Hit the Trail: Experience the Schenectady Sips Craft Beverage Trail

There’s no question that the Capital-Saratoga Region is the place to be for world-class craft beverages. A trip to Schenectady alone offers the opportunity to visit six fantastic breweries, and the Schenectady Sips Craft Beverage Trail provides the way to experience them all! Whether you’re looking for a getaway with friends or that special someone, the Schenectady Sips Craft Beverage Trail has all the fun on tap. Be sure to purchase a passport before your visit; for $40, you’ll get a beer flight at each of the six breweries! Here’s a look at the participating craft breweries that are sure to become your new favorites:

Back Barn Brewing Company

7082 Western Turnpike, Delanson, NY 12053

With beautiful views inside and out, this new brewery is housed in a restored barn, paying homage to the agricultural roots of the area. Popular brews you won’t want to miss include Skyline Crush, their seasonal IPA, Finnegan’s McRed Irish Red Ale, and Five Bees Belgium Blonde Ale, made with New York State honey.

Druthers Brewing Company

221 Harborside Drive, Schenectady, NY 12305

With locations in Saratoga Springs and Albany, Druthers brings their perfect combination of delicious brews and food to Schenectady. Located in the popular waterfront district of Mohawk Harbor, you’ll definitely want to try their Golden Rule Pilsner and Against the Grain Hefeweizen, among many other great beers on tap!

Frog Alley Brewing Company

108 State Street, Schenectady, NY 12305

Established in 2018, this new brewery gets its name from the Frog Alley’s, a spirited local baseball team from the early 1900s. With their own passion for brewing, there’s much to enjoy at Frog Alley’s taproom, including their 1903 Vienna Lager, Kikker German Pilsner, or Skull Frog Imperial Double IPA.

Great Flats Brewing Company

151 Lafayette Street, Schenectady, NY 12305

As a designated New York State Farm Brewery, Great Flats wide variety of beers are made using New York State grown ingredients. Let your taste take flight with some truly outstanding brews, including Lafayette IPA, Super Brunch Stout, or for something sweet their Root Beer with Riverside Maple Farms Maple Syrup. 

Wolf Hollow Brewing Company

6882 Amsterdam Road, Schenectady, NY 12302

What started as a homebrew collaboration between two neighbors has become home to a successful craft brewery! The friendly atmosphere of Wolf Hollow Brewing Company is a product of its roots, making it a perfect spot to meet up with a group. Enjoy more than a dozen beers on tap, including Wolf Hollow Amber, White’s Wit, and Foothills Pils.

Ready to hit the trail?! As you can see a passport for the Schenectady Sips Craft Beverage Trail is your ticket to all of the fun and delicious varieties of beers in our region. Plan your craft brew getaway today!

An Apple a Day: Cider Stops Across the Capital-Saratoga Region

Header image: Rogers Family Orchard

Autumn in apple country can only mean one thing: it’s cider season! The Capital-Saratoga Region is home to a number of orchards and cider mills that press their own cider each fall. We invite you to take a tour of some of the best cider stops throughout the area for this fall favorite that is best enjoyed when the air is crisp.

Cider Stops Across the Capital-Saratoga Region

ALBANY COUNTY


Nine Pin Cider | info
Sip on hard cider crafted from local fresh pressed apples at Nine Pin Cider, New York’s first farm cidery. Choose from a rotating selection of at least nine different hard ciders at Nine Pin’s Tasting Room in the Warehouse District. You’ll find flavors such as rosé, blueberry, peach, earl grey, vanilla chai, and more! Sip on a pint, or splurge on a flight, to sample a range of flavors! All of the apples are sourced from the Capital Region and Hudson Valley orchards for a fresh, local taste.

Indian Ladder Farms | info
Indian Ladder Farms is a 100-year-old farm and orchard located in Altamont that is a must-visit Fall destination in Albany County. Kids will have a bushel of fun picking apples, tasting Indian Ladder’s famous apple cider doughnuts and petting the farm animals. Parents will enjoy sipping craft beer or hard cider and grabbing a bite to eat at the Indian Ladder Farms Cidery and Brewery tasting room. With the backdrop of the beautiful Helderberg Escarpment, Indian Ladder Farms is a great spot for Fall fun and apples galore!

FULTON COUNTY

 

Rogers Family Orchard | info
Rogers Family Orchard is a small, family owned-owned and operated farm with tons of charm and is a favorite of local residents who rave that their fresh-pressed cider is the best around. Several apples varieties are available either already picked or you can pick your own. Rogers has a hard cider tasting room in addition to food.They’re open 7 days a week until Christmas.

