The best things to do in Albany County

MVP Arena keeps the Capital Region buzzing with a lineup that swings from Siena Saints hoops and Albany Firebirds action to touring concerts, monster trucks, and even an esports showcase. Peek at the calendar this week, pick a vibe, then let the big night energy do the rest.

From the Albany newsletter, September 26, 2026

Whether you're sharpening your short game or chasing that pure tee shot, Shaker Ridge Country Club brings a classic 1929, par-71 layout in the heart of the Capital District that even top PGA pros have enjoyed.

From the Albany newsletter, September 29, 2026

Catch a flick under the stars at Jericho Drive-In this week, then follow it up with a swirl from the on-site full-serve ice cream parlor. Rotating flavors of the week keep things interesting, and the whole setup feels like an effortless summer reset right here at home.

From the Albany newsletter, August 27, 2026

Mill Road Acres Golf Course and Driving Range is that easygoing, family-owned spot where beginners actually feel welcome and regulars can tune up the short game without eating the whole day. Hit a bucket, sneak in a quick round, then reward yourself at the on-site Otis and Oliver's.

From the Troy newsletter, October 18, 2026

Billy Beez Crossgates Mall is a sprawling indoor playground with over 1,000 feet of wild slides, a ballistics arena that puts old-school ball pits to shame, and a Honey Cafe for quick refuels. Perfect when the weather or your sofa says nope, just let them loose.

From the Albany newsletter, October 10, 2026

Scene One Spectrum 8 Theatres keeps Albany’s cinephile heart happy with a smart mix of indie standouts and crowd-pleasers, rotating lobby art from local creators, and those mint brownies that somehow disappear before the previews. Call it your midweek mood reset.

From the Albany newsletter, October 5, 2026

Posh destination for golf with a sprawling course and views of the Helderbergs hills. Wedding ceremonies and receptions have been held here, along with a variety of other celebrations.

Golf course offering a 27-hole championship layout, as well as a driving range.

Whether you want to sling go-karts around tight turns, settle rivalries on a flower-framed mini-golf course, tune your swing in the batting cages, or crush a post-game cone from Control Tower Ice Cream, All 4 Fun Entertainment turns a normal afternoon into pure grin fuel.

From the Schenectady newsletter, September 10, 2026

Capital Hills at Albany is a public course that runs along Norman's Kill on six holes, marrying postcard views with real water and bunker trouble. Sneak in a round this week, then hit Martel's Restaurant for a low-key bite or plot your next tournament with the crew.

From the Albany newsletter, October 4, 2026

Thinking about a place where golf mornings turn into swimming afternoons and easygoing dinners with neighbors, Wolferts Roost Country Club nails the family club vibe. Membership gets you golf, tennis, swimming, a fitness center, dining, and a steady calendar of social events right here in the Capital Region.

From the Albany newsletter, September 22, 2026

5 Wits Albany drops you into three live-action adventures: Deep Space, Drago’s Castle, and Tomb, where your team interacts with immersive environments, solves puzzles and challenges, and your performance changes the ending.

From the Albany newsletter, October 13, 2026

When your group chat can’t agree, Apex Entertainment Albany at Crossgates Mall settles it with 22 lanes of candlepin or ten-pin bowling, a 60+ game arcade, laser tag, bumper cars, Hologate VR, sports simulators and pool tables. Solid American fare keeps the good times rolling.

From the Albany newsletter, October 19, 2026

From an Apple or Zara run to arcade showdowns at Dave & Buster's, an IMAX flick, standup at FunnyBone Comedy Club, and a quick reset at Spa Mirbeau, Crossgates Mall makes errands feel almost fun. When Albany weather or your to do list goes sideways, this one stop covers it.

From the Albany newsletter, October 2, 2026