Enjoy These 10 Free Things To Do In Albany, NY
There’s always something to do in the Capital City, but filling your calendar can get expensive. The good news is, you don’t have to spend a dime to have a great time. We’ve rounded up 10 free things to do in Albany, NY that offer fun for all ages.
Discover Free Activities Available Year Round
Check Out the New York State Museum's Unique Exhibitions
The New York State Museum is perfect for a snowy or rainy day! This massive museum has collections on New York State birds and animals, Native Americans, the World Trade Center, and much, much more, and they often have fun events going on.
A first-time guest shared, "Huge museum tracing New York State's cultural and natural history. Super family friendly and so many great exhibits."
The museum is open from 9:30am to 5pm, Tuesday through Sunday.
Get a Bird's-Eye View at the Corning Tower Observation Deck
Check out the amazing views from the 42nd floor of the Corning Tower, the tallest building in New York State outside of New York City! You can see the Hudson River Valley, the Adirondacks, the Catskills, the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts, and even the Governor's Mansion. Just bring a valid photo ID and you are all set.
Celebrate Local Arts and Culture at First Friday
On the first Friday of every month, the art galleries of downtown Albany open their doors and offer specials and host events to strengthen the arts in the surrounding community.
Many restaurants, boutiques, and other establishments in Albany have their own specials, events, or live music going on as well.
Take a Tour of the Capitol Building
The New York State Capitol Building showcases masonry that took over 25 years to complete. Free guided tours of the New York State Capitol are available year round from Monday through Friday at 10am, 12pm, and 2pm.
One knowledgeable visitor said it best, "My best tip: take the FREE hour-long tour. The friendly, knowledgeable guide will take you to areas you may not be able to access on your own, all the while providing interesting facts that will truly enhance your appreciation of the history and architecture of this landmark."
Enjoy the Great Outdoors at Washington Park
Spend some time enjoying the weather! Plan a walk or picnic in Washington Park with your favorite companion or furry friend.
There is a gorgeous pond, a bridge to walk over, and in the springtime, you can see thousands of tulips in bloom. That's not to say it isn't beautiful all year round, however - the park is great for picnics in the summer, has fantastic foliage during the fall, and is a dreamy place for winter strolls.
Explore Nature at the Albany Pine Bush Preserve
We have a true treasure of a nature preserve right in Albany with the Albany Pine Bush Preserve. The pine barren landscape is one of only about 20 on the entire planet, making this a globally rare habitat!
If you're looking for a simple walk in the park you might opt for Washington Park, but if you'd like to dig deeper with some hikes and maybe even some wildlife viewing, then check out the Albany Pine Bush Preserve's 20 miles of multi-use, year-round trails.
But don't limit your visits to the Pine Bush Preserve to the warmer months! Once the snow falls, the Preserve becomes a beautiful winter wonderland. Try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing at the pine barren to escape cabin fever.
Step Back in Time at the Shaker Heritage Society
Discover one of Albany’s hidden gems with a visit to the Shaker Heritage Society, located near the airport on Meeting House Road. This free site offers a peaceful escape and a glimpse into the life and values of the Shakers, the early settlers who emphasized sustainability, equality, and community.
Stroll the grounds to see original Shaker buildings, the herb garden, apple orchard, and historic cemetery where founder Ann Lee is buried. The Society also hosts free or low-cost programs and events throughout the year, making it a great spot to explore history and nature all in one visit.
Add These Fun & Free Seasonal Events and Activities to Your List
Catch a Show at the Washington Park Lake House
Right in Washington Park is Park Playhouse, where you can see free professional theater productions each summer! The amphitheater seats about 1,500 audience members, and they often have kid-friendly productions going on so you can bring the whole family.
Paid seating is available, but free lawn seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Blankets and chairs may be placed to reserve seating at noon the day of the performance.
One fan said, "I pay a visit to this park whenever I get time. The lake house looks really pretty from outside, but today I went inside for the first time and felt amazing! The lake looks even more beautiful from the lake house."
Jam Out to Awesome Bands During Alive at Five
How does free live music productions in the summer sound? Every summer you can enjoy Alive at Five, an outdoor summer concert series that happens once a week at Tricentennial Park in Albany.
Hit the Ice at the Empire Skate Plaza
So you've got theater productions and live music for free in the summer, but is there anything going on during the winter in Albany? There sure is!
You can ice skate for free at the Empire Skate Plaza! If you don't own skates you can rent some for $4 for adults or $3 for kids, and they also have Learn to Skate Clinics where you can even rent the skates at no cost.
The Empire State Plaza also hosts special events during the spring, summer, and fall, including movie nights, tours, and farmers markets. The Capital Concert Series, MVP Kids Day, and the New York State Hops and Harvest Festival are just a few of the events you'll want to add to your calendar.
Check Out More Free Events in the Capital Region
These are just 10 of our top picks, but there are plenty more fun and free things to do in Albany and the Capital Region! Click on the link to our events calendar below to see free things to do all year long.
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