Albany is the capital of the U.S. state of New York. Albany is on the west bank of the Hudson River, about 10 miles south of its confluence with the Mohawk River, and about 135 miles north of New York City. Albany, New York is steeped in history. From its earliest Native American inhabitants to the present day, Albany has been a hub of culture, industry, and political power for centuries. Let’s explore some of the stories and events that have shaped Albany over time.
Albany’s Early History
The first inhabitants of what is now called Albany were the members of several Algonquian-speaking Mohican tribes who settled in the area in the early 1500s. In 1609 Henry Hudson sailed up the Hudson River, passing by Albany on his journey to explore what would eventually become New York State. Dutch settlers followed Hudson’s lead a few years later and made their homes along the river banks. The city was officially founded as “Beverwijck” in 1652, and the city of Albany in 1686.
Over The Years, Albany became an important port city with a bustling economy built upon shipping and trade. It was also a major political center as well; it served as the state capital during both British colonial rule and after American independence had been won. During this period, it also became an important stop along several major transportation routes like the Erie Canal—a man-made waterway that connected Albany to other cities across America.
Modern Times Today, Albany continues to be a thriving city with many different attractions for visitors and residents alike! It’s still home to many government offices and institutions such as SUNY (State University of New York) at Albany as well as popular tourist destinations including Washington Park, which features beautiful gardens, walking trails, monuments, fountains and more! There are also plenty of museums chronicling local history or showcasing works by local artists; there are even interactive exhibits designed for children! And if you’re looking for something to do on a night out? You can find everything from comedy shows to live music performances all around town!
Demographics
According to worldpopulationreview.com – Albany is a city located in Albany County New York. With a 2023 population of 99,635, it is the 6th largest city in New York and the 358th largest city in the United States. Albany is currently growing at a rate of 0.14% annually and its population has increased by 0.41% since the most recent census, which recorded a population of 99,224 in 2020. Spanning over 22 miles, Albany has a population density of 4,655 people per square mile.
The average household income in Albany is $66,612 with a poverty rate of 24.26%. The median rental costs in recent years comes to – per month, and the median house value is -. The median age in Albany is 30.7 years, 30.5 years for males, and 30.9 years for females. Albany is located on the Hudson River about 135 miles north of New York City.
Public Education
Albany has eleven elementary schools, four middle schools, one high school.
Higher Education
Albany Medical College part of Albany Medical Center
Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
University at Albany, also known as SUNY Albany -SUNY Albany is a unit of the State University of New York.
Empire State College, The College of Saint Rose, Excelsior College, Maria College, Mildred Elley, and Sage College of Albany.
Real Estate Market
According to refin.com- In December 2022, Albany home prices were up 9.1% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $240K. On average, homes in Albany sell after 12 days on the market compared to 26 days last year. There were 63 homes sold in December this year, down from 113 last year.
The Albany housing market is very competitive. The average sale price of a home in Albany was $228K last month, up 3.4% since last year. The average sale price per square foot in Albany is $159, up 26.7% since last year.
Albany, New York is a great spot for an exciting city getaway!
Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, fine dining, shopping or the performing arts, Albany has something for everyone. Experience the beauty and tranquility of Washington Park – perfect for strolling through gardens, riverside walks, and picnicking with your family. Fancy some culture? Visit the State Museum – with over 8o percent of New York State’s recorded history available to view – or take in a performance of opera at Place and Egg theaters.
If you’d rather just explore and relax, then why not visit one of their many restaurants or cafes while admiring the stunning views across the Hudson River. Enjoying Albany lets you experience all that New York has to offer! Let’s take a look at some of the top attractions, restaurants and nightlife!
Attractions
New York State Museum- serves the lifelong educational needs of New Yorkers and visitors through its collections, exhibitions, scholarship, programs, media and publications in science, history, anthropology, and art. The Museum explores and expresses New York State’s significant natural and cultural diversity, past and present. 222 Madison Ave, Albany.
