What to do in Albany, NY

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Albany

Types of activities

Where to stay

Albany travel guide

Photo provided by Albany County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza showing a high-rise building, a pond and modern architecture

Albany showing a statue or sculpture and heritage elements

Albany which includes heritage architecture

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What to do in Albany

Popular places to visit

University at Albany

Enjoy the student vibe when you visit University at Albany during your trip to McKownville. Attend a sporting event or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.

MVP Arena

5/5(1 review)

Enjoy the sounds of some of today’s biggest performing artists or watch an exciting sports event at a stadium in the very heart of Downtown Albany.

Palace Theater

3/5(1 review)

Old World splendor and modern performance standards meet at this renovated heritage theater located in Albany’s downtown. Tour the building or see a show.

The Egg

4.5/5(2 reviews)

One of the country’s most unique buildings, this performance space is both an architectural marvel and a great place to catch a show.

New York State Capitol Building

3/5(1 review)

Perched atop Albany’s State Street hill, this ornate building has served as the seat of New York State government since the 19th century.

Washington Park

4.5/5(2 reviews)

Numerous activities await you in this beloved and idyllic Albany green space, a product of the city’s Golden Age in the late 1800s.

New York State Museum

Marvel at New York garnet, greet an ancient mastodon and ride a carousel at this museum that chronicles the past and present of the Empire State.

Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza

5/5(1 review)

In Albany’s beautiful plaza, find the New York State capital center, as well as fountains, parks, shops, museums and even a world-class art collection.

Corning Tower

Climb the tallest building in New York State outside of New York City and enjoy panoramic views of Albany and even as far as the Adirondacks and the Berkshires.

Explore areas of Albany

Colonie

You might appreciate the shopping and restaurants in Colonie, and if you're interested in seeing more of the area, Colonie Center Mall and Watervliet Shaker National Historic Site are just a few notable stops.

Downtown Albany

4.5/5(3 area reviews)

Downtown Albany is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to MVP Arena and Albany City Hall while you're in town.

Palace Theater which includes heritage elements

Arbor Hill

If you're spending some time in Arbor Hill, Palace Theater and Ten Broeck Mansion are top sights worth seeing.

Roessleville

If you're spending some time in Roessleville, Colonie Center Mall and Northway Mall are top sights worth seeing.

Pine Hills

Pine Hills might not have many top sights, but Washington Avenue Armory Sports and Convention Arena and New York State Museum are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Mesa Verde National Park which includes tranquil scenes, landscape views and desert views

Sheridan Hollow

If you're spending some time in Sheridan Hollow, Washington Avenue Armory Sports and Convention Arena and Albany Institute of History and Art are top sights worth seeing.

Frequently asked questions

Is Albany worth visiting?

Providing a mix of shopping and history, there are many things to do in Albany. When you're here, visit The Egg, a top attraction in the area.

How do I spend a day in Albany?

Once you've visited major attractions like New York State Museum and Albany Institute of History and Art, spend some time experiencing Albany's shopping and food scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in Albany?

The top tourist attraction in Albany is The Egg, so be sure to include it on your agenda.

Is three days enough to stay in Albany?

You can easily enjoy popular attractions like The Egg, New York State Museum and Albany Institute of History and Art with a three-day stay in Albany. On average, most travellers plan two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a bit longer and check out Latham.

Is Albany a walkable city?

With popular neighbourhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city centre, Albany is a good place to explore on foot. Enjoy wandering between The Egg and New York State Museum. Then take a stroll around Downtown Albany, located 0.16 kilometers from downtown, and Mansion Area, which is about 0.64 kilometers away.

What are some activities to do in Albany with kids?

Planning what to do in Albany with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're getting away with toddlers or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep them happy here.

What to do in Albany for adults?

There's no shortage of things to do in Albany, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Empire State Plaza Convention Centre or New York State Capitol Building.

Are there free things to do in Albany?

One of the easiest ways to discover free things to do in Albany is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can experience without taking your wallet out. Washington Street Armoury is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.