Every day, from 6am-11pm, an underground corridor thrives beneath New York’s Capital City. For its size and depth, the area is shrouded in mystery—can the public go? What is there to do? Why should anyone check it out?
Yep, we’re talking about the Concourse: an expansive underground network connecting the buildings of the Empire State Plaza. It’s so much more than a way for state workers to get from Point A to Point B, though. Whether you’ve never explored the Concourse or are just hearing about it for the first time, let us enlighten you on six things you might not have known about Albany’s best kept secret—and the Plaza above it.
1. The Concourse is completely open to the public.
You heard that right: You do not need to work for the state to enjoy the underground city. In fact, the public is encouraged to come explore the nearly 20 eateries, two banks, post office, gym, barber, dentist, and box office for The Egg. (Pro tip: the lines are often much shorter at the underground post office and banks than their aboveground counterparts).
2. Wednesday is the best day to go.
State workers rejoice when Wednesdays roll around—and you can too. Each week through the summer, from 10am-2pm, the aboveground Plaza comes alive with live music, food trucks, and a farmers’ market. Spend your lunch break browsing fresh produce, buying yourself flowers, and trying something new to eat (empanadas, burgers, poke, power bowls… the list goes on) while meandering around the picturesque reflecting pool.
Though it’s a great opportunity to get outside in the summer, the farmers’ market moves to the indoor Concourse in October, continuing its Wednesday tradition.
3. The complex can help you reach your health and fitness goals.
Head into the Concourse, and you’ll find a map outlining recommended routes along the underground city and the Plaza above it. Outside loops range from a half-mile to one-mile walk; inside loops range from a third of a mile to a mile and a quarter—so no matter the weather, you can get your steps in.
For those looking to take it up a notch, the map encourages you to utilize the Plaza’s Grand Staircase, which reopened in 2016 after two years of restoration, for added cardio.
Bonus points if you walk outside and can point out all 14 memorials scattered throughout the Plaza (there are tributes to fallen firefighters, crime victims, missing persons, women veterans, and more).
4. There’s an abundance of places to eat and drink.
From chai lattes to vegan burgers, there’s something to satisfy everyone at the Concourse. The main food court features organic food from Honest Weight Food Co-Op, sushi and ramen from Kuma Ani Express, burgers from Herbie’s Burgers, Vietnamese cuisine from PhoYum, tacos from Taco Libre Express, and Afro-Caribbean fare from Umana Yana.
Outside of the food court, you can find freshly brewed teas and small bites from Green Sugar Leaf Farms, coffee from Dunkin’ or Uncommon Grounds, and sandwiches and baked goods from Logan’s Deli and Market. There’s also another nearby mini food court—Prime at the Plaza—which serves made-to-order cafeteria style meals and grab-and-go options, with rotating daily specials for breakfast and lunch.
Check out the full list of dining options.
5. It’s a great place to get a gift.
The holiday season may be far away, but birthdays and special events happen year-round, so the Concourse is worth having on your radar for gifts. Grab some loose leaf teas, tinctures, and all-natural beauty products from Green Sugar Leaf Farms for the wellness lover in your life; pick up quirky New York–themed gifts like an Adirondack 46er scratch-off poster, Catskills-scented candle, and Saratoga trinkets from the visitor center/gift shop; and get tickets to a show at The Egg’s box office.
6. There are always events happening—you just have to pay attention.
In August alone, the Plaza’s event calendar includes the Black Arts & Cultural Festival Gospel Night, a Health & Wellness Fair, and the New York State Food Fest—plus free outdoor movie nights and evening concerts.
Fitness at the Plaza is a free, recurring series open to the public, with yoga every Tuesday and interval training every Thursday, both from 5-6pm.
It’s also worth noting that a number of regular, free tours are available to the public—from Capitol tours every Friday evening and weekday tours at 10am, noon, and 2pm, to tours of the State Education Building and Empire State Plaza.
So why aren’t the Concourse and Plaza talked about more—even by those who grew up here? We’re not entirely sure. But with so much going on, we’re more than happy to start the conversation. See you there!
