Evening Tours of the Capitol Tours to be Offered Every Friday This Summer
WASHINGTON, D.C. – RealEstateRama – New York State Office of General Services (OGS) Commissioner Jeanette Moy today announced the return of the free and popular summer tours of the Empire State Plaza and outdoor sculptures. The Commissioner also announced an expansion of the Capitol tour program to include evening tours each Friday this summer, beginning July 12.
“For visitors traveling from great distances around the world or from right here in the Capital Region to see our state Capitol and the Empire State Plaza, OGS tours present the history of these iconic landmarks while shining a spotlight on the awe-inspiring architecture and artwork,” Commissioner Moy said. “Our Capitol tour program’s successful participation in the monthly First Friday Albany celebration of arts and culture has inspired us to expand this special offering to include tours each Friday evening throughout the summer.”
Empire State Plaza Tours
The Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza is at the center of one of the most spectacular capitals in the world: a 98 1/2-acre city-within-a-city that includes one of the greatest public collections of modern art in the country, a unique performing arts center called The Egg, and the New York State Museum.
On this outdoor walking tour, discover this world-class complex. Learn how government and culture are housed within the modern architecture of the Empire State Plaza, including the Plaza’s memorials. Learn about The Egg and receive an overview of the Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza Art Collection. Those who come to the Plaza at lunchtime on Wednesdays during the summer will also get to enjoy some live music, visit a weekly farmers market, and get a bite to eat from one of a variety of outdoor food vendors.
Where: Tours begin on the Plaza near the base of The Egg.
When: Monday to Friday, at 1 p.m., July 8 through August 30. Tours are approximately 45 minutes.
Reservations: Reservations are not required. Walk-ups are permitted. Larger groups of 10 or more should call (518) 474-2418. (empirestateplaza.ny.gov)
Capitol Tours
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.
- Weekday Walk-In New York State Capitol Tour
Where: State Street Lobby visitor information desk
When: Monday to Friday at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m.
Reservations: Reservations are not required. Walk-ups are permitted. This tour is reserved for individuals and smaller groups of less than 10. Larger groups of 10 or more should call (518) 474-2418. (empirestateplaza.ny.gov)
- First Friday Capitol Tour
Evening tours are offered as part of First Friday Albany, a monthly celebration of arts and culture around the Capital Region.
Where: State Street Lobby visitor information desk
When: Every first Friday of the month, June 7 to December 6 at 5:30 p.m.
Reservations: Reservations are not required. Walk-ups are permitted. Larger groups of 10 or more should call (518) 474-2418. (empirestateplaza.ny.gov)
- Friday Evening Capitol Tour
Due to the success of the Capitol First Friday Tour, OGS is now offering a Friday Evening Capitol Tour, every Friday this summer.
Where: State Street Lobby visitor information desk
When: Fridays, July 12 to August 30 at 5:30 p.m.
Reservations: Reservations are not required. Walk-ups are permitted. Larger groups of 10 or more should call (518) 474-2418. (empirestateplaza.ny.gov)
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