 

SARATOGA COUNTY


Saratoga Apple | info
Saratoga Apple is serious about their cider. For five generations, the Darrow Family has been growing apples and they take great pride in producing cider using the varieties that they grow which are hand-picked at the height of the season. They’re open seven days a week, year round. In addition to cider, they offer baked goods including cider donuts, produce, and carry an assortment of local, natural foods and gifts.

Lakeside Farms | info
The Pierce family has owned this gem of a farm since 1948. The purchase of the land came with a barn that was built in the late 1880’s and housed a 120-ton screw driven press so they put it to good use. The popularity of the cider they made resulted in the addition of a retail store and later a restaurant. Their fresh pressed cider is available seasonally and sold in their market.

 

RENSSELAER COUNTY


Kristy’s Barn | info
Made in the tradition of the early 1900s, Kristy’s Barn selects the perfect combination of ripe fruit to press into their old-fashioned apple cider for a taste as unique as it is delicious. The farm offers a variety of festive autumn activities including apple picking, hunting for the perfect pumpkin in the pumpkin patch, and hayrides, not to mention sampling their special recipe cider donuts.

Windy Hill Orchard | info

 

WASHINGTON COUNTY


Hick’s Orchard | info
Made from apples that are picked at perfection, Hicks Orchard apple cider is a tradition as old as the farm; they’ve been in operation since 1905! They use a hydraulic press that squeezes the juice from apples that have been mashed and layered on a rack to yield a pure, sweet cider that is the epitome of autumn in a glass.

McWhorter’s Orchard | info
McWhorter’s Orchard in Argyle is a fun stop for all things we love about the fall season: apples, apple picking, apple cider, cider donuts, and plenty of non-apple related activities too. They’re open Friday through Sunday during apple season.

Borden’s Orchard | info
Renowned for their cider which is milled on-site, Borden’s Orchard is a seventh generation family owned and operated farm. They grow more than 40 varieties of apples and other fruits and operate a year-round farm store with a large assortment of unique New York State products.

 

Visit them all and share your experience

We’d love to hear which cider stop is your favorite! Share your visit by posting a photo on social media using the hashtag #TheFreshFoodCapital. Happy cider season!

 

Bring on Summer: Your Getaway Guide to the Region

SPAC

Fascinating history. Captivating performances. You really can experience it all in the Capital-Saratoga Region! Our six counties are full of fun attractions that will fill your summer itinerary. With so many options to choose from, we’ve compiled a list to make the most out of your getaway.

ALBANY COUNTY

Dutch Apple Cruises – 1 Quay Street, Albany, NY 12202
With so much history in our state’s capital, you’ll want to see as much of the city as you can. A Dutch Apple Cruise is the perfect way to start, as you view the Albany skyline while cruising the scenic and historic Hudson River. Dutch Apple Cruises offer several different options for sightseeing, including dinner and sunset cruises.

Olde English Pub and Pantry – 683 Broadway, Albany, NY 12207
Located in a historic 1730s house, Olde English Pub and Pantry specializes in British beers and cuisine. Enjoy a delicious meal in their garden patio, while you plot your next stop on your itinerary.

 

FULTON COUNTY

Johnson Hall State Historic Site – 139 Hall Avenue, Johnstown, NY 12095
An important figure in the history of colonial New York, William Johnson’s relationship with the Iroquois greatly strengthened the British monarchy’s power in North America. History buffs can visit Johnson’s estate, built in 1763, where he lived with his wife, Molly Brant, and their eight children.

 

RENSSELAER COUNTY

June Farms – 275 Parker Road, West Sand Lake, NY 12196
Located on a scenic 120 acre farm, June Farms is the perfect place to rest up after a full day of exploring the Capital-Saratoga Region. There are several styles of cabins available to rent, and guests can enjoy The Pony Barn, a charming cocktail lounge serving delicious wood-fired pizzas. Stroll the grounds of this working farm and take in the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley.

 

SARATOGA COUNTY

Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) – 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
For more than 50 years, SPAC has presented inspiring performances of all kinds: classical, rock, pop, jazz, world music, and more. Set against the backdrop of scenic Saratoga Spa State Park, SPAC brings a full slate of sensational performances to the region.

 

SCHENECTADY COUNTY

Museum of Innovation and Science – 15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady, NY 12308
The perfect place for a family stop on your itinerary, MiSci is full of hands-on fun for kids of all ages! Experience the interactive exhibits, or see a star-studded show in the Suits-Bueche Planetarium.

