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The Jeep Renegade is a small but capable SUV with some of the best off-road capabilities in its class. But the Renegade can do more than handle rough terrain; it also offers an excellent on-road experience. The 2018 model received some minor changes, including upgrades to the optional 7-inch and 8.4-inch touchscreens, and Jeep also made the 5-inch touchscreen standard along with a rearview camera. Here are some of the reasons you can go anywhere in style with the 2018 Jeep Renegade. Variety of Trim Levels Jeep offers the Renegade in four trim levels. The base Sport trim comes with 16-inch steel wheels and the option for the Sport Appearance Package with alloy wheels and roof rails. The Latitude comes standard with all the optional features of the Sport and adds fog lights, body-colored door handles, and side mirrors. Step up to the Limited trim for dual exhaust tips, silver roof rails, and vinyl door trim. For those who want to head off-road, the Trailhawk has everything you'll need. Its features include 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, tow hooks, skid plates, and a raised suspension along with a full-size spare tire. more Power The base engine in the Renegade is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that generates 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. An optional 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque and comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Add the tow package to the Latitude or above and the Renegade can tow up to 2,000 pounds. Interior Style and Utility Inside, the Renegade's cabin has an impressive amount of room for a compact vehicle. There is plenty of headroom for all the passengers, and plenty of options to upgrade. The lower trims come with high-quality cloth upholstery, and the higher-end models add leather along with heated front seats, a leather-wrapped shift knob, and a heated steering wheel. In the back, there are over 50 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. Safety Features All the Renegade models come standard with a rearview camera, and if you bump up to one of the higher trims, it comes standard with more safety equipment such as blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning with active lane assist, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. Additional options for safety equipment include rear parking sensors and automatic high beams. Technology You can drive in style and stay connected in the Renegade with available technology. A 5-inch touchscreen comes standard, but Jeep offers an upgrade to either a 7-inch touch screen or an 8.4-inch touchscreen depending on the trim. You can also add a navigation system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Uconnect infotainment system. A nine-speaker Beats stereo system is also available as an option. Take the 2018 Jeep Renegade on your next adventure. Whether you hit the highway for a road trip or go on an off-road ride, this SUV will get you there in style.

We can all use a little relaxation now and again. Thankfully, the Albany area has plenty of options to choose from to help you in your relaxation pursuits. Here are some of our favorite spas and treatments in the Capital Region. Spa Mirbeau The list of amenities at Spa Mirbeau is quite long, and the facilities are equally extensive despite being located inside the Crossgates Mall. A day pass will give you access to all of the amenities for $45 during the week or $65 on weekends. This includes a number of yoga and fitness classes, steam rooms, saunas, a meditation pool, a hot spa pool, and more. While you're there, you can also indulge in one of their luxurious treatments, such as a Mirbeau Ritual body exfoliation or a Crushed Cabernet Scrub. Spa Mirbeau has seasonal offerings as well, such as their Mighty Tighty Summer Body Wrap, which includes coconut cream milk, a rich banana mask, and an aloe strawberry cream lotion. They also offer more standard services such as massages, manicures, and facials. more Complexions Spa Complexions has two locations, one in Albany on Wolf Road and one in Saratoga Springs. In both locations, they provide a wide array of beauty and wellness services. These range from standard spa offerings like facials, massages, and hairstyling to non-surgical medical services such as body contouring, skin tightening, and chemical peels. They also have a sauna, steam room, and a relaxation room. You can take advantage of these with a $35 monthly membership fee or along with any service purchase. If you're concerned about the impact on the environment, Complexions is committed to protecting the environment and is the first Gold LEED® certified spa in the country. Roosevelt Baths & Spa A little further away in Saratoga Springs, you can find this gem of a resort, which was first opened in 1935. The Spa has 42 treatment rooms and a full array of spa services to meet your every need. Mineral baths are one of the unique offerings at this location, and these can be booked independently or before any treatment. They use the famed water from Saratoga Springs, which is said to have many healing properties. You can even book a getaway package, which includes accommodations at the Gideon Putnam and a variety of spa services to help you relax even more. Salt Den Located just up the road in Latham, this Himalayan therapeutic wellness center has an ancient salt cave with salt from the Himalayas, which is believed to help with respiratory issues, pain, and skin disorders. They also offer an infrared sauna, red light therapy, and massage. You can even attend one of their Crystal Bowl Sound Meditation events. While this is a little different than your typical spa, sometimes a change of pace can be helpful in your relaxation journey. Albany and the surrounding area have plenty of options for relaxation and rejuvenation if you know where to look. With such a wide array of services and experiences available, you'll want to try them all!

