Your Family Fun Guide to the Region

Summer is THE season for families in the Capital-Saratoga Region. Yearly events, special activities and key attractions make any family getaway unforgettable.

FULTON COUNTY

Crystal Grove Diamond Mine & Campground – 161 County Highway 114, St. Johnsville, NY 13452
The kids will love mining for their own “diamonds”! Spend the day in the “Herkimer Diamond” mines, then enjoy dinner at the campsite. Whether your family is more tent, RV or cabin, there’s space for everyone.

Adirondack Animal Land – 3554 State Highway 30, Gloversville, NY 12078
The family will be amazed at all of the animals. Visit with emu, fennec fox, spider monkeys, giraffe, kangaroo and more. Hand feed baby animals and drive through a safari.

SARATOGA COUNTY

Congress Park – 315 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Ride the antique carousel, sample some of the famous natural mineral springs, visit with the ducks, grab a picnic lunch and eat it at the park.Then, walk up Caroline Street and visit the Children’s Museum of Saratoga.

Spa State Park – Roosevelt Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Enjoy the trail along the scenic Avenue of Pines, go for a swim, visit the Outdoor Classroom and playground near the spouting geyser, sample the mineral springs, or check out a museum. The Saratoga Automobile Museum or the National Museum of Dance both have children’s areas.

RENSSELAER COUNTY

Barker Park Kids Summer Series | Every Thursday 7/6 – 8/24 at 11AM – 30 Second Street, Troy, NY 12180
Every week there is a new kid-friendly performance happening in downtown Troy. From special story hours to dance alongs, singalongs, and even art sessions, there is a little something for everyone.

Summer Sampler Series – 9 1/2 Riverside Ave, Rensselaer, NY 12144
Summer Sampler is a week long morning program for 6-12 year olds. Each day focuses on a different theme: 17th Century Painting, Colonial Trade, Everyday Life, Textiles & Clothing and 18th century Military. Reservations – 518-463-8738.

WASHINGTON COUNTY

The Covered Bridges of Washington County – 383 Broadway, Fort Edward, NY 12828Drive, cycle or walk all 5 Covered Bridges of Washington County. Three wooden covered bridges cross the famous Battenkill in southern Washington County, one crosses the Hoosic River, and one foot bridge spanning the Owl Kill in downtown Cambridge.

Washington County Fair – August 21-27, 2017 – 392 Old Schuylerville Rd, Greenwich, NY 12834
Come and enjoy the experience of Washington County, its people, its rural character and its great agricultural traditions.

ALBANY COUNTY

Park Playhouse
Get ready for a toe tapping good time with summer musicals like Ragtime, The Music Man and The Lion King. Enjoy lawn seating for FREE! Bring a blanket and some snacks and settle in for a great show.

USS Slater – DE766 – Broadway and Quay, Albany, NY 12202
Step aboard a Destroyer Escort and step back in time. During WWII these ships battled Nazi U-boats and stood in line to defend in the Pacific. The USS Slater has undergone intense restoration and is open for tours and more.

SCHENECTADY COUNTY

Mountain Ridge Adventure Course – 300 Weatherwax Road, Schenectady, NY 12302
Featuring 6 treetop adventure courses and 9 zip lines crisscrossing a 500’ long gorge, Mountain Ridge has something for every level of adventurer. Fun is the objective, so their state-of-the-art safety technology ensures every participant is locked onto a safety cable 100% of the time.

Via Aquarium, Rotterdam – 93 W. Campbell Road, Schenectady, NY 12306
Embark on an exciting self-guided tour, visiting over 2,000 creatures of the sea. The aquarium provides an immersive experience for people of all ages, bringing you up-close with ecosystems like lakes, rivers, streams, kelp forests and coral reefs.

Navigating the Erie Canal: Experiencing Our Most Famous Waterway

The Capital-Saratoga Region continues to celebrate the bicentennial of the Erie Canal. Construction first began in 1817 and it was officially opened in 1825. The canal has great historical significance in the area, so naturally, there are a lot of places you can go to learn more about this great engineering achievement, as well as enjoy the natural beauty of the waterway. Here are some suggestions as you chart your course along the canal.

