governor nelson a. rockefeller empire state plaza

longtallgoodie

I work in the Capitol Building and I have easy access to the plaza to do many things. Great especially in the summer time.

J5463FBkarenc

Being down on the plaza on a cold, windy winter afternoon added to the ambience of this seemingly Soviet-inspired architectural design. Concrete and some glass was all around with no color to break it up. The odd feature of the plaza is the Egg, which seems completely out of place in the straight lines of the surrounding buildings. The plaza is an odd place.

Sapphire5860

When I was growing up in the area in the 1960s and 1970s, I just remember there was always a big hole in the centre of Albany - the South Mall Project. How amazing to return from overseas after all these years and see the results of all that construction. The Plaza is certainly stunning on an autumn day with the blue sky and gleaming white buildings reflected in the still pools. So glad I came to see it. There were lots of lovely perspectives to photograph.

StephanieT667

This was an interesting building to go through but the things to see were not inside the building; the only thing we did INSIDE the building was eat lunch in the food court. Hopefully someday the state legislature will see fit to freshen it up a bit.

ilpiccs

The architecture and design of this plaza is fitting of a world class city. The juxtaposition of the modern design of this plaza to the classic architecture of the State Capitol to the south make this a worthwhile visit. Take the stairs down to the Times Union center to Peal street for a nice stroll with great views.

bobemama

We enjoyed walking the neighbourhood around Delaware Avenue admiring the charming old homes. Arriving to Swan street we were faced by a high, long wall that seemed impenetrable. Walking around it we got to the immense complex of the plaza, that was deserted on a beautiful sunny Sunday morning, the vast expanses of concrete obstructing the view of the pretty building of the New York State Capitol. Not the best example of modern art.

Mack3065

The Corning Tower is the tallest building on the plaza. Although not clearly marked, it’s the obvious location for the free observation tower. There are notable modern sculptures in the lobby and on the plaza. The express elevator takes you to the 42nd floor for impressive views of the Hudson Valley to the north, south, and east. The plaza is a striking example of a planned public space—whether you approve of the concept or not. The maintenance required for such a project was evident from all the work going on. The State Capitol to the north was dedicated by Teddy Roosevelt and its ornate style and elaborate stone carving contrasts dramatically with the modernism of the plaza.

dennis1027

Very large complex with lots of different shapes buildings. Reminds me of the concrete building era from the 70's. The water pools give a nice break from it.

ckleeny

This is a combination of all kinds of architecture and art. From the 1899 capitol building to modern buildings like the Egg! It was nearly deserted on a Sunday morning but for the ducks. Although many of the buildings can be seen from other locations in the city...It was great to see the buildings from the plaza for the full effect.

sfrisino

If you've never visited this Plaza, and you are in Albany, you definitely should. It is an architect's marvel. Many years ago when it was first built, a friend from NYC, an architect, came up and I showed him around. He was floored. It really is something to see even tho the years have gone by. Beautiful.

RKAustin

We walked here on our arrival in Albany staying up on State Street. It is very interesting, a beautiful reflecting pond captures views of the Capitol building on the far end. Unbelievable works of art all around. The Agency 1-4 buildings reminded us of the Easter Island statues. The Egg is really neat, we wanted to see something there but it was Tuesday, nothing scheduled. Observation deck in Corning Tower was closed but still go inside to see the sculpture pieces. Wednesday around noon the place loaded up with food trucks, farmer's markets, exhibitors and more and was hopping! Don't miss this!

paidir65

We walked about after attending an equine affair and found this location. The buildings, the sculptures, the views and the large pool of water in the middle of the plaza made it all worth while. We would definitely go back to this spot in the future if back in Albany.

Teahan

The design of the whole plaza is very cool and well worth seeing. The gov't buildings surround a calm pond. The pictures here give you a good idea of what it looks like and walking around it was nice and relaxing. It is literally across the street from the capitol building so you can do both places at the same time

R0wenaA

The plaza is HUGE! If you like art and architecture, you will enjoy this place. There are many art pieces in the plaza that give it the feel of a free outdoor/indoor contemporary art museum. The buildings (the Egg, Corning tower, and the NYS Musem) are connected underground (beneath the plaza). Plus, food trucks come to the plaza from 11-2 in July. I was able to get a great meal for $5!

cthonesttraveler

This was a nice stop across from the State museum, close to Times Union, governor's mansion. The Crowning Tower is High! the egg is ......interesting, Rockefeller buildings are cool and the sate house I the back drop, great photo op!