day when they are in session if you’d like to see the assembly debate and vote (can’t watch senate right now, as the chamber is smaller and doesn’t allow for social distancing).
Parking at the Empire plaza visitor parking is 10 dollars (free under 90 minutes). Lots of restaurants nearby. I loved this place and loved the tour, and kudos to John!
Written March 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
DarylJ552
Carlsbad, CA3,148 contributions
Jul 2022
We had reservations for the 10:00 AM guided tour on a Friday and parked the car at a parking meter nearby. It was difficult to find the tour entrance and finally we were directed across the street to another building. They required covid vaccination cards which was not a problem, however this is the only place that asked for them on our entire 7 week cross country driving vacation. The female tour guide was very good but it was hard to understand her due to the echoes in the huge building. The building was started in 1867 and completed in 1899. There was a lot of marble and sandstone carvings everywhere and huge brass chandeliers. There were lots of stairways with no handrails but the guide let us use the elevators when we asked.
Written August 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
wardgarner
Castro Valley, CA586 contributions
May 2022
Take a tour, you will get so much more out of your time at the Capitol. Tours are free of charge, but you do need to make a reservation ahead of time. The Capitol building is beautiful. The intricate workmanship is outstanding. The Assembly staircase was our favorite spot, even more than the Million Dollar Staircase. The architecture of the building is outstanding. Along with the Capitol, go u to the Observation Tower for beautiful views, and take time to visit the Museum.
Written May 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Jim R
Bellingham, WA352 contributions
Sep 2022
I walked in with bike clothes late in the day, missing the last tour. Staff friendly, assisting with getting me and some bike stuff through screening and providing a map and suggested tour route. It's a beautiful building to tour on your own. There are lots of displays describing restoration projects and what is in the building. The senate chambers were locked, but it appeared that a representative was talking to a school group in the lower chamber. An employee/guard noticed me looking in and motioned I could come in. There is also a park and other buildings and displays across the street. This activity is FREE!
Written October 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Jatvla
Hobart, Australia221 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
What a wonderful building. We spent a few hours here, through security screening due to it being a place of work, then greeted by a kind lady who provided a map. We caught a lift to the 4th floor and worked our way down. Beautiful architecture, fascinating exhibits, and the staircases, just wow. The corridor with a painting of each Govenor and a little info about each was fascinating. Lovely library. There are guided tours but we enjoyed pottering around by ourselves.
Written July 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dave P
Albany, NY22 contributions
Oct 2019
Went on the Ghost Tour of the Capitol around Halloween 2019. The building has hand carved animals and people throughout. The marble floors and great halls are elaborate and covered with depictions of historic events and times. The Ghost stories were an added benefit. Learning about the spirits that are rumored to travel freely around, greatly enhanced the lure of the stately structure.
Written March 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Elena S
2 contributions
Jul 2022
The Capitol Building is impressive. Tours are free and excellent. You will want to stay right up near the tour guide and hope for a smaller group tour. The sound echoes off the stone and can make it very difficult to hear the tour guide.
Written July 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
caz and ian
Whitley Bay, UK562 contributions
May 2022 • Couples
On a short visit to Albany we thought this free tour would be interesting. We weren't wrong. Initially we were refused entry as we didn't have out covid certificates with us. We returned and once these and our passports were checked we entered. The place is fantastic inside. So many different styles, so opulant, so unique. On top of that we were allowed inside both Chambers, one while a debate was ongoing. At the tours conclusion you are free to wander around yourself. A good 1 1/4 hours spent with a knowledgable guide.
Written May 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
RandS_TX
houston318 contributions
Sep 2022
This was a lovely building. I started on the 3rd floor and made my way down. I really liked the Hall of Governors. I didn't realize 4 US presidents were the governor of NY. There are 2 different staircases with very unique architecture. I missed the guided tour. That would have been very beneficial.
Written September 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mitchell S
Bethesda, MD530 contributions
Oct 2022
Very dark inside and lot of sandstone. Several different styles of architecture within. Been to many state Capitol buildings and my wife liked this one better than I. Still worth a visit
Written November 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Why there is no dome
Kacee54
Indiana23 contributions
Oh boy I remember them covering this on our tour. Here is the answer on Wikipedia.
The central open court is dominated by a shaft intended to support a massive dome. The dome and tower were never completed, as it was found the building's weight was causing stress fractures and making the building shift downhill toward State Street. To stop this movement, a large, 166-foot (51 m) long exterior Eastern Staircase was added to support the front facade.
Does the Capital shut down for a period of 2 weeks in the summer if so can you tell me when? Planning a trip to see the capital.
