Being the capital, Albany is a very good spot to go to while visiting among the prime spots in New York State. Sure, it’s a metropolis that’s typically overshadowed by its Sibling metropolis, New York, but it surely’s actually price visiting – particularly when driving the jap fringes in direction of Vermont. Belief me, there’s a heap of the easiest issues to do in Albany that’s simply good for somewhat gander. 

From a global perspective, it may be simple to see New York state as simply the ‘Massive Apple’. Although, there’s a lot extra to do right here, with Albany being one metropolis that’s completely price exploring. 

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

So, to get you in your means, I wished to share among the best issues to do in Albany throughout your go to. Have probably the most unimaginable journey. 

1.) New York State Museum

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

Based in 1836, the New York State Museum is well the most important and oldest state museum in the USA. This alone makes it completely price a visit to Albany, particularly for the thousands and thousands of artefacts it holds inside its partitions.

House to probably the most notable specialists in the USA, the museum options collections in numerous fields, corresponding to archaeology, historical past, sciences, and the humanities. It’s the sort of place that’s nice for the entire household – although, plan properly, you’ll be able to spend hours inside! 

Plus, you’ll be able to simply pop by Lincoln Park that’s proper subsequent door when you’re fancying a stroll in one in all Albany’s parks. 

Getting peckish? Jump over to Dove and Deer for his or her buttermilk hen. It’s so scrumptious. 

Learn extra: Greatest issues to do in New York State

2.) Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

Inside strolling distance of the New York State Museum, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is beautiful to see. The truth is, I’d go so far as saying that visiting is without doubt one of the best issues to do in Albany for its beautiful structure. 

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

Not solely is the skin completely lovely however the chancel and apse, together with the remainder of the interior construction are simply mesmerising. Oh, and you’ll want to spot The Girl Window which depicts the lifetime of the Virgin Mary. 

3.) The Empire State Plaza

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

The Empire State Plaza is a very spectacular space that includes monuments and buildings that make Albany so distinct.

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

One of the vital notable factors of curiosity is the New York State Capitol constructing, built-in 1899 and has been host to the New York State Legislature and is a Nationwide Historic Landmark.

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

Guided excursions can be found so you’ll be able to be taught all concerning the historical past of the New York State Capitol and the entire area generally. 

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

Plus, you’ll be capable of take a look at the New York State Museum, catch a efficiency on the Egg or attempt your hand at ice skating within the winter months.

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

It’s completely enjoyable… properly when you don’t fall over! 

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

Additionally, for views, take a look at the Corning Tower Statement Deck that’s open Monday to Friday between 10 am to 4 pm. 

4.) Lake George and Saratoga Springs

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

Okay, hear me out., I do know it’s technically not Albany itself however it’s a must to go to Lake George. It’s one of many best issues to do in Albany when you’re fancying a visit to discover the pure fantastic thing about the state. Plus, it’s solely round a 55-minute drive from the town. 

With the beautiful Adirondacks mountain vary, Lake George is a well-liked spot in the summertime months, particularly. It’s bought every little thing from water sports activities, ferry cruises, and trails that meander that shoreline and hills. 

Should you’re one thing of a rambler, head to Shelving Rock Falls, which is epic. Love a hike? Then, be a part of the Sleeping Magnificence Mountain Path which has some beautiful views over the area.

Although, when you’re fancying a extra chilled-out journey; verify into The Sagamore which overlooks Lake George itself. 

A few of the hottest actions within the space are whitewater rafting, mountain climbing, and boating. It’s also possible to go on an ice-cream path, have a enjoyable out of doors picnic, or go tenting round Lake George.

Additionally, as you drive up from Albany, be sure to cease off on the lovely, Saratoga Springs. As soon as right here, you may be to absorb the historic spa and an array of public springs the place you’ll be able to completely chill.

Plus, Saratoga Springs has a bustling procuring district and yummy foodie spots, like Unusual Grounds which has one of the best brews and bagels. 

Learn extra: Greatest hikes in New York State

5.) Capital Repertory and Palace Theaters

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

Based in 1981 in an deserted market at Pearl Avenue, The Capital Repertory Theater (or the REP) is a gem to go to. It’s one of many best issues to do in Albany, particularly when you love reside performances.

Better of all, the Capital Repertory Theater has a full schedule all 12 months spherical. This implies there’s all the time one thing happening, so take a look at its listing of performances earlier than your journey.

Additionally, for an off-the-cuff chew, head to Washington Avenue, Dan’s Place Two. It’s an ideal cease for a hearty breakfast and completely chilled and genuine to Albany. We find it irresistible. 

Alternatively, head over to Palace Theater that’s positioned within the coronary heart of Albany itself. Not solely is the venue unimaginable, but it surely hosts award-winning reveals from throughout the US. 

