9 Things to Do in Albany, NY During Your Layover

If you have a layover in Albany, NY, there are a variety of things to do while you're here. Whether you have four hours or 24, we've got a list of things to do in Albany, NY for everyone. Click here for nine great ideas.

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9 Things to Do in Albany, NY During Your Layover

Layovers are usually riddled with long wait times, subpar sandwiches, and an aching back. Layovers in Albany, NY, however, are nothing like what you're used to!

Whether you have four hours, 24 hours, or a delayed flight, experience everything the capital of New York state has to offer. In this article, we're highlighting a few things to do in Albany NY during your layover, based on the length of your stay.

Ditch those subpar airport sandwiches and step into the fresh air during your next layover in Albany, NY.

1. Visit the New York State Capitol

Flying into Albany Airport is not like flying into New York City's busy JFK or LaGuardia airports. Albany airport is relatively small and, as a result, it's easy getting in and out during a long layover!

Of the many things to do in Albany NY, visiting the state capitol is a must for your list. Rich in history and built with incredible 19th-century architecture, the Capitol building exudes elegance and history.

The building, which took four decades to build, is situated at the corner of Washington Avenue and State Street. If you have a layover that's a little on the longer side, we can't suggest a more appropriate place to visit. A mere 45 minutes from the airport, the New York State Capitol is a must-see.

2. Check Out the Colonie Center Mall

Delayed flights is the second most common airline customer complaint, but when you have a mall to retreat to delays don't feel half bad!

The Colonie Center mall is only a seven-minute ride from the airport and home to shops that can help you and your family pass the time!

There are many historical things to do in Albany NY, but unfortunately, a short layover may not give you the appropriate amount of time to properly experience them. Go for a safe, weather-friendly option that will keep the whole family in good spirits.

3. Step into the Shaker Heritage Society

Is your family a group of history buffs wondering what to do in Albany NY? If so, then you have to check out the Shaker Heritage Society, the first Shaker settlement in the United States.

A mere 13-minute walk from the airport, the Shaker Heritage Society houses incredible history, a small museum, and shop.

Plus, if your layover turns into a longer stay, the settlement is also in close proximity to NexGen, an indoor golf center!

4. Experience the New York State Museum

Have a few hours to kill? After you visit the capitol building, add the State Museum to your list of things to do in Albany NY!

Nestled near Albany's Capitol Hill, the museum features a wide variety of permanent exhibits, including the Adirondack Wilderness, as well as temporary exhibits. Currently, the museum is home to the Art of the Erie Canal and a special pipe tomahawk that was stolen from the museum and returned after nearly 70 years!

Dive into New York state's prominent history beyond the skyscrapers and get an extra dose of culture.

5. Peek at the Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center

The offerings of things to do in Albany NY are wide and far-reaching. What better way to get a glimpse of everything this incredible city has to offer than by taking a trip down to the visitors center!

The visitors center is home to an information center, museum, and even a planetarium. A 15-20 minute drive from the airport, while away the hours and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of New York State's capital.

6. Stroll Through Washington Park

After being confined to an airport and aircraft for several hours, you'll enjoy a stroll through one of the most beautiful parks in New York state.

Washington Park is sprawled across 84 beautifully maintained acres and is home to more than 100 species of trees. Spend your layover soaking in the sun, breathing in the cool Albany air, and enjoying watching the local wildlife.

Visiting in spring? Take part in the Tulip Festival and celebrate everyone's favorite bloom!

Washington Park is a brief 15-minute drive from the airport, so you can enjoy your time without having to worry about being late for your next flight!

7. Tour the Legendary USS Slater

Take a trip back in time and take a tour of the historic USS Slater. The USS Slater served the United States Navy throughout World War II. It is the last destroyer escort that remains floating in the United States today.

Plan your tour through this prominent member of US History and gain some perspective during your layover.

8. Get Creative at the Albany Institute of History & Art

Get those creative juices flowing at the Albany Institute of History & Art. Discover the rich culture, history, and art that calls Albany, NY home!

Nestled on Washington Avenue, the museum was founded in 1791, making it one of the oldest in the United States! Check out its vast collection of more than 20,000 objects including ceramics, drawings, furniture, historical artifacts, and much more.

9. Walk Through the Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza

If you take a look at a list of Albany NY things to do, odds are that the Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza is at the top of that list!

Take a stroll through these impressive and historic state government buildings. Known to locals as the South Mall, the complex includes Albany favorites such as the Cultural Education Center, The Egg, the Legislative Office Building, the Mayor Erastus Corning 2nd Tower, and the Swan Street Building.

Depending on the time of year, you may also have a chance to stumble upon a summer festival, farmers market, art fair, or catch a performance in the plaza!

Beyond the Airport: More Things To Do In Albany NY

Once you've had a small sampling of the many things to do in Albany NY, odds are you'll want to come back for another visit! To truly experience Albany, you need to come back for a long weekend or, better yet, a week or so!

Plan your trip today and check out this helpful tour guide of the best places to play, stay, and dine!

Need a ride from the airport? Request a ride with Absolute Taxi and enjoy a reliable, leisurely service that takes you where you need to go!