 

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Hubbard Hall Center for the Arts and Education – 25 East Main Street, Cambridge, NY 12816
Each season at Hubbard Hall features captivating productions from their Main Stage theater, as well as chamber music concerts and performances from Opera Saratoga. Located in a historic opera house, Hubbard Hall is a hub for the arts in Washington County.

The Strand Theatre – 210 Main Street, Hudson Falls, NY 12839
The historic Strand Theatre in Hudson Falls showcases lively performances from rock bands, jazz and classical ensembles, as well as dance troupes. With such a wide range of experiences  to enjoy, there’s something for everyone!

Don’t miss your opportunity to enjoy some of the best art and cultural attractions in the Capital-Saratoga Region! Plan your summer getaway today and experience it all!

VIEW LOCATIONS ON GOOGLE MAPS

Cheers for Beers: A Craft Brew Itinerary

Craft beer, wine, and ciders runs deep through the veins of the Capital-Saratoga Region. As area rich with agriculture history and plentiful craft beverage-producing crops, some of the best farm-to-growler breweries, cideries and distilleries call the region “home.” From farmhouse ales to stellar stouts, you’ll find a drink for any palate preference. So, if you’re a craft beverage aficionado, we’ve got a list of the top spots you need to visit as you travel through the Capital-Saratoga Region!

FULTON COUNTY

Rogers Cideryard – 260 County Highway 131. Johnstown, New York
Rogers’ Cideryard is a cider pub specializing in hard ciders crafted from our orchard meadow. Their taproom serves food, beer, cider, and cocktails.

Stump City Brewery – 521 West Fulton St Ext, Gloversville, NY
Stump City Brewery has a passion for local products. Beverages are made with New York State grain and hops.

ALBANY COUNTY

Nine Pin Cider – 929 Broadway, Albany, NY
Crafts award-winning farm-to-glass cider from fresh pressed apples sourced entirely from the Capital Region. Nine Pin, which derives its name from the Dutch form of bowling that Rip Van Winkle was said to play while drinking hard cider, leading to his legendary slumber. While many ciders you taste are artificially sweetened, Nine Pin is set apart by their off-dry products. All of the apples are from Capital Region and Hudson Valley orchards to create entirely local product. Their list of cider is constantly growing, so stop in, get a sampler, and taste to your hearts content. Tasting room, tours, bottles and growlers available.

C.H. Evans at Albany Pump Station – 19 Quackenbush Sq. Albany, NY
The Evans Family has brewing roots that trail from Hudson, NY in 1786. The award-winning ales of the past were extremely well known in the Northeast and were even exported to England and France. Today, The Evans Family operates the C.H. Evans Brewing Company within the Albany Pump Station in historic Quackenbush Square. After 225 years of brewing, you better believe that the suds available are award winning and, perhaps more importantly, delicious.

SARATOGA COUNTY

Artisanal Brew Works – 41 Geyser Rd, Saratoga Springs, NY
Artisanal Brew Works creates high quality craft style beer that appeals to consumers who are looking for local, fresh, handcrafted beers. Their mission is to create craft fresh artisanal ales that appeal to a wide variety of tastes. Artisanal makes world-class beer in upstate New York with local ingredients.

Common Roots Brewing Company – 58 Saratoga Avenue, South Glens Falls, NY
The beers at Common Roots Brewing Company intermix old world traditions with new world inspirations. Since opening their taproom doors for the first time in December 2014, they have continued to produce a variety beers that we hope all types palates can relate to and enjoy.

Schmaltz Brewing – 6 Fairchild Square, Clifton Park, NY
Sit back & relax in the tasting room while enjoying the freshest Shmaltz Beers, a 50-barrel brewhouse. The large, open space features hardwood floors, rustic high top tables with reclaimed barn wood tabletops and whiskey barrel base, soft leather sofas, and picnic tables.

Olde Saratoga Brewing Company – 13 Excelsior Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY
The Saratoga Brewing Company has been producing the highest quality, fresh, traditional, all malt craft-brewed lager and ales since 1997. Their Tap Room & Company Store is open to the public – with 21 beers on tap, it’s like a brewfest every day!

RENSSELAER COUNTY

Brown’s Brewing Company – Two locations!
50 Factory Hill Rd, Hoosick Falls, NY
The Walloomsac Taproom and Brewery is housed perfectly in a 19th century mill nestled along the Walloomsac River in the hamlet of North Hoosick, NY. The taproom features a gorgeous 50 foot reclaimed wood bar, river views, custom made wood fire grill, and full food menu celebrating as many local producers as possible.

