Albany is frequently nicknamed ‘Smallbany.” It’s a perfect description because New York’s grand and historic capital city is small enough for visitors to easily maneuver and enjoy a wide range of attractions.
When you arrive at the always busy Albany-Rensselaer Train Station, just across the Hudson River, hop on the on-demand CDTA Flex+ Service or in a cab/rideshare for a quick trip to downtown Albany.
Downtown Albany
You’ll immediately want to start exploring the Empire State Plaza, a 98-acre concrete marvel with decorative pools and fountains that’s surrounded by important buildings including Coming Tower and The Egg, the city’s architecturally fascinating performing arts center named for its shape.
Selfie alert! Also downtown is the free New York State Museum, the oldest and largest state museum in the country. This interactive institution covers everything New York, from the Big Apple to the Adirondacks, with thought-provoking exhibits.
Eat lunch at the cozy Olde English Pub & Pantry, in a historic home dating back to 1736. After that, consider touring the extraordinary gothic Capitol Building, built by hand in the late 19th century. Highlights of the 45-minute tours include various chambers, the Hall of Governors and the “million-dollar staircase.” Deep underground lies another hidden gem: the Empire State Plaza Art Collection, a display of modern art featuring the likes of Jackson Pollock. But plan accordingly: the capitol and the art collection are only open on weekdays.
Meander over to the Hudson River and visit the USS Slater, a World War II-era destroyer escort. Parked permanently in the Hudson, it’s the only oe of its kind afloat in the US. Also on the river, you can rent a kayak at Corning Preserve or spend a budget $5/hour to rent a bike to cruise along the Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail.
Where to Stay in Albany
The first new hotel built from the ground up in downtown Albany in nearly 20 years, the 110-room Hyatt Place opened in 2023. But a good option may be to check into the Renaissance Albany Hotel, a grand old building with modern flashes and oversized windows.
Dining in Albany
For a modern steakhouse twist, dine at Black and Blue Steak and Crab, or go for the house-made pasta at the tried-and-true Cafe Capriccio. Want to keep it more casual? Druthers Brewing Company serves up oversized portions of delicious comfort food alongside award-winning beers.
Brunch at Iron Gate Cafe is a must. Sit in one of the rooms in the beautiful Victorian house or opt for the pretty garden. Mimosa Mondays ($5 a pop_ gets the week rolling, but on weekends don’t forget to put your name on the wait list. Then it’s on to the Pine Bush Preserve, one of the largest inland pine barrens in the world. Check out interactive exhibits or hike or bike through 20 miles of trails looking for the unique plants and wildlife including the endangered Karner Blue Butterfly.
Take Amtrak to Albany
Explore New York State’s fascinating, historic capital city via Amtrak to the Albany-Rensselaer Station.
Use the on-demand CDTA Flex+ Service available outside the train station through the “Ride Pingo” app or take a cab/rideshare for a quick trip to downtown Albany.
