Uncovering Watervliet’s Hidden Gems: Exploring the Charms of a Historic CapNY City

Updated: July 2025

Nestled along the Hudson River, Watervliet may be small in size, but it’s big on charm and history. Often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, this quaint city in CapNY is home to a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From historic sites to culinary delights, Watervliet offers visitors a glimpse into its rich past and vibrant present. Here are some of the top gems in Watervliet worth exploring:

One of Watervliet’s most iconic landmarks, the Watervliet Arsenal has played a significant role in American history since its establishment in 1813. As the oldest continuously operating arsenal in the United States, it has supplied ordnance to the U.S. military through every major conflict, from the Civil War to the present day. Visitors can explore the Arsenal Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits highlighting its storied past and ongoing contributions to national defense.

(Location: 251 N 1st St, Watervliet): Situated along the scenic Hudson River, Hudson Shores Park offers a picturesque setting for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront promenade, enjoying a picnic with family and friends, or simply taking in the tranquil views of the river and surrounding landscape, this hidden gem provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Step back in time and savor a taste of nostalgia at Bob’s Diner, a beloved local institution that has been serving up hearty comfort food since 1941. Housed in a vintage railcar diner, this cozy eatery exudes retro charm with its checkered floors, neon signs, and classic diner fare. From fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon to juicy burgers and homemade pies, Bob’s Diner offers a delicious trip down memory lane for diners of all ages. IT’S OPEN 24/7!

Gus’ isn’t just a place to grab a quick bite—it’s a local legend. Nestled in the heart of this charming city, Gus’ has been serving up mouthwatering hot dogs since 1952, earning a reputation for its iconic flavor and unwavering commitment to quality. The real star of the show, however, is Gus’ famous meat sauce. Made from a secret family recipe passed down through generations, this savory sauce is a symphony of flavors that elevates every bite to new heights. Tangy, slightly sweet, and irresistibly savory, Gus’ meat sauce is what sets these hot dogs apart and keeps customers coming back for more.

The City of Watervliet operates and maintains a municipal swimming pool that is open to all six days a week (weather permitting) during the summer months! The park its part of hosts a variety of festivals, concerts, and cultural celebrations that showcase the vibrant spirit of Watervliet throughout the year.

By no means is this list complete. There are so many spots to explore in Watervliet and the neighboring city of Troy.
Follow us on social media for more @gocapny!
  • Written by: Gabby Fisher

5 Romantic Spots in CapNY

Updated: July 2025

No matter the season, the Capital Region has some of the most romantic spots for a date night with your special someone!

  • Schenectady Central Park Rose Garden

While you may think of this as a strictly summer activity, the Central Park Rose Garden is truly a place you can visit all year round. Roses may only be in bloom certain months of the year (June-October), but the park is a place of serenity and peace all year long. Formerly maintained by the city’s park department, the rose garden is now consistently enhanced and maintained by a non-profit organization called the Rose Garden Restoration Committee.

If you find giving back to your community together a romantic activity, there are volunteer opportunities to help with garden clean up on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Just walking through you can see how much care is put into the over 4,000 rose bushes. In the center of the garden is a beautiful fountain and you’ll be sure to see some cute creatures hopping around by the pond. Date enhancement: stop by Gershon’s Deli for some fresh sandwiches on your way to the garden. Picnic among roses? Talk about romance!

  • The Berlin

If you’re looking for a reason to dress up and step out, The Berlin is the perfect cozy spot to snuggle up to a loved one while drinking a delicious craft cocktail (we recommend their espresso martini). It’s hard to find many spots across the capital region where you can get dressed in a sexy outfit, but at The Berlin it is definitely the norm. We’re talking velvet couches, dim lighting, and tables for two nestled in the corner for extra privacy. With their craft cocktails and sexy speakeasy vibe, you won’t only fall in love with your date but also the atmosphere! Be sure to check their Instagram for nights with special guests like jazz bands or pianists.

Note: they do not serve food in this space, but EMRY’s Garden is right below the space and run by the same owner. Here they have great small bites, pizzas and more! Looking for something to do before drinks? Troy has the perfect small city feel with a unique city square and waterfront pathway where you’ll see unique art, string lights, and music is always coming from some direction.

  • Cafe Capriccio

Nestled in the heart of Albany, Cafe Capriccio is sourcing their restaurant with local organic products to pair with their freshly made Italian fair. If you want to feel like you’re stepping into your old school Italian grandmother’s house for dinner, that’s what you’ll get here. The steak and gorgonzola gnocchi is a dish you’ll be dreaming about for days after leaving. All the comfort of a home cooked meal but in an intimate and cozy setting. Each booth is spacious and the tables are perfectly placed so that you can enjoy your surroundings while taking in all the unique features of the restaurant. 

They also offer what they call “The Chef’s Table” which is a private dining space for groups of 10-16 people to have a specialized menu and experience. Our favorite part of this place (and the most romantic in our humble opinion)? The Tuscan Garden. This is a small outdoor space with only a few tables surrounded by their urban garden under dim lighting. Only an option for warmer nights, but great to plan ahead for if you’re looking for a unique and special experience for your special someone! Enhance your night: The MVP arena is a short walk away where there are different artists, performers, and events happening on a frequent basis!

  • June Farms

Who doesn’t love doing some yoga amongst baby goats? Okay, maybe it’s not for everyone, but it’s one of many fun things going on at June Farms. We’re talking food truck nights, barn crawls, clam bakes, there is truly something for everyone no matter what you’re into. A trip to June Farms can really be whatever you want it to be. Want to make it a double date? They have a giant line up of events perfect for bigger groups. Rather it just be a night out for two? You can do that too! Just walking around the farm is breathtaking in itself and the perfect opportunity to hold hands while taking in the views. The best part of all the fun happening here is they have cabins right on the property where you can stay to relax and enjoy the beautiful grounds. All of the cabins have a different theme so you can pick your level of romance or even pretend you’re in a big city. One of the cabins is NYC apartment style. Use your imagination to create a day or night(s) of romantic bliss!

