Sitting atop Albany’s State Street hill, the New York State Capitol has served as the seat of government for New York since the 1880s. The building is a marvel of late 19th-century architectural grandeur, built by hand of solid masonry over a period of 32 years. Highlights of the 45-minute tours can include the legislative chambers, Hall of Governors, Governor’s Reception Room, Hall of New York, historic staircases, and carvings.
Walk-in Tour Information
- Who: Individuals and parties of fewer than 10 people
- When: Weekdays at 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m.
- Where: Information Desk, Capitol's State Street Lobby (see map)
- Cost: FREE
- Reservations: Not required for individuals or parties of fewer than 10.
For groups of 10 or more, visit our Group Tour page for information on how to reserve a tour.
- PLEASE NOTE: If a group of 10 or more shows up during walk-in tour times, we may not be able to accommodate them due to the group's size.
Having trouble?
Contact the Empire State Plaza Visitor Center via email at Tours@ogs.ny.gov or by calling 518-474-2418.
Security
Visitors to the Capitol are required to pass through metal detectors and have bags scanned through an X-ray machine. Personal belongings such as backpacks and large bags should be left behind. Sharp objects, such as pocketknives, nail clippers, weapons, and nuisance devices, such as whistles and noisemakers, are not allowed into the building. For additional information, see Capitol Security Procedures & Prohibited Items.
Planning to visit the Empire State Plaza Visitor Center & Gift Shop with your group?
The Empire State Plaza Visitor Center & Gift Shop has a maximum capacity of 20 people (including staff). When the Visitor Center & Gift Shop exceeds its maximum capacity, visitors will be asked to wait outside in the Concourse until the Visitor Center & Gift Shop can accommodate them. Large groups (15+) will be required to enter in small groups and may be asked to wait outside until the shop can accommodate them, leaving ample space at the entrance in accordance with accessibility requirements and fire safety. School groups/children are required to be accompanied by a chaperone at all times.
