Next time you visit New York City, consider taking a road trip to upstate New York to discover the bounty the Empire State delivers. From the fertile Hudson Valley to the picturesque Catskills Mountains, there’s much to see along the way. With affordable accommodations and an abundance of eateries and activities, Albany makes an ideal homebase for your upstate New York explorations. Located within 30 miles of historic Schenectady and Saratoga Springs of horse racing fame, day trips are a breeze. You can even get to Lake George within an hour. But before you start those day trips, check out all the fun things to do in the city of Albany.
Experience the Tulip Festival
Springtime in Albany brings a celebration of the city’s rich Dutch heritage at the annual Tulip Festival. Thousands of people flock to Washington Park to see more than 100,000 tulip blooms. The festival follows Dutch traditions like sweeping the street. There’s even a tulip queen.
Spend an Afternoon in Washington Park
If you can’t make it to Albany in the spring, Washington Park is a worthwhile stop in any season. Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead of Central Park fame, the 84-acre Washington Park provides the backdrop for outdoor adventures in the heart of the city. From biking paths to walking trails and a fully stocked lake for fishing, there’s plenty to do. The park also includes basketball courts, tennis courts, handball courts and seasonal ice skating.
Tour the New York State Capitol
Take a guided tour of the New York State Capitol on State Street and Washington Avenue in downtown Albany. This eye-catching building showcases three unique architectural styles: Classical Romanesque, Renaissance Classical and Victorian Romanesque. Traveling with the family? While the kids might not focus on architectural styles, stories of lawmakers stepping into giant fireplaces to take private calls definitely entertain. Challenge the kids to find familiar faces in the carvings above the stately staircase. Some to look for include George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.
Visit the New York State Museum
Part of the Empire State Plaza, the New York State Museum connects to the capitol via an underground corridor. Local artisans often set up tables showcasing their creations hereYou’ll also find places for a quick lunch.
The free New York State Museum displays an impressive collection of New York’s stories. Focusing on New York’s indigenous wildlife, natural history and stories through the state’s history, the museum’s engaging exhibits bring history to life. Don’t miss a ride on the carousel located on the museum’s fourth floor.
Check out The Egg
In downtown Albany it’s impossible to miss “the Egg.” A popular performing arts center, the unusual shape of this structure on State Street looks more like a sculpture than a building. While it’s a great photo to capture, inside’s where the magic happens with live music concerts, dance performances and musical theater.
Take in the View from the Corning Tower Observation Deck
Elevators whisk you up to the top of the 42-story Corning Tower Observation Deck for spectacular views of the Empire State Plaza and downtown Albany. On a clear day, the Hudson River Valley, the foothills of the Adirondacks, the Catskills and even the Berkshires of western Massachusetts come into view.
Cruise the Hudson River
Henry Hudson once cruised the waters of his namesake river in 1609. Today, you can cruise the same water on a Dutch Apple Cruise. These sightseeing cruises share the stories of this iconic river while you take in the beauty of the capitol region. You’ll be voyaging on boats inspired by 19th-century Hudson River ferry boats crafted from Adirondack white cedar.
Shop and Dine on Lark Street
Explore the shops and eateries outside Washington Park in a historic neighborhood where brownstones line the streets. Here Lark Street boasts locally owned shops, cozy cafes, a variety of ethnic foods and takeout pizza—a delight for kids of all ages!
Your Guide to Albany
For more details on these special Albany experiences and more, order a copy of 100 Things to Do in Albany Before You Die written by my friend and colleague, Sandra Foyt who has lived in Albany for over 25 years.