USS Slater DE-766- Moored on the Hudson River in Albany, New York, the USS SLATER has undergone an extensive restoration that has returned the ship to her former glory. The museum offers one hour guided tours, youth group overnight camping, and a historic location to hold naval reunions. 141 Broadway, Albany.
New York State Capitol- 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 carvings. Other activities include Exhibits, restaurants and ice skating. State St. and, Washington Ave, Albany.
Washington Park- is the site of many activities open to visitors and residents. In addition to numerous statues and monuments, notable park features include the Lake House, a children’s playground, a stocked lake, tennis and basketball courts, and bike paths. The Park offers a wonderful setting for birdwatching, and the site of many festivals, concerts, performances, and special events from May to December. 35 Willett St, Albany.
Schuyler Mansion- Schuyler Mansion was home to Philip J. Schuyler, the renowned Revolutionary War general, US Senator, and business entrepreneur. Originally situated on an 80-acre tract of land, the grounds once included an orchard, a formal garden, and a working farm. Today, visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the mansion as well as an orientation exhibition in the Visitor Center focusing on Philip Schuyler’s life. 32 Catherine Street, Albany.
Restaurants
Grappa ’72- Elegant eatery, tucked away in a strip mall, featuring classic Italian fare, music & grappa. 818 Central Ave, Albany.
The Hollow Bar + Kitchen- Hip spot in a historic building offering updated American eats, rotating craft beers & live music. 79 N Pearl St, Albany.
Barcelona Restaurant- Wine Bar- Black & Blue Steak and Crab. 1470 Western Ave, Albany.
Iron Gate Café- Gated- serene garden seating area fronts this American breakfast/lunch spot in a sandstone mansion. 182 Washington Ave, Albany.
677 Prime- Upscale steakhouse with mahogany accents & colorful art features 400+ wines & weekday bar deals. 677 Broadway, Albany.
Athos Restaurant- Authentic Greek fare in an upscale setting with a lively bar, fixed-price specials & Friday music. 1814 Western Ave, Albany.
Nightlife
Palace Theatre- The Palace Theatre, built in 1931, maintains its original beauty and design and is an historical landmark in the City of Albany. a 2,800-seat grand cultural and entertainment venue, the largest of its scale in Northeastern New York and neighboring New England. 19 Clinton Ave, Albany.
The Egg- Center for the Performing Arts named for its shape, presents performances, spotlights emerging artists, fosters relationships with resident companies, and enhances activities in cultural and arts education. Agency Building 1, S Mall Arterial, Albany.
McGeary’s- Wood-paneled Irish tavern offering classic food & drink along with a patio & weekly live music. 4 Clinton Square, Albany.
The Lo-Fi Retro Bar & Lounge- An immersive experiential lounge featuring an array of specialty cocktails, beer, shag, and vinyl records. 200 Lark St, Albany.
The City Beer Hall- Festive beer garden & gastropub in a historic building, where drinks come with free pizza. 42 Howard St, Albany.
If you’re looking for some game time while in Albany, check out some of the basketball, tennis and pickleball courts nearby and enjoy some nice family time competition!
Sports Courts
Woodlawn Park Basketball Courts- Woodlawn Ave, Albany.
The Court Club- 444 Sand Creek Rd, Albany.
Buckets Performance Center- 88 Railroad Ave, Albany.
Albany Tennis Club- 316 Partridge St, Albany.
Milton Pocket Park (Pickleball)- 1 Gail Ave, Albany.
Notable Literature and film in Albany
According to Wikipedia- Albany has been the subject, inspiration, or location for many written and cinematic works. Many non-fiction works have been written on the city. One of the city’s more notable claims to fame is Ironweed (1983), the 1984 Pulitzer Prize-winning book by Albany native William Kennedy. Ironweed was the third in a series of books by Kennedy known as the “Albany Cycle”. The elusive author Trevanian also grew up in Albany and wrote The Crazyladies of Pearl Street (2005), about a North Albany neighborhood along Pearl Street.
