Summer's not over yet! Fall may be right around the corner, but there’s still plenty of summer fun to be had in Albany County. Discover unique nature finds, soar on a zipline, ride a Ferris wheel, kayak the Hudson River, or just relax and dine on a patio on a warm summer evening. Read on for 7 things to do before the end of summer in Albany County. 

1. Albany Nature Bus

Don’t let summer slip away without checking out some of the unique nature gems that Albany County has to offer. Go on an adventure with the free Albany Nature Bus service provided by CDTA and Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy. Take the bus to explore the Pine Bush Preserve and meet the rare plants and animals that call the Pine Bush their home. Find yourself surrounded by trees on a hike through Fisher Trail. Or take in the captivating views along the Helderberg Escarpment at Thacher Park. There’s no limit to amazing outdoor adventures you can travel to for free along the Nature Bus route this summer!

2. Wildplay Elements Park 

This summer don't miss your chance to soar above the trees at Wildplay Elements Park. Located on the grounds of John Boyd Thacher State Park, Wildplay offers an exciting array of adventure courses. Take on everything from log ladders, to ziplines, to cargo nets, rope swings, tightropes and more. The park offers a completely safe way to take on the most daring of adventures.

3. Altamont Fair

Savor the end of summer with the taste of fried dough, funnel cake and fried Oreos underneath the flashing bright lights of the Midway at the Altamont Fairgrounds. For over 130 years, the Altamont Fair has been a tradition in Albany County. Jam to live music, view antique farm machinery, get your thrills on carnival rides, dazzle at a shark show and circus, and try your hand at exciting games. The Altamont Fair runs from August 13 to August 18, 2024. 

4. Huck Finn's Playland

Spend your last few weeks of summer indulging in classic theme park fun with the family! Huck Finn's Playland, originally owned as Hoffman's Playland, has been a staple outdoor amusement park for over 70 years. The summer season is remiss without a spin on the Tilt a Whirl, a ride down The Fun Slide, or a trip up in the Ferris Wheel.

Pictured murals by artists Vanessa Mastronardi & Arzu Fallahi

5. Explore the Art of Albany

Vibrant murals paint the town in all colors of the rainbow. When taking a trip around Downtown Albany, it's hard to miss the eye-catching displays from the #CapitalWalls murals project spearheaded by the Albany Center Gallery, Albany Barn, and ParkAlbany. Take the time while the weather is still nice to walk around and enjoy some of these fantastic works of art. While you’re at it, embrace the dog days of summer and spot some of the painted Nipper statues placed around the area by the Downtown Albany BID.

Click on the links below for a full guide to the #CapitalWalls murals and a deeper look at Artful Albany. 

6. Get Out Onto the Water: Cruises, Boat Launches, and More! 

Summer cruises and trips to the lake are always a great way to soak up the season. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the water during the hot summer days in Albany County and beyond. Cruise along the historic Hudson River and enjoy the sights aboard a relaxing Dutch Apple Cruise. If you're up for a drive, head to Lake George and set sail on a scenic cruise aboard one of the Lake George Steamboat Company's ships. 

If you'd rather set out on your own, there are plenty of places in the county to rent or bring your own kayak or boat. Kayak on the Hudson River from the Corning Preserve Boat Launch or head out to the beautiful Thompson's Lake to paddle the day away with beautiful mountain views. Scroll through our blog on Top Spots to Kayak in Albany County for the best locations! 

For swimming pools, spray pads, and more ways to cool off during the hot end of summer days, check out our blog on Where to Cool Off in Albany County.

7. Enjoy Outdoor Summer Dining 

There’s nothing better to end a summer day with than an evening under the stars. There are plenty of charming patios to enjoy dinner al fresco in the Albany area!

Soak up the sun during Brunch at City Beer Hall featuring select complimentary cocktails with each entrée. The garden patio at Olde English Pub and Pantry is another great spot for a late summer meal. Enjoy their seasonal menu of delicious British pub food for brunch, lunch, or dinner and relax listening to live music on select nights. The recently opened Albany location of the Common Roots Brewing Company also offers an outdoor space to relax and enjoy your meal while enjoying the public murals surrounding Quackenbush Square. 

For a sweet end to your summer, head over to Emack and Bolio's for a hand-crafted ice cream dessert. The patio is a lovely spot to be during summer weekends as the ice cream shop hosts live music Friday through Sunday.

For more places to enjoy an outdoor meal during the final few weeks of summer, check out some blogs from our Summer on the Patio series below!