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.
Cherry Hill was the former home of the aristocratic Van Rensselaers, a family that traces its origins to the Netherlands. The home was built in 1787 and ever since then, five generations had lived in the home until the Putnam Rankin family finally relinquished it in 1963. The home transformed into a museum shortly thereafter with the help of local benefactors. Most of the exhibits feature their daily life over two centuries; some artifacts include manuscripts, books, photographs and documents together with furnishings, and household items.
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.
Saratoga Springs' historic district has two different sections, the southernmost presents historic municipal buildings and the northern side holds some of the most grandiose Victorian houses in the entire Capital Region. Throughout the district, visitors can see tangible reasons why this town is considered a mineral spring paradise. There are spas, hotels, gardens, a post office and a racetrack, all presented from a bygone era. The city’s commission strives to preserve the historic exteriors of all the buildings and the neighborhood was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
Long a subject of interest for authors and painters, Kaaterskill Falls is no doubt a wonder of nature. Located within the Catskill Forest Preserve, it is the highest waterfall in New York State—that's right, at approximately 260 feet (79m) high, it's taller than Niagara Falls, albeit far less powerful. The falls were popular with the Hudson River School of American painters during the mid-1800s and today, everyone enjoys the recreational activities in the immediate area as well as under the falls during good weather.