417 River St, Troy, NY
A renovated 150 year old warehouse on the Hudson River houses Brown’s Troy taproom and 15 barrel brewhouse. The extensive award-winning menu combined with a dozen of Brown’s own beers on tap, makes the Troy Taproom a favorite with locals and visitors.

S & S Farm Brewery – 174 Middle Road, Nassau, NY
S&S Brewery is located on a small family farm that has been owned and operated by the Sanford family since the 1800s. As part of the farm-to-table movement, S&S Brewery offers a beer that is taste specific to the region. By using New York State products, S&S is brewing beer that cannot be replicated in other regions.

SCHENECTADY COUNTY

Wolf Hollow Brewing Company – 6882 Amsterdam Rd., Glenville, NY
Wolf Hollow Brewing Company creates true, local, craft beer, captured on draught for peak freshness, and enjoyed in their tasting room or home by the local community. WHBC is open three nights a week to allow its members and walk-in customers to come in and fill their growlers up for the week, or to spend the evening socializing with like-minded beer drinkers in our tasting room.

Mad Jack Brewing Co. – 237 Union St., Schenectady, NY
Mad Jack Brewing Company is a collection of unique beers that each have their own personality and flavor.

Great Flats Brewing – 151 Lafayette St., Schenectady, NY
Great Flats, born in early 2017 is a family-owned New York State farm brewery that focuses on brewing American style ales and lagers. The brewery is 100% wind powered and all of the ingredients are grown in New York State.

Plan your tasty trip to The Craft Brew Capital today!

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Your Guide to Albany’s Best Stops for Craft Beverages

For craft beverage fans, the Capital-Saratoga Region is a hub for award-winning beer, wine, cider and spirits, and Albany is no exception.  A trip to the New York State’s capital will convince you that our region is second-to-none in terms of quality. We’ve compiled a list of the top spots for the ultimate Albany bar and distillery crawl!

Fort Orange Brewing

450 North Pearl Street, Albany, NY

Founded by friends with a passion for brewing high-quality beers, Fort Orange Brewing has a variety of their brews on tap, as well as cans. Summer is the perfect time to try their mildly tart Raspberry Sour, or their Galactic Explosion, a hazy NEIPA full of citrus and fruit flavors. Flights featuring four beers are available; for those feeling adventurous, the Gauntlet has 10 samples of Fort Orange beers.

 

Excelsior Pub

54 Philip Street at Madison Avenue, Albany, NY

The craft beverage boom is all over New York State, and Excelsior Pub brings together the best of the best under one roof. They proudly serve the largest collection of New York spirits in the state, and have an impressive selection of beer and cider on tap, as well as New York produced wines. Their food menu offers specialties from around the state, like Rochester’s famed Garbage Plate, Buffalo Wings, and Spiedies from the Binghamton region.  

 

Nine Pin Cider

929 Broadway, Albany, NY

As New York’s first farm cidery, Nine Pin Cider sources apples from the Capital and Hudson Valley regions to create their delicious off-dry ciders. A visit to their tasting room in Downtown Albany offers 18 ciders and beers on tap, as well as a variety of cider cocktails. Snack on pizzas and small plate offerings while you sip on a pint of their Signature Cider, or one of their other core or specialty ciders. Tours of the production facility are offered monthly, and tickets can be purchased on their website.

 

Druthers Brewing Company

1053 Broadway, Albany, NY

This staple of the Capital-Saratoga Region, Druthers Brewing Company brews on site at each of their three locations, including Albany. Opened in 2015, the brew pub is located in a renovated warehouse originally built in 1901. Enjoy one of their year-round offerings on tap, like Golden Rule Pilsner or Against the Grain Hefeweizen, or one of their seasonal beers.

 

Albany Distilling Company

Distillery: 78 Montgomery Street, Albany, NY

Bar & Bottle Shop: 75 Livingston Avenue, Albany, NY

There are two great ways to experience Albany Distilling Company in the downtown area! Tours of the distillery are available by appointment on Saturday afternoon, but the best way to try their  exceptional spirits is at their Bar & Bottle Shop, located in a renovated 19th century Nabisco factory. Their menu features their full line of products including The Cocktail Club flavored vodka and soda, as well as their Ironweed Whiskey and Quackenbush Rum.

 

CH Evans at Albany Pump Station

19 Quackenbush Square, Albany, NY

The friendly atmosphere of downtown mainstay CH Evans at Albany Pump Station makes this a perfect stop on your itinerary. The Evans family has a long history of brewing, and their 11 beers on tap showcase that proud tradition. Try the latest in their Skyway Sour rotating series or their Cascadian Dark 2019. For aficionados wanting an in-depth look at the process of making their delicious beers, tastings and tours are available by reservation.

