With the cooler weather finally on the horizon, it’s time to start planning for Fall outings and activities. Albany and the greater surrounding area offers so much to do! For instance, there are numerous festivals going on in the month of September, and there are plenty of ongoing activities as well. Plus, one of the main attractions of the season, the changing leaves, are just starting to appear. Going well until the end of October, leaf peeping is a popular activity here in the Capital Region and in all of the Northeast. Take a look at this list of places for family friendly fall fun in and around Albany. And who knows, maybe we’ll see you in one of the local apple orchards or a pumpkin patch!
For starters, right here in the heart of Albany we have several wonderful public parks that are perfect for family outings. Within walking distance of our house, we have Lincoln Park- which is also minutes away from the Empire State Plaza.
The tennis courts have since been converted to grassy areas that are currently being used for youth soccer games. Lincoln Park also has a small playground, basketball court, and just on the other side of the park is the Empire State Plaza. Attractions there include the New York State Museum, the Corning Observation Tower, and the Egg.
And also in walking distance, or a very short drive, we have Washington Park.
Washington Park also has a playground, several large grassy areas, tennis courts, a small “lake” and the lakehouse. Near to Washington Park is Lark Street which has numerous shops and restaurants.
A little bit further outside of Albany, in Altamont, is Indian Ladder Farms. This has been my family’s favorite fall destination for apple and pumpkin picking.
They offer pick your own apple options in addition to having a wonderful farm store. On site, they make their own apple cider and most days you can see the donut machine in action.
You can also make this an all day destination by adding in a trip to nearby John Boyd Thacher State Park:
With breathtaking views of the capital region, Thacher State Park offers a few trails and numerous open spaces for picnics and viewing.
Other fun farms in the area include Liberty Ridge Farm, which offers a corn maze to it’s visitors.
Further outside of Albany, is Howe Caverns
With gorgeous views surrounding it’s fun adventures, Howe Caverns is located 40 miles away from Albany- making it a fun day trip.
Also within driving distance is Lake George.
From outlet shopping, to leaf peeping, to the Great Escape amusement park; Lake George makes for a fun weekend trip or day trip.
And while we’re talking about lakes and the beautiful Adirondacks, you can’t forget Lake Placid.
Host city of the 1980 Winter Olympic Games, Lake Placid truly does offer a bit of outdoor paradise. And if you’re into haunted history, be sure to check out the Sagamore Resort. Built in the 1880’s, the Sagamore Resort is listed as one of the top ten haunted hotels in the United States.
So, whether you’re staying right here in Albany or visiting the gorgeous surrounding area, there’s plenty of places to have some family friendly fall fun. I sure hope that you’ll take some time to visit!
What do you like to do with your family in the fall?
Kori
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