Erie Canal Stops in the Capital-Saratoga Region

ALBANY COUNTY

New York State Museum – 222 Madison Ave., Albany, NY
The exhibit Enterprising Waters tells the story of the enormous undertaking of building the canal and the economic and transportation benefits it brought to the areas along its waters. Filled with fascinating objects and documents, the centerpiece of the exhibit is an enormous windlass, a pulley mechanism that made it easy for businesses along the canal to lift heavy cargo.

Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site – 32 Catherine St., Albany, NY
The Schuyler Mansion was home to Revolutionary War General Philip Schuyler and his family. While he’s currently most well-known as the father-in-law of Alexander Hamilton, Schuyler played an instrumental role in financing the construction of the Erie Canal in its early stages. Tour the Georgian-style mansion and stop by the visitor center for a more in-depth look at Schuyler’s legacy.

You can also learn more about the building of the canal from Discover Albany.

RENSSELAER COUNTY

The Melville House – 114th St. and 1st Ave., Lansingburgh, NY
After the death of his father in 1838, famed American novelist Herman Melville moved with his mother and siblings to Lansingburgh, where he wrote his first two novels, Typee and Omoo. In Melville’s time, Lansingburgh was a major port on the Hudson River as the Erie Canal continued to expand. Visits to the house are by appointment, unless there is a special event.

SARATOGA COUNTY

Peebles Island State Park – 1 Delaware Ave. North, Cohoes, NY
Located at the confluence of the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers, Peebles Island State Park offers nature lovers and canal enthusiasts alike scenic river and rapids views. There are miles of paths to hike or jog, and snowshoe or cross-country ski in winter.

Waterford Harbor Visitors Center – 1 Tugboat Alley, Waterford, NY
For boaters looking to chart a course along the canal, Waterford is an ideal place to begin. The Port of Waterford is the first stop as you head west on the Erie Canal from the Hudson River. The Visitors Center provides ample dockage and there are shops and restaurants a short walk or bike ride away.

SCHENECTADY COUNTY

Mohawk Harbor – Rivers Casino and Resort, 1 Rush St., Schenectady, NY
The Mohawk Harbor project is almost complete, and for Erie Canal lovers looking for some fun, this is the spot! There’s already plenty of hotel and dining options, including Rivers Casino and Resort. Donovan’s Shady Harbor Marina offers kayak rentals and a bike share program.

Mabee Farm Historic Site – 1100 Main St. (Route 5S), Rotterdam Junction, NY
Dating back to 1705, Mabee Farm is oldest farm in the Mohawk Valley. Situated along the Mohawk River, the farm has year-round exhibitions, lecture series, workshops, and school programs, as well as extensive historical and archaeological collections. Located on the south side of the river, the site is accessible for boaters, though you’ll need to check beforehand that the dock is operational.

Canalway Challenge

A great way to explore the entire canal, the Canalway Challenge is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or families looking to explore segments of the Erie Canal. Participants can hike, bike, and paddle the mileage of their choice, or for the ultimate challenge travel 360 miles from end to end!

Celebrating the Erie Canal Bicentennial

There are so many ways to explore the man-made marvel that is the Erie Canal, whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking to have some fun. Whatever stops you make, be sure to tag us in your photos using #CapitalSaratogaRegion and #TheHistoryCapital, then find us on Facebook and Instagram.

Kid-Friendly Stops for Your Capital-Saratoga Getaway

Header image: miSci

There’s no shortage when it comes to kid-friendly destinations and activities in the Capital-Saratoga Region. Kids love the hands on approach at museums, parks and other area attractions. Here’s the not-to-miss kid’s destinations from all around the region.

Everyone Loves Animals

Adirondack Animal Land
Vails Mills, New York | info
Come face-to-face with animals from all over the world. With the largest petting zoo in the Adirondacks where you can feed baby animals (awwww!) and visit their breeding center for rare and endangered animals. They also have an African Safari Ride with over 100 animals to observe.

Via Aquarium
Schenectady, New York | info
Over 2,000 creatures call Via Aquarium home. With hands-on exhibits where your hands are literally in the water, kids can experience stingrays, starfish, crabs and more. Another hit is Shark Alley, where the sharks can swim all around you and even overhead.

