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Enjoy These 8 Fun Valentine's Day Activities in the Albany Area

Whether you're interested in celebrating Valentine's Day with a significant other, family, or friends, there are a variety of fun things to do in the Albany area. You can dine out at a local restaurant, gear up for a winter adventure, or even visit a spa. To help you plan for the upcoming Valentine's Day/Week, we've rounded up 8 great outdoor and indoor activities.

Have a One-of-a-Kind Adventure at 5 Wits

Choose from three awesome adventures at 5 Wits, a live-action, immersive, and story-driven experience in the Crossgates Mall in Albany! Choose from Deep Space, Drogo's Castle, and Tomb, each of which features synchronized sound and lighting, elaborate special effects, and characters that respond to your presence—and all adventures have multiple endings and varying levels of difficulty, so returning players can enjoy a new challenge. 

Check out their adventure options »

Hit the Slopes at a Local Ski Resort

The Capital Region and North Country are home to a number of premier ski resorts that are worth the drive from Albany. Experience a thrilling afternoon of downhill skiing or snowboarding as you celebrate Valentine's Day. Some of these local resorts also offer snow tubing and on-site dining where you can enjoy après ski.

Discover top ski resorts »

Go on a Snowy Adventure Through the Albany Pine Bush Preserve

You may know of the Albany Pine Bush as a great place for summer nature hikes, but in winter, the property transforms into a wonderland for cross-country skiers and snowshoers. The preserve is home to over 20 miles of trails spanning east to west, and it is open year round with no admission fee.

Strap on your cross-country skis or snowshoes and go on a snowy adventure this Valentine's Day. You can fit in a workout and have fun at the same time, whether you're gliding across the trails on your skis or traveling along the sides of them on your snowshoes. While you're there, make sure you stop by The Discovery Center's Gift Shop and find a unique gift for your significant other for the holiday.

Explore the Pine Bush »

Paint Your Masterpiece at a Paint & Sip Class

Paint & sips are all the rage in the Capital Region, and one of the best places for it is Art in Mind - Creative Wellness Studio in Glenville. You can sign up for a class with a group of friends, a family member, or even your partner if you're looking for a way to spend the holiday. Visit the paint & sip studio's website to see upcoming classes and updates.

Learn about Art in Mind »

Unwind With a Trip to a Capital Region Spa

Treat yourself this Valentine's Day and plan a spa day right here in the Capital Region. From couples massages to facials and manicures/pedicures, local spas offer a wide array of expert services. You can go alone, bring a friend, or enjoy the relaxing experience with your partner. Prepare to unwind and feel rejuvenated on Valentine's Day!

Find spas in the area »

Sip & Sample Delicious Craft Beverages at Nine Pin Ciderworks

hard cider being poured into a glass from a tap
Nine Pin Cider

Valentine's Day is a time to celebrate, and what better way is there than sipping your favorite craft beverage (or trying something new) with your significant other or friends. From sampling hard ciders at Nine Pin Ciderworks in Albany to ordering a tasting flight at a local winery, there are multiple options to choose from in the Capital Region.

Visit their tasting room »

Soar Across the Ice at Albany's Empire "Skate" Plaza

Experience a winter tradition at the Empire State Plaza Ice Rink in downtown Albany this Valentine's Day. Nicknamed the Empire "Skate" Plaza, this outdoor ice skating rink is free and open to the public daily from early December through the end of winter (approximately).

If you don't own ice skates, then you can rent them on site for a small fee; rentals are free on Saturdays thanks to Hannaford. Kids, teens, and adults are welcome to skate on the rink and enjoy the feeling of soaring across the ice.

Learn more about the Empire "Skate" Plaza »

See a Movie at Crossgates Mall or Colonie Center

people in movie theater seats

Looking to have a low-key Valentine's Day this year? Plan a trip to the movies at Crossgates Mall or Colonie Center in Albany! You'll find all the latest and most popular films playing at the theaters, and nothing is more relaxing than sitting back with a tub of buttery popcorn. Round up some of your friends and pick a movie you'll all enjoy during Valentine's Week.

Find more winter activities in the region »

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