Find culture and beauty, great architecture and great experiences in historic Albany, the oldest chartered city in the United States and the second oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the country. Henry Hudson was hunting a shorter route to the Far East in 1609 when he discovered the area, soon after settled by Dutch merchants.

Much of the city’s rich history has been preserved and easily accessed through self-guided walking tours, tours by bike, trolley, boat and even amphibious vehicle in the form of the Albany Aqua Duck tours. These tours provide a look at the ever-changing city, from the 17^th-century site of Fort Orange and 19^th-century Underground Railroad sites, to the futuristic Empire State Plaza, where you can enjoy the nation’s largest public display of modern art. Stop by the New York State Museum to see a native long house, a mastodon and more.

Four centuries of history is but one reason to visit Albany, the capital of New York State and a vibrant city. Shopping in Albany is a pleasure, the diversity astounding, the bargains irresistible, at eclectic boutiques, antiquarian bookstores and seasonal marketplaces. Historic neighborhoods offer specialty shops, lively nightspots and eclectic restaurants where you can sample everything from the spices of Indonesia to the delicacies of France.

Explore intriguing museums; experience the best in performing and visual arts. Begin each year with WinterFestival, a New Year’s celebration on the Saturday prior to New Year’s Day. Welcome spring and glorious color at the Albany Tulip Festival, with roots in the Capital Region’s rich Dutch heritage.

When you’re ready to venture outside of Albany, check out nearby historic attractions such as the Pruyn House and the first Shaker Meeting House. Go underground to explore Howe Caverns or take a short drive north to see lovely Cohoes Falls. Also nearby: world-class Thoroughbred horse racing at world-famous Saratoga Race Course and Saratoga National Historical Park,  known as the Turning Point of the American Revolution.

Thanks to its centralized northeast location, Albany is an ideal hub for itineraries including Cooperstown, the Catskills, the Hudson Valley and the Berkshires. But its wealth of historic and cultural attractions, thriving restaurant scene and eclectic shopping  make the city a don’t-miss destination in its own right.