Capital-Saratoga Region: Itinerary at a Glance
The Capital-Saratoga region of New York is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, natural beauty and famous horse racing. Its historic sites, outdoor activities, entertainment options and memorable dining attract group visitors.
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Enjoy These Great Attractions and More:
- New York State Capitol
- New York State Museum
- Self-Guided Hamilton in Albany Tour
- Saratoga National Historic Park
- Crailo State Historic Site
- Proctors Theatre
Saratoga Region, New York
Day-to-Day Capital-Saratoga Region, New York Itinerary
DAY 1 of Activities in New York’s Saratoga Region
Arriving in Albany, which was designated New York’s state capital in 1797. Construction of the Capital Building was completed in 1822 and was used until 1879. The current building was built between 1867 and 1899. A tour of the New York State Capitol, a National Historic Landmark, is a marvel of 19th-century architectural grandeur. The 45-minute tour includes the legislative chambers, Hall of Governors, Governor’s Reception Room, Hall of New York and historic staircases. Note the Ruth Bader Ginsburg portrait carving on the Great Western Staircase. Tours begin at the Empire State Plaza Visitors Center. There’s a gift shop and more than a dozen places on the concourse plaza to grab lunch on your own. Weekday group tours (10-plus adults) are by reservation only.
Established in 1836, the New York State Museum is the oldest and largest state museum in the U.S. and has over the years been home to some of the leading scientists in the nation. Its collection includes 16 million scientific items and one million cultural objects. More than 15 exhibitions are ongoing. Just a few of the most notable are Birds of New York, Fire Engine Hall, Black Capital: Harlem in the 1920s, The World Trade Center: Rescue, Recovery, Response and The New York State Museum Carousel.
There are a variety of accommodation options in the downtown area. Check in and relax before departing to a nearby downtown restaurant showcasing Albany’s evolving culinary scene.
OPTION: After dinner, a fun experience is the Self-Guided Hamilton in Albany Tour. One of our founding fathers, Hamilton spent much of his time in Albany. The walking tour highlights what he did in Albany as well as the challenges he faced. The tour begins at the Discover Albany Visitors Center and continues for six downtown stops.
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Saratoga Region, New York
DAY 2 of Things to Do in the Saratoga Region of NY
Depart for the hour drive to Saratoga National Historic Park, a turning point of the Revolutionary War. Arrive at the Visitors Center with an orientation film, exhibits and fiber-optic battlefield maps. Tours of the Battlefield are self-guided via a drive along the Tour Road. Highlights are the Philip Schuyler House, Saratoga Monument and the Saratoga Surrender Site.
Arrive at the Saratoga Heritage Area Visitor Center for the walking tour Grand, Gilded and Glorious: A Saratoga Stroll. Historic sites and points of interest capture the charm of Saratoga’s gilded age. The tour is 90 minutes followed by lunch in the award-winning downtown on your own and shopping the numerous shops, galleries and boutiques. There are other walking tours available that may be more conducive to your time schedule and interests.
Depart for Schenectady and a group dining favorite. The area offers an array of diverse culinary offerings. Tonight is special with entertainment at the historic Proctors Theatre. In the early 20th century, Proctors Theatre began as a vaudeville theatre. Its history tells a story of demise followed by renovation to become the Capital Region’s stop for Broadway shows, film and events. A flexible group policy of pricing and seating options make the Proctors Theatre a favorite of operators.
DAY 3 of Final Attractions in the Capital-Saratoga Region of New York
After breakfast and check out, we’re Going Dutch: Exploring Albany’s unique Dutch past. Albany was settled by the Dutch 100-years prior to the English arrival. Evidence of that early colonial power remains. Today, we’ll learn how Dutch traditions helped form our nation.
Begin your day at Crailo State Historic Site, a traditional Dutch home. This is the museum of the Colonial Dutch on the sparkling Hudson River. The Mabee Farm Historic Site is just west of Schenectady. There’s plenty to see and do at the oldest farm (1705) in the Mohawk Valley, so check seasonal hours of operation when planning your visit.
Returning to Albany, visit Philip Schuyler’s elegant mansion at the Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site. Learn more about this descendant from a wealthy Dutch family. Continuing on to the First Church of Albany, the second oldest church in New York State. Congregants included Schuyler, Hamilton and Teddy Roosevelt. The Ten Broeck Mansion was the home of Abraham Ten Broeck a State Senator and one of Albany’s first Mayors. The gardens are magnificent!
It has been a busy morning, but relax and enjoy a late lunch at one of the areas many dining establishments before heading home.
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