  • The Chateau on the Lake

This last spot was actually featured in the Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in America. We’re basically famous here now! In the heart of downtown Bolton Landing you will find this adorable white house turned restaurant sitting right on Lake George. Their menu is frequently updated based on local fresh food and quality. It shows when trying to make a reservation how great this spot is…book in advance! From the atmosphere to the food to the gorgeous view of the lake, this is the ultimate romantic evening for two. The Chateau on the Lake is only open seasonally, but it’s worth the wait over the winter months. Dine inside and then grab a seat by one of their outdoor fire pits after dinner to gaze at the lake while engaging in conversation with your special someone. Craving dessert? The beloved ice cream of Stewart’s (a staple here in CapNY) is right down the road.

  • Written by: Kristen Suraci

From Ohio to CapNY: A Transplant Story

Updated: July 2025

Alex and Sam both grew up in a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio, and attended Ohio State University. Alex graduated with a degree in chemical engineering, and Sam with a degree in public affairs journalism, from Ohio State in 2021. After graduation, Alex had secured a job offer with Regeneron, and Sam didn’t have a job, so she tagged along.
  • Building Careers in CapNY

After moving to downtown Troy in late May 2021, Sam worked at a local paper in Hudson/Catskill before being hired at the Albany Business Review.  Alex works at Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, where he is a Lead Investigation Specialist. Sam is a reporter covering tech/inno, cannabis and restaurants at the Albany Business Review, the region’s business news publication. 

  • What has been your favorite part of moving to this region? Why do you love living here?

We’ve both been taken by the history of the area — we moved to Troy without ever having visited, and we only knew that the city had a historical element. The week we moved in, The Gilded Age was filming. It was a very exciting introduction to our new city. 

You’ll often find us eating at Bacchus Wood-Fired on 2nd Street in Troy. Not only is it our neighbor, but the pizza and wings are amazing. We love sitting outside in the summer. It’s the best neighborhood spot — Sam even had her birthday dinner there. 

We’ve loved the variety of things to do — both indoor and outdoor activities are abundant. We’ve gotten involved in our community garden, taken up hiking and Sam is learning how to ski. We can’t wait to explore the Adirondacks more. The Troy Farmers Market is unparalleled. There’s always something going on, and you get the chance to choose “your vibe” depending on which of the CapNY cities you visit. 

The day we moved into our Troy apartment!
Halloween at Franklin Alley Social Club

Exploring swimming holes/lakes in the summer has been really fun. We love Cherry Plain State Park. That said, all of the areas state parks are fun. Also — train travel! We’ve become the biggest Amtrak fans. It’s so easy to visit NYC for the day, and we can even take the train home to Cleveland. It’s such a game changer (Ohio, take notes. We needed this traveling between Cleveland and Columbus in college). 

  • How have you been able to make friends & connections in the region as transplants?

We say that people in upstate New York are nicer than people in the Midwest, and that’s felt true since the beginning. As soon as our moving truck pulled up, neighbors were introducing themselves to us. Sam’s made friends through work and through apps like Bumble BFF. From there, it’s been friend of a friend connections. Alex has taken part in community events like Collar City Clean Up, and the community garden through Capital Roots has also been helpful. We are always looking for new ways to connect with others! Next up might be hiking groups. 

Our first hike in the Adirondacks
  • Why is CapNY a great place for young people to live and work?
Birthday dinner at Bacchus!

The region’s downtowns are going through a renaissance powered by young, creative people. Not only is it inspiring, but it makes CapNY a great place to live, work and play. There are a lot of people and industries that believe in the area and are investing in it. It’s the perfect mix of an urban feel and an outdoors-y community. Whatever you’re in the mood for that day, it’s available. 

With the above in mind, it’s a good place to explore who you really are. If we had never moved from Ohio to a place with this kind of variety, Sam might’ve never come to love being outside so much. Growing up, Sam’s dream was to move to New York City. Now, being city-adjacent, she’s come to realize that wasn’t the best future for her. Upstate feels like it’s got everything we need.

  • What’s something you haven’t done yet but are looking forward to doing here?

Getting Sam into skiing! I (Alex) have been skiing for years, but the skiing is better here. Maple Ridge is the perfect place for anyone to learn to ski or snowboard. 

And camping! Before moving upstate, if Sam had told anyone that she was camping (or hiking, for that matter), it was code for she was in some sort of danger. Now, all she wants to do is be outside. We can’t wait to see which campgrounds are our favorites. 

  • Written by: Gabby Fisher

Celebrating Pride Month in CapNY: 3 Leaders Who Make it Happen

Updated: July 2025

Pride Month is recognized around the world, to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. It takes place every June, in honor of the historic June 1969 Stonewall Uprising, which helped kickstart the Gay Rights Movement. It’s a month not just to celebrate, but to remember, to honor, to raise awareness, and to support.


Each June, there are dozens of Pride events across CapNY to celebrate and support our LGBTQIA+ communities thanks to area organizations that include:

  • OutHudson: Nonprofit organization serving the LGBTQIA+ community of Columbia County
  • The Pride Center of the Capital Region: Nonprofit organization based in Albany; hosts annual Capital Pride Parade through downtown Albany and Festival in Washington Park, which features food, vendors, live music and performances like Pussycat Dolls’ Carmit Bachar and iHeartRadio Music Award Nominee JORDY.
  • Cafe Euphoria: Trans and Gender Nonconforming worker-owned cafe, coworking space, and curated thrifted clothing store in Troy, hosts an array of pride focused events including open mics, dance nights, drag show brunches, and LGBTQ budgeting workshops. They also serve as food vendors at Pride events like Capital Pride Parade and Festival and Say it Loud! Black and Latin@ Gay Pride.
  • In Our Own Voices Inc.: Organization based in Albany that serves the needs of LGBTQIA+ POC
  • Easton Mountain Retreat Center: Located in Greenwich, NY, Easton Mountain is a community retreat center and sanctuary created by gay men. They provide workshops, programs, and events to celebrate, heal, transform, and integrate body, mind, and spirit.

None of the Pride celebrations would have happened without dedicated individuals who helped bring them together. We spoke with three individuals who helped make events like these happen, and continue to support the LGBTQIA+ community throughout the year. 

  • Nathaniel Gray, Executive Director at the Pride Center for the Capital Region

Nathaniel Gray grew up in southern Ohio and moved to NYC at 19. Gray moved to CapNY in 2019, and recently purchased a home in the hamlet of Glenmont, where he enjoys the newfound space and garden, to escape from the day.

