by Brian Capps
Looking for the ultimate guide to the fun things to do in Albany NY?
Whether you're a local seeking fresh adventures or a visitor exploring the city for the first time, Albany is packed with fun activities and hidden gems!
From thrilling adventures to laid-back entertainment, there’s truly something for everyone! And the best part? You can enjoy it all without breaking the bank.
Stick around as we uncover the top 10 fun things to do in Albany NY, guaranteed to make your day unforgettable!
Ready to dive in? Let’s go!
1. Dive into Unforgettable Escape Room Experiences at All In Adventures
Escape rooms are more than just games — they’re immersive challenges that bring friends, families, and coworkers together for unforgettable experiences! Feel free to learn more about what an escape room is.
At All In Adventures, located in the Crossgates Mall, you’ll find one of the most fun things to do in Albany NY. Step into captivating themed rooms, solve intricate puzzles, and race against the clock to complete your mission.
These escape room activities are perfect for sharpening your critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, all while having an absolute blast!
Whether you’re a first-timer or an escape room pro, the variety of themes and difficulty levels ensures fun for all ages and skill levels. Feel free to explore the wide range of escape room experiences they offer.
But hold on, friends! There's more than just the games! All In Adventures offers a wide range of party packages too.
Planning a team-building event, a unique birthday celebration, or a fun family outing? Escape rooms at All In Adventures offer something for everyone!
Even better, they’re a budget-friendly way to create lasting memories, with prices starting at just $29.89 per person.
Worried about being physically confined? Don't be! You're never actually locked in, so if you need to step out for any reason, you can do it any time. Safety first!
So, if you’re searching for fun things to do in Albany NY that combine excitement and teamwork, make All In Adventures your next stop. Their kid and family-friendly escape rooms are sure to leave you smiling!
BOOK YOUR ESCAPE ROOM ADVENTURES TODAY!
Location: 1 Crossgates Mall Rd, Albany, NY 12203
Enter on the second floor between J.C. Penney and Pottery Barn, and turn left at the escalators. You’ll find All In Adventures between Athleta and Zara, across from Banana Republic.
You may also use the Crossgates Mall Directory to find All In Adventures.
2. Axe Throwing Thrills at Far Shot
Looking for more fun things to do in Albany NY? Head over to Far Shot, the Capital Region’s largest axe-throwing venue!
Whether you're planning a team-building event, a date night, or just looking to try something new, Far Shot promises an unforgettable experience.
Guided by expert coaches, including the Head Coach of the World Axe Throwing League, you’ll learn the art of axe throwing in a safe and fun environment.
With prices starting at just $25 per person, it’s the perfect activity for groups of all sizes. Book a session on Mondays, and enjoy the special deal of $20 per person for an hour of axe throwing!
But that's not all, friends! Far Shot also offers knife throwing and virtual archery with interactive targets, adding even more excitement to your visit. You can even bundle activities starting at just $30 per person for more fun-packed moments.
In between throws, relax in their mezzanine lounge with food, drinks, and free arcade games. Don’t miss Wing Night Wednesdays, where you can enjoy half-price wings and bold new flavours.
If you're searching for the best fun things to do in Albany NY, Far Shot is your go-to destination for memorable experiences that combine friendly competition with plenty of laughs.
Location: Far Shot Albany, 69 N Pearl St, Albany, NY 12207, United States
3. Conquer New Heights at Albany’s Indoor Rockgym
Albany’s Indoor Rockgym (A.I.R.) is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers, offering one of the best things to do in Albany NY!
Conveniently located near Westgate Plaza, this rock climbing gym has been a local favourite since 1994, offering unique and exhilarating experiences for climbers of all skill levels.
Albany’s Indoor Rockgym boasts hand-sculpted climbing walls featuring floor-to-ceiling cracks, bouldering routes, and top-rope climbs. For those looking to push their limits, the gym also offers lead climbing routes that span the entire length of the ceiling.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! A.I.R. is home to the nation’s only indoor caving system, complete with a 60-foot indoor zipline, a glass slide, cargo nets, and crystal mirror rooms for a one-of-a-kind adventure.
Their mission goes beyond just climbing. A.I.R. is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community. With a strong focus on safety and technique, their expert staff ensures every climber feels confident and supported. Whether you're a seasoned climber or a curious first-timer, you'll find challenges that suit your abilities and opportunities to grow.
Plan your visit to Albany’s Indoor Rockgym and experience an adventure like no other. Open seven days a week, this is the perfect place to explore, climb, and conquer.
Discover why A.I.R. is one of the most exciting fun things to do in Albany NY!
