Which two United States Presidents visited the Capitol after they died? What happened to the “lost” Capitol murals and their eccentric artist? Does the secret demon carved in stone hold a Capitol curse? Does the night watchman who died in the Capitol Fire of 1911 still make his rounds? Explore these questions and other tales of sightings and strange things on our Special New York State Capitol Hauntings Tour. The tour lasts about an hour, but the chilling tales might haunt you forever.

Tours last 50–60 minutes and start at the Information Desk in the Capitol’s State Street Lobby. Space on each tour is limited, so pre-registration is required. Tours are free.

Tour schedule:
- Thursday, October 1: 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.
- Wednesday through Friday, October 7–23: 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.
- Monday through Friday, October 26–30: 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.
- No tours on Monday, October 12.

Reservations open Monday, September 14, 2026. Individuals and groups of 10 or fewer may register online at www.empirestateplaza.ny.gov. For groups of 10 or more, contact the Plaza Visitor Center at 518-474-2418 to arrange a tour.

Contact the Empire State Plaza Visitor Center at [email protected] or 518-474-2418.

Visitors to the Capitol must pass through metal detectors and have bags scanned through an X-ray machine. Personal belongings such as backpacks and large bags should be left behind. Sharp objects, such as pocketknives and nail clippers, weapons, and nuisance devices such as whistles and noisemakers are not allowed in the building. See Capitol Security Procedures & Prohibited Items for additional information.

Event details may change. Confirm details on the official event website.