Why is Pride month special to you?

As a month, it is really a placeholder for our Civil Rights movement. June is Pride month because of the Stonewall Riots in late June of 1969. The first pride “parade” was a freedom march for “gay liberation.” The month of June is a lasting reminder, and encouragement, that there is still work to be done for true equity in society.

How are you involved in Pride across CapNY?

The Pride Center of the Capital Region hosts the largest Pride event north of New York City, and each year it grows. This year’s event, held on June 12th, drew crowds larger than previous years when we know our numbers were around 30,000 people. These folks come and celebrate themselves and the people they love, one of the most important things we can do in the LGBTQ+ community. The Pride Center also helped organize an historic number of Pride Flag Raisings in the Capital Region this year, with plans on even more next year. 

Why are you passionate about what you do?

I started getting bullied for being effeminate in 2nd grade; I was 7-years-old the first time someone called me a fa**ot. The most recent time? Four weeks ago. This is my life, and I’m not going to rest in my work, nor is the Pride Center, until this region is safe and affirming for everyone. The person who shouted that word at me last month probably doesn’t know that there are many in my community that would hear something like that, and potentially end their life. This is not acceptable in 2022 to me, nor should it be to anyone. When I got my Master’s degree in Social Work in New York City, my professional focus was on LGBTQ+ homeless youth. Something about working with kids who risked everything to come out and be authentically themselves, only to become homeless and experience untold abuse, sexual assault, trafficking, and other horrible things, fundamentally changes me. It was a curtain I could not “unlook” behind. Once I knew about their experiences, and that it is all born from hate and ignorance, I also knew I had to do something about it. 

  • Osun Zotique, OutHudson Executive Director

Osun Zotique moved to CapNY in 2015, and lives in Hudson. Zotique is the Executive Director of OutHudson, and recently ran for office in the Congressional Primary to represent New York’s 19th District, making them the first openly transgender non-binary individual to run for federal elected office. 

Why is Pride month special to you?

Pride Month is special to me because I realize that it’s something we still actually really need. We really need that continuous work of individual and community self acceptance. In spite of any advances that we have made, which we certainly have seen basic civil and human rights for our gender identity and sexual orientation, that process of self-acceptance is ongoing, and it’s a lifelong and evolving journey for every human being on this planet. Actually, whether they identify as LGBTQIA+ or not, the fact of the matter is that we all have something to learn about our humanity vis-a-vis our gender and sexuality. 

How are you involved in Pride across CapNY?

I took over the directorship of OutHudson and brought back the parade and festivities after the pandemic. I also recently ran for elected office in the United States Congress. NY’s 17th congressional district, and was the first transgender, non-binary person to do so. And it’s been a very exciting journey and a very privileged platform to try to speak to everything that’s going on for all of us who are living, working and potentially struggling to make ends meet at this community and state, both LGBTQIA+ and also our straight allies. 

Why are you passionate about what you do?

I’m passionate about doing what I do because I actually moved to the state of New York when I was 18, and the environment where I grew up was not particularly accepting. So for me, it’s really important to help continue creating the environment that I would like to be part of and a space where queer ingenuity and creativity can flourish. Both my own, but also the folks around me and my neighbors and friends and the people who we support.

  • Atsushi Akera, Co-founder of Cafe Euphoria and Board of Directors at the Pride Center of the Capital Region

Atsushi Akera grew up in East Lansing, Michigan, and moved to the Capital Region in 1999, when she was hired as a professor at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Akera has been a professor at RPI in the field of science and technology studies for the last 23 years, and is retiring this month. She lives in Troy and is the co-founder and General Manager of Cafe Euphoria, as well as a board member at the Pride Center of the Capital Region. 

Why is Pride month special to you?

That’s a big question, given Roe V Wade, and everything that’s happened. I’m on the board of directors of the Pride Center for the Capital Region. Many of us are afraid that once the conservatives get that kind of momentum, they’re going to go after other things, including gay marriage. And so it’s a time for the community to band together. Pride Month is so important because it brings the entire community together. I think segments of our community have felt that they’ve won the victories that needed to be won, and had gotten to the point where activism and change wasn’t very high on their agenda. And so this year’s Pride events have been so important in reestablishing the notion that we still have a really important role to play in giving support to those who are otherwise oppressed and discriminated against in our society. 

How are you involved in Pride across CapNY?

I’m on the board of the Pride Center of the Capital Region, and I oftentimes volunteer for the Pride events with the Pride Center, as well as serve as an ally and supporter for the Say it Loud! Black and Latino Pride event. But the ways in which I was involved this year, was more focused on the launching of Cafe Euphoria. So as a consequence, most of my new duties had to do with the cafe. We had a presence at the Pride events, taking part as a food vendor, selling vegan, vegetarian and pescatarian fare. Cafe Euphoria also had eight different events of our own throughout the month. 

Why are you passionate about what you do?

Because it’s necessary. It’s so necessary. Going into the pandemic, mental health rates were in excess of 50% among the transgender community. Suicide rates were one of the highest. Gender remains one of the strongest constructs in our society, along with race, so there’s all kinds of problems that many members of our community face. There are many people who are supportive, but job loss remains a major issue within our community. And that’s why Cafe Euphoria is built around creating jobs for, and a safe space for transgender and gender nonconforming individuals. We are very much a trans visibility project. We created a business model very specifically on the idea that there are people out there who want to support us, and are willing to pay slightly above market rate for food, and then those resources turn into real assets for the trans and gender nonconforming folks who work here.

So it goes a step beyond just a safe space, it creates jobs. And then beyond a restaurant and creating jobs, we have a curated thrift, we have event space, a co-working space, and we have a lounge, as well as two private offices. We have a curated thrift so that if you’re transgender, and you’re totally scared of going to Target to shop in the women’s section for the first time, you can instead come here, to a space where you know that everybody’s going to be supportive of whatever choices you make.

  • Written by: Victoria Diana

How to Spend 48 Hours in CapNY

CapNY offers the perfect blend of small city charm and rustic nature. The region is a vast area that ranges from the foothills of the Catskills to the foothills of the Adirondacks, and in between those 90 miles are cities, towns, countrysides, forests, mountains and lakes, all with their own unique flares.