Marvelous Museums for Kids

The Children’s Museum at Saratoga
Saratoga Springs, New York | info
There’s a special place designed for the smaller kids – ages birth to 9 – the Children’s Museum at Saratoga. Stand inside a bubble, examine x-rays, or hop on the trolley and explore every corner of your imagination.

miSci
Schenectady, New York | info
Explore science in new and interesting ways. The Suits-Bueche Planetarium at miSci features the GOTO Star Projector, which offers a real-life view of the night sky not available anywhere else in the northeast. Exhibits are specially designed for different age groups, interests and needs.

Children’s Museum of Science and Technology
Troy, New York | info
This one is designed for kids ages 18 months and into their tween years. Exhibits feature science in a way that builds imagination, problem solving and curiosity. Check their detailed calendar for special daily programming you won’t want to miss.

The New York State Museum
Albany, New York | info
This is the oldest and largest museum in state history, founded in 1836. Art, history and science come together in experiential exhibits the whole family can enjoy. Be sure to check for special programming and events during your trip. Even better, this museum is free to enter. Donations are accepted.

Explore the Outdoors

Grafton Lakes State Park
Cropseyville, New York | info
With over 2,500 acres of forests and lakes, you can have almost any adventure you can imagine at Grafton Lakes State Park. Family activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, swimming, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice skating and fishing and more.

Saratoga Spa State Park
Saratoga Springs, New York | info
Play outside in every way you can think of – a playground, streams, fishing, open grassy lawns, swimming pools, walking and biking trails, a par 29 golf course (with children’s golf leagues), tennis courts, and more. Creekside Classroom is a great place to learn and explore even more about the park.

Thacher State Park
Voorheesville, New York | info
Here you’ll find fabulous views, hiking, snowshoeing and more to do, but it’s also worth making a stop with the kids at the Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center where you can observe a live honeybee hive, view the area’s birds in action and explore fossils, furs and more native to New York.

Traveling with Kids in the Capital-Saratoga Region

As you can see, there’s plenty to keep little minds, hands and bodies busy while you explore the region as a family on your next getaway or staycation. As always, we love to see your photos – post them online, and you never know, maybe you’ll be featured on our next #FollowerFriday on Facebook or Instagram.

Bring on Summer: Your Getaway Guide to the Region

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!

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Shaping Our Nation: Must-See Historic Stops in the Region

The Capital-Saratoga Region is filled with historic battlegrounds and points of interest, no matter which part of history you find fascinating. We’re immensely proud of our region’s past and how it’s shaped our present and continues to build our future. The region is thrilled to share the events of yesteryear with visitors who have an interest in and an appreciation for a rich and deep history.

FULTON COUNTY

Johnson Hall State Historic Site – 139 Hall Avenue, Johnstown, NY
Johnson Hall was the 1763 Georgian-style estate of Irish immigrant Sir William Johnson (1715 – 1774) and Molly Brant, a Mohawk Indian, and their eight children. Johnson was the largest single landowner and most influential individual in the colonial Mohawk Valley. His success in dealing with the Six Nations of the Iroquois greatly influenced England’s victory over France for control of colonial North America.

SARATOGA COUNTY

Saratoga National Historical Park – 648 NY-32, Stillwater, NY
This popular historical site was the turning point of the American Revolution where the British surrendered to American forces and change the course of history! It is also one of the top 10 battles in world history.

RENSSELAER COUNTY

Bennington Battlefield Historic Site, Hoosick Falls – NY-67, Hoosick Falls, NY
The Battlefield is the site of a pivotal turning point in the American Revolution. British Forces under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Friedrick Baum, were surrounded and engaged by American Forces from New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Vermont. The British Forces surrendered on August 16, 1777.

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Hartford Civil War Museum – 165 Hartford Main Street, Granville, NY
The museum and Howard Hanna Memorial Civil War Enlistment Center consist of two buildings near the center of the Hamlet of Hartford. They represent the history of life during the 1800s in a small upper New York State rural community and the participation of Hartford citizens in the Civil War. Both buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

ALBANY COUNTY

Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site – 32 Catherine Street, Albany, NY
Schuyler Mansion is the historic home of Revolutionary War General Philip Schuyler and his family. Philip Schuyler is also the father-in-law of Alexander Hamilton, subject of the hit Broadway musical. Built between 1761-1765, the Georgian style mansion features 18th century interiors complete with furniture, decorative arts, paintings, and personal artifacts of family members. A visitor center provides an overview of Philip Schuyler and his 80 acre estate in the 18th century.

