New York State Capitol

Although the capitol resembles a giant French chateau, the three-acre, five-story granite building is actually a variety of styles including Romanesque and French Renaissance—the result of it taking 32 years (1867-1899) and five architects to complete. The exterior offers just a hint of the opulence inside, for which architects Leopold Eidlitz and Henry Hobson Richardson were primarily responsible. Eidlitz designed the building’s largest room, the Assembly Chamber, as well as the Assembly and Senate Staircases. Richardson, then America’s most renowned architect, was responsible for the Senate Chamber, Hallway, and the Great Western Staircase. The restored skylight above the staircase now shines a natural spotlight on this impressive feat of design and craftsmanship. Also to be seen are 25 murals created by William deLeftwich Dodge that fill the domed Governor’s Reception Room. These works depict everything from Samuel de Champlain to New York troops serving in World War I. Tours begin at the Empire State Plaza Visitor Center in the Main Concourse.

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Amenities: Passport Stamp, Family Friendly, Public Transportation, Restrooms