Albany is the home of the New York State Capitol building. Although not as popular as New York City, Albany showcases tons of fascinating exhibits, historic mansions, and amazing attractions. It features the Albany Visitor Center, Albany Institute of History and Art, and Lark Street, where various antique shops and art galleries abound. Its famous Schuyler Mansion, home of Revolutionary War general Philip Schuyler, houses permanent exhibits and art pieces for tourists to check out. If you find yourself looking to get out of the city and spend some time outside of the buzzing metropolis, you can unwind in the hotels with hot tubs in Albany. Those who wish to leisurely unplug can have cabin rentals as their hideaways. Albany is a great place to explore so make sure to discover its thrills. Plan your getaway with the help of these best things to do in Albany, New York.
1. Witness the beautiful Albany sunset on a cruise
Witnessing the beautiful Albany sunset on a cruise is a serene and enchanting activity that offers a perfect way to end the day in this coastal city of Western Australia. On the cruise, you’ll embark on a leisurely journey along the picturesque waters, basking in the breathtaking views as the sun paints the sky with vibrant colors.
As the boat glides, you’ll have a front-row seat to watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the ocean and the city’s stunning coastline. The peaceful ambiance and gentle waves lapping create a tranquil and romantic atmosphere, making it an ideal experience for couples or anyone seeking a moment of serenity and appreciation of nature’s beauty.
Book Tours : Albany Sunset Live Music Cruise
2. Try axe throwing
Axe throwing has become a popular recreational activity, and Albany provides the perfect setting to give it a try. In a private 1-hour session, you’ll receive expert instruction on proper techniques and safety guidelines at an axe-throwing venue. Then, you’ll have the chance to test your skills by throwing axes at wooden targets, aiming for that satisfying bullseye.
It’s a fun and social activity that can be enjoyed with friends, family or as part of a group event. As you release the axe, the thrill of hitting the target and mastering the art of axe throwing is immensely satisfying. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned axe thrower, trying axe throwing in Albany promises an exciting and memorable time, combining the thrill of a new challenge with the satisfaction of hitting the mark.
Book Tours : Private Axe Throwing for 1 Hour
3. Relax in Washington Park
Washington Park dates back to 1686 and is one of the oldest parks in the U.S. The park is host to tons of gatherings, festivals, and upcoming events so if you’re in town make sure to check out because there’s almost always something happening in Washington Park. And if there isn’t, then this green space is still a beautiful place to stay, hang out and do a little people-watching. Washington Park also features a duck pond and a playground, perfect for little kids.
Washington Park
Address: Albany, NY 12210
Website: Washington Park
Opening hours: 6am - 11pm (daily)
Price: Free
4. Challenge your friends at Albany Indoor Rockgym
Located just off Central Avenue, the Albany Indoor Rockgym is a great place to spend an afternoon and even get a little workout in. There is a varying difficulty of rock walls to climb so experienced people or newbies alike can come by and give it a go. It’s a great place for people traveling with kids who are looking for an activity for the whole family.
Albany Indoor Rockgym
Address: 4c, Vatrano Rd, Albany, NY 12205, USA
Website: Albany Indoor Rockgym
Opening hours: 1pm - 10pm (daily)
Price: 20 USD
5. Take a private tour with Dutch Apple Cruises
Get acquainted with the city on a private level with Dutch Apple Cruises. Offering special tours of the city you’ll get to know Albany’s past through its most popular landmarks like the New York State Capital, State Museum, and the USS Slater. These private tours in Albany, New York, are generally an hour long but longer tours can be booked as well.
Dutch Apple Cruises
Address: 141 Broadway PO Box 395Albany, NY 12202
Website: Dutch Apple Cruises
Opening hours: 1pm - 8:30pm (daily)
6. Shop at Colonie Center
Colonie Center is technically located outside of the city of Albany in a nearby suburb but this location shouldn’t be missed if you’re planning a visit to the city. Opening in 1966, Colonie Center was the first enclosed shopping mall in the region and has everything from clothes like L.L Bean and Macy’s to movie theaters so you can catch a show when you’re done shopping.
