Corning Tower dominates the Albany skyline. Through its windows, you can see all across the city and surrounding countryside. The 44-story building is the tallest in the state of New York, outside of New York City. Visit the Corning Tower Observation Deck for excellent vistas or explore the Empire State Plaza below.
In 1983, Corning Tower was given its name in honor of Erastus Corning II. Corning, who died in office that year, served as the mayor of Albany for over four decades. Before that, the tower, which was completed in 1973, was simply called Tower Building. Standing 589 feet (180 meters) tall, the angular Corning Tower cuts a striking fixture in downtown Albany. Admire its sleek marble and glass exterior.
The building is home to the New York State Office of General Services and the New York Department of Health. Although it is a working office building, it also has many places that visitors can access. Explore the tower’s concourse levels, observation deck and around the plaza.
Head up to the 42nd floor and visit the Corning Tower Observation Deck. Look out on the city and try to pick out some of its main sights, such as Empire Plaza or the Governor’s Mansion. Between the foothills of the Adirondacks to the north, the Catskills to the south and the Berkshires to the southeast, enjoy vistas around every corner. Reference the signs below the windows to learn more about the views.
Corning Tower is open daily throughout the year. Visit the observation deck Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. There is no entry fee to enter the tower or observation deck but you may have to pass through security.
Find Corning Tower in the heart of downtown Albany. Sit near the large fountain in Empire State Plaza and admire the tower from the outside or discover the many things to see around the tower, such as the New York State Capitol and the New York State Museum.