Photo: Samascotts Garden Market, learn more below!

Your Summer Rompin’ HQ

The area provides a wide variety of things to do, eat, and drink, and is located just three hours away from New York City. Definitely don’t overlook the Capital Region when planning your next weekend romp this summer. And if you do plan on visiting, here is a 48-hour itinerary to help map out your trip. 

Day 1

Late Afternoon: Arrive in Hudson, NY

If you’re coming from downstate, Hudson is the perfect first stop on your CapNY trip. Hudson sits on, given its name, the Hudson River, and is a quaint small city with an artsy vibe. If you’re a fan of antiquing and interior design, you could spend a whole weekend just here, going up and down Hudson’s main street, Warren Street, to all the shops and boutiques. 

Shop at The Antique Warehouse
When you see the HUGE warehouse that kind of looks like it’s abandoned – DON’T RUN AWAY! This is what’s inside. The Antique Warehouse

Not on Warren street, but definitely a must-see, is The Antique Warehouse, a literal warehouse, filled with furniture, decor, art, and architectural pieces like windows and pillars. Do a little shopping before checking into your hotel.

Check into your hotel!

If you’re in Hudson, you gotta keep with the interior design trend, and stay at The Maker, a beautifully designed boutique hotel, clad in leather, velvet and fringe, making for a luxurious and stylish stay. You won’t have to stray far for dinner, as The Maker has an incredible restaurant right at the hotel. Their restaurant sits in a glass conservatory, and focuses on seasonal plates with a local emphasis. They also have a separate menu in their candle-lit lounge, which serves more casual fare, as well as craft cocktails, wine and local beer. 

The Maker Hotel

Day 2

Morning: Stop at Bartlett House for breakfast

Once you’ve left Hudson, drive 20 minutes to Ghent, NY, and make sure to stop at the Bartlett House for breakfast. The Maker’s in-house cafe serves Bartlett House’s pastries, but why not go right to the source. Grab a coffee, one of their breakfast sandwiches made on a freshly baked English muffin, and a croissant, because why not? You’re on vacation. 

Check out Art Omi
After breakfast, take a 6 minute drive to Art Omi, a 120-acre outdoor sculpture and architecture park and gallery, where you can enjoy beautiful art pieces while also taking in some fresh air and upstate NY nature. You could easily spend half a day exploring the park, but you can also make it a shorter 2 hour stop, where you stick to one area. Art Omi is completely free, which is always a plus, but donations are encouraged. And make sure to wear your walking shoes, as it’s a nature walk as much as it is an art gallery.
Afternoon: Stop for a snack in Valatie, NY
The feline manager

After checking out Art Omi, head up North towards Troy, NY. If you’re hankering for a snack after all that walking, you can make a pitstop in the town of Valatie on the way. Stop at Golden Harvest Farms for one of their famous apple cider doughnuts, rated the best in the Capital Region, which they have year-round. Or go to Samascotts Garden Market, which has delicious homemade ice cream, and also happens to be a plant nursery. Lap up some ice cream in their greenhouse while you peruse their great indoor plant selection. And make sure to greet their very helpful feline manager.

Arrive in Troy, NY for lunch

Troy is a newly revitalized city that also sits along the Hudson River, just north of Albany. You could say Troy has a bit of a Brooklyn vibe, but it truly does have its own unique personality. Depending on what time you arrive, you might be able to hit Troy’s popular farmers market, right in the heart of its downtown, which runs from 9 am to 2 pm every Saturday. The farmers market not only has fresh fruit and vegetables, but also a ton of food vendors serving up all kinds of cuisines. If you miss it, no fret, as there’s plenty of restaurants in the cute downtown. 

Grab a coffee and walk around Washington Park
Do it for the gram at Superior Merchandise Company

If you need a pick-me-up afternoon coffee, make sure to stop at Superior Merchandise Company. I recommend their iced latte with oat milk, it’s my favorite in the Capital Region. And while you’re waiting for your coffee order, you can shop the store’s perfectly curated, vibesy assortment of candles, glassware, clothes, and stationery. Enjoy your coffee on their back patio or walk a few minutes to the historic Washington Park. The park is gated, as it is one of the few private parks in New York State, however, the cobblestone streets and houses around the park are stunning. So much so, the HBO show Gilded Age filmed there. 

Get lunch at Nighthawks

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab some lunch at one of the many restaurants in downtown Troy. If it’s before 3 pm, you can’t beat Brunch at Nighthawks, a farm to table restaurant with an often changing menu depending on what’s in season, although their popular burgers are always available to order, veggie ones as well. And they always have at least one vegan option on their Brunch menu. Other options for lunch include the al pastor tacos from La Capital Tacos and the beef bulgogi from Sunhee’s Farm and Kitchen. 

Pick up a bottle of natural wine
Twenty-Two 2nd Wine Co.

If you’re a fan of natural wine, make sure to stop at Twenty-Two 2nd Wine Co. The boutique wine store offers a great selection of unique, small-production, naturally-made wines from around the world. I especially love their selection of orange/skin-contact wines. 

Early Evening: Drive up to Saratoga Springs

Once you’ve had your fill of Troy, take the 30 minute drive North to Saratoga Springs. It is still a beautiful little city, featuring a walkable downtown with plenty of shops and restaurants, idyllic parks, and is in close proximity to lakes and hiking trails. Check into your hotel, like the newly renovated The Adelphi Hotel, which sits right on Broadway, in the heart of downtown Saratoga. Freshen up and get ready for a night on the town. 

Grab dinner at Hamlet and Ghost

Walk over to Hamlet and Ghost, a popular haunt in Saratoga Springs, that serves craft cocktails and modern American fare. Be sure to make a reservation, as it is very busy most nights, and for good reason. I’m partial to their oysters, and grass-fed burger with duck confit fries, but their vegetable small plates are also incredible, like their broccolini with cured egg yolk, mint, and tonnato sauce.

Night: Go to 9 Maple Ave for an after-dinner cocktail

After dinner, walk across the street to 9 Maple Ave, an intimate moody 1880’s area bar with a wide selection of liquor. Order their Espresso Martini, it’s amazing, while you listen to live jazz.

