Albany
Welcome to Albany, New York’s historic Capital City on the banks of the mighty Hudson River! Albany is firmly rooted in its history and moving toward the future. Explore this web site, then come and discover the Capital City for yourself.
New Yorks Capital Region has enticed visitors for 400 years with historic sites, fabulous attractions, family-friendly amenities, and entertaining events. World-class museums, unique galleries, stunning architecture, delicious restaurants, and welcoming accommodations ensure your Albany experience is legendary.
Begin your journey to Albany at the Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center at historic Quackenbush Square.
If you are planning a meeting or conducting business, you’re joining good company. For centuries, Albany has been hosting meetings that shaped the nation and continue to mold its future.
Whatever it is you are looking for, you will be sure to find it in New Yorks Capital Region. Albany An Amazing Discovery!
About Albany
Tour four centuries of architecture, from the newly renovated Million Dollar Staircase in the New York State Capitol, to the awe inspiring “Egg” at the Empire State Plaza.
Experience the region’s tradition of cultural festivals, concerts, and special events. Visit our extraordinary museums, theatres, and restaurants, and you’ll know why you should discover Albany!
Albany’s business districts and neighborhoods abound with exciting cultural heritage, while the countryside is home to many diverse examples of historic house sites and public spaces, including the Pruyn House and the first Shaker Meeting House.
Visit the magnificent Gothic structure, now the Administrative Center of the State University of New York, the Delaware & Hudson and Albany Evening Journal Buildings, (right) located at the base of State Street.
History & Architecture
The history of Albany also remains retained in much of its robust 19th and early 20th century architecture. The most visible example is the New York State Capitol sitting atop one of the seven hills that fashioned the city’s landscape.
Begun in 1867, construction continued until 1897 when Governor Frank S. Black declared the building finished, ending one of the longest running public works projects in the state’s history.
The Capitol, with its grand staircases, legislative chambers, and breathtaking exterior, is the historic centerpiece of NYS.
Henry Hudson discovered Albany while seeking a shorter route to the far-east in 1609. Soon after, Dutch merchants settled here to bring furs from the north and ship them to Europe.
The area grew in size as it became the gateway to the northeast passage. Later, Albany’s industrial history was carved out of its location as the point where the navigable Hudson River ended and the Erie Canal began.
Each passing traveler left a mark that can be enjoyed by those who visit the area today.
Begin your journey to Albany’s past at the present Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center in historic Quackenbush Square.
See the exhibits of Albany’s rich heritage, relax and be transported back through time by watching the center’s orientation show Albany: A Cultural Crossroads.
Guided tours by trolley, boat, or on foot, take you through Albany’s neighborhoods, attractions, and historic sites.
Also visit the Quackenbush House, located directly next to the Visitors Center. Built in 1736, it is the oldest remaining Dutch building in the city and today serves as a restaurant, the Albany Pump Station.
Click here for more detailed information on the history of Albany.
Albany Nightlife
Casual or formal, suburb or country inn, Albany has the ideal culinary experience for you. Sample the spices of Indonesia, the delicacies of France, the surprises of the Orient, the aromas of Italy, or the zestyness of the southwest.
Whether dining by candlelight, aboard a river cruise, by a cozy fireplace, or at an outdoor cafe, Albany has a table perfect for you! Celebrate Albany’s 1609 founding during Restaurant Week, held twice a year.
During the Spring and Summer seasons, Albany turns up the heat with live, outdoor concerts, fireworks, and more. During the winter season, outdoor skating rinks are the cool place to be.
Not ready to retire for the evening?
Come to the Capital Region and treat yourself to a night out on the town!
Albany will stay up late with you! The Capital Region is the place to be for hot spots and cool sounds. Wine and dine in award-winning restaurants or casual pub and then get ready for even more excitement as local, national, and global musicians, comedians, and other entertainers draw in the crowds at Albanys theaters, concert venues, and nightspots.
After dark enjoy live music or DJs and dancing at one of the lively nightclubs.
Downtown Albany is the perfect place to experience nightlife with more than 20 bars and clubs all within walking distance of each other.
“Nightfire” a unique art-installation of the elements created by local artists and community partners, at the Washington Park Lakehouse, unveils a 15′ tulip.
Mark the Tulip Fest on your calendar for 2009!
No matter what brings you to Albany, you will find there’s more to see and do than you ever expected. From museums to shopping malls, theatres to theme restaurants, farms to memorials, Albany offers days and nights filled with a wide variety of places for people of all ages to experience and enjoy. Make time to visit some of Albany’s non-traditional tourist sites, too. Attractions extend from downtown to many places worth the drive from wherever you are.