Colonie Center
Address: Colonie Center, 131 Colonie Center, Albany, NY 12205, USA
Website: Colonie Center
Opening hours: 10am - 9:30pm (daily)
7. Play bowling at Lucky Strike Social
Lucky Strike Social is way more than just your average bowling experience. Branding itself as “boutique bowling”, Lucky Strike is taking bowling and bringing it to a new level. There’s chef-driven cuisine available, live music and entertainment as well as gaming areas. Grab a cocktail at the bar mixed by a professional mixologist or simply hit the lanes and actually do some bowling.
Luck Strike Social
Address: 1 Crossgates Mall Rd, Albany, NY 12203, USA
Website: Luck Strike Social
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 9:30pm; Sun: 10am - 6pm
Price: 40 USD
8. Take your kids to Billy Beez
This one is for the families out there traveling with little kids. Billy Beez is a fun stop for the kids to get active and play around in the massive jungle gym structures around the indoor park. Offering a wide array of things to do in Crossgates Mall for the little ones, Billy Beez features slides, games, ball pits, and snack bars. Parents can watch over their youngsters and hang out in the comfy lounge areas.
Billy Beez
Address: 1 Crossgates Mall Rd, Albany, NY 12203, USA
Website: Billy Beez
Opening hours: 10am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 20 USD
9. Treat yourself at Green Garden Asian Spa
After taking the kids out at Billy Beez, you’ll probably need a second to relax. Why not book yourself a nice and relaxing spa treatment at one of Albany’s best spas? Try out a variety of treatments including facials and massages or book a whole day full of luxurious spa treatments and leave feeling like a new person.
Green Garden Asian Spa
Address: 46 Columbia St, Albany, NY 12207, USA
Website: Green Garden Asian Spa
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm (daily)
Price: 50 USD onwards
10. Laugh the night away at Funny Bone Comedy Club
The Funny Bone Comedy operates a few clubs around the northeast area of the United States, one of which is located in Albany. As one of the premier comedy clubs around the area, the Funny Bone will almost always have someone in their lineups that will surely make you laugh from professionals to amateurs and open mics.
Funny Bone Comedy Club
Address: 1 Crossgates Mall Rd, Albany, NY 12203, USA
Website: Funny Bone Comedy Club
Opening hours: 5pm - 12am (daily)
Price: 10 - 80 USD
11. Make your own stuffed toy at Build-A-Bear Workshop
One of the most unique things to do in Albany is create your own cuddle toy at Build-A-Bear Workshop. The idea is that you get to pick and customize your own stuffed animal! The activity is great for those with kids but that doesn’t mean adults can have fun with it too. Stuff your new friend to your liking, pick its clothes, and even give it an occupation.
All Build-A-Bear Workshop Bear comes with a “birth” certificate and it is a great way to get something special for yourself or a loved one.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
Address: 1 Crossgates Mall Rd, Albany, NY 12203, USA
Website: Build-A-Bear Workshop
Opening hours: 10am - 9:30pm (daily)
Price: 30 - 80 USD
12. Catch a show at Palace Theatre
Albany’s Palace Theatre is a special and unique place in the city. Built in the 1930s the building has largely remained unchanged in its exterior giving a very authentic and unique Art Deco-style facade. The Palace Theatre is also home to the Albany Symphony Orchestra which is a Grammy-award-winning group but when they’re not performing the Palace Theatre is open to all sorts of special events and entertainment, from comedy to plays to live music performances.
Palace Theatre
Address: 19 Clinton Ave, Albany, NY 12207, USA
Website: Palace Theatre
Opening hours: 1pm - 12am (daily)
Price: 10 - 80 USD
13. Burn your energy at Get Air Trampoline Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
The Get Air Trampoline Park is an amazing place for people of all ages to expel some excess energy and have fun while doing it. A trampoline park is basically exactly what it sounds like. A massive area covered in trampolines where you can do flips and twirls and even jump into a giant pit of foam. There are also games guests can play like basketball so you can finally nail that dunk.
Get Air Trampoline Park
Address: 1 Crossgates Mall Rd, Albany, NY 12203, USA
Website: Get Air Trampoline Park
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 12am; Sun: 10am - 8pm
Price: 14 - 30 USD
14. Enjoy a movie at Regal Cinemas Crossgates 18 & IMAX
Who doesn’t like a night at the movies? How about a night at the IMAX movies? On those days when you just don’t know what to do, head to Regal Cinemas Crossgates and take in a movie. Snacks, comfy seats, and a good time are guaranteed.