After 9 Maple Ave, you could go next door to the nightclub, The Nite Owl, for some dancing, or go bar hopping down Caroline Street, which is right around the corner, and lined with bars, many featuring outdoor patios or rooftops, so you can enjoy the warm summer nights. 

Day 3

Morning: Morning: Grab coffee and a quick breakfast

Wake up early, and nurse that hangover with a quick coffee and breakfast from the nearby Saratoga Coffee Traders or Uncommon Grounds. Saratoga Coffee Traders have great, quick, made-to-order breakfast sandwiches, and Uncommon Grounds is often voted as the best bagels in the Capital Region. 

Pack a lunch for later from Putnam Market

Stop by the Putnam Market to get all the makings for a picnic lunch, I recommend ordering a sandwich on their baguettes, you won’t be disappointed. They also have a great selection of cheeses if you want to pack the makings of a charcuterie board. Check out of your hotel, grab some sunscreen, and head out for a day on Saratoga Lake. 

Go boating on Saratoga Lake

About a 10 minute drive from downtown Saratoga is Saratoga Lake. The idyllic lake is a popular spot in the summer months for boating, hanging out on the beach, or eating at one of the many restaurants that line its coast. Charter a pontoon boat for a half day (9 am to 2 pm) at Vivi E Basta Rentals, or rent kayaks, also at Vivi’s or at The Kayak Shak, which is located just upstream on a creek that feeds right into the lake. Enjoy a day in the sun and water, and if you still have some time before traveling back home, snag an Adirondack chair at Dock Brown’s Beach Bar for a cold drink to end the day.

  • Written by: Victoria Diana

Victoria Diana is a writer, director, and stand-up comedian born and based in Schenectady, NY.

CapNY Eats: Independent Korean Restaurant Spotlight

Updated: July 2025

It wasn’t that long ago in the CapNY where you would either have to have a Korean friend or personally know a Korean family to enjoy Korean Food in Upstate NY. ..(no longer)!

They’d invite you over for a sit down style family meal consisting of white rice, kimchi, and all of the other favored Korean dishes that are served in almost every Korean home. The classic bulgogi dish, or a kimbap roll were not always mentioned between friends looking for a place to meet out for lunch, or in the office discussion as a food option for a group order for delivery.

I was born in Seoul, South Korea, raised in a Korean home with a Korean mother making the most delicious Korean food I’ve ever had… and of course no one makes food the way your own mother does. Going to the market place in Seoul as a child, I still remember the smells of the food being made by street cart vendors and the aromas coming from the restaurants as we walked for blocks and blocks shopping while looking for a place for my family to eat dinner at.

I first moved to Upstate NY when I was a teenager, and since then I’ve always longed for this region to embrace and appreciate Korean food. Today, you can easily find about a half dozen Korean food restaurants offering traditional and newer Korean style foods to CapNY.

This article is presented through a content collaboration with ACE and CapNY. Visit them on Instagram at @upstatecreative!

  • SON OF EGG | ALBANY (second location in Rensselaer)
SON OF EGG | Photo: Bon Vivant Photographe

Bringing Korean influence to Albany in 2020, Mincho Ko and her son & co-owner, Justin Ko, opened Son of Egg around the corner from Lark Street. The narrow cafe and wall counter seating reminds me of my visits to K-town in NYC, as we walked to different restaurants and grabbed a quick order of mandoo to eat on the go. Son Of Egg offers one of my favorite Korean foods, a traditional kimbap roll. They offer a more contemporary menu with Korean inspired flavors and ingredients, fused into a street food concept that you can eat in-house or while walking around town. They’ve switched up Korean family meals a bit with their Bulgogi Burger… and the Tornado Potato, which is a deep fried spiral cut potato on a bamboo skewer served with a variety of sauces on the side.

As a small locally owned business that cares about their community and those in it, Son Of Egg created “The Good Egg Initiative”, which allows you to purchase a meal in person or online for a homeless individual in need of a meal. The meal tickets are left in a designated location and made available for the homeless and or those with food insecurities to receive a free meal. At any time during business hours, this individual can discreetly come visit, grab an available meal ticket, and present it to the cashier. 

IG: @son_of_egg | web: sonofegg.com

  • BESPOKI BOWL | TROY
Bespoki Bowl | Photo: Bon Vivant Photographe

An authentic Hawaiian & Asian eatery in the heart of downtown Troy, the Bespoki Bowl started in the Troy Kitchen in 2016, and opened around the corner on 4th Street in 2017. Paul Park, owner of the Bespoki Bowl, has artful murals covering the walls around the dining room, and asking thoughtful questions such as “how do you feel?”

Making their own kimchi in house, and mixing their bulgogi marinade from scratch, you will absolutely find authentic Korean flavors in the Korean foods served in this neighborhood restaurant. You can order traditional bulgogi & rice here, or get a more modern Bulgogi Taco. The Spam Musubi, spam on rice with teriyaki sauce wrapped in a nori sheet, is one of my favorites here. Whether you grab a bulgogi bowl to go, or sit and enjoy a plate of spicy pork and rice, you’ll experience a taste of Korea each time.

IG: @bespokibowl | web: bespokibowl.com

  • SEOUL KOREAN RESTAURANT | LATHAM
Seoul Korean Restaurant | Photo: Bon Vivant Photographe

One of the longest operating Korean restaurants in CapNY, Seoul Korean restaurant offers authentic traditional Korean foods as well as street foods. Opened in 2013 in Latham, was purchased three years ago by Mijung Kim and her husband, both from Seoul. You’ll walk past shelves of Korean pantry items and products as you enter the restaurant leading you into a large dining area, which accommodates bigger parties and families looking to dine out together.

The foods and flavors at this restaurant remind me of downtown Seoul and the many family meals of my childhood in Korea. Their traditional Korean food makes this restaurant appealing to anyone looking to be introduced to authentic Korean foods for the very first time or who is in town looking for a good Korean meal. The extensive dinner menu ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy. You can enjoy unique asian bottled sodas for the kid in all of us, and a variety of Soju, Plum wines and asian beers are available for the adults.

