Location: Albany
Top Things to do in Albany
What to do and see in Albany, New York (NY): The Best Things to do Good for Big Groups
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. The Lazy Axe
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 38 reviews
The Lazy Axe is an indoor axe throwing facility in Albany, New York. We strive to create a safe, high-quality, accessible, and unique experience that brings people together through the thrilling sport of axe throwing. We value safety, respect, and the power of play, and look to provide top notch customer service to all of our guests.
Reviewed By sbowen - Clifton Park, United States
My wife and I were looking for something fun and challenging that was also reasonably "pandemic friendly". The Lazy Axe was an awesome hour that succeeded in all regards. We did a "small group" session that included an hour of personalized guidance, feedback on how to improve our throws, guided games, and teaching us some trick shots. The attached picture is an example of one of many great throws resulting from their excellent guidance.
3. Washington Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 358 reviews
Reviewed By dustythoughts - Manchester, United States
We came here for a quick walk to get some fresh air, and while it was maybe the wrong season (too cold for nice weather or flowers, and without the pretty fuss of the Christmas season), the park was still spacious and well-maintained. There were still other people going for walks or runs, and there are bridges over the bodies of water, plus benches for people to sit and enjoy the scenery. In warmer weather, it looks like it would be a lovely place for a picnic.
4. New York State Capitol
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 835 reviews
The New York State Capitol has served as the seat of government for New York since the 1880's. Over 125 years old, the building is a marvel of late 19th-century architectural grandeur. Built by hand of solid masonry, it took 5 architects and 32 years to complete. Over the years meticulous restoration has been done to maintain and protect the Capitol for future generations of New Yorkers.
Reviewed By FlaviaPortChester_NY
Recently, I visited for the third time the NY State Capitol and it is just a wonderful place that can be revisited every few years. Also, I have visited the Nation's Capitol as well as several State Capitols and I can attest that this one is even more impressive than our Nation's Capitol. The free, one-hour guided tour is highly informative and, depending on the tour guide, you can get different historical information and information relating to the decorative elements of this unusual, tasteful and ornate Capitol. My recommendation is to make reservations if you visit during the weekends, but you may be able to get on a tour if there are "no show" reservations. Regarding Albany, it is simply a shame that there is no plan to rescue entire neighborhoods built after the Civil War to accommodate the number of craftsmen that moved into the area to build the Capitol. There is exquisite residential architecture that is just simply wasted!
5. New York State Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,092 reviews
Under the leadership of the New York State Education Department, this museum and research center preserves New York State's artistic, social, historical and environmental legacies through such exhibits as "Native Peoples of New York," "The Cohoes Mastodont" and "Black Capital: Harlem in the 20s."
Reviewed By GypsyJules1111 - Albany, United States
We always enjoy visiting the NY State Museum, from the vast selection of exhibits, children’s play/ learning room, cafe & the top floor carousel, there is always more than enough to see & do to capture the interest & attention of my young son & his mom too! We highly recommend visiting here!
6. Dutch Apple Cruises
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 447 reviews
Dutch Apple Cruise is located in Albany, NY on the scenic and historic Hudson River, the ideal way to see the sights! We offer Public Sightseeing, Special Event Cruises, and Private Event Rentals. Features of all Sightseeing Cruises include Live Narration, U.S.Coast Guard inspected vessel, comfortable seating, clean restrooms, free parking, full bar and snack bar (cash & credit accepted). With your safety in mind, we suggest low heeled or soft soled shoes. We cruise rain or shine. Don't forget to bring your binoculars for eagle sightings!
7. 5 Wits Albany
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 55 reviews
5 Wits is cutting-edge, live-action entertainment that immerses you in realistic, hands-on adventures! Located in Crossgates Mall, we have three adventures: Tomb, Deep Space, and Drago's Castle. Your Adventure Awaits!
Reviewed By needlottery - Cleveland, United States
we got tired of fighting the black Friday crowds at the mall and decided to take a break and do something fun and this was it! we tried 2 of the games and will be going back to do the third. better than escape rooms because you're not pressured to beat the clock and you have better varierty.
8. Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 191 reviews
In June 1965, the cornerstone was laid for what would become The Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza. Marketed at the time as a "Design for the Future," the Plaza exists today as an icon of 20th century Modernist architecture. The Empire State Plaza features 10 state government buildings set on a six-story platform connected by a quarter mile long underground concourse. The Empire State Plaza is complete with historical attractions, walking tours, modern paintings and sculptures, memorials and remembrances, a performing arts center, 42 story observation deck, ice skating rink during the winter and plenty of music and other entertainment in the summer and fall.
Reviewed By FredShuuz
this is right across from the state museum which I think is the highlight of Albany if you want to walk up to the Carousel floor you have to do it form this plaza interesting modern art we liked the yellow one the most ducks swimming in the pool a solid 20 minute walk
9. C.H. Evans Brewing Co.
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 83 reviews