 

Oligan Distilling

918 Albany Shaker Road, Latham, NY

New on the craft beverage scene, Oligan Distilling offers cocktails at their tasting room featuring their Oligan Vodka and Oligan Gin along with other New York State spirits. Distillery tours and tastings are available, and bottles of their vodka and gin can be purchased on site, as well.

A visit to Albany makes the ultimate getaway for craft beverage lovers. Whether it’s date night or a group trip with friends, our state’s capital is just the tip of the iceberg for what the Capital-Saratoga Region has to offer. Check out our website for more Insiders Guides and Itineraries!

11 Sip-Worthy Breweries for IPA Lovers

Throughout the Capital-Saratoga Region, award-winning craft breweries are producing beers of all styles: IPAs, lagers, porters…you name it! For IPA lovers, there’s no shortage of breweries to visit; whether your tastes run hoppy, hazy, fruity, or floral the Craft Beverage Capital has something for every palate!  

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Argyle Brewing

Argyle Brewing | info

Brewery & Tasting Room | 1 Main Street, Greenwich, NY 12834
Cambridge Tasting Room | 6 Broad Street, Cambridge, NY 12816

As the first New York Farm Brewery in Washington County, Argyle Brewing has two locations where you can sample their “farm to glass” beers. Try their Hop to It! IPA, perfect for enthusiasts and casual beer drinkers.

 

Battle Hill Brewing Company | info

4 Charles Street, Fort Ann, NY 12827

Battle Hill brewed their way onto the craft beer scene in 2014, and they currently serve up a variety of brews from their Grains of Liberty Session Ale to Cocoa Porter. Their War Whoop IPA boasts pine and citrus hop flavors and pairs perfectly with the delicious offerings of their pub-style menu.

 

ALBANY COUNTY

C.H. Evans Brewing Company at Albany Pump Station | info

19 Quackenbush Square, Albany, NY 12207

First established in 1786, C.H. Evans Brewing has a long family history of producing high quality, sip-worthy beers. Their latest IPA is a collaboration with Albany favorites Slidin’ Dirty and Big Bear Inn. With eight different hop varietals, Dirty Bear IPA will have you in hop heaven!

 

Fort Orange Brewing | info

450 North Pearl Street, Albany, NY 12204

Throughout the year, Fort Orange Brewing offers a variety of IPAs on tap, but it’s their original Fort Orange IPA that started it all. With floral, citrus, and pine notes, this beer to have you dreaming of summer.

 

RENSSELAER COUNTY

Brown’s Brewing | info

Troy Taproom | 417 River Street, Troy, NY 12180

Walloomsac Taproom | 50 Factory Hill Road, North Hoosick, NY 12133

Since 1993, Brown’s has been a staple of the craft brewing scene. Their recent Hashtag IPA series has explored different hops blends to create unique flavors. Their current entry in this [series] is #Haircut, a New England IPA brewed with Azacca and Vic Secret hops.

 

Shmaltz Brewing Company | info

Tasting Room at 518 Craft | 200 Broadway | Troy, NY 12180

Shmaltz offers two year round, award-winning IPAs. Their popular Hop Manna is a dry hopped, unfiltered American IPA perfect for hop heads. Hop Momma is a sweet and spicy hazy IPA, brewed with peach, apricot, and a touch of habanero for an extra kick. Try them for yourself at the 518 Craft Bar and Tasting Room, and visit the Shmaltz Shop next door!

 

FULTON COUNTY

Stump City Brewing Company

Stump City Brewing Company | info

521 West Fulton Street, Gloversville, NY 12095

This New York State farm brewery is small but mighty, with a rotating lineup of eight beers on tap in their tasting room. Check ahead of your visit if you’re in the mood for a particular brew, but if their FJ & G IPA is on tap, you’re sure to love its smooth low bitterness.

 

SCHENECTADY COUNTY

Frog Alley Brewing Company | info

108 State Street, Schenectady, NY 12305

Located in the heart of downtown Schenectady, Frog Alley Brewing is new to the scene, but has experienced brewers at the helm delivering high quality beers. Fans of IPAs will have array of choices on tap, whether you like fruity (Mohop #7 – Citra Cryo), floral (Mohop #5 – Mosaic) or dry hopped (Mohop #6 – Azacca).

 

Back Barn Brewing Company | info

7082 Western Turnpike, Delanson, NY 12053

Located in restored barns, this new brewery offers a friendly atmosphere and scenic views. With rotating beers on tap, there’s something for every palate, especially their Skyline Session IPA (West Coast style) and their double dry hopped Skyline Ice Hop IPA.

