Day Trip Ideas Around the Capital Region & Beyond
Day Trippers (and locals!) can uncover history, outdoor adventures, performing arts and more throughout the Capital Region.
From drive-in movie theaters, to scenic boat rides, to unique places to hike, the Capital Region will keep you busy all summer long. Keep reading for ideas and activities for your next Capital Region day trip!
Please note that the below attractions have social distancing guidelines and increased safety protocols. Head to each attraction's website or social media before visiting for the most updated information.
Olana State Historic Site
Olana State Historic Site, home of the well-known Hudson River School landscape artist Frederic Church, is a designated a National Historic Landmark. Located in Hudson, the 250-acre estate features the eye-catching Persian-inspired mansion and a historic landscape with sweeping panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley. Explore the scenic grounds on your own for free or purchase tickets for an Olana Outdoor Tour. Olana Outdoor Tours are offered as a 30 minute guided walking tour, a 60 minute guided walking tour, or a 60 minute electric carriage tour.
Upstate Kayak Rentals
Paddles up! Upstate Kayak Rentals makes it easy to set out on a paddling adventure and stay socially distanced! Mask up to rent a kayak at the walk up locations in Waterford or Schenectady's Mohawk Harbor. Or, paddlers can conveniently book and unlock a kayak with a cell phone at self-serve kayak rental hubs at the Albany Corning Preserve Boat Launch, Henry Hudson Park in Bethlehem, Coeymans Landing Park, Klamsteam Launch, and Halfmoon Crescent Park. Upstate Kayak Rentals is a great way to explore the Capital Region's scenic waterfronts and stunning waterways!
Cruise Around
Cruise along the scenic Hudson River on a Dutch Apple Cruise to marvel at stunning skyline views of Albany and to uncover the city's historic connection to the waterway. Sightseeing cruises are narrated by a Hudson River Historian who tells tales of Albany and points out landmark sights along the river. The Dutch Apple is currently operating at 50% capacity and cruise admission is sold on a per table basis. Cruise guests can order food from their phones with QR codes on each table and the crew routinely sanitizes frequently touched surfaces.
Experience the lush beauty of Lake George, nicknamed the Queen of American Lakes, with Lake George Steamboat Company! The Mohican, the oldest continually operated tour boat in America, is currently sailing 2 one-hour cruises each afternoon. Climb aboard the Lac du Saint Sacrement, New York State’s largest inland cruise ship, for luncheon and dinner cruises. Starting on Saturday, June 27, the Minnie-Ha-Ha, one of the last steam paddle wheel ships in America, begins sailing daily one-hour cruises. Cruises are currently operating at 50% capacity.
Performance Spaces of the 21st Century
Located in Chatham, Performances Spaces of the 21st Century (PS21) is an innovative performing arts organization. While performances at the venue are all currently postponed, PS21 encourages the community to explore the beautiful grounds. Explore 100 breathtaking acres of trails, meadows, open spaces, woodlands and orchards. From the hills behind the theater, soak up stunning views of the Catskills. The grounds are open to the public, 24/7.
Drive-In Movie Theaters
Experience the nostalgia of movies under the stars this summer! The Capital Region is home to several drive-in movie theaters including the Jericho Drive-In and Twist Ice Cream (Glenmont), Hollywood Drive-In Theatre (Averill Park), Malta Drive-In Theatre (Malta), Hathaway's Drive-In Theatre (North Hoosick), and Hi-Way Drive-In Movie Theatre (Coxsaxie). In addition to showing flicks, the Jericho Drive-In has teamed up with several performing arts venues to host concerts this summer. Troy Savings Bank Music Hall is presenting Jocelyn and Chris at the Jericho Drive-In on July 9. Proctors is presenting a "Concert Cinema Drive-In Series" with musical acts paired with classic movies throughout the summer at the Jericho Drive-In. Take advantage of these unique offerings this summer!
Hudson-Chatham Winery
Take a scenic drive to Hudson-Chatham Winery, Columbia County's first winery. The beautiful 14-acre grounds are open Wednesday to Saturday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. It is a great spot to grab a bottle of wine and enjoy a social distancing picnic! Interested in a private wine tasting? Call the tasting room for a reservation for a private tasting outside on the lawn.
Mountain Ridge Adventure
Soar high above the trees at Mountain Ridge Adventure! The aerial adventure and zipline park is located at the top of a 1,000 foot mountain in Schenectady. Get your thrills by adventuring across obstacles such as swings, bridges and cargo nets. Zoom along a zip line to reach heights of up to 70 feet and across a 500 foot long gorge. Mountain Ridge Adventure is an exhilarating way to experience nature.
For itineraries and more things to do, check out the Capital-Saratoga Region
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