Things to Do in Albany

Albany is the capital of New York State and is an interesting showcase of architectures from several centuries. Between great buildings, museums and annual festivals, there’s no shortage of things to do in Albany.

Take a walk in the city

With the camera in one hand and the map in the other, take a walk in the city and take photos of the most important buildings: Albany City Hall (Romanesque style), the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the Empire State Plaza , or the New York State Capitol.

See the city from above

Go to the 42nd floor of the Corning Tower Observation Deck to get the best view of Albany and the surrounding area. It’s free and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Visit the New York State Museum

It is the largest state museum in the USA , home to some very interesting collections. The museum offers about 12 new expositions each year and you can find details on their web page.
It is free to visit and is open Monday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed on Sunday).

Take a scenic ride on the Saratoga and North Creek Railway

The scenic railway is open between the end of July and the end of October. It runs between Saratoga Springs and North Creek. A one way coach adult ticket costs $13. Children ticket cost $9 one way.
You can choose between trips on the New York Express or the Hudson Explorer. The sites along the way are breathtaking so don’t forget to take your camera.
Once you get to North Creek, check out the North Creek Depot Museum.

Taste the local wines at the Altamont Vineyard & Winery

During spring and summer it is possible to tour the vineyard and winery. The Tasting Room is open over the weekends (Fri to Sun) from noon until 5 p.m. Visit the Gift Shop if you want to take something back home.
Should you plan your visit by the end of October, don’t miss the Annual Hallowine Fest, a celebration of fall and everything it has to offer.
Another option is the Saratoga Winery & Tasting Room , which is open every day of the week (except on Monday).

Spend a day in nature at the Albany Pine Bush Preserve

The inland pine barren is maintained by controlled fires. The trails (18 miles in total) within the preserve can be used year-round. Most trails are easy to moderate. Aside from hiking, you can also try cross-country skiing during winter, horseback riding or mountain biking. Maps can be obtained upon request (there’s an email on their website).

Spend a day enjoying snow at the Maple Ski Ridge

The entire family can have fun at the Maple Ski Ridge. Whether you enjoy skiing, snowboarding or just playing in the snow, plan your vacation in Albany during the ski season and the fun will be guaranteed. You can rent the equipment here.
Should you visit in early October, then you must attend the Annual Maple Ski Fall Festival Craft and Car Show.

Attend a concert

During summer, there are free concerts taking place at the Empire State Plaza, in Washington Park and in the Albany Riverfront Park on the Hudson River.

Photo credit: Albany City Hall , Scenic train ride , Pine Bush Preserve