Regal Cinemas Crossgates
Address: 1 Crossgates Mall Rd, Albany, NY 12203, USA
Website: Regal Cinemas Crossgates
Opening hours: 2pm - 12am (daily)
Price: 15 USD
15. Check out the oldest building: Van Ostrande-Radliff House
The Van Ostrande-Radliff House is officially the oldest building in the city of Albany. Built in the 1700s by a man named John Radliff researchers of the building had to take a wood sample of it to Columbia University in order to date the year it was built (1728). The Van Ostrande-Radliff House is on the national register of historic places and was said to have features built in the house that was uncommon at the time.
Van Ostrande-Radliff House
Address: 48 Hudson Ave, Albany, NY 12207, USA
Website: Van Ostrande-Radliff House
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
16. Get an aerial city view from Erastus Corning Tower
Manhattan might have taller buildings and more iconic views but the Erastus Corning Tower definitely gives it a run for its money. The building was built in 1973 and is located in the heart of downtown Albany and was named after the former mayor of Albany. The Erastus Corning Tower is also the tallest building in New York State outside of New York City. Head to the observation deck on the 4ns floor and get amazing views of Albany and the Hudson River.
Erastus Corning Tower
Address: 100 S Mall Arterial, Albany, NY 12210, USA
Website: Erastus Corning Tower
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: Free
17. Marvel at the New York State Capitol
New York State Capitol Building is perhaps the most elaborate and intricately designed building in Albany. Found on Washington Avenue, this historic building was completed in 1899 and would have cost 25 million to make (which is roughly 753 million USD in 2019) which means it was the most expensive government building during its time. The style is in Neo-Renaissance and the initial architect that designed it was also the same person who designed the Canadian Parliament in Ottawa. Some people say the building is even haunted.
New York State Capitol
Address: State St. and, Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12224, United States
Website: New York State Capitol
Opening hours: Mon - Fri : 7am - 7pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: Free
18. Visit the Empire State Plaza
If you’re looking to check out all of Albany’s governmental buildings at once they are conveniently located pretty close to each other. The Empire State Plaza hosts a bunch of government buildings but also hosts a collection of art and public works. The area started being built around 1966 to house the most important buildings to be near each other and the project was finally completed in 1976 at a cost of 2 billion dollars. The idea was initially thought of by Nelson A. Rockefeller after he thought about a visit from the Dutch Princess Julianna saying that “there’s no question that the city did not look as I think the Princess thought it was going to”.
Empire State Plaza
Address: 100 S Mall Arterial, Albany, NY 12242, USA
Website: Empire State Plaza
Opening hours: 6am - 11pm (daily)
19. Listen to live music at Skyloft
Skyloft not only has some great live music but it is one of Albany’s tastiest restaurants. Serving everything from delicious seafood to barbecue and southern comfort food as well. A perfect way to spend an evening out with friends or on a date with your partner.
Skyloft
Address: 1 Crossgates Mall Rd, Albany, NY 12203, USA
Website: Skyloft
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 3pm - 12am (closed on Mon & Tues)
Price: 15 - 60 USD
20. Turn into a detective at All In Adventure
All In Adventure is another great way to feel like you’re a detective, except this time, you’re trying to escape somewhere. All In Adventure is host to a bunch of escape rooms. If you’re not familiar with them the idea is; you’re locked in a room with your friends and you have to follow a series of clues in order to escape it. Each room has a different theme so there’s definitely an opportunity to come back and try the others.
All In Adventure
Address: Crossgates Mall, 1 Crossgates Mall Rd D212, Albany, NY 12203, United States
Website: All In Adventure
Opening hours: 10am - 9:30pm (daily)
Price: 25 USD
21. Look for adventure at 5 Wits Albany
5 Wits Albany is sure to be a ton of fun for anyone who wants to give it a try. It’s not an escape room or a VR experience but a real hands-on interactive journey. 5 Wits Albany is over 12,000 square feet (1114.8 square meters) of adventure encompassing three different adventures guests can go on. Deep Space, Drago’s Castle, and Tomb are there for you to check out and after doing one of them you’ll certainly want to try the others. And even better yet, returning guests will have the chance to do harder quests. 5 Wits Albany is perfect for the family, groups of friends, and anyone looking for a unique adventure in Albany.