Learn extra: Greatest issues to do in New York State

6.) Washington Park

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

Washington Park was established circa 1880 and was designed by Frederick Olmstead and Calvert Vaux. Which, when you’re within the know, are the individuals who conceptualized the well-known Central Park in New York Metropolis. Sprawled over about 81 acres, it’s the proper little chillout area within the coronary heart of Albany. 

Oh, and don’t neglect that Spring and summer time seasons are completely vibrant in Washington Park. In spring, you’ll be able to see tulips which are simply beginning to bloom – they’re all so fairly.

Plus, in summer time, the Park Playhouse hosts a sequence of performs that you may watch free of charge – simply be sure to take a look at the schedules on-line earlier than your journey. 

Learn extra: Greatest nationwide parks within the USA

7.) Albany Metropolis Corridor

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

Perched simply shy of the New York State Senate, seeing Albany Metropolis Corridor is without doubt one of the best issues to do in Albany when you’re within the capital’s historical past. The constructing itself is completely beautiful and properly price taking a gander at while strolling the downtown space. 

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

After taking a nostril round, take a look at the close by Metropolis Beer Corridor that’s so beautiful and quaint. Plus, their grilled octopus is so good. 

8.) Albany Pine Bush Protect

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

Tucked on the town’s northwest nook, simply alongside New Karner Street, the Albany Pine Bush Protect is a must-visit vacation spot for nature lovers and wildlife fans. It’s simply one of many best issues to do in Albany when you’re wanting an escape from the hustle and bustle of metropolis life. Although, to be trustworthy, Albany by no means actually feels that busy!

Higher nonetheless, there are roughly 18 miles of winding trails within the Albany Pine Bush Protect which are completely lovely to discover on a sunny day.  Now, for me, it’s the summer time months which are greatest for mountain climbing right here.

Simply be sure to maintain your eyes peeled for the Karner blue butterfly, which is taken into account a federally endangered species. Although, in truth, I’ve by no means been capable of spot it. 

Learn extra: Greatest issues to do in Brooklyn, New York

9.) Albany Institute of Historical past and Artwork

Thought to be one of many United States’ oldest museums, the Albany Institute of Historical past and Artwork was established in 1791 and now hosts an enormous assortment of the area’s heritage. Whereas this museum is most well-known for its work of the Hudson River, it is usually house to a heap of shows and archives which are fairly superior to go to. 

The Albany Institute of Historical past and Artwork chronicles the historical past and tradition of the individuals who have settled within the Higher Hudson Valley from the late 1600s as much as the current day. A few of the greatest displays completely housed within the museum comprise private objects, manuscripts, furnishings, photographs, and artwork items. It’s like a giant nosey round into the previous! 

Afterwards, drop by Umana Yana for a late brunch or lunch in Albany. Their purple curry fish tacos are simply so good. 

10.) Schuyler Mansion

For these not within the know, Philip Schuyler was a veteran normal of the Revolutionary Conflict. Oh, and the USA Senator within the 1780s – so a fairly large deal. After his demise in 1804, his mansion underwent totally different ownerships and renovations till it was acquired by the state of New York in 1911 and become a historic museum that’s properly price a go to at present. 

The Schuyler Mansion faces the Hudson River, offering a beautiful city view of the river and the town’s skyline. Contained in the mansion are numerous artefacts, furnishings, work, and decors courting again to the 18th century. It’s simply top-of-the-line issues to do in Albany when you’re fancying a delve into the previous. 

Additionally, for a fantastic sandwich, pop by, dp An American Brasserie. Right here, they serve up a tasty Nashville sizzling fried hen sandwich that’ll depart you stuffed (and your mouth on fireplace). Plus, their swordfish bites are yummy! 

Learn extra: Greatest issues to do in Vermont 

11.) Lark Avenue

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A haven for artists and free souls, Lark Avenue can also be known as Albany’s “Greenwich Village”. Only a block away from Washington Park, Lark Avenue has heaps of bars, artwork galleries, vintage outlets, eating places (Wholesome On Lark is a favorite), and cafes the place you’ll be able to spend all day. 

As you stroll alongside the road, you’ll seemingly come across reside musical performances  (on the weekends) and seasonal festivals in the summertime. 

12.) Corning Protect and Thacher State Park

Very Best Things To Do In Albany - New York

Positioned in downtown Albany, Corning Protect is a waterfront park protecting 15 acres of land alongside the Hudson River. You may discover the Corning Path by biking or mountain climbing, too. On a sunny day, it’s a fantastic place to go, with a picnic in hand, and chill. 

Oh, and Jennings Touchdown can be discovered throughout the protect. It’s a waterfront amphitheatre that hosts loads of festivals and occasions, particularly within the seasons of spring by fall.

Additionally, when you’re fancying somewhat journey simply exterior Albany, pop over to Thacher State Park. It’s a fantastic stopping level as you head additional west by New York and has a heap of trails to stretch your legs.

Learn extra: Greatest issues to do in New York State

13 Greatest Issues To Do In New York State


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