Areatha & Joseph
Discovering Albany
New York State Capitol
This is the New York State Capitol building. Explore the chambers of the building where legislative history is made in the Empire State! Sitting atop Albany’s State Street hill, the New York State Capitol has served as the seat of government for New York since the 1880s. The building is a marvel of late 19th-century architectural grandeur, built by hand of solid masonry over a period of 32 years. Highlights of the 45-minute tours can include the legislative chambers, Hall of Governors, Governor’s Reception Room, Hall of New York, historic staircases, and the recent Ruth Bader Ginsburg portrait carving.
New York State Museum
The New York State Museum in Downtown Albany explores the cultural and natural history of New York State. The Museum features a variety of history, science and art exhibitions. Within the main exhibit halls are popular long-standing favorites, includingBeneath the City: Albany Archeology, Black Capital: Harlem in the 20s, The Cohoes Mastodon, Fire Engine Hall, Minerals of New York, Native Peoples of New York, and The World Trade Center: Rescue, Recovery, Response. The Museum is free though donations are accepted.
Empire State Plaza Ice Rink
Each winter, Empire State Plaza turns into Empire Skate Plaza, Albany’s answer to the rink at Manhattan’s Rockefeller Center. Admission is free and they offer skates for use for a small rental fee. With each revolution, you’ll enjoy views of some cool buildings, including our state’s imposing, red-roofed capitol and one of New York’s true architectural oddities — the aptly-named Egg.
Crossgates Mall
Crossgates Mall is the premier shopping, dining and entertainment destination in New York's Capital Region. Crossgates offers over 10 different entertainment experiences providing something for every age, kids and adults alike. Bowl your heart out, play the newest video arcade games, or see an IMAX movie and laugh ‘til it hurts. It’s a full day of fun and excitement for all. Crossgates offers dining options to suit any taste, including 12 sit-down restaurants, 11 food court options, 2 fast-casual eateries, and 16 snacks.
Walmart Supercenter
We couldn't leave you with recomendations and forget THIS gem. This Walmart Supercenter is THE LARGEST Walmart in the world. Sitting at 260,000 square feet, this Supercenter has two floors connected by special escalators that carry you and your cart to your next section. If escalators aren't your thing, feel free to use the elevators to get from the first level to the second or vice versa!