CAPITAL-SARATOGA
Albany County Convention & Visitors Bureau
52 South Pearl Street
Albany, NY 12207
Voice: (518) 434-1217; (800) 258-3582
Fax: (518) 434-0887
Henry Hudson discovered it while seeking a route to the Far East. The Dutch merchants settled it so they could bring furs from the north and ship them to Europe. It grew in size because the area was the gateway to the Northeast Passage. An industrial history was carved because it was where the navigable Hudson River ended and the Erie Canal began.
Today, Albany's history can be seen through much of its robust 19th and early 20th century architecture. The most visible example is the State Capitol sitting atop one of seven hills that fashioned the city's past. Begun in 1867, construction continued until 1897 when Governor Frank S. Black declared the building finished, ending one of the lengthiest public works projects in the state's history.
Albany's Urban Cultural Park Center, located in historic Quackenbush Square, offers exhibits detailing the city's history, a spectacular orientation show, suggested walking or driving tours, and a planetarium with theme shows. In summer, it's a jumping-off point for trolley tours of the city's sites and attractions.
Albany is a true center of the arts, whether performing or visual. You can find a wide variety of exhibits and performances ranging from experimental to traditional. There are a number of theaters, music halls, art galleries and museums. In the summertime, the Park Playhouse offers free theater under the moon and stars. You supply the blanket and the picnic basket, they'll provide you with amazing talent and an evening of memorable entertainment.
Albany's Palace Theater is home not only to the Albany Symphony Orchestra, but to other performers and plays. The Empire Center, known as "The Egg" because of its unique shape, provides the perfect setting for dance, theater and song from all over the world.
Albany's diverse cultural heritage is also evident in the brick and mortar of its buildings and homes. Step back into the pages of the city's past and discover its treasures preserved in diverse museums, historic homes, superb architectural achievements and its churches. Cherry Hill, Schuyler Mansion, Ten Broeck Mansion and Pruyn House all offer a unique retrospective with period furnishings and a history lesson that can't be found in any textbook.
Visit the Henry Hudson Planetarium for a star show, or take a walking or trolley tour of Albany's wonderful neighborhoods. The Shaker Heritage Society is located on the grounds of America's first Shaker settlement and plans special events to enjoy throughout the year. It's also a great place to shop during the holiday season! For sports fans, Albany delivers. The Pepsi Arena is home to the American Hockey League's Albany River Rats and the Albany Firebirds football team. Take in a game at Heritage Park and watch as a baseball player with the Albany-Colonie Diamond Dogs steps up to the plate.
Albany is truly a city that treasures its rich history and goes to great lengths to ensure that you'll have ample opportunity to discover it, too.
