Empire State Plaza — Attraction in City of Albany

A trip to Albany would only be complete with seeing New York's grand Capitol Building and the Empire State Plaza, the seat of New York State's government.

Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza - one of the most spectacular capital centers in the country. The Plaza was the vision of Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller, who wanted to create "the most electrifying capital in the world." Since its completion in 1978, The Empire State Plaza has become a cultural center for thousands of visitors yearly.

The buildings are set around three beautiful reflecting pools, accented by fountains in the summer. Empire State Plaza events host Summer at the Plaza, including an outdoor Farmers Market, movies under the stars, and other festivals.

The government buildings are all connected below ground, so follow the underground maze from the Capitol Building to the Egg Performing Arts Center, to the Corning Tower, to the New York State Museum.

what to See:

1. For breathtaking skyline views, head to the Corning Tower Observation Deck. Located on the 42nd floor of the tallest skyscraper in New York State outside of NYC.
2. New York State Capitol Building: Marvel at the magnificent New York State Capitol Building on your next visit to Albany.
3. Empire State Plaza Art Collection: It is the most important State collection of modern art in the country.
4. The Egg: The Egg is a performing arts center dedicated to providing Capital Region audiences with the best arts offerings and providing a showcase for NYS artists.
5. New York State Museum: Explore the cultural and natural history of New York State at the New York State Museum.
6. New York State Education Building: Across the street from the Empire State Plaza is the stunning New York State...

Probably the grandest and most magnificent state capitol complex in the country. I can't even begin to imagine the budget required to build this massive site and how long it took to complete it.

For visitors, there's plenty to do but first - PARKING. There are several in and around the area. We were driving from outside the city and the most convenient and accessible for us was the massive V-Lot (P3) parking beneath the plaza, which can be reached directly from I-787. Keep an eye out for the 'Visitor Parking' sign as you enter the underground complex because it is a bit obscure and easy to miss. The fee is $10 before 11 AM, and $5 thereafter. If you parked for less than an hour, you get a full refund. From this parking space, there are stairs that lead directly to the plaza above ground.

We also parked at the East Parking Garage nearby, on our first day. From there, it was a 5-minute walk to the plaza.

As for attractions, I really enjoyed the State Museum. Massive collection and free admission. I like views from high up and the Corning Tower observation deck provided that, also free-of-charge. The buildings surrounding the plaza are architectural eye candies and are worth every photograph and selfie. You can also tour the Capitol Building, see a show at The Egg Performing Arts Center, and check out the public art and memorials on-site. There are food places at the underground concourse. And finally, this is the site of the state's 4th of July festivities and the concert and fireworks this year did...

And the meek shall inherit the earth...

We've taken care of everything The words you hear, the songs you sing The pictures that give pleasure to your eyes It's one for all, all for one We work together, common sons Never need to wonder how or why

We are the priests Of the Temples of Syrinx Our great computers Fill the hollowed halls We are the priests Of the Temples of Syrinx All the gifts of life Are held within our walls

Look around this world we made Equality our stock in trade Come and join the brotherhood of man Oh what a wide contented world Let the banners be unfurled Hold the red star proudly high in hand

We are the priests Of the Temples of Syrinx Our great computers Fill the hollowed halls We are the priests Of the Temples of Syrinx All the gifts of life Are held within our walls...

Dunno.... just the first thing that...