subject: Enjoy An Albany Architectural Masterpiece From An Empire State Plaza Hotel [print this page] Rising from the heart of New York States Capital city, the Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza (also simply called the Empire State Plaza) is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece, attracting visitors from around the world. To make the most of their time in Albany, New York, these visitors often choose hotels near Empire State Plaza.
Conceived in 1965 by New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller and architect Wallace Harrington, the plaza was inspired by the scope and style of Brasilia, Versailles and Chandigarh. The marble and steel buildings, completed in 1978, rest on a six-story marble platform, and are reminiscent of Manhattans former World Trade Center towers. At the northeast corner of the plaza, youll find The Egg, a uniquely designed performing arts venue that resembles you guessed it an egg. This Downtown Albany icon houses two amphitheaters the Lewis A. Swyer Theatre and the Kitty Carlisle Hart Theatre and has hosted acts from the New York City Ballet to Henry Rollins. It even inspired a 2004 song by They Might Be Giants, simply called The Egg.
As with any tourist attraction or architectural stand-out, the plaza has attracted a number of other businesses, including restaurants, shopping, and many Empire State Plaza hotels. Staying downtown near the plaza provides easy access to the Times Union Center, Siena College, the Palace Theatre, and the New York State Museum. If you choose an Empire State Plaza hotel, youll be able to view the plaza up-close, as well as see its beauty by moonlight.
