Albany is the capital city of New York State.

Downtown’s huge Empire State Plaza has reflecting pools, an art-filled underground shopping concourse and The Egg, a striking performing arts center.

The plaza is bookended by the 1800s New York State Capitol and the New York State Museum, focusing on natural and cultural history.

The Albany Institute of History and Art is famed for its Hudson River School paintings.

Area: 21.94 mi²

Population: 98,251 (2017)

Area code: 518

Mayor: Kathy Sheehan