May 1, 2018

You’ll find the Empire State Plaza right in the heart of Albany. This 98-acre complex includes convention centers and government buildings and is a great place to visit. Outside, there are fountains and an observation deck, and if you want to head inside, there are two theaters and a museum. Here are some tips for visiting the Empire State Plaza.

Start at the Visitors Center

Start your day at the visitors center of the Empire State Plaza. Here you can join a tour to learn about the history of the Plaza, and the former Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller. There are also self-guided tours available all day long from Monday through Friday, and there is no cost.

See the Plaza Art Collection

There is an extensive collection of art at the Plaza that includes paintings, tapestries, and sculptures. You can explore all the different pieces — both inside and out — on your own or take a guided tour of all the pieces. Many consider this collection one of the most important State collections of modern art in the country.

See a Performance

The iconic structure known as The Egg also sits within the Plaza. Inside, there are two theaters that offer excellent acoustics and comfortable seats for visitors who want to take in a performance. You can catch all kinds of entertainment here, from dance to films, music, and comedy.

The Empire State Plaza has a wide variety of sites and activities. You can spend just the afternoon exploring or make a whole day of it and end with a performance at The Egg.

 

Image via Flickr by mava