choosing a few of those list items to accomplish during a short trip can be a little overwhelming. Luckily, Albany is a small city where almost everything is within walking distance, and the county that surrounds it is easy to navigate, too.
Whether you're visiting your oldest child at college for the first time or you're in town for a conference, there are a few things you need to know to ensure you make the most out of your Albany getaway:
1) Pack accordingly
2) Stay in Albany
Albany's wide variety of hotels, motels, and
inns are here to make your trip more enjoyable. Our hospitality is something we all take very seriously and if you contact us we will be happy to assist you in making the choice of where to stay based on your budget, location preferences, and other needs! But one thing is for sure, in order to make the most out of your trip you will have extend your stay to make it more than a day trip.
3) Know what else is going on
There are a lot of festivals, events, concerts, and other fun things that occur in Albany! Stay informed as to what's going on so that you can join in on the action or plan accordingly to stay away from it. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and check out our online events calendar to keep up on all that's happening.
4) Don't be afraid to ask the locals
If there's one bit of advice I can give you, it's to take the advice of others! Ask your hotel's front desk staff what their favorite place to have lunch is, or talk to the Visitors Center Staff about which historic home would be your favorite because they know how difficult it is to pick just one.
5) Make your way to the New York State Capitol
If you've never been inside the Capitol Building before, and even if you've gone through a few times, no trip to Albany is complete without a tour of the most beautiful building in the city. I promise you, no one ever comes away disappointed. While you're in the neighborhood, explore the Empire State Plaza, The Corning Tower Observation Deck, and the New York State Museum, too!
6) Try something new
If you're staying in a hotel on Wolf Road, it might be tempted to grab a bite to eat at Chili's, because its familiar, but I urge you to head somewhere new! Reel Seafood Co., Professor Java's, and Maxie's are all one of a kind restaurants that you won't regret choosing. But this tip goes beyond the cuisine and into the activities! Take a go-kart for a spin, explore an underground world, or see a local band live!
7) Eat your heart out
Grab a quick, yet delicious, bite at any one of these restaurants, or make a reservation at one of Yono's, Angelo's 677 Prime, and Jack's Oyster House.
these signature dining atmospheres:
8) Get outside!
Surprisingly enough, Albany is full of urban parks and riverfront walkways that are my ideal spots for sitting and sipping coffee or walking off a big meal. If you are looking for a more natural setting, then a quick drive to the Albany Pine Bush's inland pie barren trails or Thacher Park's impressive overlook may be more appealing.
9) See a show
Art, theater, music, comedy... the options are almost endless no matter what your forte! Check out what's on stage at Capital Repertory Theatre, at the historic Palace Theatre, and the iconic Egg. Head to The Comedy Works for a laugh on Friday and Saturday nights, or see whats on the walls at Albany Center Gallery, the Albany Barn, and the Albany Institute of History & Art!
10) Make it your own
Make your own goals for the trip; so if you are set on exploring the 400+ years of the history or if you'd rather eat your way through town, fine! But make sure you enjoy yourself first and foremost.
For other things to do and places to see in Albany, NY, go to www.albany.org. Share your experiences with us on social media using #DiscoverAlbany