 

SARATOGA COUNTY

Racing City Brewing Company | info

250 Excelsior Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

In a city famous for thoroughbred racing, it makes sense that a brewery would blend high quality craft beers with the excitement of the home stretch. Racing City Brewing Company offers a number of classic-style beers, and IPA lovers have no shortage of choices, including their Session Entry IPA, Big Red Double IPA, and JustifIPA.

 

Druthers | info

381 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

This Saratoga brewpub favorite offers an exceptional array of beers, as well as a delicious menu with everything from their famous wood-fired pizza to burgers and mac and cheese. IPA enthusiasts won’t be disappointed in their fruity and hoppy All-In IPA, available year-round. Can’t make it to Saratoga? Check out their locations in Schenectady and Albany!

So many IPAs, so little time! With summer just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to plan your trip to the Craft Beverage Capital. Check our website for more itineraries and Insider’s Guides!

The Collar City Experience: A Day in Downtown Troy

If you love perusing historic buildings and landmarks, exploring art studios and galleries, browsing charming boutiques, cozying up with a cup of coffee in a cafe or dining on delicious cuisine, plan a day trip or weekend getaway to vibrant downtown Troy.

 

Fuel Up at Spillin’ the Beans Coffee House & Bistro

13 Third Street, Troy, NY 12180

Start your day in Troy with freshly roasted coffee (on tap!) or a frothy latte at Spillin’ the Beans Coffee House & Bistro on Third Street. They offer an outstanding selection of breakfast choices including pancakes, waffles, omelets, breakfast sandwiches, and an assortment of baked goods like homemade biscotti and cinnamon buns. The warm and inviting Tuscan-style bistro will win you over with their gourmet coffee and home-cooked-style meals.

Tour the Hart-Cluett Mansion

59 Second Street, Troy, NY 12180

The stunning Federal-style mansion, named for the original owners and later, the second family to reside in the home, is an immaculate architectural marvel built from white marble. Constructed in 1827, the house featured indoor plumbing and heating which was advanced for that period. There are no other marble homes in Troy or the surrounding area which adds to its uniqueness. The historic Hart-Cluett Mansion is open to the public for viewing.

Check Out Local Art at The Arts Center of the Capital Region

265 River Street, Troy, NY 12180

Troy is home to an expansive network of artists and The Arts Center of the Capital Region provides opportunities for their work to be shown and admired by the public. The gallery features many mediums of art including paintings, photography, and ceramics to name a few. Exhibits are free and open daily for viewing.

Take a Lunch Break at Brown’s Brewing Troy Taproom

417 River Street, Troy, NY 12180

Brown’s Brewing Troy Taproom is a casual brewhouse with a fantastic selection of beer, burgers, and other pub fare including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Ingenious IPA’s, ale’s, and other rotating craft brews are on tap. Enjoy views of the Hudson River from the patio while you break for lunch.

Browse an Independent Bookstore at Market Block Books

290 River Street, Troy, NY 12180

If you’re a book lover, plan to spend some time at Market Block Books. The cozy shop is known for having a great selection of all genres and knowledgeable staff who provide superior customer service whether you’re looking for something specific or seeking a recommendation.

Treat Yourself at Collar City Sweet Shoppe and Mercantile

45 3rd Street, Troy, NY 12180

A visit to this nostalgic candy store is guaranteed to make your sweet tooth happy. Collar City Sweet Shoppe and Mercantile offers a huge selection of gourmet chocolate and truffles, bulk candy, jelly beans, gummy candy, flavored popcorn, ice cream bars, and seasonal goodies. A little sugar is good for the soul and the perfect afternoon pick-me-up!

Support a Local Soap Maker at T&J Handcrafted Soap Shop

271 River Street, Troy, NY 12180

This delightful shop not only smells divine, the handcrafted soap, body care products, and candles are made locally in small batches and are created with high-quality ingredients like pure avocado oil and essential oils. T&J Handcrafted Soap carries a huge array of fragrant cold-pressed soaps, fizzy bath bombs in scents like cotton candy and chocolate covered cherries, men’s beard oil, and hand-poured candles.

Buy Yourself Something Nice at Bella V Boutique

451 Broadway, Troy, NY 12180

Update your wardrobe with unique and affordable fashion finds at Bella V Boutique. This darling little shop carries women’s apparel and accessories ranging from chic jackets to plush scarves, glam dresses, and more with prices that won’t break the bank.

