Corning Tower Observation Deck Albany
Ascend 42 floors for breathtaking, free panoramic views of Albany, the Hudson River, and the Empire State Plaza.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Corning Tower Observation Deck Albany
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend 42 floors for breathtaking, free panoramic views of Albany, the Hudson River, and the Empire State Plaza.
"It was free, no wait, great view of the city. Not crowded when I was there (Friday). Recommend going!"
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy incredible city views without spending a dime. It's a fantastic free activity in Albany!
⏰ Weekday Hours Only
Remember, the observation deck is only open Monday through Friday. Plan your visit during these times!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Cityscape
42nd Floor
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Albany, the Hudson River, and surrounding landscapes. A must-see for any visitor.
Fall Foliage Spectacle
42nd Floor
Witness the vibrant autumn colors painting the landscape from high above. A truly magical sight during the fall months.
Empire State Plaza Overview
42nd Floor
Get a bird's-eye perspective of the impressive Empire State Plaza architecture and grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Views, Weekday Access
Timing is Key for Best Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy incredible city views without spending a dime. It's a fantastic free activity in Albany! 
⏰ Weekday Hours Only
Remember, the observation deck is only open Monday through Friday. Plan your visit during these times!
☁️ Check the Weather
For the best experience, visit on a clear day. Clouds can obscure the stunning panoramic views.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Bring your camera or phone for amazing photos of Albany and the surrounding areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy incredible city views without spending a dime. It's a fantastic free activity in Albany!
⏰ Weekday Hours Only
Remember, the observation deck is only open Monday through Friday. Plan your visit during these times!
☁️ Check the Weather
For the best experience, visit on a clear day. Clouds can obscure the stunning panoramic views.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Bring your camera or phone for amazing photos of Albany and the surrounding areas.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
A dedicated elevator takes you directly to the 42nd floor for a seamless experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Corning Tower Observation Deck for its absolutely free admission and breathtaking panoramic views of Albany and the Hudson River. The weekday-only access often means a quiet and uncrowded experience, making it a highly recommended stop for a quick, scenic overview of the capital region. Some wish for longer hours or weekend access, but the value and views are undeniable.
"Went about an hour before closing on Friday afternoon. It was dead quiet and best part was that it was free. We were lucky to get a break in clouds since it had been pouring earlier in the day. The views were magnificent."
Lisa Fong
"Free activity with no wait. There is a dedicated elevator that takes you straight up to the observation deck. Great views, very spacious and clean."
John R
"The Erastus Corning Tower, also known as the Mayor Erastus Corning 2nd Tower or simply the Corning Tower, is a skyscraper located in downtown Albany, New York. Completed in 1973 and sided with Vermont Pearl marble and glass, the state office building is part of the Empire State Plaza. At 589 feet (180 m) and 44 stories[1] in height, it is the tallest skyscraper in the state of New York outside of New York City. Erastus Corning 2nd, the building's namesake, was the mayor of Albany for over 40 years from 1941 to 1983. The tower was dedicated to him in March 1983 during his hospitalization. Before that dedication, it was known as the "Tower Building". The Corning Tower houses the New York State Department of Health and the New York State Office of General Services. Two New York State Department of Transportation traffic cameras are located on the building to monitor nearby traffic conditions. From 2000 to 2004, it was the tallest structure in the World Almanac's list of "Other Tall Buildings in North American Cities"."
James Guenther
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Corning Tower is located within the Empire State Plaza in Albany, NY. You can drive and park in the visitor parking areas, or take public transportation. For a car-free experience, Amtrak trains stop in Albany, and many attractions, including the observation deck, are accessible from the station.
Yes, there are parking facilities available at the Empire State Plaza. Follow signs for visitor parking.
If you are already in downtown Albany, the Corning Tower is a prominent landmark and can be reached on foot. It's part of the larger Empire State Plaza complex.
Amtrak trains arrive at Albany-Rensselaer Station. From there, you can take a taxi, rideshare, or local bus to reach the Empire State Plaza.
The observation deck is generally accessible. The dedicated elevator provides access to the 42nd floor. It's always a good idea to contact the Empire State Plaza directly for specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The best part? Admission to the Corning Tower Observation Deck is completely FREE!
The observation deck is typically open on weekdays, Monday through Friday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Hours can vary, so it's wise to check the official Empire State Plaza website before your visit.
No, advance booking is generally not required as it's a free-access attraction. However, for special events, booking might be necessary.
Yes, as it's a state office building, you will likely go through a security check before accessing the elevators to the observation deck. Be prepared for standard security screening.
No, the observation deck is typically closed on weekends and public holidays. It is exclusively open on weekdays.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
From the 42nd floor, you'll get expansive views of Albany, the Hudson River, the Empire State Plaza, and the surrounding Capital Region. On clear days, you can see for miles.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged! It's a fantastic spot for capturing memorable shots of the city.
Yes, there are binoculars available for use, typically for a small fee.
Weekday mornings often offer clearer skies, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour lighting. Fall offers stunning foliage views.
You can identify various landmarks including the New York State Capitol building, the Hudson River, and the general cityscape of Albany.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly on the observation deck itself. However, there are numerous restaurants and cafes located within the Empire State Plaza complex and in the surrounding downtown Albany area.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the observation deck area to maintain its cleanliness. There are no specific restrictions mentioned, but common courtesy applies.
Downtown Albany offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants. Explore the area around the Empire State Plaza for diverse culinary choices.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Since it's open only on weekdays, it can be a great way to break up a day of work or school, or a fun outing for families with flexible schedules. Pack some snacks and drinks to enjoy before or after your ascent, as there are no concessions on the deck. The spaciousness of the deck also means kids have room to move around without disturbing others.
💰 Budget Travelers
+3 It's a perfect way to see Albany without spending a penny on attractions. Combine your visit with other free activities in the area, like exploring the Empire State Plaza or visiting the New York State Museum (which also has free admission). This allows for a full day of sightseeing in Albany without a significant financial outlay.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Aim for a clear day to get the best shots. The golden hour light in the late afternoon can create dramatic and beautiful images. During autumn, the fall foliage offers a spectacular, colorful subject matter. Remember to check the operating hours to ensure you can capture the light you desire.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Corning Tower: An Architectural Icon
The tower primarily houses state offices, including the New York State Department of Health and the New York State Office of General Services. Its distinctive architecture makes it a recognizable feature of the Albany skyline. The building also plays a role in traffic monitoring, with two New York State Department of Transportation cameras located on its exterior.
The observation deck on the 42nd floor offers a unique perspective on this architectural marvel and the city it serves. It provides a free public access point to appreciate both the building's design and the expansive views it affords.
+1Experiencing the View from 42
Many travelers highlight the magnificent views of Albany, the winding Hudson River, and the distant mountains. The deck is particularly popular during fall foliage season, when the surrounding landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colors.
While there are no dining facilities on the deck, the experience is enhanced by the sheer visual spectacle. Some visitors have even experienced unique events like music gatherings on the deck, showcasing its potential for diverse uses beyond just sightseeing.
Planning Your Weekday Visit
+4 This restriction, while limiting for some, often contributes to a less crowded experience compared to weekend attractions. To maximize your visit, check the weather forecast before you go. Clear skies are essential for enjoying the full scope of the panoramic views.
Consider combining your visit with other attractions in the Empire State Plaza, such as the New York State Museum or the State Capitol building, which are often accessible via the plaza's interconnected walkways. This can make for a well-rounded day of exploration in Albany.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit