10 Unforgettable Things To Do Near Albany, New York

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10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Albany, New York

Albany, New York’s capital city, is one of those places that quietly surprises you. At first glance, it looks like a government town with office buildings and suits. But spend a weekend here and you’ll find history, river views, great food, museums, and outdoor adventures all packed into Albany County. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip from New York City or Boston, or you’re road-tripping through upstate New York, these are 10 things to do in and around Albany that are worth your time.

1. Explore the New York State Capitol

If you do just one thing in Albany, make it the New York State Capitol. This is not your average government building. The Capitol took more than 30 years to build and cost so much that people used to call it “the million-dollar staircase” era. Today, it still looks like a European castle dropped on top of a hill. You can:
  • Take a free guided tour on weekdays (book ahead online).
  • Walk through the grand staircases and marble halls.
  • Check out the Senate and Assembly chambers when they’re open.
If you’re into architecture or history, you’ll love the mix of styles here—Romanesque, Renaissance, and Victorian all in one building. And even if you’re not, it’s fun to wander and imagine all the big decisions that have been made in these rooms.

2. Stroll the Empire State Plaza and Ride Up “The Egg” Area

Right outside the Capitol is the Empire State Plaza, a huge open space lined with modern government buildings and public art. It has a bit of a sci‑fi feel—especially with The Egg, the famous performing arts center shaped like, well, an egg. Here’s what to do around the plaza:
  • Walk the long reflecting pools and enjoy views of the skyline.
  • Visit the New York State Museum at the south end (also free).
  • Check if there are concerts, festivals, or food truck events going on. In summer, it’s busy.
On a clear day, look for tours that include the Corning Tower Observation Deck. It’s about 42 stories up and offers one of the best views in Albany—river, city, and rolling hills all at once.

3. Dive Into History at the New York State Museum

If you like learning about the places you visit—but don’t want anything too dry or boring—the New York State Museum is a solid pick. The museum covers:
  • New York’s Native American history.
  • The story of the Erie Canal and industrial growth.
  • The Adirondacks and natural history of the state.
  • A moving exhibit on September 11, 2001.
It’s family‑friendly, easy to wander, and you can see a lot in an hour or two. Plus, admission is typically free, with donations encouraged, which is always nice when you’re traveling on a budget. If you’re visiting Albany with kids, this is a great rainy‑day plan.

4. Walk or Bike the Albany Waterfront Along the Hudson River

Albany sits right on the Hudson River, and the waterfront has become a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Head to the Corning Preserve and Jennings Landing area. Here you can:
  • Walk, jog, or bike along the paved riverfront trail.
  • Sit on a bench and watch boats drift by.
  • Catch outdoor concerts and festivals in the warmer months.
In the summer, look for river cruises that leave from Albany. A sunset boat ride on the Hudson, with the city behind you, is a relaxing way to end your day. It gives you a sense of how important this river was to trade and travel long before highways and planes.

5. Step Back in Time at Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site

If you’re a fan of the musical Hamilton or early American history, you’ll want to visit the Schuyler Mansion, just a short drive from downtown Albany. This was the home of General Philip Schuyler, a Revolutionary War leader and father-in-law to Alexander Hamilton. Hamilton actually got married here. The mansion is set on a small rise with views toward the river, and it gives you a feel for what life looked like for wealthy families in the 1700s. On a guided tour, you’ll:
  • See period furniture and original details.
  • Hear stories about the Schuyler family, Hamilton, and the Revolution.
  • Learn about the enslaved people who also lived and worked on the property.
The tour does a good job of balancing the “big names” from history with the lives of everyday people. It’s not just dates and battles—it’s human.

6. Wander the Historic Streets of Downtown Albany and Lark Street

Sometimes the best way to get to know a city is to simply walk it. Start downtown near State Street and work your way up. You’ll see:
  • Old brick row houses and historic buildings.
  • Murals and small local shops.
  • Cozy coffee spots and pubs.
From there, make your way toward Lark Street, often called Albany’s “Greenwich Village.” It has a creative, slightly bohemian feel, with:
  • Cafés and bakeries.
  • Bars and neighborhood restaurants.
  • Art galleries and quirky little stores.
If you’re in town for lunch or dinner, Lark Street is an easy place to park yourself, grab a bite, and people‑watch. On some weekends you’ll find street festivals and live music.