SCHENECTADY COUNTY

Schenectady County Historical Society – 32 Washington Ave., Schenectady, NY
The Schenectady County Historical Society brings to life the region’s dynamic history, featuring interactive exhibits, talks, workshops, concerts, education programs and community events for all audiences. SCHS shares stories, inspires dialogue, and encourages understanding of the history, people, and cultures of Schenectady County.

Mabee Farm Historic Site – 1100 Main St., Rotterdam Junction, NY
The oldest farm in the Mohawk Valley, Mabee Farm offers visitors today vibrant educational and recreational opportunities.

Plan your trip back in time to the History Capital today!

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4 Must-Visit Museums with Autism Spectrum Programming for Children

A trip to the museum is a perfect outing for families, and the Capital-Saratoga Region is home to many great places for kids to learn through exploring and playing. However, for children on the autism spectrum or with developmental disabilities, the bright lights, crowds, and noise of museums can be overwhelming. Here are some family-friendly options around the region for all kids to enjoy.

The Children’s Museum at Saratoga

69 Caroline Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

The Children’s Museum at Saratoga offers a monthly program, “Making Connections” which allows families with children on the spectrum to meet with other families and explore the museum during special hours. Besides special programming, the museum also offers noise-cancelling headphones and weighted vests and has a sensory-friendly room on the first floor.

Children’s Museum of Science & Technology

250 Jordan Road, Troy, NY 12180

In 2018, the Children’s Museum of Science and Technology (CMOST) started a pilot program to create a sensory space for children on the spectrum, recognizing that the crowds and noise of a museum can sometimes be overwhelming. With the help of experts, CMOST staff created the Sensory Science Room, a space that fits organically within the museum, with warm lighting and interactive activities featuring tactilely-soft objects.

Museum of Innovation & Science

15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady, NY 12308

SenseAble Science at the Museum of Innovation & Science (MiSci) is a monthly program featuring sensory-friendly, hands-on exhibits and activities for children and families to enjoy. There’s also a special planetarium show sure to inspire budding scientists!

New York State Museum

222 Madison Avenue, Albany, NY 12210

In the New York State Museum’s Discovery Place, children can explore the many hands-on activities through touch tables, puzzles, microscopes, as well as examining fossils and crystals from the museum’s collection. There’s also a cozy reading area full of children’s books with a comfortable couch to enjoy a quiet moment of learning.

Through special programs and dedicated spaces, these museums are places for all children to explore their curiosity about science, technology, history, and the arts. Discover more great family-friendly outings in the Capital-Saratoga Region!

Header image: New York State Museum

family friendly kids

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.

Everyone Loves a Bargain: Your Inexpensive Guide to the Capital-Saratoga Region

Vacations are about enjoying time together, not necessarily about how much money you spend while doing it. For all the bargain hunters out there, this post is for you. Here’s our best list of cheap and free attractions in the Capital-Saratoga Region. Break out those bargain sunglasses and hit the road to one of these great upstate NY attractions.

Free or Cheap Attractions in the Capital-Saratoga Region

Taste Test Tour (Say that three times fast!) Saratoga is brimming with fresh waters from 21 public mineral springs that bubble up tasty hydration all over the area. Most are carbonated, no two taste alike, and they are free. Here’s a link to the map, you bring the water bottle, notepad to make tasting notes and a smile! | info

Rain Rain, Go Away! Or maybe not. The New York State Museum is not only a bargain with but your best bet on a rainy day. Admission is by donation, suggested at $10 per family. Delve into exhibits that tell stories about everything from geology to art and native people. | info

Fall in Love at Falls View Park. Who doesn’t love a beautiful waterfall? This is a great place to get outside and enjoy nature, snap some family photos or a selfie near Cohoes Falls or toss out a line and bobber. And this wonderfully, beautiful day is yours free when you visit the Capital-Saratoga Region! 😉 | info

Go full on Fulton at the Fulton County Historical Society. Step back in time with thoughtful exhibits about sports, the military, business, schools, the railroad and more. A little known fact? The museum has also been the site of several paranormal investigations. Admission is free. | info

Make the most of a trip to the Mill. Learn all about making yarn and fiber products at Battenkill Fibers Carding and Spinning Mill. Free tours are offered Monday – Friday 8:30am to 3:00pm. Learn how they embrace and respect the nature, history, and culture of their place on the land in the Upper Hudson Valley. | info

Bargain beach day. Enjoy a day at Grafton Lakes State Park or Pine Lake Park. Both have nice beaches accessible via a small fee. Warming yourself on the side of one of New York’s picturesque lakes and enjoying a refreshing swim just can’t be wrong!