IG: @seoulkorean_restaurant | web: seoulkoreanlathamny.com

  • SUNHEE’S FARM AND KITCHEN | TROY
Sunhee’s Farm and Kitchen | Photo: Bon Vivant Photographe

Jinah Ahn came onto the downtown Troy food scene in 2016, opening her Korean restaurant with a big vision and a huge love for her community. Sunhee’s is a farmhouse style restaurant with a small shop in the back offering some shelves filled with Korean market items, stationary products, and a small fridge with jars of their homemade kimchi for sale. Wooden farm tables, rustic pitchers & glass vases filled with dried wild flowers welcome you to sit in their dining room. In addition to the Troy location, Sunhee’s operates a small family farm in Cambridge, New York, raising chickens and ducks while cultivating a mix of organically grown Korean and domestic vegetables.

Serving traditional Korean favorites such as Bibimpap and Japchae, Sunhee’s goes above and beyond the delicious Korean cuisine they serve by also offering free English classes for adult immigrants, from beginner to advanced via zoom or in person in downtown Troy. Classes are open to all immigrants, and all are welcome.

IG: @sunhees95ferry | Web: sunhees.com

  • Written by: Nellie Ackerman-Vellano

CapNY Eats: 5 Droolworthy Vegan/Vegetarian Restaurants

Updated: July 2025

The plant-based food industry has boomed in recent years with myco-protein chik’n and beet burgers that bleed, branded with names like Beyond and Impossible suggesting we’re scaling new heights.
  • Hello, Meatless Mondays

The pandemic only sharpened growth with renewed interest in health conscious eating, efforts to reduce animal consumption (hello, meatless Mondays), and awareness of strained farm-to-table supply chains coupled with new direct-to-consumer options. Suddenly, plant-based options surged on mainstream restaurants’ simplified, post-pandemic menus and customers continue to feed the demand for meatless options when dining out.

Downstate, we’ve seen a Michelin star and James Beard award nominations for a vegan restaurant, chef and veg-driven hospitality group. Upstate, CapNY is enjoying its own share of the action with more growth in the vegan/vegetarian dining scene in two years than the last ten. And they aren’t they aren’t doing it lightly. From the growing vegan list, we’ve picked five eateries putting flavor, fermentation and local farms at the forefront of their plant-based creations.

This article is presented through a content collaboration with ACE and CapNY. Visit them on Instagram at @upstatecreative!

  • BAR VEGAN | Center Square | Albany
Bar Vegan

From Lark St. Poke to the Loft 205, sibling owners Will and Mary Phan have opened downtown spots that earn a loyal crowd. But after closing their popular college bar, LAX, during the pandemic, Will was inspired by vegan restaurant Avant Garden in Manhattan and reinvented the LAX space as a vegan restaurant, including an entirely vegan bar. Partnering with a local florist, the place has been beautifully transformed with shiny white subway tiles, leafy planters and trailing vines, and the menu offers shareable plates that won’t break the bank. From a kitchen carefully separated to avoid cross contamination with the Loft restaurant upstairs, try the sweet potato tempura sushi roll, edamame potstickers filled with a luxurious edamame puree (choose steamed or fried), stuffed avocado and bang bang cauliflower florets. All wines and spirits are vegan or organic.

Bar Vegan | 205 Lark Street | Albany | IG

  • TAKE TWO CAFE | Schenectady
Take Two Cafe, Photos: Susie Davidson Powell

Take Two picks up where much missed Shades of Green on Lark Street left off years ago. Owner Chelsea Heilman has created a gorgeous garden-inspired oasis on Schenectady’s State Street where foot traffic is high and it’s hard to miss her hand-painted sidewalk tables. An avid traveler, Heilman serves a chickpea curry, inspired by one from Iceland, along with a replica avocado-pesto-feta-walnut toast and a tofu scramble breakfast burrito with chorizo, chile, and homefries both inspired by cafes in Melbourne, Australia, and Colorado.

Among the most labor intensive ingredients is Heilman’s faux lox salmon. Carrots are given a 32-hour bath in a seaweed, soy and caper brine for umami bite – perfect to pile on a bagel with vegan cream cheese. Stop by and join an all-day crowd pouring in for sandwiches and vegan pastries. Fix your coffee as you like: A counter refrigerator is jammed with all the plant milks from oat to almond.

Take Two Cafe | 433 State Street | Schenectady | IG

  • MEADOWLARK @ TAKK HOUSE | Troy

Meadowlark Catering – from the team behind Wizard Burger and Burrito Burrito (Albany) and Takk House (Troy) – is now hosting their tasteful plant-based cuisine at pop-up events at the Takk House.

These Dining at Takk experiences give the owners an opportunity to craft new menus based on the most current harvest, and gives guests a taste of what they’re all about! Head to the Meadowlark website to check out details for their next experience.

Meadowlark Catering | Troy

  • WIZARD BURGER | Downtown Albany
Wizard Burger, Photos: Susie Davidson Powell

It’s hard to overstate the craftiness behind the Wizard’s vegan creations. If you visit the Wiz on social media, you’ll find burger abominations flying off on intergalactic, space odysseys. Go in person and this purple-hued counter service spot has added a line up of boozy and non-alcoholic cocktails and an additional room in which to enjoy them surrounded with curios from plant terrariums to crystal balls.

Whether you go for lunch or happy hour, the team behind Wizard Burger has all their nighttime cravings on the menu. Get the Mumbo Jumbo – an Impossible burger topped with house chili, battered onion rings, tater tots and jalapeno-garlic crema – or a crispy chik’n Raptor, but don’t forget battered pickles on the side. Those with a sweet tooth might choose the Impossible Strawberry Snail with an Impossible patty and raspberry jelly on a glazed donut by tiny Strawberry Snail vegan bakery. 