Find Gifts Galore at Anchor no. 5 Boutique

288 River Street, Troy, NY 12180

Whether for you or someone special, you’ll find an outstanding assortment of local and handmade gifts, jewelry, home decor, and other specialty items at Anchor no. 5 Boutique. If you’re in need of a special gift for a new bundle of joy, their selection of stylish baby clothing is top notch!

Grab a Glass of Vino at Lucas Confectionery Wine Bar

12 Second Street, Troy, NY 12180

Lucas Confectionery is a hip little wine bar tucked into the downtown region at 12 Second Street. They specialize in small-production, naturally made wines but also serve up craft beer, kombucha, coffee, and small plate dishes in a rustic, cozy space.

Enjoy Fine Dining at LoPorto Restaurant Caffe

85 Fourth Street, Troy, NY 12180

The LoPorto family has been serving up exquisite Italian specialties in Troy since the early 80s. The LoPorto Restaurant menu features classic dishes such as fettuccine alfredo, lasagna, and eggplant parmesan, as well as a number of veal, steak, and seafood entrees. To compliment your meal, sip a signature martini or choose a glass of wine from their extensive, carefully considered list.

 

 

A day in Troy is a day well spent! We’d love to follow along as you explore downtown Troy so be sure to use the hashtags #TheCultureCapital, #TheFreshFoodCapital or #TheCraftBrewCapital when sharing your visit on social media.

Troy Restaurant & Craft Beer Week

Unlike a traditional restaurant week, downtown Troy pairs with Craft Beer week each year to offer a wide selection of events, programs, discounts, course meals, dinner pairings, and more. There’s something for everyone so make your way downtown and enjoy troy!

A Beer(s) You Just Have To Try

As #TheCraftBeverageCapital we feel strongly, that it is our duty to inform readers, visitors, travelers and more of the unique beer, wine, cider and spirits offered in the Capital-Saratoga Region. Here are a few beers worth making a stop for, especially to warm up with a cold one this winter!

 

Argyle Brewing

Info | Cambridge, New York
Beer to try: Winter Warmer
Think of Christmas in a glass. Your taste buds will be treated to hints of brown sugar, cardamom seeds, cinnamon sticks, cloves, figs and raisins. 6.5%-8.0% ABV

R.S. Taylor & Sons Brewery

Info | Saratoga Springs, New York
Beer to try: Coconut Cream Stout
On Nitro, this stout is milky, creamy, and sweet – perfectly decadent for the winter season. 5.5% ABV

The Beer Diviner

Info | Petersburgh & Troy, New York
Beer to try: Ancestral Red Ale
Their most pungent and intricate ale, its creamy, fruity finish is created by a magical brew of coriander, bitter orange peel, and ginger root. Decidedly un-hoppy.

Brown’s Brewing

Info | Troy & Hoosick Falls, New York
Beer to try: Uncommon Porter
Dark and seductive, with a blend of three different freshly roasted coffee beans, and a hint of vanilla. Delightfully drinkable and appropriate day or night. 5.75% ABV & 35 IBU

Great Flats Brewing

Cinnectady Toast Crunch, photo courtesy of Great Flats Brewing

Info | Schenectady, New York
Beer to try: Cinnectady Toast Crunch
A cinnamon spiced brown ale with over 60 lbs of the popular cinnamon crunchy toasty cereal!

Common Roots Brewing

Info | South Glens Falls, New York
Beer to try: Rooted
This wild ale is spontaneously inoculated in their coolship with microflora from the local environment and aged in select oak barrels.
A respectful interpretation of a traditional spontaneously fermented beer. 6% ABV

Stump City Brewing

Info | Gloversville, New York
Beer to try: Graft
A hybrid between cider and beer made in collaboration with Roger’s Cider Yard, a little sour, a little funky with a unique taste and
aged in a barrel. 7.5% ABV

Druther’s Brewing

Info | Menands, New York
Beer to try: Winter Warmer (yes, another one)
A malty, strong ale for the chilly season. Dark caramel malt and dark Belgian candi sugar are prominent up front while hops provide significant bitterness in the finish. 7.3% ABV

C.H. Evans Brewing Company

Info | Albany, New York
Beer to try: Spaceman IPA
Starting off with a big hoppy aroma and giving way to fresh green hop flavor this is a sessionable beer for hopheads. Pouring nearly bright with big hops up front and minimal malt this is a veritable hop rocket ship that’s out of this world! 7.1% ABV

Try them all and share your photos!

There you have it! A full fledged must-try list for #TheCraftBeverageCapital. Use our hashtag and we’ll like and share your craft beer, wine and cider photos with our followers on Instagram and Facebook.

