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Visiting the Cultural Education Center

Welcome

New York State's Cultural Education Center is home to the Office of Cultural Education, governed by the New York State Education Department. Comprised of the New York State Archives, New York State Library, and New York State Museum, it has a long and rich history of stewarding collections, generating original research, and serving researchers and visitors with the mission of 'increasing the knowledge and information resources of state and local government, businesses, and individuals'.

Hours & Location

State Archives Hours | State Library Hours | State Museum Hours

The Cultural Education Center is located on the south side of the Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY, on Madison Avenue facing northward toward the State Capitol Building. 
Detailed Directions

Parking

Paid parking is available in the Madison Avenue Lot next to the Cultural Education Center for a flat fee Monday-Friday. Parking in this lot is free after 3:00pm and on weekends. In addition, there is metered street parking and several lots adjacent to the Empire State Plaza.
Detailed Parking Information

Mailing Address

Room 10A33
Cultural Education Center
Albany, New York 12230

Admission

There is no fee to visit the Cultural Education Center. This includes free admission to the New York State Museum. Donations are accepted at the door. The Carousel, located on the Terrace Gallery, is also free. Donations are accepted.

Amenities in the Cultural Education Center

  • Public restrooms including accessible public restrooms are available on the 1st, 4th, 7th, and 11th floors. Gender-neutral public restrooms are available on the 4th and 11th floors.
  • Water fountains are located on the 1st, 4th, 7th, and 11th floors. There is a water bottle filler on the Concourse level.
  • While the Museum Cafe and Shop are temporarily closed, food and additional amenities can be obtained on the Concourse Level of the Empire State Plaza Monday through Friday. Please note, food and/or drinks are not allowed in the Museum galleries, Library or Archives.
  • Vending machines are available on the 2nd floor of the Cultural Education Center.
  • Lockers are available for use by library patrons on the 7th floor and for researchers on the 11th floor.

Accessibility

The Cultural Education Center has a variety of accessibility measures in place and the Office of Cultural Education consistently works to best serve our visitors. 

  • Visitors with limited mobility can be dropped off at the front of the building in the pull-off area.
  • Strollers and wheelchairs are available for visitors' comfort and convenience. Please check at the 1st floor Main Lobby Desk or call (518) 474-5843. Identification is needed to reserve a stroller or wheelchair. They are available on a first come, first served basis.
  • Most public spaces, including exhibits, are wheelchair/stroller friendly.
  • The New York State Museum's Carousel is wheelchair accessible; please notify the 1st floor Main Lobby Desk prior to the Carousel's ride times (11:00am-4:00pm) if wheelchair accessibility is needed.
  • Interpretation aids for the visually impaired are available for some State Museum exhibitions. 
  • Language interpretation services are available upon request.
  • Sighted guide services are available upon request for the Talking Book and Braille Library.
  • The New York State Museum offers sensory-friendly programming for families. Please refer to the Programs and Events Calendar.
  • If sensory-friendly spaces are needed for visitors to the New York State Museum, please reach out before your visit by calling (518) 474-5843.
  • A lactation pod is available on the Concourse Level of the Empire State Plaza. Ask at the Reception desk of the 1st floor for directions and access code. 

I LOVE NY offers a variety of information on accessible travel experiences throughout New York State.

Visitor Behavior Policy

Conduct will not be permitted if it is disruptive, disturbing, or potentially harmful to others, or if it otherwise interferes with the enjoyment and use of the Cultural Education Center by visitors, patrons, volunteers, and staff alike. This includes, but is not limited to disorderly conduct, noise, or activity that interferes with the rights of others, whether intentional or inadvertent; physical abuse or threatening behavior or language; failing to follow the directions of staff members; or the misuse of materials, equipment, or furnishings. Expulsion from the Cultural Education Center and/or loss of privileges may result from violations of this policy.