5 Wits Albany
Address: 1 Crossgates Mall Rd, Albany, NY 12203, USA
Website: 5 Wits Albany
Opening hours: 11am - 9:30pm (daily)
Price: 10 USD
22. Discover old artifacts at Van Ostrande-Radliff House
The Van Ostrande-Radliff House is located in downtown Albany and is the oldest house there, in fact, not only is it the oldest house in Albany but it is the oldest building in the city that has already been introduced before. Dating back to 1728, this historic building has a scrim that depicts what life would have looked like back in the 1700s. The Van Ostrande-Radliff House is an iconic piece of Albany history and the people of the city love it so it underwent a restoration project and currently houses some nifty artifacts from the era it was built, so go check it out if you’re one of the history buffs interested in local history.
Van Ostrande-Radliff House
Address: 48 Hudson Avenue,
Website: Van Ostrande-Radliff House
Price: Free
23. Visit the Albany Pine Bush Preserve
Inde”pond”ence Day at Woodlawn Preserve July 4 at 11am Suitable for ages 6–10, tweens, teens and adults. What lives in a...
Posted by Albany Pine Bush Preserve on Monday, 1 July 2019
Once covering 40 square miles (100 square kilometers) the Albany Pine Bush Preserve is the remains of what was the largest undeveloped pine barren. Currently, it is the largest pine barren in the world and a great spot for people to hang out among beautiful trees and get back to nature. The Albany Pine Bush Preserve is said to be one of the best-kept ecosystem reserves in the world. Families come here and have picnics and explorers put on their walking shoes and discover the thousands of species that call the Albany Pine Bush Preserve their home.
Albany Pine Bush Preserve
Address: 195 New Karner Rd #1, Albany, NY 12205, USA
Website: Albany Pine Bush Preserve
Opening hours: 9am - 4pm (daily)
Price: Free
24. Soak in the beauty of Buckingham Lake Park
If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city then head to nearby Buckingham Lake Park. The small park is commonly referred to as “Rafts Pond” or “Buckingham Pond” and it is essentially just a small body of water that is really only three feet deep. Located nearby the pond area of the park is the recreation area where families come with their kids and have picnics and play and where other people just come to enjoy the view of the pond and get a little fresh air. If you’re visiting during the winter months, the pond freezes over and ice skating is a popular activity here so make sure to bring your skates. Enjoy the wildlife nearby like the Canada Goose and ducks or go for a stroll around the gravel paths around the park.
Buckingham Lake Park
Address: 39 Berkshire Blvd, Albany, NY 12203, USA
Website: Buckingham Lake Park
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
Price: Free
25. Have a few drinks at The Excelsior Pub
After a long day of exploring Albany’s many public hotspots like the parks, government buildings, and historic places, you’ll want to kick back a little back and enjoy a nice cold drink and maybe a tasty plate of food or two. Thankfully one of Albany’s best bars is there for you. The Excelsior Pub is a bar with a mission: to provide some amazing drinks including beers, wines, and spirits in the state. The Excelsior Pub prides itself in finding some of those harder-to-find drinks, the ones that maybe you had one time somewhere else but can’t seem to find anywhere else. On those warm summer evenings make sure to get a spot on their outdoor patio and enjoy some of the finest beers and spirits in New York.
The Excelsior Pub
Address: 54 Philip St, Albany, NY 12207, USA
Website: The Excelsior Pub
Opening hours: Sun - Wed: 12pm - 12am; Thu - Sat: 12pm - 2am
Price: 10 - 30 USD
26. Dine at Yono's
If you’re not in the mood for a bar and are looking to get some amazing to eat, Albany is not short on delicious food. Yono’s has some pretty amazing food. Not only is it some of the best in the city, and not only is it some of the best in the state of New York but it is also some of the best in the entire country. Yono’s has been rated among the top 100 restaurants in the United States. Yono’s is located on Chapel Street and has been owned and operated continuously by the Purnomo family since 1986. Chef Yono Purnomo cooks classic American dishes with Indonesian-inspired accents and utilizes freshly grown ingredients from farms and shops around the Albany area, so the food rarely if ever, comes from more than a few miles away. Yono’s has been recognized three times by the illustrious James Beard Foundation but if you’re looking for a table make sure to book well in advance as Yono’s only holds up to fifteen tables.