Since 2005, the Chrysler 300 has been the undisputed king of the American sports sedan world. Stunning looks combined with raw power and interior features provided the groundwork for this modern classic, and 14 years later it's still one of the best options in its class. If you're looking for a classy and sleek sedan, the 2018 Chrysler 300 checks all the boxes. Several Trim Options Depending on your budget, tastes, and needs, you can choose from five trim levels for the 2018 Chrysler 300. These models include the Touring, Touring L, 300S, Limited, and 300C. Even at the entry level, the 300 doesn't skimp on luxury, yet it adds even more opulent features at each tier. Whether you want the 300 on a budget or the fully loaded variant, you're sure to find the ideal model. more Power and Handling Under the hood, the 2018 Chrysler 300 comes with two engine options, although neither choice will leave anything to be desired. The stock engine is a 292-horsepower, 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 that pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission with rotary E-Shift. Using the E-Shift, you can change gears just by turning the dial, allowing for maximum control on the roads. Upper trim levels of the Chrysler 300 get an upgrade that's sure to quell your hunger for speed. Here you'll find a class-leading 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 that packs a punch. With 363 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque, the 300 can flat-out fly, going from 0-60 in just 5.3 seconds and hitting a quarter-mile in only 13.8 seconds. That's the type of power you rarely see in the full-size sedan segment. Tech Specs The Chrysler 300 comes loaded with luxurious tech amenities that put it light years beyond many of its contemporaries. At the center of this tech bonanza is the Uconnect 4C infotainment system. Using an 8.4-inch touch-screen display, you can connect to all of the Uconnect's features including: Android Auto Apple CarPlay Voice command Bluetooth SiriusXM satellite radio An upgrade to the Uconnect 4C Nav adds a navigation system, SiriusXM Travel Link, and SiriusXM Traffic Plus with five years of service. Another spectacular tech spec is the all-new entertainment and media hub. Located between the two front seats, this hub includes an audio jack, two USB ports, and a wireless charging pad. When connected, your phone's music library feeds directly into the 10-speaker BeatsAudio premium sound system for an aural experience that feels like you're at the concert. Advanced Safety Features To keep your mind at ease, your car in pristine condition and your passengers safe, the Chrysler 300 offers some of the top driver-assist safety features in the industry. Highlights include: Full-speed forward collision warning Lane-departure warning Adaptive cruise control ParkSense park assist Blind spot monitoring system That's why it should come as no surprise that the 300 earned a four-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Heavy on features, packed with power, and exuding style and opulence at every turn, the 2018 Chrysler 300 remains the king of the road.