7. Relax in Washington Park – Albany’s City Oasis

Every good city needs a big green space, and for Albany that’s Washington Park. Designed in the 1800s, it has winding paths, a lake, and plenty of shade trees. Locals come here to walk dogs, jog, picnic, or just sit and read a book. If you’ve been touring museums and buildings, this is a nice way to slow down. Highlights include:
  • Beautiful tulip beds in spring (the Tulip Festival happens here every May).
  • A small lake with ducks and pretty bridges.
  • Open lawns perfect for tossing a frisbee or spreading out a blanket.
If you’re traveling with kids, bring a ball or some snacks and let them run around. If you’re traveling solo, it’s a relaxing spot to reset between sightseeing stops.

8. Visit the Albany Institute of History & Art

If you enjoy regional art and local stories, the Albany Institute of History & Art is worth adding to your list. This museum focuses on the Upper Hudson Valley and features:
  • Hudson River School landscape paintings.
  • Historic furniture, clothing, and objects from everyday life.
  • Rotating exhibits that highlight Albany’s culture and communities.
The building itself is easy to navigate, and you don’t need more than an hour or two here. It pairs nicely with a walk through Washington Park or a meal near Lark Street. If you’ve ever wondered what life looked like in this region 100 or 200 years ago, this museum connects the dots.

9. Take a Day Trip to Cohoes Falls and Peebles Island State Park

Looking to get outdoors without driving too far? Head north from Albany into Albany County’s neighboring river communities. Within about 20–25 minutes of downtown, you can reach Cohoes Falls and Peebles Island State Park. Cohoes Falls is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi (by width), and it’s impressive after heavy rains or snowmelt. You can view it from:
  • Overlooks and small parks along the river.
  • Designated viewpoints with signs explaining the area’s history.
Then continue to nearby Peebles Island State Park, where the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers meet. There you’ll find:
  • Easy walking trails along the water.
  • Cliffside views and peaceful forest paths.
  • Picnic areas and simple rest spots.
It’s a nice balance to the more urban feel of Albany. Pack water, comfortable shoes, and maybe a small lunch, and make an afternoon out of it.

10. Taste Albany’s Food and Craft Beer Scene

After all that walking and exploring, you’ll want something good to eat and drink. Albany won’t leave you hungry. Around downtown, Lark Street, and nearby neighborhoods, you’ll find:
  • Farm‑to‑table restaurants using local New York ingredients.
  • Old‑school diners serving big breakfasts and hearty plates.
  • Pizzerias and delis for a quick, tasty bite.
The Capital Region also has a growing craft beer scene. There are breweries and taprooms in and near Albany where you can try local IPAs, lagers, and seasonal brews. Many spots also serve cider and New York wines. If you like to plan your food stops in advance, look up:
  • Local breweries in Albany County.
  • Restaurants along Lark Street and in downtown Albany.
  • Food events or tastings happening during your visit.
For many travelers, the food is what sticks in their memory—so don’t rush this part of your trip.

Planning Your Albany, NY Visit

A few quick tips to make your Albany trip smoother:
  • Getting there: Albany is about 3 hours north of New York City by car and is also served by Amtrak and Albany International Airport.
  • Getting around: Downtown is walkable, but having a car helps if you want to reach parks, suburbs, and nearby waterfalls.
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall are beautiful, with mild weather and colorful trees. Summer is great for outdoor concerts and riverfront activities. Winter can be cold and snowy but has its own charm.
If you like history, you could easily spend a whole weekend just touring the Capitol, museums, and old neighborhoods. If you’re more into nature, focus on the riverfront, Washington Park, and short trips to nearby waterfalls and state parks.

What Will You Do First in Albany?

Albany, New York, might not always be the first city that comes to mind when you plan a trip—but that’s part of its charm. It feels real, lived‑in, and layered with stories. You get a mix of New York State history, river scenery, local food, and easy day trips all within Albany County and just beyond. Which of these things to do in Albany are you most excited to try? The New York State Capitol? A walk through Washington Park? Or maybe a short road trip to Cohoes Falls? Share your thoughts in the comments below—and if you’ve already been to Albany, I’d love to hear your favorite spots and hidden gems. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend who’s planning a New York trip or looking for new weekend getaway ideas.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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