Being the capital, Albany is a very great place to go to while visiting a few of the high spots in New York State. Yes, it’s a metropolis that’s generally overshadowed by its Sibling metropolis, New York, however it’s actually value visiting – particularly when driving the japanese fringes in the direction of Vermont. Trust me, there’s a heap of the easiest issues to do in Albany that’s simply excellent for a bit gander.
From a world perspective, it may be simple to see New York state as simply the ‘Big Apple’. Though, there’s a lot extra to do right here, with Albany being one metropolis that’s completely value exploring.
So, to get you in your manner, I needed to share a few of the easiest issues to do in Albany throughout your go to. Have essentially the most unimaginable journey.
1.) New York State Museum
Founded in 1836, the New York State Museum is definitely the most important and oldest state museum within the United States. This alone makes it completely value a visit to Albany, particularly for the hundreds of thousands of artefacts it holds inside its partitions.
Home to essentially the most notable specialists within the United States, the museum options collections in numerous fields, equivalent to archaeology, historical past, sciences, and the humanities. It’s the form of place that’s nice for the entire household – although, plan nicely, you’ll be able to spend hours inside!
Plus, you’ll be able to simply pop by Lincoln Park that’s proper subsequent door in case you’re fancying a stroll in one in all Albany’s parks.
Getting peckish? Hop over to Dove and Deer for his or her buttermilk rooster. It’s so scrumptious.
Read extra: Best issues to do in New York State
2.) Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
Within strolling distance of the New York State Museum, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is gorgeous to see. In reality, I’d go so far as saying that visiting is likely one of the easiest issues to do in Albany for its gorgeous structure.
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 make sure you spot The Lady Window which depicts the lifetime of the Virgin Mary.
3.) The Empire State Plaza
The Empire State Plaza is a very spectacular space that includes monuments and buildings that make Albany so distinct.
One of essentially the most 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 National Historic Landmark.
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 normally.
Plus, you’ll have the ability to 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.
It’s completely enjoyable… nicely in case you don’t fall over!
Also, for views, take a look at the Corning Tower Observation Deck that’s open Monday to Friday between 10 am to 4 pm.
4.) Lake George and Saratoga Springs
Okay, hear me out., I do know it’s technically not Albany itself however it’s important to go to Lake George. It’s one of many easiest issues to do in Albany in case you’re fancying a visit to discover the pure fantastic thing about the state. Plus, it’s solely round a 55-minute drive from town.
With the gorgeous Adirondacks mountain vary, Lake George is a well-liked spot in the summertime months, particularly. It’s acquired every little thing from water sports activities, ferry cruises, and trails that meander that shoreline and hills.
If 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 Beauty Mountain Trail which has some gorgeous views over the area.
Though, in case you’re fancying a extra chilled-out journey; test into The Sagamore which overlooks Lake George itself.
Some of the most well-liked actions within the space are whitewater rafting, climbing, and boating. You may go on an ice-cream path, have a enjoyable out of doors picnic, or go tenting round Lake George.
Also, as you drive up from Albany, be certain that to cease off on the lovely, Saratoga Springs. Once right here, you’ll 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 buying district and yummy foodie spots, like Uncommon Grounds which has the very best brews and bagels.
Read extra: Best hikes in New York State
5.) Capital Repertory and Palace Theaters
Founded in 1981 in an deserted market at Pearl Street, The Capital Repertory Theater (or the REP) is a gem to go to. It’s one of many easiest issues to do in Albany, particularly in case you love stay performances.
Best of all, the Capital Repertory Theater has a full schedule all 12 months spherical. This means there’s all the time one thing happening, so take a look at its checklist of performances earlier than your journey.
Also, for a casual chunk, 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 situated within the coronary heart of Albany itself. Not solely is the venue unimaginable, however it hosts award-winning exhibits from throughout the US.
Read extra: Best issues to do in New York State
6.) Washington Park
Washington Park was established circa 1880 and was designed by Frederick Olmstead and Calvert Vaux. Which, in case you’re within the know, are the individuals who conceptualized the well-known Central Park in New York City. Sprawled over about 81 acres, it’s the proper little chillout area within the coronary heart of Albany.