Header image: Fresh Powder, photo courtesy of Mad Jack Brewing

The Capital-Saratoga Region Means Business When it Comes to Craft Beverage

For all the hop heads, wine aficionados, and cider crazed – this post is for you. It can be hard to make heads or tails out of the massive craft beverage scene in the Capital-Saratoga Region, so we’ve gathered a few of our favorites to make the search for the perfect beer, wine, or cider a little easier.

Wine

The Saratoga Winery in Saratoga Springs | info
Pull up a chair at their Adirondack style tasting bar and learn from their knowledgeable staff as you sip away at one of their honey based or grape based wines.

Brookview Station Winery in Castleton | info
From Merlot to pear wine, there is a variety of award-winning wines to try. Rosé seems to be all the rage this year, so be sure to sample Sunset Charlie the 2013 Best Hudson River Region Rosé.

Cappocia Wine Lounge in Schenectady | info
Sit down and relax in the lounge, with some of the best wine in the capital region – generations in the making.

Hudson-Chatham Winery in Ghent | info
The Hudson-Chatham Winery was voted the Capital Region’s Best Local Winery in 2011, 2012, and 2014, and Columbia County’s Best Winery in 2014 and 2015. Go to taste the wines and experience the outdoor seating and beautiful views.

 

Beer

Stump City Brewery in Gloversville | info
Experience a real Farm Brewery where the motto, “From the ground up” is more than just a fancy phrase. Local ingredients star in every beer, whether it’s a simple, easy drinking beer or unique recipe.

Saratoga Brewing Company in Saratoga Springs | info
There’s always 21 beers on tap – so you are sure to find something to love.  The focus here is on high quality, fresh, traditional, all malt craft-brewed lagers and ales, and they’ve had over 20 years to get it right.

Common Roots Brewing in South Glens Falls | info
Think old world beers with new world flair. Common Roots puts out an impressive range of  beers, all with their own distinct flavor profiles.

Rare Form Brewing Company in Troy | info
What you have to try: the State of the State pilsner – a classic pilsner made with 100% NY grown ingredients and it highlights the flavors of our region.

S&S Farm Brewery in Nassau | info
After a wildly successful Kickstarter campaign in 2015, the family behind S&S Farm Brewery renovated part of their historic barn into a taproom where they serve their staple beers as well as small-batch and seasonal brews.

Mack Jack Brewing in Schenectady | info
The Van Dyck Lounge has recreated the historic brewery that was once the center of Schenectady. Named after John (Jack) McDonald, Mad Jack Brewing Company is a collection of beers that each have their own personality and flavor.

Great Flats Brewing in Schenectady | info
Great Flats is a New York State farm brewery that focuses on brewing American style ales and lagers. Try the cream ale or one of their house-made root beers – you can’t go wrong.

Wolf Hollow Brewing Company in Glenville | info
Working to bring the “micro” back to micro-brew, Wolf Hollow Brewing Company focuses on crafting beer and relationships. They believe in the power of good beer to bring people together and strive to create community with the people who enjoy their beer.

Artisanal Brew Works in Saratoga Springs | info
The unlikely owners of Artisanal Brew Works are two high school teachers from Saratoga Springs High School. Their claim to fame is that their craft beer is clean, simple and sessional. We agree, well worth a try.

C.H. Evans Brewing Company in Albany | info
“Albany Ale” is a truly unique style, indigenous to the Hudson Valley in the 1800s – it’s not totally equitable to other styles of the time like a stout, brown, pale or strong, and you can try the latest interpretation from C.H. Brewing Company.

Druthers in Saratoga Springs & Albany | info
Druthers’ master brewer, George de Piro, is the winner of three gold medals at the Great American Beer Festival among others. He is a biochemist turned supreme beer geek – you gotta try the beer to believe it!


Cider

Roger’s Cideryard in Johnstown | info
There’s nothing like a hard cider straight from the orchard. Want to take it up a notch? Try one of their muddled hard ciders for a new twist.

Nine Pin Cider in Albany | info
Take a tour of the cider making facility and then grab a seat to try one or all of the nine ciders on draft. For the beer lovers, there are also rotating taps dedicated
to some of New York’s best brews.

Slyboro Ciderhouse in Granville | info
Ever tried an iced cider? Well you can at Slyboro – where they are dedicated to reclaiming cider – “true cider” – as America’s favorite drink. They have a range of different styles and types to explore your cider palette.

 

Find a glass at one or all of these handcrafted beverage establishments. When you do, be sure to hashtag your social media posts with #TheCraftBeverageCapital and we’ll share in the online fun, because there’s nothing like a great craft beverage pic!