Albany, city in eastern New York, capital of the state, and seat of Albany County, on the high west bank of the Hudson River. The city's economy is centered around state government. Albany is the regional center for several banks and manufacturing firms. The health care, education, and research facilities of the Albany Medical Center complex are also important to the economy. Commercial air transportation is through Albany County Airport. The city serves as a gateway to resort areas in the nearby Catskill, Adirondack, and Berkshire mountains. It also is the eastern terminus of the Erie Canal, once a leading commercial transportation route but now primarily a recreational waterway.
Among Albany's points of interest are the home of American soldier and politician Philip Schuyler, completed in 1762 and now a state historic site; and the Albany Institute of History and Art, with major exhibits associated with the Hudson Valley. Government activities are concentrated at the Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza. The plaza also contains the Cultural Education Center, with the New York State Museum and New York State Library and Archives, and the Performing Arts Center. Adjoining the plaza is the massive State Capitol (1867-1899), noteworthy when built for its large cost and today for its marriage of design styles. The city has an orchestra, ballet, and numerous theaters.