We know that golfers can find places to golf anywhere they go, and Albany has some true gems. Whether you're visiting the city for the first time or have lived here your whole life, you'll want to check out these courses. Capital Hills at Albany Golf Course The backdrop at this course is absolutely beautiful, and the course provides an enjoyable day of golf for people of all skill levels. This par 71 course has a 70.5 USGA rating, a 128 slope rating, and a total of 6,332 yards from the blue tees. For 2018, the rates for a non-resident adult are only $31, and you can rent a golf cart or pull cart. Capital Hills also offers the largest driving range in the area, chipping and putting areas, a Pro Shop, and a full-service restaurant to satisfy your hunger after a round. more Orchard Creek Golf Club Located up the road in Altamont, near Schenectady, Orchard Creek was voted the second best golf course in the region by the Times Union readers. It's also one of the best public golf courses according to Golf Digest magazine, and it has been named one of the most scenic golf courses as well. Yelp reviewers agree, frequently referring to this course as both beautiful and challenging. Throughout the year, they host various outings and tournaments. They also have a Pro Shop, restaurant, and chipping and putting practice areas. The par 70 course has a USGA rating of 72,  a slope rating of 131, and a total yardage of 6,623 off the blue. Balston Spa Country Club This one is a country club, but unlike many other private clubs, they allow non-members to play the course Monday through Thursday. The club was established in 1925 and serves as an excellent example of course from that golden age of course design. Balston's par 71 course has a 70.3 USGA rating and 127 slope rating. Like the other courses, they offer outings, lessons, a Pro Shop, and a restaurant on-site. They also offer reciprocity with several other clubs in New York. So if you're traveling to Albany from somewhere else, it's worth checking the list to see if your club is included. Taconic Golf Club While this semi-private par 71 course is technically located in Massachusetts, it's only 40 miles east of Albany and well worth the drive if you're in the area. It is frequently rated in the top two most beautiful golf courses in New England, which is no wonder since it's set in the Berkshires. Their tees are coded using different colors than most courses, and the scorecard includes options for combinations of the different tees. As a result, they offer up a range of distances from 5,826 from the purple tees to an impressive 6,808 yards on the black tees. The black has a 73.5 USGA rating and 134 slope rating. They offer a certain number of memberships each year, but you can also play as a non-member. The clubhouse contains a restaurant. They also have a practice center, located off-site on the Williams College campus. If you can't decide between these four courses, we recommend trying them all! After all, you can never play too much golf.

For over 20 years, the Dodge Durango has been the class of the full-size SUV market. In 2018, it keeps its run intact, offering top-notch off-road prowess, family-friendly capabilities, raw power, and versatility. These attributes have made the Durango a household name. With seven trim levels to choose from, the Durango has a model that's perfect for every type of lifestyle. SXT The 2018 Dodge Durango starts off with the SXT, but this entry-level model is anything but ordinary. This year, third-row seating is finally available on the SXT, allowing the trim to accommodate up to seven passengers, while also offering up to 84.5 cubic feet of space with the seats folded. Under the hood, the SXT employs a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 that pumps out 295 horsepower and surprising efficiency with 26 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg in the city. more SXT Plus The SXT Plus takes almost the exact form of the SXT with a few extras. SiriusXM satellite radio with a complimentary three-month subscription provides plenty of entertainment on road trips or commutes. An eight-way power driver's seat with four-way lumbar support makes sure that you're always comfortable. If you're a lackluster parker, the SXT Plus' standard ParkSense rear park-assist system is a godsend, especially in urban settings. GT Although the GT doesn't get an engine upgrade, it does bring another level of aesthetics to the Durango. The exterior adds a body-colored grille, while 20-inch hyper black wheels add some bling to the equation. A power liftgate provides easy access to the rear of the vehicle, even when your hands are full. The final touch is the first- and second-row heated seats, which provide comfort even during the coldest winter days and nights. Citadel The Citadel ups the ante with awesome, 20-inch polished aluminum wheels that are appropriate for just about any music video or vehicle calendar. A bright grille and dual chrome-tipped exhaust complete the allure of exterior. Inside, the Citadel upgrades to premium Nappa leather seating. Soft to the touch and unbelievably comfortable, you'll never want to sit anywhere else. R/T The Durango R/T is a performance-driven masterpiece. This trim is the first to get the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 that delivers an insane 360 horsepower. A body kit, hood scoop, custom grille, and exclusive rims match the exterior to the heart-pounding underpinnings. Turn the BeatsAudio premium sound system up to full blast and enjoy the pure power of the R/T in style. Citadel Anodized Platinum The Citadel Anodized Platinum takes everything you love about the Citadel trim and tacks on a few extras. Second-row cup holders, platinum interior accents, and 20-inch carbon satin wheels come standard. SRT The 2018 Dodge Durango SRT might be the most anticipated and prized version of the SUV to ever hit the showroom. With a 475-horsepower, 6.4-liter V-8, all-wheel drive, and an eight-speed automatic transmission, the SRT is perhaps the world's only three-row muscle car. Put the pedal to the floor to release the beast and go from 0-60 in 6.1 seconds, along with a top speed of 155 mph. From the entry-level trim to the souped-up, fully loaded model, the Durango has options you won't find on any other SUV in the segment.

