Location: Albany
Top Things to do in Albany
What to do and see in Albany, New York (NY): The Best Hidden Gems Things to do
A rich 300-year history, a thriving arts community and seemingly endless wilderness make this New York capital city on the Hudson River a great weekend getaway. Outdoor enthusiasts come here to ski, hike, canoe and fish; trout and small-mouth bass fishing is among the best in the U.S. Mountains surround the city, and the tapestry of golds and reds on an autumn day is breathtaking. The city is dominated by an elaborate 10-building complex that includes the State Capitol; the New York State Museum, with life-like dioramas such as American Indian life and an Adirondack logging operation; and the oval-shaped Empire State Performing Arts Center, nicknamed "The Egg." History buffs will enjoy the colonial homes, historic churches and museums, and can tour 18th-century mansions, like the Schuyler, a superb example of pre-Revolutionary War architecture. Whether nature or history is your passion, you'll find an abundance of both in this upstate New York gem.
Restaurants in Albany
1. USS Slater DE-766
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 432 reviews
During World War II 563 Destroyer Escorts battled Nazi U-Boats on the North Atlantic protecting convoys of men and supplies. In the Pacific, they stood first in line to defend naval task forces from Kamikaze attacks. Today only one remains afloat in America. Step back in time. Return to 1945 aboard USS SLATER. See how Sailors worked, hear the sounds of a living ship, touch a piece of American history, and walk the decks where hundreds of Sailors have walked before.
Reviewed By Q5053BDscotta
Having visited most of the WWII museum ships on the east coast (and some on the west), I can say that the USS Slater beat them all in terms of a restoration that made you feel as though you were on the ship when it was in service. My nine-year-old son, who only had a passing interest in WWII, loved the tour, which included tour guide (Austin) demonstrations as to how to get into a top bunk, direct an anti-aircraft gun, and use a signal light. My son particularly liked seeing and holding munitions that were near some of the armament on board because it gave him a greater appreciation for the effort that gun crews needed to expend when defending the ship. The guide answered my son’s many questions that ranged from medical care, living conditions, and general quarters patiently and clearly. My son has already made me promise to take him to see the U.S.S. Massachusetts at Falls River the U.S.S. Intrepid in New York.
2. Schuyler Mansion
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 121 reviews
Georgian style home of American Revolutionary War Major-General Philip Schuyler and his family. In general, tours begin at 11:00 a.m., are offered on the hour, with the last tour at 4:00 p.m. Site is currently CLOSED for the 2019 season and will re-open for general visitation May 2020. For information about special events, please visit https://parks.ny.gov/historic-sites/33/details.aspx or find us on Facebook.
Reviewed By R4252TRfranks - Brunswick, United States
This gives one a real good insight into the history of the Dutch and their importance to this area. Our guide Ian was great and provided a lot of information not heard in other sources.
3. Chester A. Arthur Memorial Tomb
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 62 reviews
Reviewed By 539bonnieh - Fort Worth, United States
Not having seen a picture of the gravesite previously, I was speechless at the beauty and loving care put into the site. I could not stop taking pictures of the angel. It made me want to read about President Arthur because of the thoughtfulness of the site. It is located up high and on a corner lot which was a perfect location for display
4. Shaker Heritage Society
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 55 reviews
Site of the first Shaker community. Located adjacent to Albany International Airport, the historic site features nine Shaker buildings, an herb garden, apple orchard and cemetery where Shaker founder, Ann Lee is buried. The 1848 Shaker Meeting House contains a small museum and gift shop. Hiking trails are available at the adjacent Ann Lee Pond Wildlife Preserve.
Reviewed By thomasjohnston123 - Buffalo, United States
Historic farm, settlement, nature trail, graveyard tells the story of the birth of Shakerism in the New World. Small museum, tours, walking, trails, and special events. Easy to get to, hard to forget.
5. The Irish American Heritage Museum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 30 reviews
Reviewed By 979jeannel
The museum has moved this year, from its former site on Broadway to Quackenbush square and the change is amazing! The museum is hosting a wonderful and touching exhibit from the Quinnipiac Famine museum. Sculptures, paintings and photographs depicting the Great Famine are beautifully and artistically displayed. Although the Covid-19 virus has halted the installation of some of the exhibits, the reconstructed Irish cottage and other areas are fascinating. For those wanting to learn more about Irish history in American and in Ireland this is the place. In addition their website describes the lectures and events that are available. The parking lot is located in the metered lot behind the Albany Pump Station and a short walk to the left of the Station to the museum. The location is perfect for dining outdoors at the Pump Station or the Old Quackenbush House. We had a delightful afternoon!
