Albany County is full of discoveries. Explore natural wonders in the Helderberg Hilltowns. Dive into history at world-class museums in the City of Albany. Marvel at New York State's second largest waterfall in Cohoes. Follow along as we showcase all there is to explore in the towns of Albany County.
The Town of Bethlehem spans 52 square miles and is home to a population of over 35,000. The town's hamlets include Delmar, Elsmere, Glenmont, North Bethlehem, Selkirk, Slingerlands and South Bethlehem. Located on the west bank of the Hudson River, the town features friendly neighborhoods and scenic rural landscapes. Keep scrolling for a few of the attractions awaiting for visitors (and locals!) to explore in the Albany County town of Bethlehem.
Pine Hollow Arboretum
Tucked in Slingerlands, the Pine Hollow Arboretum is a hidden gem. Home to a distinctive horticultural collection, marvel at regional plantings from all over the world including Russia, China and Japan. Meander through a network of trails across 22 acres of land. Admire sweeping magnolia trees, lush firs and pines, and over 10 scenic ponds. Pine Hollow Arboretum is open to the public for free all 365 days a year.
Jericho Drive-In and Twist Ice Cream
Experience a night of nostalgia at the Jericho Drive-In and Twist Ice Cream. Located in Glenmont, the old-school drive-in screens movies under the stars with the added bonus of an ice cream shoppe. It is the quintessential summer night destination! Plus, this summer the drive-in theater is hosting a special Concert Cinema Drive-In Series, presented by Proctors and 98.3 TRY, featuring musical acts paired with a similarly-themed classic film!
Five Rivers Environmental Education Center
Situated in Delmar, Five Rivers Environmental Education Center boasts over 450 acres of fields, forests and wetlands. Explore over 10 miles of trails on a hike in the summer or by cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers can spy deer, squirrels and over 225 species of birds. While currently closed the public, a brand new visitor center was built in 2017 featuring interactive displays and stimulating exhibits. The grounds and trails remain open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Bethlehem Area YMCA
Located in Delmar, the Bethlehem Area YMCA has an exercise center, two pools, steam, sauna and whirlpool facilities, basketball gym, and free classes for members. Glide across the ice on the Bethlehem Area YMCA's NHL-style ice rink for open skating, lessons and adult hockey leagues. Please note that all branches of the YMCA are currently closed, but click here for virtual workouts!
More Bethlehem-based Businesses & Parks:
- Bethlehem Town Historian's Blog
- The Cue Theatre
- Henry Hudson Park (Self-serve Upstate Kayak Rentals hub location)
- The Reel McCoy Beer Co
- Swifty's Restaurant & Pub
- Shogun of Delmar
- Elm Avenue Park
- Perfect Blend Cafe and Bakery
- Garden Bistro 24
- Jim's Tastee Freez
- Moh-He-Con-Nuck Nature Preserve
Visit the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce for more information.