Wizard Burger | 74 N. Pearl Street | Albany l IG

  • THE JUICE BRANCH | Catskill & Hudson | Black-Owned Business
The Juice Branch, Photos: Susie Davidson Powell

Painted all the colors of a tropical island, it’s no surprise George Salter’s juice bar is an uplifting place to hang out whether you visit his Warren Street, Hudson location for an antioxidant packed smoothie or hop the Hudson river to Catskill. In Catskill, you’ll find Salter whipping up his lunch du jour, teased a day ahead on social media. It might be crisply fried oyster mushroom sandwich or plant-based Smack-n’Cheez. Sink into a barrel chair in the window, dip into a book on juicing or the benefits of tea, and Salter will hand deliver plates. Pick from more than twenty-four smoothie combos, add boosts from ginger, elderberry or MCT shots. Munch on nutella and banana or avocado toast topped with hard-boiled egg, hemp and chia or fuel up with an acai or peanut butter banana bowl. (Note: Cash or Venmo only in Catskill)

The Juice Branch | 65 W Bridge Street | Catskill | Phone: 518.947.0920
The Juice Branch | 719 Columbia Street | Hudson | Phone: 518.291.2612

Written by: Susie Davidson Powell

5 of Gabby’s Favorite CapNY Coffee Shops

Updated: July 2025

Everybody knows I love where I come from. CapNY is home for me and I want to see it shine. I spend a lot of time exploring the nooks and crannies of this region, always on the hunt for new, small, local businesses with character.


Coffee culture is a huge part of my life, and my travels. Local coffee shops are the eyes into the culture of the place you are in.

  • Caffeine Connoisseur

I’ve met some lifelong friends in coffee shops, and have made crazy awesome networking connections in local spots. There’s something about them that sparks creativity in me. There’s a big burst of energy that filters through these shops (and it’s not the caffeine).

I put together a list (not in any particular order), with some of my favorite coffee shops in CapNY in hopes you’ll check them out, support local business, and find inspiration in the atmosphere and people you encounter here. (P.S. if you follow me on IG, you’ll see me post my coffee shop ventures as I continue to explore everything CapNY has to offer – old and new!)

I like to say this is the coolest, most hipster specialty coffee shop/home goods shop/community gathering space in the whole region. Whenever I have friends visit from out of town, I bring them there because I want them to see how dope of a place I live in. I once overheard a San Francisco local say how this coffee shop was cooler than any spot he frequented in SF… Oh, and don’t forget to hit up their weekly “Bagel Sunday” drops for speciality bagels and crazy unique cream cheese flavors. Check out their IG and get a feel for their aesthetic.

Little Pecks is a neighborhood all-day café with a passion for tasty bites and quality beans. There are few things as pleasant as sitting in the garden area of this coffee shop with their killer egg and cheese biscuit and a mocha latte. When I’m dreading a project, I setup shop here, because this is where I find peace. Plus…the plants…I’m a plant mom to the core so I’m feeling the vibes. Check out their IG here!

The best dirty chai tea latte I’ve ever had in my life…not exaggerating. It’s in such a cute little section of Delmar, so it’s a great place to hit up and then spend time walking about to explore the shops that are close by. Plus, it’s right near some of the public art spots along the Albany Rail Trail – so you can talk a nice walk, bike, or in my case, rollerblade before or after stopping for your coffee. Check out their IG here!

An absolute CapNY classic. Bomb food – my favorite thing for breakfast is the spicy Elise’s Demon breakfast wrap. It also has a cool atmosphere and is in a convenient location to everything you’d ever need…making it an especially great place for professional meetings. Check out their Facebook!

From their site, “We know coffee. Our wide selection of coffees is carefully chosen from farmers who produce the best product and are socially responsible toward workers. All of our coffee is Fair Trade, Direct Trade, or Rainforest Alliance Certified.” SOLD! The place has a cozy, industrial feel and a quality/taste that is key to me loving the place so much. Check out their page!

 

Hope you’ll pop on by and try these gems out yourself! Support local business, tag them in your posts, tag us in your posts and use #GoCapNY – let us know what you think!

  • Written by: Gabby Fisher

The Authentic CapNY Guide to Speakeasy Bars

Updated: July 2025

Ever find yourself in the mood for some swanky, jazzy vibes to transport you back a hundred years or so?
Luckily for us, CapNY is home to some actual bootlegging legends (check out @bootleggerbungalow on Instagram, you won’t be disappointed). We’re also home to entrepreneurs who know just how to leverage our rich history into some seriously cool speakeasy-style bars and restaurants. 

  • Four CapNY Speakeasies

We’ve cherry picked four bars that we think exude the turn of the century aura. They’ve got sexy, tactile interior decor, and they reside within 200-year-old buildings. Romance and legend and cocktails. It’s a can’t-miss night on the town. 

  • 9 Maple, Saratoga Springs
9 Maple Avenue, Saratoga Springs

This speakeasy sure doesn’t make itself hard to find — the address and the name of the bar are one and the same. This self-proclaimed ‘Jazz Lounge’ is in a narrow brick building dating back to the 1880’s. This spot can get pretty crowded on the weekends when Saratogians pack into the space to listen to raucous live jazz bands.

While they’re known especially for their espresso martini, they also offer an impressive menu of 250 martinis. In addition, they allegedly have the largest selection of single malt scotch from Manhattan to Montreal. (We can’t wait to begin fact-checking this). The mahogany bar and iron-cast light fixtures are in keeping with the 1880s aura, while bartenders are dressed in formal attire as they shake two martinis at a time. Stop in early for a quiet drink or head in late-night for a bustling good time. 

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The glittering bar at 9 Maple in Saratoga Springs
  • The Berlin, Troy
2 King Street, Troy

This sultry spot in Troy sits on the second floor above the EMRY’s Garden, with an inconspicuous side-door entrance on the left side of the building. Complete with Chesterfield sofas, floor-to-ceiling red curtains, and gilded frames from wall-to-wall, The Berlin doesn’t leave even the smallest details unattended to. Intricate wallpaper, exposed brick, and tall ferns provide solarium vibes during daylight hours, and transition perfectly to mysterious night club after dark. Ten original ‘Haus Cocktails’ and nine wines offer a selection for anyone’s palate. This is the perfect spot for after dinner drinks and optimal mood lighting. 

