Cold or Snowy Outside? Here Are the Top 11 Indoor Winter Activities In & Near Albany, NY
As much as we love bundling up and playing in the snow, sometimes it’s nice to stay warm inside. If you’re looking for the best indoor winter activities in & near Albany, NY, we’ve rounded up 11 great ideas to keep the fun going, no matter the weather.
Participate in a Live Action Adventure at 5 Wits Albany
Enter a live-action, immersive, and story-driven experience at 5 Wits Albany! Located in the Crossgates Mall on the first floor, you'll face an adventure that includes action-packed puzzles, synchronized sound and lighting, characters who can respond to your performance, and more.
Choose from three unique paths—Deep Space, Drago's Castle, or Tomb—as each one presents their own intriguing challenges along the way as secrets are discovered.
Let Loose at Dave & Buster's Albany
Dave & Buster’s at Crossgates Mall combines food, drinks, and high-energy arcade games under one roof. Whether you're playing skee-ball, racing friends in Mario Kart, or watching the game on one of their big screens, it’s a go-to destination for both kids and adults.
One visitor shared, “It’s like being a kid again, but with better food and cocktails.” Great for birthday parties, family outings, or casual date nights.
Enjoy a Little Bit of Everything at Apex Entertainment
Also in Crossgates, Apex Entertainment packs in go-karts, bowling, laser tag, an arcade, sports simulators, and even an escape room, all in one indoor playground.
“The ultimate place to burn energy. Our kids didn’t want to leave,” shared one parent. It’s ideal for group outings or a fun day out with the whole family, especially when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Jump Into the Action at Get Air Trampoline Park
At Get Air Trampoline Park, kids and adults can release some of that winter energy with wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, slam dunk lanes, and dodgeball courts.
Parents appreciate the safety-first environment and separate areas for little jumpers. A recent guest mentioned, “Our son had a blast, and we got to relax while he wore himself out. It’s a win-win.”
Experience the Thrills of Axe Throwing
Have you heard about axe throwing yet? It's one of the fastest growing sports in the nation, and in Albany, you can go axe throwing at Far Shot Albany.
It's the perfect activity for a date night, team building, or having fun with some friends indoors this winter. One visitor said, “I didn’t think I’d be any good, but the instructor made it so easy—and by the end, I was nailing bullseyes. Such a blast!”
Just remember to book your group's axe throwing session ahead of time to make sure Far Shot can accommodate you.
Try Your Hand at a New Skill or Craft at The Arts Center
The Arts Center of the Capital Region in Troy is more than just an art gallery. All winter long they offer a wide variety of classes in the arts and beyond, with topics ranging from drawing, fiber arts, and stained glass, to culinary, dance, photography, and more.
A recent visitor said, "I took a beginner ceramics class, and now I'm hooked. The instructors are so supportive!
It's a great opportunity to learn figure drawing, master the art of salsa dancing, or try knitting for the first time!
Create Colorful Memories at a Paint & Sip Class
Are you ready to discover your creative side? If so, then sign up for a local paint & sip class with a group of friends.
Classes are offered at Art in Mind Creative Wellness Studio in Glenville, where you and your group can paint a masterpiece over a glass of wine.
No experience is needed, so browse their upcoming classes today and reserve a spot.
Unleash Your Inner Monkey at Albany's Indoor Rockgym
Test your climbing skills at Albany's Indoor Rockgym, one of the premier rock climbing gyms in the Capital Region. The gym features a variety of climbing walls and structures, an indoor cave system, and even a 60-foot zipline.
It's a fun and rewarding indoor activity for kids, teens, and adults (children under 10 years of age must be paired with a parent or adult).
One guest wrote, “We had a great time at AIR! They have a great variety of walls and the cave system was a surprise hit. The staff were also friendly and helpful. Will definitely be back.”
Pamper Yourself With a Relaxing Spa Day
Winter is a great time to indulge in some self-care. Treat yourself to a day of pampering at a local spa, where you can enjoy a massage, facial, or a full beauty refresh.
Try Complexions Spa for Beauty & Wellness, which offers a luxurious range of wellness services in Albany and Saratoga, or head to Rumors by Tuscan Sun Salon in Latham for both salon and spa services under one roof. Some of their services include, facials, massages, and haircare.
Get Fit & Feel Good About Your Body
Now is the perfect time to tackle that New Year's resolution. Find a fitness activity at a local gym that you like and stick with it. There are many fitness facilities to choose from, whether you want to gain muscle or lose a few pounds.
Learn Something New at Museums & Cultural Sites
School kids everywhere pray for snow days during the winter months, but learning doesn't have to be boring or in a classroom. There are a variety of Capital Region museums and cultural sites that offer chances for interactive learning for kids or adults.
Visit the New York State Museum to explore exhibits on everything from local wildlife to New York history and culture. A visitor wrote, "First time here and had a wonderful time. Huge museum tracing New York States cultural and natural history. Super family friendly and so many great exhibits. Full scale Penn station exhibit and beautiful tribute to 9/11. Excellent Harlem exhibit. So much to see and educate yourself on.”
Admission is free, making it a go-to destination for families and a perfect activity during school breaks.
The Discovery Center at the Albany Pine Bush Preserve is also a great choice if you're looking for a more hands-on experience. Open year-round, it has interactive exhibits on ecology, wildlife, and conservation.
Stay Warm and Have Fun All Winter Long
When the snow piles up and the chill sets in, there are plenty of indoor activities in and near Albany, NY, that make it easy to stay entertained and cozy. Whether you’re testing your skills at an axe-throwing range, creating art with friends, or enjoying a relaxing spa day, the Capital Region offers countless ways to have fun without braving the cold. So this winter, trade your snow boots for slippers and enjoy some warm, memorable experiences right here in Albany.
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