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.
2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the city of Cohoes! Located where the Mohawk River meets the Hudson River, Cohoes began as a quiet agricultural community. Following the construction of the original Erie Canal and Champlain Canals and due to the abundance of water power, the city experienced rapid growth as a manufacturing center. By 1870, Cohoes earned the nickname "Spindle City" with six large cotton mills running 203,000 spindles. Today, discover the charm of Cohoes by diving into the fascinating history, exploring the emerging culinary scene and admiring the city's natural wonders. Keep reading to uncover a few of the attractions for visitors (and locals!) to explore in Cohoes.
Cohoes Falls
Cohoes is home to the second largest waterfall in New York State. Measuring roughly 1,000 feet across and up to 90 feet high, Cohoes Falls is a magnificent sight. Venture to Falls View Park or Overlook Park to marvel at the impressive waterfall. Falls View Park features a 192-foot-long pedestrian bridge with picture-perfect views. Bring a picnic and soak up the beauty of the waterfall!
The Cohoes Music Hall
The historic Cohoes Music Hall is the fourth oldest music hall operating in the United States! Located in the heart of Cohoes, the performing arts venue is a key piece of the city's history. Established in 1874, the landmark venue hosted a variety of performers over the years including Buffalo Bill Cody, John Philip Sousa, and P.T. Barnum’s baby elephant Hunky Punky. Today, the Music Hall hosts live music, stand-up comedy, plays, dance performances and more. Rumor has it that it is even haunted by the playful spirit of vaudeville star Eva Tanguay! Playhouse Stage Company was recently selected to manage the Music Hall.
Van Schaick Mansion
The historic Van Schaick Mansion is nestled on Van Schaick Island in Cohoes. Built in the mid-1700s, the mansion is brimming with Revolutionary War history. During 1777, it served as the Continental Army's headquarters and hosted General Philip Schuyler, General Horatio Gates and thousands of Continental Soldiers. Plans for the Battle of Saratoga, the turning point in the American Revolution, were formulated at the mansion during this time! The historic home is on the National Register of Historic Places and still boasts the original doors, windows, trim and hand-wrought hardware.
Cohoes Mastodon
The bones of the 13,000-year-old Cohoes Mastodon were uncovered in September 1866 during construction for Mill No. 3 of the Harmony Mills! A historical marker was placed at the site marking where the extinct prehistoric creature's skeletal remains were found. When the mastodon was alive, it stood more than eight feet tall, weighed between eight and ten thousand pounds and was fifteen feet long. View the Capital Region treasure on display at the New York State Museum.
Remsen Street
Remsen Street, the home of the Cohoes Music Hall, has been revitalized with new restaurants, breweries and small businesses. Dine on tacos from The Daisy Cohoes, sushi from Yuan Japanese Asian Restaurant, classic dishes with a twist from Cafe Monocle, fresh pasta from Anthony's Italian Restaurant or cheers with a beer at Table 41 Brewing. Through October, these restaurants (and more!) along Remsen Street are expanding their outdoor dining with tables in the street for the city's "Eat in the Street" program. Before venturing off of Remsen Street, make sure to swing by the Cohoes Visitors Center to learn about the City's historic sites, Cohoes Falls, and Harmony Mill Power System with interactive exhibits, videos and maps.
