History of Albany

The state capital, Albany lies 150 mi. north of New York in the valley of the Hudson River. It was given a great boost as an industrial and commercial center by the opening of the Erie Canal in 1825. There is a fine view of the town and the Hudson River from the Corning Tower of the modern Empire State Plaza. Albany has many fine old 18th and 19th c. buildings that have been carefully restored... More

in recent years. The Albany Institute of History and Art has one of the oldest collections in the United States (including pictures of the 19th c. Hudson River school).

Tourist Attractions in Albany

The grounds also include other Shaker buildings, the barnyard with animals, an herb garden and trail around the Ann Lee Pond Nature Preserve.

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Albany is a Neo-Gothic Revival church that was built in 1852. Highlights of the Cathedral include a carved pulpit, stained glass, as well as historic and artistic objects.

Court of Appeals Building
This building dates from 1842. It is a Greek Revival structure that houses New York's highest court.

First Church in Albany
First Church began in 1642, it's pulpit and weathervane date from 1656, and architect Philip Hooker designed it. Theodore Roosevelt was a member of First Church during his time as Governor of New York State.