Playgrounds
43 parks with a playground, closest to downtown first.
- LaFayette Park0 mi from downtown
- Sheridan Park0.3 mi from downtown
- Hudson–Jay Park0.3 mi from downtown
Family
Things to do in Albany with kids
6 kinds of family outings, with the closest picks for each.
Family-friendly ideas around Albany, built from the city’s parks, libraries, local businesses and nearby public lands. Pick a section for the full list, a map and directions, and check the events calendar for this week’s story times, festivals and shows.
Indoor fun
Places to go when it’s too hot, cold or wet outside.
- Albany Art RoomGallery & cultural place
- Albany BarnGallery & cultural place
- Albany Center GalleryGallery & cultural place
Libraries
Story times, homework help and summer reading, free with a library card.
- Albany Public Library161 Washington Avenue
- Arbor Hill/West Hill Branch148 Henry Johnson Boulevard
- John A. Howe Branch105 Schuyler Street
Bakeries
5 local bakeries in Albany.
- Cheesecake MachismoAlbany
- Daisies PastelesAlbany
- Fiorello Bakery & DeliAlbany
Picnic spots
Day-use areas for a family picnic.
- Martin Van Buren National Historic Site20 mi south
- Saratoga National Historical Park24 mi north
- Grout Pond Campground49 mi northeast
Wildlife and nature
Refuges and lakes to spot birds and animals.
- Martin Van Buren National Historic Site20 mi south
- Saratoga National Historical Park24 mi north
- Thomas Cole National Historic Site30 mi south
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Things to do near Albany, NY
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THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
exploring albany, ny vlog
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What is there to do in Albany with kids?
Playgrounds (43), Indoor fun (12), Libraries (6), Bakeries (5), Picnic spots (21), Wildlife and nature (29). Each section links to the full list with maps and directions.
What can kids do in Albany for free?
Parks and playgrounds, library story times and many community events are free. See the free things to do and kids events pages for this week’s options.
What can families do in Albany when it rains or it’s hot?
Try the indoor ideas and the library, or check the kids and family events calendar.