For over a decade, the Chrysler 300 has represented the ultimate in full-size luxury sedans. The 2018 revision of the vehicle is no exception, and it is available in five different trims. We've broken down some of the most surprising luxury features of the 300S trim here. Interior Comfort Step into the world of opulence and decadence that is the 2018 Chrysler 300's cabin. The sedan features plenty of legroom, power-operated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The interior of the car is finished with a soft rubberized plastic sporting a leather-grain pattern, lending an air of authenticity and class to the vehicle. An optional sunroof will make your daily commute that much more comfortable. While these features might not be hidden, some of the perks that are specific to the 300S include leather-trimmed seats, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, and a nickel-finished analog clock. more Dashboard Features Don't let the attractive design of the leather-wrapped steering wheel distract you from some of its hidden features. You can easily access speed controls, radio controls, and more at the press of a steering wheel-mounted button. You can also use these buttons to interact with the digital instrument cluster. This display on the 300S features a soft ambient blue lighting scheme and displays audio information and driving statistics, such as speed, direction, fuel economy, and engine performance. While many of these features are not unique to the 2018 Chrysler 300S, rarely have they been presented in such an intuitive and luxurious fashion. 300S Premium Group 2 While this special package might be a bit of a mouthful, it's exclusively available in the 2018 Chrysler 300S trim. By opting for this package, you'll get stunning HID headlamps, automatically adjusting exterior mirrors, an automatic headlamp leveling system, and door sill scuff pads. For the sedan's interior, you'll have added amenities like lower LED lamps, LED-lit map pockets, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel. And to make your drive safer than ever before, you can also take advantage of special blind-spot monitoring software and a rear cross-path detection system. Integrated Technology Part of a luxury experience is effortless integration with all of the modern technologies on which you rely. While you may be familiar with the more obvious features of the sedan's 8.4-inch touchscreen — such as navigation and radio controls — hidden within the software is compatibility with the Uconnect system. This software allows for both Android and Apple mobile devices to interface with the Chrysler 300S and gives you instant access to streaming audio, satellite radio, traffic information, and five years of service. These entertainment features are pumped through a premium BeatsAudio 10-speaker sound system. Every 2018 Chrysler 300 model is a true luxury vehicle, and the 300S is perhaps our favorite of the five options. And as you can see, some of its subtler luxury features are just waiting to be discovered. Stop by Goldstein Chrysler Jeep Dodge today to find out for yourself.

If you're a connoisseur of fine wines and spirits, you'll find a lot to love about the Albany, New York, region. To help you get started, we've put together this short list of the area's best wineries and distilleries — as well as the can't-miss specialties of each. Saratoga Winery and Tasting Room Visit Saratoga Springs to begin your wine-tasting odyssey. This charming winery is sure to satisfy your taste buds with a variety of options, including Chardonnay, Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir. But don't miss out on what makes the Saratoga Winery special. Try a sample of the signature Melomel wine, which is made with 12 percent honey. Examples of the Melomel wine on offer here include Hillbilly Mountain Mash (a sweet red), Bloodroot (a red with black cherry and currant flavors), and Blackberry Melomel (made with locally sourced fruits). more Adirondack Winery Check out this great winery just an hour outside of Albany for some truly memorable vintages. Like many New York wineries, you can choose from a full list of fruity wines, red wines, white wines, dessert wines, and blush wines. We recommend starting with the Pinot Gris, which was awarded 86 points by Wine Enthusiast Magazine and 90 points by Planet Grape. This dry wine sports a crisp floral flavor and pairs well with seafood, chicken, and pork. Albany Distilling Company This craft distillery lies right in the heart of Albany on Livingston Avenue. Visit the bar to try their carefully crafted spirits for yourself, or stop by the bottle shop to pick up your favorite product to go. The distillery is primarily known for its craft vodka, including an orange-flavored variety, but they also produce several different types of whiskey and rum. Ironweed Whiskey is a real standout; it's sourced from grain grown right here in New York and aged in charred oak without any artificial flavors. Altamont Vineyard and Winery Just half an hour west of Albany, you'll find one of our favorite local wine destinations. Altamont Vineyard and Winery is a great place to see how wine is made. You can book a tour of the vineyard for just $30 per person, and you can finish up by tasting five different premium wines for only $15 per person. Every visitor will have a particular favorite, of course, but we're especially partial to the St. Pepin Ice Wine. This is a sweet dessert wine produced entirely from frozen grapes, and it's the perfect accompaniment to any special occasion. Amorici Vineyard Learn how sustainable farming techniques can generate delicious wines at this vineyard in Valley Falls, New York. Amorici uses chickens instead of pesticides for insect control, and its wines are made with all-natural ingredients. You can't go wrong with their Chardonnay or Cabernet Franc, but try the Marquette NOR if you're looking for something unique. This is a smooth red wine made from grapes grown exclusively in the Upper Hudson Valley. You'll need some time to truly explore the Albany region and discover all of the great wines and spirits produced here. With any luck, you might even find your new personal favorite.

