New York State Capitol and its collection

New York State Capitol
Source

The New York State Capitol, located in Albany, serves as the legislative seat of the state of New York. This historic building is a significant part of the state's political landscape and offers visitors a glimpse into the workings of the state government.

A National Historic Landmark

Declared a National Historic Landmark on January 29, 1979, the New York State Capitol is also part of the Lafayette Park Historic District. This recognition underscores the building's historical significance and its contribution to the architectural heritage of the region.

Architectural Features of the Capitol

The facade of the New York State Capitol is clad in white granite, and a significant amount of marble was used in the interior. The high weight of the building led to the formation of cracks and a sinking foundation. To counteract this, a wide, 51-meter-long staircase was added to the southeast facade. This architectural feature not only serves a practical purpose but also adds to the aesthetic appeal of the building.

The Great Western Staircase

One of the most notable features of the New York State Capitol is its lavish western staircase, also known as the Great Western Staircase or the Million Dollar Staircase. This architectural marvel took 14 years to build, has 444 steps, and reaches over 36 meters in height. It is a testament to the craftsmanship and architectural prowess of the time.

Read more…

ESCapitolio del Estado de Nueva York
ITCampidoglio (Albany)
FRCapitole de l'État de New York

History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Historic house

New York State Capitol
State St. and, Washington Ave
NY 12224 Albany
New York

Visitor information New York State Capitol

Opening hours

Monday
7:00 – 19:00
Tuesday
7:00 – 19:00
Wednesday
7:00 – 19:00
Thursday
7:00 – 19:00
Friday
7:00 – 19:00
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Admission

Normal rateFree

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of New York State Capitol.

Location & Map

State St. and, Washington Ave, Albany

Discover all museums in Albany

Exhibitions

No exhibitions in New York State Capitol have been found.

New York State Capitol Reviews

New York State Capitol has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The New York State Capitol in Albany offers visitors a blend of history, architecture, and politics. Many reviewers appreciate the free guided tours, which provide insights into the building's rich history and architectural details. The ornate interiors, particularly the Million Dollar Staircase and the Senate and Assembly chambers, are often highlighted as impressive features. Visitors generally find the staff knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the overall experience. Some reviewers mention that the security process can be a bit time-consuming, but most feel it's worth it for the educational value and the opportunity to see government in action. A few visitors note that certain areas may be restricted during legislative sessions. While not technically a museum, the Capitol building serves as a living museum of New York's political history and architectural grandeur. Overall, it's considered a worthwhile visit for those interested in history, politics, or architecture, though it may not appeal as much to those seeking a more traditional museum experience.

    Read more…

  • Aggregated rating

    This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.

Write a review

Your review helps other people learn about great and less great museums. If you've visited New York State Capitol, you can write your review below! Please pay attention to our content guidelines before you post your review.