City Guide: Albany

Traverse the rich history of New York's capital city

The Capital of New York State is known for its exceptional architecture, rich history, eclectic cuisine, and arts scene, and there’s no lack of things to do, see, eat and drink. Once you’ve visited all of the signature sites like the New York State Capitol, USS Slater, and Palace Theatre, blend in with the locals and see for yourself why the affectionally known "smallbany" is neighborly and easy to explore.

Exciting events fill the calendar year-round in Albany, including: Tulip Festival, Alive at Five, 4th of July, and PearlPalooza.

FUN FACTS

Nipper

Albany has been a filming location for: Disney/Marvel's The Punisher, Mother's Milk starring Hilary Swank, HBO's Muhammad Ali's Greatest Fight, HBO's Succession, Gilded Age Season 2, Showtime Billions, Columbia Pictures SALT, and The Other Guys.
The skyline includes a 28-foot-tall canine statue, Nipper, perched atop a warehouse on Broadway. 20 artist-decorated replicas adorn downtown sidewalks each summer.
Albany is home to the first Pride Center in the nation. The Huffington Post listed Albany as the 7th most LGBTQ-friendly city in the US.
Eliza Schuyler Hamilton, wife of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, was born and raised in Albany. Visit the Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site.

Views From Albany

Explore Albany

Nature & Outdoor Adventure

John Boyd Thacher State Park

One of the richest fossil-bearing formations in the world. more
Six Mile Waterworks

The 57-acre park hidden gem is a recreational oasis offering many outdoor activities. more
Peebles Island State Park

A picturesque 190-acre state park located at the confluence of the Mohawk and Hudson rivers. more
Albany Pine Bush Preserve

One of the best remaining examples of an inland pine barrens ecosystem in the world. more

History

New York State Museum

Explore the cultural and natural history of New York State through a variety of exhibits. more
New York State Capitol

19th-century architecture blending Renaissance, Romanesque, and French Renaissance Revival styles. more
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site

Home to Philip J. Schuyler, Revolutionary War general, US Senator, and business entrepreneur. more
Albany Institute of History & Art

Dedicated to collecting, preserving, interpreting and promoting interest in art history of New York. more

Family Fun

Indian Ladder Farms

Over 90 acres of orchards producing over 40 varieties of apples. Farm, cidery and brewery on-site. more
Huck Finn's Playland

The area’s premier authentic and outdoor amusement park. more
Emack & Bolio's

Award winning ice cream, chocolates, ice cream cakes, and pastries. Live music weekly. more
Five Rivers

A living museum comprising over 450 acres of fields, towering forests, and wetlands. more

Arts & Culture

The Egg

An architectural jewel that presents quality performances, and extraordinary artists. more
The Palace

Offers diverse entertainment from popular musical acts, live comedy, movies, and community events. more
Capital Repertory Theatre

Creates meaningful theatre with an authentic connection to the community it serves. more
Albany Center Gallery

A non-profit art space that exhibits skillful contemporary art from the region. more

Where to Stay

Budget
Mid-Range
Luxury

Days Inn

Quality and comfort at an affordable price. more

Travelodge Inn & Suites

Offers easy access to the sights and sounds the city is famous for. more

Quality Inn & Suites

Just 4 miles from the Albany International Airport, this location is hard to beat. more

Hampton Inn & Suites

Guest rooms and suites within walking distance to the NYS Capitol. more

Home2 Suites by Hilton

All the comforts of home just five minutes from Albany International Airport. more

Fairfield Inn & Suites

Enjoy studio suites, a 24-hr fitness center, market, and large breakfast room. more

Crowne Plaza - The Desmond Hotel

Enjoy the 24/7 fitness center, indoor pool and courtyards, and on-site restaurant. more

Renaissance Hotel

Nestled downtown, enjoy luxury amenities and soaring views. more

The Morgan State House Inn

Elegant 1884 mansion on Washington Park with luxe amenities. more

Where to Eat

Iron Gate Cafe

Breakfast, lunch, and brunch and a picturesque garden patio. more

Herbie's Burgers

The Captial Region's old-school burger joint. more

Cider Belly Doughnuts

Fresh-baked doughnuts, specialty coffees, and juices. more

Olde English Pub & Pantry

English specialties and American favorites in the 1730s' Quackenbush House. more

Druthers Brewing Company

Elevated comfort food and handcrafted beer. more

The Hollow

Recognized for excellence in food, bar scene, and live music. more

Angelo's 677 Prime

Steaks, seafood, salads, sushi, and modern takes on classics. more

Cafe Capriccio

Romantic eatery in a historic brownstone with authentic Italian cuisine. more

Yono's

Chef Yono Purnomo’s signature new American cuisine with Indonesian spices. more

getting there

By Train

Take Amtrak to the Albany-Rensselaer station. It is a five-minute ride from downtown Albany.

By Plane

Albany International Airport is seven miles northwest of Albany. Lyft and Uber provide transport to and from the airport.

By Car

By car, Albany is just over 2 hours from Lake Placid, 2.5 hours from Boston and New York City, 3.5 hours from Montreal, and 4.5 hours from Buffalo.

By Bus

Take Greyhound to Albany Bus Terminal, located at 34 Hamilton St. Albany, NY 12207.

Getting Around