The capital of New York State, Albany, is packed with wonderful things to do and see all for little to no cost at all. The capital region is as rich with culture as it is with beautiful scenery and entertainment. Here is a list of 5 amazing places to visit in the capital region:
1. Washington Park, Albany
Washington Park, located in the heart of downtown Albany, is one of the most beautiful parks in the region. Filled with over 100 species of trees and beds of flowers compatible to fine works of art, this 84-acre park has a space for all types of activities. Whether it is walking, jogging, biking, relaxing, or even fishing, in the park's quarter of a mile long lake, there is something to do for everyone.
In the spring, come see the park’s annual Tulip festival or enjoy a variety performances put on at the famed Washington Park Lake House. There are fountains, statues, tennis courts, and even a skatepark for the more extreme visitors.
2. John Boyd Thatcher State Park
Located just 15 miles southwest of Albany overlooking the entire city, John Boyd Thatcher State Park has several hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the Green Mountains in Vermont and the Taconic Mountains of the Hudson Valley.
The park is home to 2,155 acres of picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, caves, lakes and even a park with picnic area.
3. Albany Pine Bush
The Albany Pine Bush Preserve is one of the largest of 20 inland pine barrens in the world; "One of the best remaining examples of an inland pine barrens ecosystem in the world." The preserve is thousands of years old with trails that cover most of its 3,000 acres.
The “Pine Bush,” as many people refer to it as, is home to more than 1,500 plant and animal species including the endangered Karner Blue butterfly - all which can be learned about at the preserve's free discovery center along with the park’s history, geologic, and cultural significance.
4. Cohoes Falls
Just 11 miles north of Albany, on the Mohawk River in Cohoes, sits this spectacular 70-foot waterfall. Visit Cohoes Falls Overlook Park, to get the most breathtaking view of this historical landmark. The park can be visited during daylight hours May through October, so you do not want to miss out.
5. New York State Museum
Visit the New York State Museum to learn about New York's rich culture through history, science, art, and more! Established in 1836, the museum is the largest in the capital region making it a must-see attraction for everyone visiting or not. There are over 15 million specimens and artifacts to enjoy, all for a no-cost admission!
