Top 12 Things to Do in Albany, NY

Tap to Read ➤ Ishaan Govardhan

Established 400 years ago as a Dutch settlement, Albany has quickly emerged as a good place for a relaxing getaway. The Capital Region of New York offers fun and recreation for visitors of all ages and tastes.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Begin your exploration at the stunning New York State Capitol, a captivating National Historic Landmark. Guided tours typically last an hour, but prepare to be mesmerized for much longer.

Visitors with an eye for architecture will notice that the base floor of the New York State Capitol is designed in the Classical Romanesque style, whereas the next 2 floors are in the Renaissance style. And the top floor has Victorian Romanesque influences.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Next, check out Albany City Hall which has housed the mayor's office since 1883. Its iconic 202 ft tall carillon tower stands tall over the city which it governs.

How about an old-fashioned trolley ride ? Hop aboard for a Historic Albany Trolley Tour , at the Discover Albany Visitors Center. Listen to the story of Albany from your guide, as you explore the city's landmarks.

Stroll around Empire State Plaza , which is the city's beating heart. It's where the locals get together for special events. Ascend up to the observation deck of Corning Tower, or pop inside the oddly-shaped ' The Egg ' for a memorable theater show.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Explore the stunning New York State Capitol, a captivating National Historic Landmark. Guided tours take an hour, but prepare to be mesmerized for much longer.

Climb aboard USS Slater on River Hudson. This Cannon-class navy destroyer is USA's only museum ship that's still floating. This is your chance to understand the inner workings of a modern battle ship.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Embark on a hike at Albany Pine Bush Reserve, spanning 3,200+ acres with over 10 miles of trails. It's a rejuvenating nature escape right in Albany!

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. In spring, Hudson River sees large striped bass migrating from the ocean, marking Albany's fishing season. With luck, you might reel in some massive 40-inchers!

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. The Hudson calls out to every adventure-seeker. You can rent a kayak and take off rowing on the open water. Go where the river takes you!

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Several scenic biking trails pass through Albany, including the Mohawk-Hudson Bike Trail. If you haven't brought your own bike , you can just swing by one of Albany's bike rental stations.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Albany has its share of 18-hole golf courses, some of which seem to stretch as far as the eye can look. There are both public courses and private clubs worth checking out. Time to work on that swing!

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. In winter, you should head over to Albany's Buckingham Lake Park for fun on the ice. The frozen lake is perfect for ice skating .