Yono's
Address: 25 Chapel St, Albany, NY 12210, USA
Website: Yono’s
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 5:30pm - 10pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 60 USD onwards
27. Enjoy a fun night out at Jupiter Hall
Posted by Jupiter Hall Albany on Friday, 28 December 2018
The hip and happening Jupiter Hall is located right next to the super fun Lucky Strike Social so if you’re into making a fun night out with some friends, then hit up the two and stay out all day and night. Jupiter Hall acts as a venue for a lot of touring artists and bands as well as other forms of live entertainment and when it’s not being used for that, the venue becomes a nightclub/lounge area with great drinks and bottle service. A perfect place for a fun night out with some friends.
Jupiter Hall
Address: 1 Crossgates Mall Road #99x09, Albany, NY 12203, United States
Website: Jupiter Hall
Opening hours: 11am - 2am (daily)
Price: 25 USD
28. Spend a family day at Rocking Horse Ranch Resort
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The Rocking Horse Ranch Resort is one of New York’s most interesting resort destinations. The resort prides itself on being an all-inclusive family-style destination that is great for the kids and the parents. Rocking Horse Ranch Resort is a “dude-ranch” which means that activities like horseback riding and hiking and being around nature are what you’ll expect when you come and visit Rocking Horse Ranch Resort. Since this is a family destination there are lots of great activities around for the kids like pools and waterslides as well as live entertainment shows. The adults will love the on-site restaurants and award-winning accommodations. There is a gift shop that features toys and clothing items as well.
Rocking Horse Ranch Resort
Address: 600 US-44, Highland, NY 12528, USA
Website: Rocking Horse Ranch Resort
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 650 USD onwards
29. Visit the historical Quackenbush House
Quackenbush House does not only just have a funny name but it is deemed to be one of the oldest houses located in Albany. Built around the 1730s the building is still standing and has been in use as a restaurant for quite some time. From 1995 to 2008 and then again from 2008 to 2009 the building housed French restaurants and until finally now it is home to an English style Pub.
Quackenbush House
Address: 683 Broadway, Albany, New York
Website: Quackenbush House
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
30. Picnic at Corning Preserve
There’s no body of water more synonymous with New York than the Hudson River. Luckily, for those in Albany, The Hudson River is a little cleaner and more pleasant to be around than the one in New York City. If you’re looking to hang out with some locals and spend some time outside on a nice sunny warm day in Albany, head to the Corning Preserve. The Corning Preserve is a landscaped waterfront promenade area as well as an entertainment venue and animal preservation area. The area is popular with everyone from tourists and visitors to locals and the long stretch of land provides lots of opportunities for things like outdoor venues for entertainment as well as shopping and dining. Of course, there are also picnic areas for those with families and friends to go by and eat a snack by the water. For those out there looking to get a little workout in, people always tend to bring their canoes and kayaks to the waterfront and cruise along the river.
Corning Preserve
Address: Albany, NY 12207, USA
Website: Corning Preserve
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
31. Gather clues while exploring the city
What’s a better way to get to know a city than to explore it while searching around for clues? Feel like a detective as you explore the street of Albany gathering clues and learning about the city. The guide is pretty simple and all it requires is a smartphone and soon you’ll be on your way to sleuthing around the city.
Book Tours : 3Quest Challenge Scavenger Hunts - Albany, NY
32. Take the Hudson River sightseeing cruise
Finally, after a long day of seeing the highlights of Albany, why not take a relaxing ride along New York’s most famous river? Cruise along in the mighty “Dutch Apple” and take in the beautiful views of Albany and the waterfront. Learn about the area’s rich history as well as the evolution of the area along with industries and even the boat itself. Make sure to bring a camera along because there’s tons of wildlife to see!
Book Tours : Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise of Albany (morning)
Get around Albany
Albany truly has something for everyone. If you’re traveling with the family or just some friends or maybe even yourself, you’ll certainly find some fun to do in Albany. The city is full of history not only for Albany but for the entire state of New York. There are art exhibits and historic streets, and there are tons of amazing family-friendly activities as well.
New York State has lots to offer other than New York City and the must-try activities in Albany are proof of that.
Frequently asked questions about the best things to do in Albany, New York
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