The USS Slater is a World War II destroyer docked on the Hudson River in Albany. It was used during World War II to fight Nazi U-Boats in the North Atlantic and is the only one of these destroyer escorts still on the water in the United States. Following a 15-year restoration, the boat has been completely restored to its original glory, so much so that one can see where the sailors lived and carried out their daily exercises and operations. The Deck-by-Deck tour is particularly popular and offers an interactive experience that's sure to thrill all ages. Besides guided tours, the museum also offers a unique overnight camping activity where tourists get to live like a navy sailor.
Buckingham Lake Park is probably the most popular place to enjoy the water outside of the Hudson River while in the city of Albany. The lake is more of a pond, due to the fact that its depth is only three feet and surface area is five acres. Nonetheless, people love the pond in the winter when the water freezes up making it perfect for ice skates. Albany's citizens also use the space for cycling, jogging, walking the dog or just to lounge under one of the trees.
Washington Park is one of the oldest parks in the United States. It was designated a park by city charter in 1686 and today it still remains a vibrant part of Albany. Designed by architects John Bogart and John Cuyler, the park with its lush green lawns, etched walkways and colorful flowers is a tranquil oasis downtown. This public park also serves as an entertainment venue and hosts variety of events like flower festivals, concerts, fund-raisers, ethnic festivals and more.
The Albany Pine Bush Reserve is one of the few remaining inland pine barrens in the world. It is truly a work of nature created by the last Glacial flows, where this ecosystem harbors all types of flora and fauna. At the preserve, the counties of Albany and Schenectady have created a nature center that allows young and old alike to discover this treasure. There are plenty of recreational activities like cycling, hiking, cross-country skiing and jogging, making it a great place to visit any time of year.
The Empire State Plaza Art Collection is a great modern art collection that isn't located in a fancy gallery or museum. In fact, the 92 artworks are located in the underground concourse and they line the main pathway which connects various government buildings in this 98-acre public space. Some of the artists included are Paul Jerkins, Robert Motherwell, Adolph Gottlieb and Alexander Calder. Thanks to Governor Nelson Rockefeller's interest in patronizing the arts, this impressive public art collection was made possible.
Park Playhouse offers Albany's denizens free summer theater in beautiful and historic Washington Park. In addition to plays and musicals, the artists collaborate with the community and local schools to promote theatrical performances. Albany has hosted the program each summer for more than 20 years, and some of the shows have included Shakespeare, Oliver!, and Annie alongside other more contemporary ones.
The USS Slater is a World War II destroyer docked on the Hudson River in Albany. It was used during World War II to fight Nazi U-Boats in the North Atlantic and is the only one of these destroyer escorts still on the water in the United States. Following a 15-year restoration, the boat has been completely restored to its original glory, so much so that one can see where the sailors lived and carried out their daily exercises and operations. The Deck-by-Deck tour is particularly popular and offers an interactive experience that's sure to thrill all ages. Besides guided tours, the museum also offers a unique overnight camping activity where tourists get to live like a navy sailor.
Christman Bird and Wildlife Sanctuary was established, with the efforts of William W. Christman, to conserve the stellar natural features and wildlife of the area. Nature enthusiasts at the park will not be disappointed with the lush trails and abundance of native creatures. The imposing waterfall, nestled in a spectacular setting at Bozenkill is one of the most prominent features of this park.
Covering 2,155 acres (872 hectares), John Boyd Thacher State Park is an enticing patchwork of scenic woods, rolling hills, open fields, and remarkable rock formations. Its location along the Helderberg Escarpment effectively renders the park a veritable vista point, with vantage points enabling visitors to bask in the surrounding sights. A series of trails slices through the wilderness, allowing nature lovers to observe and study the area's natural features, including diverse flora and fauna. The park also serves as a recreation destination, facilitating outdoor activities like picnicking, camping, and biking alongside hiking. Additionally, it features playing fields and a visitor center.
Spread over 1,000 acres (404.68 hectares) in the village of Valatie, Kinderhook Farm is located just about 3 miles (4.82 kilometers) from Ghent, NY. The glorious green and gold farm raises grass-fed sheep, hens and other livestock and is known for the quality meats thus procured. Kinderhook Farm includes the Farm Store where you can load up on free-range eggs, lamb, beef and other meat products, a fully-furnished rental cottage and a barn-house called, FarmStay at Kinderhook, both of which make for fun family vacations. The farm itself is open for tours on Saturdays and Sundays from 1p onward, check the website fore more details.
Follow the trail towards the Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center at Thacher State Park and learn more about the local flora and fauna. The highlights of the center include Helderberg Escarpment’s model, honeybee hives, furs, fossils, and other interactive exhibits. The facility also has a bird viewing area and plays host to several educational programs and events regularly. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a family looking for a fun outing, or an individual seeking a peaceful escape into the outdoors, this nature center provides an enriching experience for all ages.