Jeep has a reputation for producing the best off-road vehicles on the market. Their SUVs tend to retain their value and offer highly rated performance for years. Here are just a few of the top-rated picks from the 2018 lineup. 2018 Jeep Wrangler As Jeep's premier off-road SUV, the Wrangler has a pedigree that is virtually unmatched in the automotive industry. That's why it's so impressive that Jeep had the nerve to redesign the Wrangler for 2018. Fortunately, the gamble has paid off; the 2018 Jeep Wrangler is an improvement in just about every way. For example, the new model features a completely redesigned interior, an optional turbocharged engine, and the latest Uconnect infotainment software. The new Jeep also uses bigger tires, stronger axle tubes, and larger brakes to up the ante when it comes to performance. In this way, the Wrangler both innovates and respects its storied history. more 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Add a bit of luxury to your everyday drive by choosing the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee. This popular SUV is known for its comfortable interior and sophisticated entertainment options as well as its genuine off-road performance capability. With available dynamic driving modes, an adaptive suspension system, and especially responsive handling, this SUV performs well on both pavement and off the beaten path. For 2018, Jeep has introduced a new trim to its stable of Grand Cherokee models: the Trackhawk. This particular configuration is recognized as the fastest SUV in production, able to achieve 60 miles per hour in just 3.5 seconds. 2018 Jeep Compass Choose from five different trims of the 2018 Jeep Compass, one of the manufacturer's most affordable and well-rounded vehicles. The Compass is capable of achieving serious performance standards. The SUV proudly carries Jeep's Trail-Rated badge because of its ability to ford up to 19 inches of water, ride over rocks with its 8.5-inch ground clearance, and deliver the best possible traction with its Selec-Terrain Traction Management System. The fact that these impressive features are wrapped up in an attractive, aerodynamic package with a sleek interior is just the icing on the cake. 2018 Jeep Renegade Bursting with personality, the 2018 Jeep Renegade is a great example of the manufacturer's ability to combine style with substance. The Renegade makes its first impression with its bold exterior paint job and seven-slot grille, and its interior is elegantly furnished with both creature comforts, like premium mesh seating, and a robust entertainment system. On the performance front, the Renegade is Trail-Rated for off-road performance. You can easily ford 19 inches of water and tackle the toughest of trails with the SUV's 20:1 crawl ratio. With Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control technology, the 2018 Renegade can handle just about any driving condition. You'd be hard-pressed to find a 2018 Jeep model that didn't live up to your expectations, but we're especially impressed with these four standouts. Take one for a test drive today to get a firsthand look at what makes them special.

The Goldstein CDJR All MOPAR and Jeep Car Show took place on July 8th, 2018. It's safe to say, it was a great success! Classic Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler and Plymouth vehicles filled our side lot. A special line of Dodge Challengers was up front, with each owner proud to show off the tweaks they made to the body or the engine. Discussions about horsepower, parts and car clubs filled the air, along with the smell of great food from the vendor. Cars from many decades came together for our show! more Classic Car Award Winners Goldstein CDJR had a panel of judges who reviewed the vehicles and had hard decisions to make. Awards were given for Top Challengers, Jeeps and Trucks, and Favorites. Is your car a classic? Read our blog article and find out if your vehicle is extra special! It took a while to view every vehicle at our show. It was a beautiful day! MOPAR and Jeep Photos on Google and Facebook Smartphones were recording and Instagramming, and a few folks had more than one camera around their neck. There are tons of photos of our show available. Here's where you can find them. Goldstein CDJR Facebook Page - Look in the Photo Albums Goldstein CDJR Google Photos Capital Car Shows - There are several hundred photos available via Mark Freedman and Capital Car Shows. Awesome job guys! And, Goldstein Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM has our Instagram, which you should follow to see the photos from our show. We'll also be posting more photos of new and unique vehicles in the future! Thank you to all the participants and spectators who made our 2nd Car Show in Latham an awesome success!

If you've ever been to a classic car show, you've probably seen plenty of slick-looking muscle cars from the 60s and Model-Ts from the 20s. But what makes a classic car? And why are they such an enduring element of popular culture? Is your car a classic? There is a definitive way to find out, according to the rules of the Classic Car Club of America. Here are just a few things we love about classic cars. More Than Just Age You won't find any modern vehicles at classic car shows. Most enthusiasts agree that to qualify as a classic car, a vehicle can't be in production anymore. Cars that are between 25 and 50 years old may be eligible. But there's more to it than just age. The Classic Car Club of America states that vehicles must be “fine” or “distinctive” to be labeled classic. The Antique Automobile Club of America adds in the further qualifier of “unusual.” The bare-bones structure of 1945–1953 Jeeps is just one example of an especially distinctive classic design. To learn more about how to buy a classic Jeep, use The Complete Buyer's Guide. from The Drive. However, in the state of New York, the qualifications are a little bit simpler. Your vehicle just has to be 25 years old to qualify for vintage plates. You can also get historical plates if you only display your vehicle at collector's shows and exhibitions. more Monetary Value and Condition Even if you have a vehicle old enough and distinctive enough to be considered classic, you need to take its condition into account. No one is going to be interested in a vehicle in poor repair — even if it happens to be a 1970 Plymouth Roadrunner Mopar muscle car. If the car has had significant repairs or work done on it, it may no longer qualify — a classic car should adhere as closely as possible to the manufacturer's original design. In fact, you can even use a car's value to determine its status. If it's worth at least $20,000, it's a definite contender. Obsolete Features As the automotive industry advances, certain features fall by the wayside. A classic car is often the only way that drivers will see these features in action again. Examples of obsolete technology include rotary engines, turbine engines, seat belt immobilizers, and bench seats. Being able to see these design elements again is a big part of the appeal of classic cars. However, they also come with a drawback: some of these features were replaced by safer alternatives, so driving a classic car is generally not the safest way to hit the highway. Rarity and Uniqueness While a vintage muscle car from the 1970s might meet the age and distinctiveness criteria upon which most experts agree, the uniqueness of the car is also worth considering. Was the vehicle a special edition or part of a limited production quantity? Rarity can increase the value of a classic car, making it more “collectible” and desirable. Bragging rights are inherently part of the classic car scene, for better or worse, and having a more sought-after vehicle can only be a good thing in this arena. Identifying a true classic car is a tricky endeavor because so much nostalgia and personal preference are tied into the equation. Ultimately, beauty is in the eye of the beholder — but most classic cars should have at least a few of these elements in common. If you are still interested in learning more about the history of horsepower, check out the 10 Iconic Dodge Performance Cars of the Last 50 Years. Luckily, if you live near Albany, Goldstein Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM hosts the ALL MOPAR AND JEEP Car Show every year.

The town of Latham, New York, is right by the state's capital Albany. This means it's ideally situated for a range of recreational activities, especially if you have any children. Here are some of our favorite local attractions. All 4 Fun Check out this extensive entertainment complex in Latham for guaranteed fun. Start off by taking a go-kart for a spin around the track — you can even let your kids drive. When you've had your fill of racing, take the kids to the batting cages, where they can practice hitting balls from flying as fast as 35 to 70 miles per hour. If they aren't into baseball, consider showing them around All 4 Fun's great miniature golf course. Finally, you can cap off the afternoon with an ice cream cone; the on-site ice cream parlor serves more than 60 different flavors. more Spare Time See if your kids have what it takes to hit a strike at Latham's most child-friendly bowling alley. The interior of the alley was recently refurbished, and you're sure to enjoy the service of the friendly customer service staff. When you're done bowling, grab a bite to eat from the alley's restaurant. Classic menu items include hot dogs and hamburgers that are sure a hit with the younger crowd. There's also a small video arcade at Spare Time, so kids can enjoy the rapidly disappearing phenomenon of playing games in a social setting. Spare Time also hosts birthday parties and special events. Joe Bruno Stadium The Joseph L. Bruno Stadium, known locally as “The Joe,” is a wonderful place to watch some minor league baseball games. The stadium is the home of the Tri-City ValleyCats, and you can watch the home team face off against a wide range of local and national competitors throughout the year. Parking at The Joe is free, and there's also a concession stand and play area for younger children. In addition to baseball games, the venue also hosts special events, such as weddings, tournaments, and parties. Visit the stadium's website to check the schedule of upcoming games and book your tickets today. The Little Gym of Colonie This attraction for younger children is actually located in the town of Loudonville, about 10 minutes' drive from Latham. The Little Gym conducts classes for kids to develop their physical strength, coordination, balance, and teamwork by working with instructors, parents, and each other. For example, you can enroll your child in a gymnastics class, karate lesson, or music education course. The Little Gym also hosts parties and summer camps, which are great opportunities for children to develop social skills in a safe setting. The Little Gym's events are appropriate for kids between the ages of 4 months and 12 years. As part of the greater Albany region, Latham offers plenty of activities for parents to enjoy a day on the town with their children. Consider one of these destinations if you're looking for the perfect family outing.

Driving on country roads brings you to places you won't see on the interstate. Though the scenery is better, and the traffic is lighter, there are a number of hazards you need to be aware of before setting out on a tour.  Below are five tips for safer driving on country roads. Avoiding Animals One of the biggest dangers of driving country roads is a collision with an animal. Country roads pass through the habitat of deer, bears, moose, and other wildlife. Be extremely alert. Constantly scan the roadside for movement. Get to know the areas where you are likely to see wildlife. Animals appear most often near bodies of water and in areas with thick woods right down to the road edge. Most animals are active at dawn and dusk, so be extra aware when driving at these times. Additionally, as you drive through populated areas, be on the lookout for domestic dogs and cats. Slow down and watch for driveways and be prepared for an animal to run out on the road. more Road Conditions Country roads don't receive the same level of maintenance as state highways and interstates. The roads of upstate New York can be filled with potholes, frost heaves, and crumbling road edges. Hitting any of these can do damage to your car or even cause an accident. Watch the roadside for signs denoting particularly treacherous areas, but also drive at a speed where you can identify and avoid the worst road problems. Blind Corners Twisty roads are one of the pleasures of driving in the country, but they can conceal hazards from your view. Driveways, pedestrians, animals, construction, and more could be hidden around that next corner. Slow down to a speed where you can stop within your sight distance before taking a corner. Anticipate that something will be on the road. Don't take for granted that the road will be clear. Slow Vehicles Unlike major highways, country roads are used by a wide variety of vehicles. Watch out for farm equipment, cyclists, and tourists out for a leisurely drive. Passing on country roads can be dangerous. If you meet a farm vehicle, it is best to wait until they can pull to the side of the road. For cyclists and slow-moving cars, wait until a straight section of road with good visibility before attempting to pass. Don't get impatient. Being safe will only cost you a few seconds. Limited Service Often when traveling on country roads, you'll be the only one on the road. Don't count on your cell phone working or getting help immediately. Prepare for every eventuality by stocking your car with the appropriate supplies such as warm clothes in the winter, extra water, snacks, and warning triangles to place on the road if you break down. Carrying a few extra items will make waiting for help easier. Driving country roads can be a blast. They take you far away from the stresses of the city and provide incredible scenery. If you follow these five tips, you'll stay safe and enjoy your journey.