• Albany is just two hours north of New York City.View of Albany, New York image by Ritu Jethani from Fotolia.com
  
  Albany, New York, is the capital of the Empire State and is located two hours north of New York City. The city is home to the state legislature and the governor's mansion. The Hudson River flows past Albany, and the neighboring cities of Schenectady and Troy comprise what is referred to as the "Tri-Cities" area.
  
  

Albany Institute of History and Art

• Aerial view of AlbanyView of Albany, New York image by Ritu Jethani from Fotolia.com
  
  You can learn about Henry Hudson's 1609 trip up the river that was later named after him, study world history, and enjoy classic art works at the Albany Institute. The institute regularly schedules "Art for All" events, at which family members can use art supplies and create their own works of art. Children under six are admitted free, and students with IDs receive discounted rates.
  
  Albany Institute of History and Art
  125 Washington Avenue
  Albany, NY 12210
  518-463-4478
  albanyinstitute.org
  
  

Dutch Apple Cruises

• Visitors can take a boat tour on the Hudson River.sunset over the Hudson image by Susan_NYC from Fotolia.com
  
  Dutch Apple Cruises operates boat tours along the Hudson River, affording passengers views of the city, bird-watching opportunities and shoreline wildlife views. The cruise guide narrates the tour, outlining the early history of the city and the region. Dutch Apple offers special tours and cruises going to the Troy Locks, Father's Day Cruises, and Fourth of July Fireworks Cruises. Phone ahead for reservations and tickets, and check the website for additional tour information.
  
  Dutch Apple Cruises
  Boarding at Madison Ave. & Broadway
  PO Box 395
  Albany, NY 12201
  518-463-0220
  dutchapplecruises.com
  
  

Adirondack Winery

• The Adirondack Winery in the neighboring community of Lake George offers wine tastings in its showroom. If you take the drive from Albany, you'll enjoy the southern Adirondack Mountains along the Adirondack Parkway, a scenic highway. Bring your camera and stop along the way to photograph the scenic overlooks and vistas or the lakes and mountains. Then head to the winery for samples. The wine room is open year-round.
  
  Adirondack Winery
  285 Canada Street
  Lake George, NY 12845
  518-668-9463
  adirondackwinery.com