Awesome tour guide . Over an hour and 15 minutes. So informative. One of the best tours we’ve taken of state capitols. Only problem…. Good luck finding a parking place when the visitors parking lot is full.

I took the one-hour guided tour of the Capitol (self-guided visits are also available). The tour included all aspects of the building - including its history, architecture, three incredibly ornate staircases, elevator, governor's reception area, Senate and Assembly chambers, and the Hall of Governors. The guide was informative and I really enjoyed the tour. On the Empire Plaza outside the Capitol building, you can ride to the top of the Corning Tower (42 stories) for outstanding views of the countryside.

We were in town for a concert, and did a bit of exploring. The capital building is an architectural marvel. Our tour guide Grant was outstanding, informative and personable. While you can walk around the building unguided, the tour provides an incredible amount of information.

Have been in the building many times, but never taken a tour. Went on noon tour - highly recommended. Great guide with lots of knowledge. Saw both chambers, governor's area, the famous staircases and a description of the two architects who designed the building in two very different contrasting styles. Highly recommend the on; hour tours at 10, noon and 2 pm.

We were here on a very hot day. June 3, 2024. The front of the building was blocked off by steel fencing. Not sure why. Interestingly enough, the architect Isaac Perry also designed the Phelps Mansion in Binghamton, NY, which we did do a tour of. So here we just relaxed in the park in front of the building sitting in the shade and admired the design and watched capitol employees come and go from some unseen side doors.

We took a noon tour of the building; and it was a wonderful experience. Our guide was knowledgeable, informative, accommodating and responsive to questions. Her narrative brought the structure's engrossing history, amazing architecture, and beautiful artistry to life. Being the legislature was not in the session on the day we chose (a lucky happenstance); we were able to access both chambers and immerse in the craftmanship and detail. Also, the hallways & stairways were uncrowded, and able to be leisurely navigated. We were also impressed by the amount of artwork displayed along the corridors. The tour was a great orientation to this location; but one can spend much more time, to truly appreciate what is available. As the northern most point of our 10 day Hudson River Valley exploration; viewing this stunning architectural masterpiece, was a real highlight.

We had a fantastic visit to the State Capitol in Albany! The tour was incredibly informative, providing deep insights into the rich history and functioning of the government. The building itself is stunning, with impressive architecture and beautifully maintained interiors. The surrounding area is equally lovely, making for a pleasant and scenic visit. This tour is definitely worth a stop in Albany. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a beautiful place to explore, the State Capitol offers something for everyone. Highly recommended!

I did not take a tour (just did not fit the schedule), and while visit would have been better if I had - you see a bit more and I missed the explanations - this was still stunning even in the last two hours of the day. You can wander around pretty freely plus street parking is free at 5 and reasonably available. There's history here, there's (good) art in the galleries devoted to it, and above all just stunning architecture & stonework. I forget how many Capitol buildings I've been to, but for sheer size and grandeur, this is high on that list. Des Moines may exceed, and Austin is huge, but really this is something to see, and the best bang from your free buck you'll find this side of the National Gallery in WDC. (The US Capitol itself is just too darn much of a hassle these days IMO)

The New York State Capitol is one of the most elaborately constructed buildings in Albany, NY, and the focal point of the state’s government. Taking 32 years to build and the work of 5 architects, including renowned designers Leopold Eidlitz and Henry Hobson Richardson, the NYS Capitols intricate architectural styles is a unique blend of designs that boldly stands out within Albany’s eclectic cityscape. Fact 1: It is said that Richardson used the Hôtel de Ville in Paris, France as inspiration when designing New York’s capital building. The New York State Capitol building is open to the public and free to visit and explore Monday – Friday from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm Fun fact 2: The New York State Capitol is only one of ten State Capitol buildings that doesn’t feature a domed roof. Originally the architectural designs included both a domed roof and a tower, However, the building became too heavy during construction and started sliding towards State Street. The Exterior Staircase was created to shift the weight of the building back into place. Fact 3: When construction was halted in 1899, the building costs totaled $25 million. Four New York State Governors became President of the United States. it is said to be the most beautiful state capitol in the country. Parking: street parking is available adjacent to the capital building, on both State Street and Washington Avenue.

The building is incredible. It may not be to everyone’s liking because parts are dark, gothic and heavy feeling but, you can’t argue with the incredible architecture, intricate designs and size. It has several types of mixed architecture styles. It makes for a very interesting building. It took 32 years to build at a huge cost. There are some elements that were never finished because the new governor, Roosevelt, put a stop to it. Our guide Lorraine was excellent so it was quite enjoyable. It is a must see for Capitol lovers.