The oldest city in New York State, Albany has recently celebrated its 350th anniversary, located near the junction of the Mohawk and Hudson rivers, a transportation center for hundreds of years. Modern-day Albany is a hub of transportation, business, and culture, carefully preserving the colonial architecture as a reminder of Albany's rich colonial days. The center of activity and the most prominent landmark in Albany is the Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza, comprised of several important government buildings. The plaza also has a cultural center, museums, shopping areas, and an office tower, the tallest structure in the state outside of New York City.

The Hudson-Mohawk Bikeway offers pleasant biking and jogging paths along the two rivers. Albany also has numerous parks and greenways; the Albany Carver, Hilsman and Shackleford parks are quite popular with residents and visitors, offering a variety of recreational and leisure activities. The nightlife in Albany features a large variety of pubs, restaurants and clubs to suit all moods and budgets. Lark Street is a very popular hot spot with events, concerts and festivals held throughout the year.