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  • The Maker, Hudson
302 Warren Street, Hudson

As the prolific city of Hudson continues to put itself on the international ‘map’, this spot certainly hasn’t wanted for media coverage — it’s an exemplary example of historic renovation. Because of the building alone, we’d be remiss not to include The Lounge at The Maker. Built inside of a restored carriage barn, a marble and mahogany horseshoe bar acts as the grand focal point. Tassel-lamps descend from the ceiling. Intricately tiled floors, dark panel walls and heavy velvet curtains erase the last hundred years. It’s a complete the time-travel experience. With their unique and inventive cocktail list and small bites, The Maker lounge is a great stop for a date night or late-night get together.

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  • Elixir 16, Troy
45 2nd St, Troy

The history of the building at 45 2nd St is the most interesting and unique of any on this list. Originally built as a single-family home in 1822, it was renovated and the bottom floor used as a doctors office for nearly 100 years until now-owner Megan Reavey bought it in 2016. She pays homage to this in a couple of ways. The first is slightly macabre: in the front room sits an old, 1940’s medical bench, complete with stirrups and parchment paper rolled over the surface. She tells us that when she bought the building, this medical bench was still in use! The second homage is in the name. “The definition of Elixir is something the doctor prescribes, or a magical potion,” says Reavey.

The floors, fireplaces and chandeliers are original to the building. The ceiling tile is also of the 1800’s but salvaged from other buildings. Up until just a couple of years ago, there was no signage on the bar whatsoever. Instead, there was just a sandwich board out front that said ‘Curious? Come see for yourself’. They offer a wide selection of craft brews, as well as dumplings and board games. This one is an absolute must for the history buff or the craft beer enthusiast. 

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This article is presented through a content collaboration with ACE and CapNY.

  • Written by: Cabrina McGinn

The Authentic CapNY Guide: Old-School Italian Restaurants

Updated: July 2025

The Italian American community in New York City is as established and historic as the city itself. Luckily for us, many Italian Immigrants also ventured upstate to CapNY during the waves of European migration of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These communities quite literally built and shaped the cities we see today.
  • Generation after Generation

These once-bustling Italian neighborhoods still exist in pockets all over CapNY. We set out to find authentic Italian restaurants that have been owned and operated by the same families for multiple generations, and have become beloved CapNY institutions.

  • Perreca’s

1 N Jay Street Schenectady, New York 12305
Telephone: (518) 377-9800

We’d be remiss not to start our journey in Schenectady’s Little Italy. This North Jay Street neighborhood was built by the Italian community that you can find here to this day.

Founded by immigrants Salvatore & Carmella Perreca in 1914, Perreca’s is one of the oldest continually operating restaurants in CapNY. The original brick oven, built more than a century ago, is still used today.

Currently owned and operated by the third generation, siblings Maria & Anthony Papa still make their famous bread using the Old World technique brought from Naples by their grandparents. Legend has it that, in more than 100 years, this oven has never gone out. Anthony explains that the bricks expand when hot. If they were to cool down and contract, the oven could collapse. He comes into the bakery every single day, 365 days a year to put coals on the fire. “I don’t think I’ve taken a vacation since I went on my honeymoon,” he says with a laugh. 

“Okay, I’m gonna give one secret away,” says Anthony Papa. “[The oven] actually has been out, once.” He explains that at one point he had to let it cool and actually crawl inside to attempt a daring cleaning expedition.   

“The history, and the lure of this area is old school Italian food, done right. My thought when I’m cooking is to always honor the neighborhood,” says Head Chef Neil. He should know! A Schenectady native, Neil was born and raised right here in this “Little Italy”.  

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  • Caffe Italia

2080 Western Avenue, Albany, 12203
Telephone: (518) 459-8029

Every Albany native knows about Caffe Italia. In 1974, founder Joseph Romeo opened a small coffee shop on this spot. The local Italian community congregated, drank cappuccino, and picked up an Italian newspaper and other novelties from the Old Country.

Albany’s original “Little Italy” on Madison Avenue was demolished to make way for the Empire State Plaza. As a result, many of those businesses and people were scattered. The Romeos coffee shop stayed where it was, and now and again, Joseph’s wife Jana (Joanne) would make any one of a variety of homemade dishes that were such a hit with customers. Just 6 years later, they bought the Arlington Luncheonette next door and opened Caffe Italia in 1980.

Caffe Italia’s Capellini Dugan: Shrimp, Lobster & Spinach with white wine garlic sauce

For more than 20 years and with no formal culinary training, Joseph and Jana welcomed the larger Albany community and built an institution that their children have carried on today, with Suzanne as accountant, Pauly as executive chef, and Michael & Maria running the front of house. With room for just 40 guests in the restaurants, Maria tells us of how her family has always prioritized their community above all else. 

“The one thing my [late] father really wanted in this business was for people to relax and have it be an experience, similar to what you would find in your own home or in an Italian home. You don’t just sit and quickly eat. You sit around the table, you have a conversation, you get to know people. Over the years, we’ve built relationships with the people who frequent our restaurant. Now we have generations of families who’ve not only watched me grow but watched my kids grow as well.” 

Luckily for our community some of the third generation of Romeo’s, most of whom are teenagers and young adults at the moment, are already learning the trade! And, even better, they’re now bottling their sauce, so you can experience a bit of Caffe Italia at home.

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  • Lo Porto Ristorante Caffe

85 Fourth Street, Troy, New York, 12180
Telephone: (518) 273-8546

Across the river in Troy, the Lo Porto family are award-winning 5th generation restaurateurs hailing from Sicily. Brothers Salvatore and Michael Lo Porto opened their restaurant in downtown Troy in the 80’s after having immigrated from Italy in the 60’s. Michael is well-known throughout the community as the face of the business. Until a few years ago, you could almost always find him visiting tables to get to know new guests or catch up with the stampede of regulars that have been coming back for 30-something years. His nephew Carmelo, currently the Executive Chef, tells us that he was in the kitchen when he was just 10 years old.

The private room at Lo Porto

Between Michael and Carmelo, the two Chefs hold around two-dozen credentials and awards. Unfortunately, Carmelo tells me that his uncle Michael has been sick for the past few years. As a result, he has not been as involved as usual. But even during Michael’s absence and throughout the pandemic, Carmelo says that their priority remains the same. “Our number one joy is putting people in the seats, talking to people and talk about our family. We actually see a lot of new faces now. Lots of people have moved up from the city. We see new faces, then start to see them again and again.” 

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  • Written by: Cabrina McGinn