Skip to main content

Capital Region Staycation Ideas for Couples

couple having a picnicYou don't need to embark on a long road trip or fly across the country to have a great time with your signifcant other! Take a few days off work and indulge in a "staycation." The Capital Region is filled with great ways to have a blast during your time off. Whether you're in the mood for a relaxing staycation or a few days packed with activities, we have you covered. Check out these Albany staycation ideas, perfect for couples who want to stay local!

Go Out to Eat: You know that restaurant you've been dying to try but haven't had the time? Make a reservation! Usually when couples go on vacation, every meal is eaten at a restaurant. Make your staycation feel like a real vacation by trying a different local restaurant you haven't been to yet as a couple. The cook of the house will appreciate the break!

Turn Your Home Into a Hotel: Break out the bathrobes, buy crisp, new sheets and don't forget to put a chocolate on each pillow. Keep your favorite take-out menus nearby, or try somewhere new to mimic room service. The best part about hotels? The mini bar, of course! Round up your favorite munchies and drinks for the night.

Head to the Beach: When I think vacation, I think one thing: the beach. Pack up and take a day trip to one of the beaches near Albany. Grafton, Saratoga, Sacandaga and Lake George beaches are all within an hour drive.

Sightsee: When was the last time you were at the NYS Museum? The Empire State Plaza? Schuyler Mansion? Cherry Hill? Take a day and go on a city tour, hitting all of the Albany attractions that interest you!

Get Lost: Inevitably, vacation driving means you end up getting lost and asking for directions. Have some fun by exploring nearby communities without worrying about how to get back. After you're lost, try out a new restaurant or ice cream shop, and ask someone for directions on how to get back to Albany because, "we're not from around here." Be sure to take pictures and create an album of your staycation!

Picnic at the Park: Pretend you're in the south of France and indulge in a delicious picnic at Washington Park. Spend the afternoon relaxing and gazing into each other's eyes or just tossing a ball or Frisbee around. And don't forget the sunscreen! Find more parks in the Albany area.

Local events! There's always something going on in Albany and throughout the Capital Region. Check out the events calendar for upcoming concerts, arts events and other top activities. Grab brochures from the visitor's center, read flyers around town or listen to your favorite radio station for some more great ideas.

These are just a few of the many ideas for having a fun vacation at home around the Capital Region this summer.