Winter Wonderland Destinations in Albany, New York, United States

1. Empire State Plaza Ice Rink

Outdoor ice skating rink located in the heart of downtown Albany. Enjoy a romantic evening under the twinkling lights.

Open Air: Enjoy the fresh winter air while skating.
Centrally Located: Easy access to downtown Albany's restaurants and attractions.
Ice Skate Rental: Skates available for rent if you don't have your own.

Giant Christmas tree adorned with thousands of lights in the heart of New York State Capitol Park.

Historic Setting: Enjoy the beauty of the Christmas tree in a historical setting.
Free Admission: Admission is free, making it an affordable winter activity.
Nightly Light Show: Experience the magical light show that happens every night.

Explore a winter wonderland with historic buildings and nature trails.

Historical Sites: Learn about the American Revolution at this national park.
Winter Hiking: Enjoy winter hikes on well-maintained trails.
Pet-Friendly: Bring your dog along for the adventure (on a leash).

Indoor ice skating rink offering public skate sessions and lessons.

Watch or participate in iceboat racing on the Hudson-Mohawk rivers.

Rent snowshoes and explore the Palisades Interstate Park trails.

Snowshoe Trails: Explore miles of well-maintained snowshoe trails.
Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Hudson River and surrounding mountains.
Rentals Available: Snowshoe rentals are available for a small fee.

Learn about local flora and fauna during winter at Thacher State Park.

Educational Programs: Participate in educational programs about local wildlife.
Winter Hikes: Enjoy winter hikes with stunning views of the Hudson Valley.
Scenic Overlooks: Take in the breathtaking views from various scenic overlooks.

Snowshoe or cross-country ski on the Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike trail.

Explore art and history exhibits indoors during the winter.

Indoor Activities: Stay warm while exploring art and history exhibits.
Temporary Exhibitions: Discover new temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
Educational Programs: Participate in educational programs about local history and art.

Hike or snowshoe along the historic Erie Canal on the Via Aqueduct trail.

Historical Significance: Walk along a piece of history, the original Erie Canal.
Scenic Views: Enjoy scenic views of the Mohawk River and surrounding hills.
Winter Hikes: Explore miles of well-maintained winter hiking trails.

Ice skate on the beautiful ice rink in Saratoga Spa State Park.

Enjoy winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Nature Trails: Explore miles of well-maintained nature trails.
Scenic Views: Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and lakes.
Winter Activities: Participate in winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Explore the unique ecosystem of the Albany Pine Bush Preserve in winter.

Unique Ecosystem: Discover a rare sandy-soil ecosystem.
Winter Hikes: Explore miles of well-maintained winter hiking trails.
Educational Programs: Learn about the local flora and fauna from educational programs.

Explore New York's history and culture indoors during the winter.

Indoor Activities: Stay warm while exploring exhibits about New York's history and culture.
Temporary Exhibitions: Discover new temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
Educational Programs: Participate in educational programs about New York's history and culture.

Indulge in delicious meals at participating restaurants during Schenectady's Winter Restaurant Week.

Delicious Meals: Treat yourself to a delicious meal.
Affordable Prices: Enjoy prix-fixe meals at affordable prices.
Variety of Restaurants: Choose from a variety of participating restaurants in Schenectady.