Oh, and don’t overlook that Spring and summer season seasons are completely vibrant in Washington Park. In spring, you’ll be able to see tulips which can be simply beginning to bloom – they’re all so fairly.
Plus, in summer season, the Park Playhouse hosts a sequence of performs that you would be able to watch at no cost – simply be certain that to take a look at the schedules on-line earlier than your journey.
Read extra: Best nationwide parks within the USA
7.) Albany City Hall
Perched simply shy of the New York State Senate, seeing Albany City Hall is likely one of the easiest issues to do in Albany in case you’re within the capital’s historical past. The constructing itself is completely attractive and nicely value taking a gander at while strolling the downtown space.
After taking a nostril round, take a look at the close by City Beer Hall that’s so attractive and quaint. Plus, their grilled octopus is so good.
8.) Albany Pine Bush Preserve
Tucked on town’s northwest nook, simply alongside New Karner Road, the Albany Pine Bush Preserve is a must-visit vacation spot for nature lovers and wildlife lovers. It’s simply one of many easiest issues to do in Albany in case you’re wanting an escape from the hustle and bustle of metropolis life. Though, to be trustworthy, Albany by no means actually feels that busy!
Better nonetheless, there are roughly 18 miles of winding trails within the Albany Pine Bush Preserve which can be completely lovely to discover on a sunny day. Now, for me, it’s the summer season months which can be finest for climbing right here.
Just be certain that to maintain your eyes peeled for the Karner blue butterfly, which is taken into account a federally endangered species. Though, honestly, I’ve by no means been in a position to spot it.
Read extra: Best issues to do in Brooklyn, New York
9.) Albany Institute of History and Art
Regarded as one of many United States’ oldest museums, the Albany Institute of History and Art was established in 1791 and now hosts an enormous assortment of the area’s heritage. While 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 can be fairly superior to go to.
The Albany Institute of History and Art chronicles the historical past and tradition of the individuals who have settled within the Upper Hudson Valley from the late 1600s as much as the current day. Some of the very best displays completely housed within the museum comprise private objects, manuscripts, furnishings, pictures, 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 crimson curry fish tacos are simply so good.
10.) Schuyler Mansion
For these not within the know, Philip Schuyler was a veteran common of the Revolutionary War. Oh, and the United States Senator within the 1780s – so a reasonably large deal. After his demise in 1804, his mansion underwent completely different ownerships and renovations till it was acquired by the state of New York in 1911 and was a historic museum that’s nicely value a go to at this time.
The Schuyler Mansion faces the Hudson River, offering a beautiful city view of the river and town’s skyline. Inside the mansion are numerous artefacts, furnishings, work, and decors courting again to the 18th century. It’s simply among the best issues to do in Albany in case you’re fancying a delve into the previous.
Also, for a fantastic sandwich, pop by, dp An American Brasserie. Here, they serve up a tasty Nashville sizzling fried rooster sandwich that’ll depart you stuffed (and your mouth on fireplace). Plus, their swordfish bites are yummy!
Read extra: Best issues to do in Vermont
11.) Lark Street
A haven for artists and free souls, Lark Street can also be known as Albany’s “Greenwich Village”. Just a block away from Washington Park, Lark Street has heaps of bars, artwork galleries, vintage retailers, eating places (Healthy 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 doubtless come across stay musical performances (on the weekends) and seasonal festivals in the summertime.
12.) Corning Preserve and Thacher State Park
Located in downtown Albany, Corning Preserve is a waterfront park masking 15 acres of land alongside the Hudson River. You can discover the Corning Trail by biking or climbing, too. On a sunny day, it’s a fantastic place to go, with a picnic in hand, and chill.
Oh, and Jennings Landing will also be discovered throughout the protect. It is a waterfront amphitheatre that hosts loads of festivals and occasions, particularly within the seasons of spring by means of fall.
Also, in case you’re fancying a bit journey simply outdoors Albany, pop over to Thacher State Park. It’s a fantastic stopping level as you head additional west by means of New York and has a heap of trails to stretch your legs.
Read extra: Best issues to do in New York State
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