NYSCapitolVisit
Albany, NY
Hello Patti - The Capitol DOES NOT shut down for two weeks in the summer. The Capitol is open Monday - Friday, 7a to 7p and is closed on weekends and holidays. Free tours are offered Monday - Friday, at 10a, Noon, 2p, and 3p. We also offer Saturday tours at 11a and 1p. The only way to access the Capitol on Saturday is through the guided tour. Registration is required for Saturday tours. Call the Visitor Center at 518-474-2418 for info. Thank you.
philhZ7413PF
Freeland, United Kingdom1 contribution
Hi, phil. What would you like to know about this attraction?
best location for car parking
NYSCapitolVisit
Albany, NY
Hi Phil - We always recommend to our visitors the Empire State Plaza Visitor Parking (V-Lot). It is the best way to experience the Empire State Plaza government complex and historic New York State Capitol. Most of the answers below are correct. Complete parking information can be found on our website. Please contact the Empire State Plaza Visitor Center at 518-474-2418 if you have any other questions. Thank you.
Lyra L
Lyon, France1 contribution
How long does the tour last?
NYSCapitolVisit
Albany, NY
Guided tour duration varies but usually last ONE HOUR. We always inform visitors that if they have time constraints they can leave the tour at any time.
Tour times are M-F at 10AM, 12Noon, 2PM & 3PM. The only time you have to register for a tour is if you have a group of 10+. More info about registering for a tour can be found on our website (follow link on main page).
We also offer two tours on every second Saturday of the month at 11AM & 1PM. Reservations are required for Saturday tours and can be made on our website (follow link on main page). Feel free to call the Empire State Plaza Visitor Center at 518-474-2418 if you have any questions. Thank you.
Can we take a stroller on the tour?
NYSCapitolVisit
Albany, NY
Strollers are absolutely welcome on our FREE Capitol tours. Any type of pushchair is allowed in the building. The Capitol is also ADA compliant with elevators that allow visitors to freely access the building. Stroller access is easiest at the Washington Ave entrance and Plaza Concourse Level entrance. If you have any questions please call the Plaza Visitor Center & Gift Shop at 518-474-2418. We can help you plan your visit and much more. Thank you.
EnthuTraveller25
California
Is there any cost to visit the state capitol or to take the guided tours on a weekday?
NYSCapitolVisit
Albany, NY
Hello,
Thank you for contacting us. There is no fee for any of our guided tours. We offer Capitol tours Monday-Friday at 10AM, 12Noon, 2PM & 3PM. We also offer tours of the Capitol on the second Saturday of each month at 11AM & 1PM. Reservations are required for those tours and can be made on our website. Parking information can also be found on our website.
Thank you.
Don M
Clinton, TN110 contributions
What are the hours open on Sat
NYSCapitolVisit
Albany, NY
The Capitol is closed weekends and holidays except for the second Saturday of each month. The only way to access the Capitol on that Saturday is through our guided tour times of 11AM and 1PM. Registration is required and can be done at ogs.ny.gov. Feel free to call the Visitor Center at 518-474-2418 if you have further questions. Thank you.
Bruno Cunha
Recife, PE18 contributions
What time are the guided tours? Do I have to schedule in advance?
NYSCapitolVisit
Albany, NY
Guided tours are M-F at 10AM, 12Noon, 2PM & 3PM. The only time you have to register for a tour is if you have a group of 10+. More info about registering for a tour can be found at ogs.ny.gov.
We also offer two tours on every second Saturday of the month at 11AM & 1PM. Reservations are required for the Saturday tour, they can be made at ogs.ny.gov. Feel free to call the Visitor Center at 518-474-2418 if you have further questions. Thank you.
New York State Capitol, Albany
Frequently Asked Questions about New York State Capitol
- New York State Capitol is open:
- Mon - Fri 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- We recommend booking New York State Capitol tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 3 New York State Capitol tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near New York State Capitol:
- (0.18 mi) Renaissance Albany Hotel
- (0.31 mi) Hampton Inn & Suites Albany-Downtown
- (0.34 mi) Fairfield Inn & Suites Albany Downtown
- (0.24 mi) Hilton Albany
- (0.52 mi) Morgan State House
- Restaurants near New York State Capitol:
- (0.01 mi) Dunkin'
- (0.13 mi) Wellington's
- (0.12 mi) City Hall Cafe
- (0.17 mi) Public House 42
- (0.35 mi) Iron Gate Cafe
- Attractions near New York State Capitol:
- (0.04 mi) Albany City Hall
- (0.10 mi) New York State Education Department
- (0.11 mi) Hudson Valley
- (0.14 mi) The Egg
- (0.21 mi) Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza