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Spring has finally arrived, which means it's once again time to get outside and play! Fortunately, Latham and the surrounding area has several nice parks where you can get some exercise and fresh air. Here are a few to get you started. The Crossings Located in Colonie, The Crossings is a large public park with plenty of recreational opportunities. It's a passive use park, which means it has nature trails you can hike, bike, or skate. It's 6.5 miles of multi-use trails meander through the 130 acres filled with woods, wildflower fields, marshes, and meadows. Restrooms and picnic pavilions are available to the public as well. Also, on Saturdays from May through October The Crossings hosts a Farmers Market from 9 a.m. through 1 p.m. Be sure to come and check out the many vendors selling produce, baked goods, flowers, and more. more Peebles Island State Park This island park sits at the confluence of the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers and has miles of wooded nature trails popular with hikers and joggers. It's also a great place to take the kids fishing, and you can use one of the picnic areas with grills for a family picnic. An abundance of wildlife visits the area including water birds, deer, and even eagles. Waterfalls may be viewed along the trail, and it's a picturesque spot for photographs. Prospect Park Located in Troy, Prospect Park covers 80 acres and was designed in 1903 by the first African-American graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Garnet Baltimore. It's best known for its 14-court tennis facility, and also includes handball courts, basketball courts, and a soccer field. You can enjoy a family picnic here in one of several pavilions, walk along a nature trail, and in the summer the kids can have a blast at the splash park. Washington Park In nearby Albany, Washington Park sits at the center of the city's mostly residential historic district. It was created in the 1870s and is home to several historical monuments. In 1998 this park was named one of the 100 most important parks in the U.S. by the American Association of Architects. The park covers about 89 acres with a huge, 5.2-acre lake, and contains over 100 different species of trees. Many community events and festivals take place here, and it's also a popular spot for sports, picnics, fishing, and jogging. If your kids aren't interested in the history of Albany, there's also a playground area for them to enjoy. Saratoga National Historical Park Another great place to combine fresh air with a history lesson, Saratoga National Historical Park is part of the National Park Service and a major Revolutionary War site. In 1777, the Saratoga Battlefield marked the turning point of the war, the first time the British army surrendered to the Patriots. The park includes four areas: the Battlefield, Schuyler House, Victory Woods, and Saratoga Monument. Guided tours are available. If you want to explore other recreational activities in the area, you can download a printable brochure covering the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, as well as a map of bicycle paths around Saratoga.

The mountains around Albany are filled with beautiful forests, lakes, and streams. The Capital Region begs to be explored by those with an adventurous spirit, and just because it's winter doesn't mean you have to stay snuggled up on the couch. Get out there and have some wintertime fun! Why not take a day trip to Tug Hill or hike along a frozen lake? We at Goldstein CDJR want our customers to be healthy, happy, and safe. Check out our All-Wheel Drive vehicles that can keep you safe in slippery situations.  These are three outdoor winter activities to try in the Capital Region. Snowshoeing If you like the peacefulness of a good hike, you're going to love snowshoeing! Discover the picturesque beauty of the upstate New York wilderness area in a pair of snowshoes. There are plenty of great areas for snowshoeing, including wildlife refuges, state parks, designated ski areas, and a lot of trails. It's not hard to find one perfect for your skill level. It just requires a little research and planning. Start here for a great article on skiing and snowshoeing. more Make sure you dress appropriately, take along fresh water, some snacks, and a charged cell phone in the event of an emergency. It's always best to go with someone. So, find a friend or family member and enjoy the crisp winter air. Together you can get some exercise while enjoying the tranquility of nature in the wintertime. It's a great way to beat the winter blues. Ice Skating Looking to do something a little less adventures and a little cheaper? Ice skating is the perfect choice for kids of all ages. There's something magical about ice skating. It feels nostalgic. The simple act of circling a frozen ice rink brings a smile to anyone's face. Empire State Plaza Ice Rink is an ideal place to learn to ice skate. It's open every day from December 1 through mid-March. Situated near Albany's regal State Capitol, it's a great way to take in the culture and ambiance of the area. The venue features a full-service snack bar during the weekends, otherwise you had better pack your own. It also has a skate lounge and available lockers. Snowmobiling Cave Country Riders is a popular snowmobiling club in the area and they love to welcome new members. Just like any new vehicle, try before you buy. Go out with a friend or rent one for a day to make sure you enjoy it. Safety is key. Never ride alone and it's important to wear the proper safety gear, such as a good helmet and boots. Just like when driving any vehicle, never drink and ride. Also, obey all trail signs and avoid riding over frozen water. Before long you'll be rushing across the snow-filled landscape, enjoying the beauty of the snow as it whizzes by. Check this out, for more information about the trails! Old Forge is a great option for a day trip during the winter. Regardless of whether you want to go snowmobiling, cross country skiing, or snowshoeing, you'll find a lot of great trails there. So, don't let yourself stay cooped up any longer. Get out there and enjoy the great outdoors with some fun wintertime recreation.

We know that there are a plethora of available activities in Albany. You have so many choices, but one that really stands above the rest is attending a performance at The Egg. This venue is an unusual collaboration between the Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza Performing Arts Center Corporation, a well know non-profit, and the State of New York. What Is It? The purpose of The Egg is to present quality performances and highlight unique and remarkable artists from around the world. Through successful alliances, the Corporation features incredible shows, spotlights performance artists, and fosters important relationships to enhance awareness and education of the arts. We at Goldstein CDJR also enjoy the arts and we're pleased to suggest these three awesome reasons to visit Albany's The Egg in Spring, 2018. more Zeppelin Complete When Led Zeppelin first hit the scene back in the early 1970s, some critic that lacked a creative ear for music predicted their tunes would go over like a Led Zeppelin. The band ignored the critic and decided to take the name — their music still is the benchmark of classic rock 'n' roll. Now, Misty Mountain productions proudly presents the one and only Hammer of the Gods, which showcases Led Zeppelin's legendary studio catalog with amazing precision. The six-piece ensemble has an iconic wall of sound that true Led Zeppelin fans will really appreciate. Hear all of your Zeppelin favorites, like “Whole Lot of Love,” and “Stairway to Heaven,” perfectly performed in a way that would even make Robert Plant and Jimmy Page feel proud. The show is Saturday April 21st and tickets start at $44.50. The Fab Faux: “The White Album” The Fab Faux commemorates the 50th anniversary of the world release of The Beatles "The White Album." They will be accompanied by the talented Hogshead Horns and the Creme Tangerine Strings and will perform album favorites such as “Rocky Racoon,” “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” and “Blackbird.” The show won't be all folk music though. They promise to toss in some hard rock, like “Helter Skelter.” Known for being one of most diverse albums from the Beatles, this rendition of “The White Album” is bound to make you twist and shout with glee. Unlike other tribute bands who try to imitate the Beatles, The Fab Faux features top studio musicians playing songs in a beautiful venue with class and dignity. Kansas Want to hear some classic rock 'n' roll by the original singer-songwriters themselves? Then you're in for a treat! With a career spanning over four incredible decades, Kansas never disappoints. The epic band released their debut album in 1974 and has since sold more than a whopping 30 million albums. They are best known for “Dust in the Wind,” a moving song about mortality that features an eerie mix of piano and violin. The Egg offers a lot more than just rock shows. They also provide comedy, films, dance performances, live theater, and family shows. It's a place to sit back, relax, and get lost in an extraordinary performance by the talented artist.   The image: Empire State Plaza Albany (NY) July 2015 is by Ron Cogswell and is shared under the creative commons license CC by 2.0, image is cropped.

Albany is a wonderfully romantic city, but you don't have to wait until sunset for a good date. If you're planning some time for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or just a fun get together around town, you'll find many choices that will leave a good impression on your companion. Try one of these four ideas for something unique on your next daytime date in Albany. Walk and Dine on Hamilton Street Are you taking your date out for a morning or afternoon meal? If so, plan on being impulsive! Take a walk down Hamilton Street and pick out one of the restaurants to try. Another option is to go for a post-breakfast or mid-afternoon dessert at Cheesecake Machismo. This bakery serves up some incredible cheesecakes in unique flavors such as root beer float and “Pay Dirt.” The cakes are baked daily, making this one of the best spots in New York for quality cheesecake. Cheesecake Machismo is fun and quirky, so dining in can be plenty of fun. But you could also take your food to go and walk a block over to Hudson-Jay Park. Another option is to head the other direction and walk down Madison Avenue, where you'll pass the scenic Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza. It's easy to find a spot to eat here during working hours, and sites like The Egg — a performing arts theater — and the New York State Museum are within walking distance. more Visit the New York State Museum Whether you're finishing up your cheesecake and ready for your next activity or are starting your date in downtown Albany, plan a stop at the New York State Museum. The museum commemorates famous moments in New York's history and gives visitors a closer look at the state's roots and culture. Permanent exhibits explore the Adirondack wildlife and ancient life in New York as well as more contemporary events, such as the rise of Harlem in the 1920s and the rescue efforts following the attacks on 9/11. Hike at John Boyd Thacher State Park With so much beautiful country around Albany, there's no reason to stay in the downtown area for your date. Wake up early for some exercise at John Boyd Thacher State Park. Catching the sunrise here can be wonderfully romantic, but you can enjoy the valley views any time of day. Take a walk on one of the numerous trails overlooking New York's lush forests, and find a place to sit for an intimate picnic. Go Climbing at Albany Indoor Rock Gym Another great and unique option for a date is to try indoor rock climbing at Albany Indoor Rock Gym. Day passes cost $12, and an equipment rental — harness and climbing shoes — is only $6.50 per person. The gym also hosts discount nights and an early bird special: $8 per pass on Wednesdays from 3 to 6 p.m. If you're new to the sport or your date is, you can book some one-on-one professional instructions for $45. Albany is a lovely place for taking someone out for a first date or spending time with your long-standing special someone. Remember one of these ideas the next time you need some inspiration for a daytime date.   The photo New York State Library and Museum is by Mark Brennan and my be shared under CC  BY-SA 2.0 - this image was cropped from the original.

As the capital city of New York, Albany is full of opportunities for history and culture. If you're visiting and are curious about the area's roots, stop by these five interesting historical attractions in Albany. Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site is a gorgeous mansion dating back to the 1700s. Guided tours and visits offer a look into what life was like in New York centuries ago, but the home is also famous for the success of prior inhabitants. Elizabeth Schuyler — the daughter of the mansion's owner — wed Alexander Hamilton in 1780, and they hosted their ceremony at the Schuyler Mansion. Take a guided tour and visit the exhibits commemorating the life of this iconic property. more New York State Parole Officers Memorial The New York State Parole Officers Memorial in Albany is a large, granite tablet honoring New York officers who have died in the line of duty. This site is worth a visit for quiet contemplation and to honor the sacrifices that these individuals have made. Similar historic sites in Albany worth visiting include: New York State Vietnam Memorial New York State Crime Victims Memorial New York State Korean War Veterans Memorial World War I Monument World War II Memorial State of New York Police Officers Memorial The New York State Fallen  Firefighters Memorial New York State Capitol Visitors interested in local history must pay a visit to the New York State Capitol at State Street and Washington Avenue. Architect Thomas Fuller first drafted drawings for the building in 1867, and the site has served as the county seat of New York since the 1880s. You can explore many other facts during a visit here. Come by for a guided tour Mondays through Fridays at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. or Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Weekday visitors can take an audio tour through the historic halls. Underground Railroad History Project of the Capital Region The Underground Railroad History Project of the Capital Region is a museum off Livingston Avenue commemorating the role that the city played as a refuge for thousands of African-Americans pursuing freedom after the Civil War. Visit to learn more about the Underground Railroad Movement and the path it took through New York specifically. USS Albany Heritage Exhibit Visit the USS Albany Heritage Exhibit to explore Albany's unique naval history. The first ship named USS Albany launched in 1846, and four other ships have carried that name throughout history. The exhibit displays artifacts from the ships, pictures of the vessels, and other memorabilia related to the USS Albany ships. Plan a stop here to learn about the history of each vessel as well as the individuals who served on a USS Albany during their lifetime. History buffs and those looking to add some variety to their vacation itineraries will be spoiled for choice in Albany. Pay a visit to one of these sites or go to one of the memorials honoring the history and people of Albany, New York.

When the temperatures start to drop, plenty of people head outside to enjoy the winter recreation opportunities Albany has to offer. One of these popular activities is ice skating. Whether you've been skating for years or you're just getting started, check out a few of these best ice skating rinks in Albany. more Empire State Plaza One of the most popular places in the area to skate is at Empire State Plaza. Starting on Dec. 1, 2017, skaters can enjoy gliding around the outdoor rink under the shadow of the Capitol. The rink stays open until Mar. 11, 2018, and it offers several events throughout the year, such as learn-to-skate clinics and free hockey lessons. If you don't own your own skates, you can rent a pair at the rink. Fridays are also free skate rental days. Washington Park Lake Another great place to go ice skating outdoors is at Washington Park Lake in Washington Park. The city monitors the ice thickness of the lake and clears a portion of it for ice skating when the ice gets 7 inches or thicker. The park doesn't offer skate rentals, so you'll have to bring your own to enjoy skating here. Additionally, while there are lights at the park, skating is only permitted until sundown. Albany County Hockey Facility If you prefer skating indoors, head to the Albany County Hockey Facility. Along with youth and adult hockey games and figure skating, the facility is also open for public skating 10 months out of the year. If you're looking for some of the latest skating gear, stop by the Hockey Store N More Pro Shop. There's also a skate rental if you don't have your own skates. When you get hungry, the Center Ice Café concession stand serves snacks and drinks. Swinburne Ice Rink The rink at Swinburne Ice Rink has a pavilion covering it, so you can enjoy open-air skating and protection from the elements at the same time. The ice rink is open seven days a week from December through March. You'll enjoy free skating and hockey lessons for children ages five through nine on Sundays, and skate rentals are available for those who don't have their own. You can also take advantage of the open hockey hours and open stick and puck practice. Additionally, there's free parking available next door at Bleecker Stadium. Buckingham Pond Another lake you can ice skate on in Albany is Buckingham Pond at Buckingham Lake Park. The city will periodically check the ice for safety, so as long as you don't see a sign prohibiting skating, you're welcome to hit the ice for a game of hockey or practicing your figure eights. There are only a few lights at the park, so skating after dark isn't recommended. Whether you're into hockey or figure skating, you'll enjoy some fun time on the ice this winter when you check out these top spots around Albany for ice skating.

New York is known for its apple trees, and with these delicious apples comes an excellent selection of cider. When you're looking to sample some of the best cider the Capital Region has to offer, check out a few of these cideries, cider houses, and brewpubs around Albany. more Nine Pin Nine Pin is dedicated to creating exceptional ciders, which is why the company only uses apples that come from orchards in the Capital Region and Hudson Valley. Stop by the tasting room in the heart of downtown Albany and you'll discover a rotating selection of hard ciders, local beers, wines, and cocktails. You can pair your drink with a cheese and charcuterie plate or house-made panini. While you're there, be sure to take a tour of the 17,000-square-foot production facility to get a sample of cider in a souvenir glass. Wayside Cider Located about 90 miles southwest of Albany in the tiny town of Andes is Wayside Cider. The company is a collaboration between Irene Hussey and Alex Wilson. The two wanted to focus on creating ciders that showcased the flavor of the land. They pick and graft wild and abandoned apple trees to preserve the past and showcase the region. Stop by the taproom to enjoy a drink, buy a bottle or case of the cider, and savor some fresh, farm-to-table food. Sundström Cider Sundström Cider is a small cider producer located about an hour south of Albany in the little town of Milan. Leif Sundström, who started the company, focuses on selecting wild-harvested apples for his ciders. His approach to creating the cider is to have as little intervention as possible. Instead, he lets the natural yeasts ferment the cider to bring out its brightness and crispness. If you're interested in purchasing some of the cider in the Capital Region, you'll find bottles at Twenty-Two Second St Wine Co, Peck's Arcade, and Lucas Confectionery. Joe Daddy's Hard Cider Produced by Brookview Station Winery, Joe Daddy's Hard Cider uses fruit grown on Goold Orchards that's just 9 miles south of Albany in Castleton. Founded in 1910, Goold Orchards is the oldest family-owned and operated apple farm in the Capital Region. Cider master Joe Ciccolella has over 35 years of experience hand-selecting and blending the apples used for both the fresh cider and hard cider. Stop by the tasting room at the orchard to find hard cider flavors that include regular apple, apple cranberry, and triple hopped. Slyboro Ciderhouse Slyboro Ciderhouse makes still, sparkling, and ice ciders from apples grown in its orchard just over 60 miles north of Albany in Granville. You can stop by the tasting room at the orchard to try some of the unique creations, or you can buy bottles at Capital Wine and Empire Wine in Albany. The popularity of cider is making a comeback in America, and if you'd like to try some of the best options in the Capital Region, head out and discover a few of these cider houses.

Autumn is the perfect time of year to enjoy the open air and rich, vivid colors of the changing leaves. And what better way to capture the beauty of the season than with a trip to one of upstate New York's top outdoor destinations? Here are just four spots in and around Albany where you can catch a view of the area's blooming fall foliage. more Albany Pine Bush Preserve The Albany Pine Bush Preserve has approximately 18 miles of multiple-use trails that range in difficulty from easy to moderate. You'll journey past gradual slopes, sand dunes, and woodland areas, and you'll be amazed at the 1,500 plant and animal species that inhabit the lands. You'll also get the chance to enjoy activities such as hiking, jogging, mountain biking, hunting, and bird watching. As you make your way along the many trails, don't forget to look around and take in the abundant fall foliage. This season, the Albany Pine Bush Preserve is hosting a 2.6-mile hike for anyone interested in exploring the park's enchanting autumn scenery. John Boyd Thacher State Park Located just 15 miles southwest of Albany is John Boyd Thacher State Park. Here, you'll find plenty of open fields, woodland areas, rocky slopes, limestone cliffs, and more than 25 miles of hiking and biking trails. Plus, with striking panoramic views of the Hudson and Mohawk valleys as well as the Green and Adirondack mountains, this state park is the ideal spot for capturing lovely views of the surrounding foliage. With more than 140 campsites, you can explore the area's native trees and colorful leaves for days. Catskill Mountains The Catskill Mountains are located about two hours away from Albany in southeastern New York, though this region is still a top destination for locals to enjoy all that autumn has to offer. Visit the Catskill Forest Preserve for sightings of wildlife and stunning landscape views. Take a scenic drive past rolling farm country and twisting roads or opt for a hike along the various trails surrounding the mountains. Notable pathways include the Giant Ledge with its exceptional views of the Catskills, the North Mountain trail that overlooks the Hudson River and spans 6 miles along thick forests and waterfalls, and Sam's Point with its towering views of the Verkeerderkill Falls, Catskills, and abundant foliage. Adirondack Mountains About two hours north of Albany lie the Adirondack Mountains. Here you'll find various summits, waterfalls, forested areas, and more than 2,000 miles of quality hiking trails. Get into the autumn spirit this year with a trek along Mt. Jo, Pharaoh Mountain, Panther Mountain, Cranberry Lake, Auger Falls, and the Otter Creek Horse Trails, all ideal paths for enjoying the Adirondacks' flourishing foliage. For the best photo ops, though, take a trip aboard the Amtrak Adirondack Train that departs from Pennsylvania Station. Along the way, you'll get 180-degree views of the mountains and greenery via a glass dome as you venture from New York, past the Hudson Valley, into Montreal. Make the most of autumn in Albany with a visit to these top four places guaranteed to deliver exceptional views of the surrounding fall foliage.

Nothing gets you prepared for a busy day like a refreshing cup of coffee. Whether you're looking for something to replenish your energy for work or school, or you're simply craving one of your favorite caffeinated beverages, there are plenty of coffee shops in Albany to please your taste buds. Here are four local spots we recommend: more Stacks Espresso Bar Open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Stacks Espresso Bar is a small coffee shop in Albany with friendly staff and quick service. The menu offers plenty of choices for coffee lovers, including drip coffee, cold-brewed iced coffee, pour over coffee, and caffè Americano. You can try one of the delicious milk drinks, too, like a macchiato, latte, cappuccino, frappe, or hot chocolate. If you're in the mood for a tasty treat, pair your beverage with baked goods such as chocolate croissants, scones, donuts, cookies, Danish pastries, or bagels. Locations: 260 Lark St. and in downtown Albany at 488 Broadway. Uncommon Grounds When you want fresh-roasted coffee and made-from-scratch bagels, Uncommon Grounds is your go-to destination. There are plenty of tables available for you to use your laptop, and the shop's extensive menu makes it easy to find something you will like. Popular items include the espresso frappe, iced coffee, chai lattes, café au lait, and hot chocolate. Breakfast sandwiches and salads are also available if you're feeling a bit hungry. If you're interested in stopping by, Uncommon Grounds is open Monday through Thursday and on Sundays from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. as well as Fridays and Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Location: 1235 Western Ave. Hudson River Coffee House This next destination is ideal for college students and anyone looking for a good time. Hudson River Coffee House offers a cozy setting for visitors, and you'll find plenty of hearty menu items like breakfast sandwiches, muffins, croissants, and hoagies to satisfy your palate. However, we know your main priority is finding the right coffee. This shop has a full espresso bar with lattes, chai lattes, cappuccinos, and other delicious drinks. You'll find opportunities to relax as well with board games, vintage game machines, a jukebox, free Wi-Fi, live music, and open mic night on Thursdays. If you're looking for a late-evening cup of java, Hudson River is open daily from 8 a.m. to midnight. Location: 227 Quail St. 3Fish Coffee Situated near Washington Park, 3Fish Coffee is a quaint coffee joint that fills up fast, though service is quick. It's open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on weekends from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The intimate atmosphere makes it ideal for doing work, and the outside patio is a nice option for those who want some fresh air. If you're unsure what to order, 3Fish Coffee offers a variety of caffeinated beverages, including iced coffee, caffè Americano, and specialty lattes with rosemary, brown sugar, cardamom rose, or vanilla flavoring. Don't forget to try the scones, glazed cinnamon buns, and seasonal toasts too! Location: 466 Madison Ave. If you're on a mission to find the best cups of coffee in Albany, these four local shops are definitely worth a visit.

Fall is the most beautiful time of the year. Leaves change to reveal vibrant colors that blanket moutainsides and line highways. With so much to see and crisp, cozy weather, this is the perfect time for a road trip in your new car. As Upstate New York offers breathtaking scenery, here are three trips you must make. more Route 9 From Albany to Lake Champlain Passing through places like Saratoga Springs and Moreau Lake State Park, Route 9 offers plenty of great stops with a beautiful destination. Visit the Saratoga Automobile Museum to see vintage cars, or check out a world famous horse race at the Saratoga Racetrack. Rent a cozy cottage at Moreau Lake State Park and hike through the hardwood forests. Ride some rollercoasters at The Great Escape Six Flags Amusement Park in Queensbury. Once you arrive at Lake Champlain, drive to the top of Mount Defiance at Fort Ticonderoga for an outdoor lesson on the Revolutionary War. Route 20 Along the Finger Lakes Stretching along the northern tips of the Finger Lakes, Route 20 will provide you with an unforgetable drive. The town of Skaneateles offers a range of relaxing stays with lakeside cottages, inns, and spas. For the American history buffs, Auburn is home to the Harriet Tubman and William Seward houses. Take a quick turn to the north at Seneca Falls to visit the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. Geneva on the Lake is known as the "Crown Jewel of the Finger Lakes," offering a luxurious experience to all visitors. Finish off with a scenic sky ride at Roseland Park for a perfect view of Canandaigua Lake. NY 28 from Warrensburg to Utica Known as the Central Adirondack Trail, NY 28 will take you through the wilderness of the Catskills and Adirondacks. This is the perfect trip for an adventure lover. From kayaking to hiking to fishing and more, there is plenty to do and sights to see. Drive through the Hudson Forge Wilderness and see one of the highest waterfalls in the Adirondacks, OK Slip Falls. Camp out at Raquette Lake, the largest natural lake in the Adirondacks or stay at the Big Moose Inn in Eagle Bay and enjoy the Stillwater Reservoir. Old Forge, the base camp of the Adirondacks, is home to McCauley Mountain, a great place for skiers and hikers alike. Upstate New York offers routes for every type of road tripper. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or new adventures, there is a place for you.

The classic diner will always be one of America's favorite traditions. Each region has its own take on the best kinds of comfort food. The Albany area is no exception, check out these five spots for that beloved diner experience. more Capital City Diner Located in the exciting Capital District, Capital City Diner offers a classic look with modern flare. They are open for breakfast all the way through dinner until midnight for even those late-night cravings. With a diverse menu ranging from burgers to chicken parmigiana, you are bound to find something you like. The drink options are as various as the food choices, including old-fashioned fountain beverages like floats and egg creams. Check out the local events happening in the district to enjoy some entertainment after dinner. Gateway Diner Known as "Albany's Hometown Diner" since 1971, the Gateway Diner is a must-visit. Breakfast is served all day, so you can enjoy chicken and biscuits or some delicious french toast even for dinner. If you love desserts, you can have your cake and eat pie too with nine types of cake and eight types of pie all made fresh, on-site, daily. Don't have room for a slice after dinner? Choose from even more whole cakes and pies available to take home and share with the family. Jack's Diner Established in 1947, Jack's Diner is a real classic. A stainless steel exterior and a fire engine red interior will make you feel like you've jumped back in time. Feel at home while dining at a place like Jack's that has been such a staple in its community for over 60 years. Try their famous Jack Burger or the corned beef sandwich, a customer favorite. Make sure to stop in during different days of the week to experience their rotating soup and dinner specials. Dan's Place Two Dan's Place Two is named after its original location, Donna and Dan's Place, which opened in 1977. The restaurant moved to a new location 11 years later, but took its traditional diner charm along with it. Now run by the original owner's children, Dan's Place Two continues to offer quality breakfast and lunch. Be sure to visit before dinner time, as it is only open until 5 p.m. the majority of the week, for some pancakes, bacon, and coffee. Farmer Boy Diner and Restuarant Open daily, Farmer Boy Diner is a great place to enjoy any meal. Their extensive menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner offer something for everyone. From puff pastry, to gyros, to steak, each member of the family will leave happy. If you're a lover of all things pumpkin, their pumpkin ravioli is a sweet twist on pasta with a cinnamon and walnut filling, topped with sage cream and toasted almonds. Having some loved ones over for a celebration? Contact their leader of catering for detail-oriented and superb service. Jump in your favorite ride, and head to one of these top diners for a great bite today!

Every year the sweltering summer heat sets in. This year, beat the heat. Grab your favorite float and jump in the Jeep; it's time to hit up the best swimming holes in Albany. more Slip Slide Around Water Slide World Located in Lake George, Water Slide World offers a break from the summer heat. Splash among the waves in the Hurricane Harbor Wave Pool. Water Slide World has two unique water-filled playgrounds for the little ones to splash about. Head to Pirate Ship Cove for treasure or the Aruba-Scuba-Duba Bay to discover the wonders of the deep blue sea. For the thrill-seeking, adrenaline junkies, dare to splash down the Pirate Plunge slides or race your friends down the Tasmanian Twisters. Swim Next to a Waterfall in Ithaca At Robert H. Treman State Park, you will experience stunning gorges and cascading falls. Hike up the winding trail to spot 12 different waterfalls. Once you've worked up a sweat, cool off in the pools at the base of a waterfall. Consider camping out at your next swim spot. Robert H. Treman State Park offers camping for both tents and RVs. You can even reserve a cabin. Take the weekend and enjoy a refreshing dip in nature's pool. Float on the Battenkill River The gentle Battenkill River flows between the rolling hills of New York, crossing the state line into Vermont. Cool off and cross state borders with this unique river experience. The Battenkill teems with wildlife. Spot an eagle soaring high above or catch some trout along the river's edge. Activities include the chance to float on a raft, canoe, or kayak on this pristine watershed. Vendors offer custom trips or you can put your own kayak in the bed of your Dodge Ram and head to shoreline. Either way, the Battenkill promises a relaxing day on the water. Run Through the Spray Pools of Albany Albany boasts a wonderful public pool system, but did you know about its many spray pools? A spray pool includes water features that spray you down and cool you off. These pools are prefect for kids looking to make a splash without swimming. Albany cools off with 11 different spray parks throughout the city. Check out Colonie Street Park, Swinburne Spray Pool, or Upper Lincoln Spray Pool. Each pool has a unique way to spray, guaranteeing laughs and smiles. Cool off at the Million Dollar Beach Although the name suggests opulence, you'll only need to pay for parking at this popular swim spot. Pack a picnic and take the Jeep Compass on a little beach tour. This family friendly beach not only offers plenty of sun and sand but also volleyball, changing rooms, grills, and boat launch. Hitch up the boat to the Ram and indulge in a day of fun on the water. Nothing says summer quite like making a splash off the side of the boat or wading in the water with soft sand beneath your toes. With the right ride, it will be a breeze getting in some water fun this summer. Make a splash this summer in some of the swimming holes in the Albany area.