Location: 4c, Vatrano Rd, Albany, NY 12205, United States
4. Discover Your Inner Ninja at Albany Ninja Lab
Looking for high-energy, family-friendly fun?
The Albany Ninja Lab offers an action-packed experience for all ages and abilities. Inspired by the hit show American Ninja Warrior and its predecessor, the Saratoga Ninja Lab, this 12,000-square-foot facility is the ultimate playground for aspiring ninjas and fitness enthusiasts alike.
If you’re exploring fun things to do in Albany NY, this gym is a must-visit! Albany Ninja Lab features an impressive lineup of obstacles, from iconic warped walls and salmon ladders to quintuple steps and an elite parkour area.
Whether you're a beginner finding your footing or a seasoned athlete looking for a challenge, their skilled coaches provide guidance and support to help you conquer each obstacle while building strength and stamina. For competitive ninjas, the gym also offers the opportunity to participate in local, regional, and national competitions.
It’s not just about fitness—it’s about fostering a supportive and inclusive community. The Albany Ninja Lab stands by principles of positivity, teamwork, and leaving every session stronger and happier than before.
Programs like kids’ classes, team training, school-break camps, and Open Gym nights cater to all levels, ensuring everyone finds their Ninja flow.
For the little adventurers, the Tiny-Ninja program introduces kids aged 2-5 to the world of ninja fitness in a fun and safe environment. And for birthdays or special events, you can party like a ninja with unforgettable celebrations tailored to your group.
Albany Ninja Lab is more than a gym—it’s an exciting space to unleash your inner Ninja while creating lasting memories. Whether you're training hard or just looking to have fun, this is one of the most dynamic and exhilarating activities Albany has to offer!
Location: 161 Washington Ave Ext Ste 104B, Albany, NY 12205, United States
5. Unleash Your Inner Detective at The Dinner Detective
If you're searching for unique things to do in Albany NY, The Dinner Detective is the ultimate destination for an evening of intrigue and entertainment.
This one-of-a-kind dinner show immerses you in a hilarious true-crime mystery while you enjoy a fantastic plated dinner. The twist? The actors are hidden among the audience, and anyone in the room could be the culprit—or even the Prime Suspect!
Unlike traditional mystery shows, The Dinner Detective’s interactive format ensures an evening filled with surprises and laughs. With its award-winning performance and seamless blend of comedy and suspense, every moment keeps you guessing.
Whether you’re solving clues alongside friends or simply soaking in the fun, this show delivers an unforgettable night of entertainment!
For those planning private events or special celebrations, The Dinner Detective offers customizable experiences that can transform any gathering into a thrilling adventure.
Whether hosted at their venue or brought directly to your home, office, or event space, it’s a perfect way to spice up group outings or corporate gatherings.
With rave reviews and a loyal following, this dinner show stands out among the top fun things to do in Albany NY.
Ready to catch the culprit? Book your tickets today and dive into an evening of delicious food, captivating mystery, and non-stop laughter!
Location: Inside Hilton Garden Inn, 62 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, United States
6. Dive into Thrilling Adventures at 5 Wits Albany
When it comes to unforgettable things to do in Albany NY, 5 Wits Albany at Crossgates Mall offers an unparalleled live-action adventure experience.
Spanning a massive 12,000-square-foot space, this state-of-the-art venue invites you to dive into three immersive adventures: Deep Space, Drago’s Castle, and Tomb.
Each adventure is packed with interactive puzzles, challenges, and surprises, where your choices influence the story's outcome. Whether you're a first-timer or a returning explorer, the dynamic difficulty levels and hidden secrets ensure every visit feels fresh and exciting.
Unlike escape rooms, 5 Wits delivers a cinematic, hands-on experience that combines the thrills of a video game with the magic of a live performance.
You’ll navigate through lifelike environments, crack intricate codes, and rise to exhilarating challenges that test your wit, courage, and teamwork. It’s an adrenaline-pumping journey like no other.
5 Wits Albany is also perfect for special events, offering customizable experiences for birthday parties, school field trips, and corporate team-building activities.
Their spacious event rooms, catering options, and accommodating staff make it easy to plan a memorable adventure for any occasion.
Located on the first floor of Crossgates Mall between Regal Cinemas and Macy’s, 5 Wits is open seven days a week, making it one of the most accessible and exciting things to do in Albany NY.
Ready to immerse yourself in a world of adventure? Book your tickets now and prepare to conquer the challenges that await!
Location: 1 Crossgates Mall Rd, Albany, NY 12203, United States
7. Experience Timeless Entertainment at The Palace Theatre
The Palace Theatre stands as a beacon of cultural and historical significance in downtown Albany NY. Since its grand opening in October 1931, this iconic venue has been enchanting audiences with its architectural splendour and diverse entertainment offerings.