Farmer’s Markets all over! Every county in the region is rich with agricultural flair worth checking out. See the colorful array of fresh flowers, produce and the tastes and smells of locally made goodies at any of the area Farmers’ Markets. | info

Tell us all about your bargain fun on social media! Use the hashtag #TheGetawayCapital and we are bound to take notice.

A Capital Idea: A Day in Downtown Albany

Downtown Albany is a great place to plan the perfect day. Whether you are on a day trip, weekend getaway, or a multi-stop vacation, there is plenty of culture and food to keep the whole family engaged. With everything the city has to offer – restaurants, museums, and historic sites – there’s a wide variety of options for sightseers and foodies alike. Here’s an itinerary that explores some of the best stops in downtown Albany.

Breakfast at Cider Belly Doughnuts

25 N. Pearl St., Albany, NY 12207

What better way to kick off a full day of fun than a sugar rush from Cider Belly Doughnuts? For the traditionalists, there’s the Original Cinn or Sugar Daddy, the latter sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. Those who are a little more daring will enjoy the Sap Sucker, an apple cider doughnut with maple drizzle or the Venetian, sure to provide an extra boost with its cappuccino glaze. With more than 300 flavors in their rotation, there’s no telling what deliciousness awaits you.

Visit the New York State Capitol

Washington Ave. & State St., Albany, NY 12242

Think about all the times you’ve driven by the New York State Capitol and thought, “Huh, I’ve never been there before.” Well, cross this site off your list with a free tour of what has been called the most beautiful capitol building in the country. You’ll need some advanced planning. Free Tours are offered Monday through Saturday. Reservations can be made online or by calling 518-474-2418.

Next Up, the New York State Museum

Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12230

For a more in-depth look at the history, science, and art, check out the New York State Museum. Exhibits include permanent favorites like the Cohoes Mastodon and Beneath the City: Albany Archaeology, as well as a range of rotating exhibit spaces, so something is always new. Of course, no visit to the New York State Museum is complete without a trip to 4th floor for a ride on the full-sized carousel!

Lunch at City Beer Hall

42 Howard St., Albany, NY 12207

To keep your hanger in check before your next sightseeing stop, swing by City Beer Hall for a delicious lunch. This gastropub has nearly 20 beers on tap and a wide variety of foods to choose from, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options. Warm-up with some Brisket Chili, or fill-up with tasty fare like a Shrimp Po’Boy or the ultimate comfort food, Grilled Cheese.

Afternoon at the Albany Institute of History and Art

125 Washington Ave., Albany, NY 12210

Now that you’re belly is full, you’re ready to take on the Albany Institute of History and Art. Founded in 1791, it’s the second oldest museum in the country. Open Wednesday-Sunday, the museum offers several ongoing exhibits including paintings from the Hudson River School and for Hamilton buffs, an exhibit on Aaron Burr. If you’ve got kids in tow, there’s plenty to entertain their curiosity as well.

Dinner at Hollow Bar + Kitchen

79 N. Pearl St., Albany, NY 12207

Top off your visit to downtown Albany with dinner at Hollow Bar + Kitchen. Start with the Coconut Curry Chicken Board and move on to one of the savory entree or pub fare options. To bring your perfect day full-circle, try the Cider Belly Doughnut Bread Pudding for dessert. For night owls, the Hollow has established itself as a hotspot for Albany nightlife, with live music on Fridays and Saturdays.

And there you have it: a full day in downtown Albany, filled with culture and food. These spots are sure to become favorites to revisit again and again. Tell us about your trip to Albany on social media. Use #TheCultureCapital or #TheFreshFoodCapital and we’ll follow along.