There are exhibits on everything from New York's original Native Amerian residents, the state's history of activism, its architectural and engineering marvels and more in this top-class museum. A large chunk is dedicated to the history and development of New York City. The section on 9/11, including a damaged fire truck and debris from the site, is very moving. Don't miss a ride on the gorgeous antique carousel on the 4th floor.
New York State Museum
Top choice in The Adirondacks
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
28.32 MILES
Saratoga Springs' boom as a destination for leisure and healing was in large part thanks to the eponymous springs from which early European settlers…
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28.2 MILES
Even if you're not an avid art lover, don't miss this gem, set on 140 gorgeous acres of expansive lawns, flower-filled meadows and rolling hills. The…
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0.15 MILES
While the plaza's ensemble of architecture surrounding a central pool is hugely impressive, it's the splendid collection of modern American art liberally…
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29.96 MILES
This is one of the finest of the Hudson Valley mansions, as its owner, celebrated landscape painter Frederic Church, designed every detail, inspired by…
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Williams College Museum of Art
28.79 MILES
In the center of town is this worthwhile – and free! – art museum. It has a collection of some 15,000 pieces, with substantial works by notables such as…
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26.3 MILES
This evocative museum illustrates the lives of the religious sect that founded the village in 1783. The Shakers believed in communal ownership, the…
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0.36 MILES
Completed in 1899, this grand building is the heart of the state government. The interior features detailed stone carving, carpentry, and tile and mosaic…
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Pleasant Valley Wilderness Sanctuary
29.91 MILES
This 1300-acre wildlife sanctuary has 7 miles of pleasant walking trails through forests and meadows, as well as a challenging hike to the summit of Lenox…
Nearby The Adirondacks attractions
1. Corning Tower Observation Deck
0.12 MILES
Bird's-eye views all around Albany are afforded from the 42nd-floor observation deck of the Corning Tower.
0.15 MILES
While the plaza's ensemble of architecture surrounding a central pool is hugely impressive, it's the splendid collection of modern American art liberally…
0.36 MILES
Completed in 1899, this grand building is the heart of the state government. The interior features detailed stone carving, carpentry, and tile and mosaic…
4. Albany Institute of History & Art
0.48 MILES
If for nothing else, it's worth dropping by one of the oldest museums in the US (founded in 1791) to see its two Egyptian mummies, one of which is…
0.69 MILES
Covering 90 acres of central Albany, this beautifully landscaped park includes a lake, formal gardens, basketball and tennis courts and a playground. It's…
6. Destroyer Escort Historical Museum
0.76 MILES
For a glimpse of naval life take the hour-long guided tour around the USS Slater, a navy destroyer that saw action in WWII. The expertly restored ship is…
6.88 MILES
Enthusiastic volunteer guides help bring alive the history of the nine original buildings and recreated herb garden that make up what was the first Shaker…
26.3 MILES
This evocative museum illustrates the lives of the religious sect that founded the village in 1783. The Shakers believed in communal ownership, the…