A trip to Albany isn’t complete without a stop at the New York State Capitol Building. Completed in 1889, five different architects worked on the project, with construction spanning 32 years. The New York State Capitol Building is widely considered one of the most beautiful in the country, and the mix of Italian Renaissance and Romanesque architecture is a must-see for architectural enthusiasts.
Other fascinating spots are the Million Dollar Staircase, also known as the Great Western Staircase, which has 444 steps and is 119 feet high. It took over 500 sculptors to carve the intricate designs on the staircase, which includes the faces of famous Americans like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Susan B. Anthony and more.
While self-guided tours of the New York State Capitol are available, a guided tour gives you access to more of the building, including the Senate and Assembly chambers. In the fall, visitors can experience the Capitol Hauntings Tour which explores some of the ghostly legends connected with the site. Of course after your tour is over there’s much more to explore in Empire State Plaza including the New York State Museum, The Egg Performing Arts Center, the Corning Tower Observation Deck, and more!