Originally built during the Depression as the largest theatre in a city renowned for its luxurious movie houses, the Palace Theatre is the only one of its era still thriving today, a testament to its enduring charm.
From riveting concerts to captivating theatrical performances, the Palace Theatre continues to be a cornerstone of Albany's entertainment scene. Enjoying a show here is one of the best things to do in Albany NY!
This historic venue blends nostalgia with modern vibrancy, hosting an eclectic lineup of popular acts and cultural events that appeal to all generations.
Whether you're drawn to its storied past or its dynamic present, the Palace Theatre promises an unforgettable experience.
Don't miss the chance to witness history in the making at one of Albany's most treasured landmarks!
Location: 19 Clinton Ave, Albany, NY 12207, United States
8. Discover the Magic of Theatre at Park Playhouse
For over 21 years, Park Playhouse has been a beloved cultural institution in Albany, NY, offering free summer theatrical productions in the scenic beauty of Washington Park.
Located at the Lakehouse, this outdoor venue provides a unique opportunity to experience high-quality performances that are accessible to all, regardless of background or budget.
With a commitment to inclusivity, Park Playhouse ensures that theatre is an art form for everyone. Attendees can enjoy the show for free on the lawn, or opt for reserved or VIP seating closer to the stage for a small fee.
Both paid and free parking are available within Washington Park, making it easy for everyone to attend.
Each summer, Park Playhouse brings Broadway-style musicals to life, creating an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.
Whether you're a theatre enthusiast or simply looking for fun things to do in Albany NY, Park Playhouse offers a welcoming space for all to enjoy the magic of live performance under the stars.
Location: Madison Avenue &, New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, United States
9. Enjoy Great Food and Drinks at The City Beer Hall
Located in the heart of historic downtown Albany, the City Beer Hall is a classic American beer hall and gastropub that offers a fantastic selection of craft beers and mouthwatering pub fare.
Inside this architectural gem, you'll find a cozy yet lively atmosphere perfect for gathering with family and friends.
The City Beer Hall is known for its inventive food menu, which features locally sourced, seasonal, made-from-scratch cuisine. Whether you're indulging in buffalo chicken meatballs, smoked cauliflower steak, flank steak, or the classic beer hall burger, every dish is packed with flavour.
If you're joining for brunch on the weekend, you'll be treated to a blend of sweet and savory options to satisfy any craving.
When it comes to drinks, the City Beer Hall has you covered. Their full bar features 20 rotating beer and cider taps, along with an extensive selection of cans and bottles.
Whether you're a fan of local brews or looking to try something new, you're sure to find a refreshing drink to pair with your meal.
The restaurant offers several dining areas to suit any occasion. The Main Hall is perfect for a lively group dinner, a cozy meal by the fireplace, or a casual happy hour with friends. During warmer months, their spacious outdoor patio is the place to be for a sunny brunch or drinks under the stars.
The City Beer Hall is also known for its exciting events, including tap takeovers, beer pairing dinners, live music, and weekly promotions. Be sure to stay updated on their latest happenings by visiting their website or Facebook page.
For delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a great time with friends, the City Beer Hall is one of the top destinations for fun things to do in Albany NY.
Location: 42 Howard St, Albany, NY 12207, United States
10. Explore Unique Spirits at New Scotland Spirits
Last but the least among the unique things to do in Albany NY — visit New Scotland Spirits, a local, veteran-owned distillery located on Lark Street.
Their tasting room is open daily, where you can sample their signature Helderberg whiskies, gin, vodka, and other New York-made beverages crafted from locally grown grains.
New Scotland Spirits specializes in unique offerings like the Helderberg Winter Wheat Whiskey, Helderberg Bourbon, and 68W unaged corn whiskey. Whether you’re sipping a craft cocktail or enjoying a flight, it’s an experience rooted in the heritage of New Scotland, NY.
Perfect for a casual visit or private events, New Scotland Spirits is one of the best things to do in Albany, NY for those who appreciate fine craft spirits. Visit their tasting room or explore their website for more details!
Location: 209 Lark St, Albany, NY 12210, United States
In conclusion, Albany offers a variety of things to do in Albany NY that are perfect for both kids and families, from exciting indoor and outdoor adventures to cultural experiences.
Whether you're exploring the theatre, enjoying local food, or discovering unique spirits, there's something for everyone. However, please note that the City Beer Hall and New Scotland Spirits are adult-oriented venues, making them ideal for those seeking a more grown-up experience.
Whatever your interests, Albany has a fun and family-friendly activity for you to enjoy!
