USS Slater

Climb aboard the USS Slater, the last Destroyer Escort left afloat in the United States. Beginning in April, explore the historic ship deck-by-deck on a guided tour. The entire family will enjoy stepping back in time to see, hear, smell and touch objects used by the men who lived and fought onboard the ship.

New York State Capitol

Check one of the fifty state capitol buildings off of your bucket list! Free guided tours of the New York State Capitol are available Monday through Friday at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Tour guests are treated to a complete history of the building – ghost stories, unfinished carvings, famous inhabitants and all! If you do not have time for a tour, wander through the halls on your own and take in the splendor of the Million Dollar Staircase and the War Room.

New York State Museum

Discover the cultural and natural history of New York State at the New York State Museum. View a variety of ongoing exhibits including the Cohoes Mastodon, a skeleton discovered in 1866 near Cohoes Falls. If you are in town before September 4, check out Unveiled: Wedding Wear in 19th-century New York special exhibit. The museum is free, open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Albany Institute of History & Art

Couples that are museum-lovers or history buffs must visit the Albany Institute of History & Art while in town for a wedding. Browse world-class exhibits such as the stunning collection of Hudson River School paintings and soak up the rich history on display. It is one of the oldest museums in the country, so it is a must-add to your itinerary.

Dutch Apple Cruises

During the warm weather months, enjoy a Hudson River sightseeing cruise with Dutch Apple Cruises! The first half of the cruise is narrated by a Hudson River Historian who tells tales of the city and points out landmark sights along the river. On the second half of the cruise, relax under the sun and enjoy the riverside views. For first-time visitors, it is a great way to experience Albany!

CapitalWalls Mural Tour

Downtown Albany is home to over a dozen #CapitalWalls murals, a public art endeavor by Albany Center Gallery, Albany Barn and Albany Parking Authority. Explore the murals by booking a private #CapitalWalls murals walking tour. If you are searching for a more casual way to explore the vibrant murals sprinkled throughout downtown Albany, tune into the Artful Albany podcast. Presented by Discover Albany, Downtown Albany BID and Albany Center Gallery, each podcast episode is a self-guided walking tour that explores Albany's 400 year-old history and the #CapitalWalls mural projects. Please Note: Private #CapitalWalls Mural Tours must be booked 30 days in advance or rush fee will be added.

Shopping

Shop 'til you drop in Albany County! From top shopping destinations such as Crossgates Mall, Colonie Center and Stuyvesant Plaza, to neighborhood gems such as Fort Orange General Store, there are a variety of places to shop in Albany County. Spend the afternoon strolling from shop-to-shop on Lark Street, Albany's Village-In-The-City, to find unique treasures and trinkets to remember your visit. Small businesses are at the heart of our local community, so peruse locally-owned retailers to experience what makes Albany special.