Erastus Corning Tower, Albany

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. Completed in 1966 and sided with Vermont Pearl marble and glass, the state office building is part of the Empire State Plaza. At 589 feet and 44 stories in height, it is the tallest skyscraper in the state of New York outside of New York City. From 2000 to 2004, it was the tallest structure in the World Almanac's list of "Other Tall Buildings in North American Cities". The Corning Tower houses the New York State Department of Health and the New York State Office of General Services.

An observation deck is located on the Corning Tower's 42nd floor. It offers expansive views of Albany, the Hudson River, and the surrounding area. Panels below the windows give information about the visible landmarks. The observation deck, however, does not feature a 360-degree view because it has no windows on the west side. A nonstop elevator to the 42nd floor reaches a speed of 26 km/h (16 MPH). The deck is open to the public for free Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You can access the observation deck, by the plaza or concourse levels. Upon taking office in 2010, Governor Andrew Cuomo eliminated that photo ID requirement.