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

4 Places You Don’t Know to See a Show

The underground music scene is rapidly growing with hundreds of local musicians and only more to come. There is the quantity of bands and musicians and the quality of music. Upstate creatives have taken this as an opportunity to create underground live music venues. The scene brings together a bunch of people in random locations that all share something in common, a love for live music.
  • Underground Spots

Personally, through going to shows I have met some really cool people that I would not know exist unless I knew of these underground venues. It also allows the musicians more opportunity to perform live and share their music with people like me and you. As such, I’m here to let you know of 5 Places You Don’t Know to See a Show.

The first two locations are right in the heart of College Town. They are the hottest underground spots, run by UAlbany college students.

  • THE DOJO BEYOND SPACE AND TIME

This venue is truly so different, in the coolest ways possible. Typically an evening at The Dojo includes, the night starting out with comic acts, and music follows. In the meantime you can relax on their open roof patio or you may even find yourself getting a tattoo, the possibilities are beyond Space and Time. They require you to DM them on Instagram for the address, find them online.

IG: @thedojobeyond

  • THE RAT DEN

The most intimate of the venues as their shows are literally right in their living room. Truly a lifetime experience, to be invited to someone’s home to watch and listen to music in their living room….that’s special. They require you to DM them on Instagram for the address, be sure to check them out.

IG: @the.rat.den518

  • TOWN AND COUNTRY SKATEBOARDS

Located 110 Mohawk Ave, Scotia (NY), this skate shop has got it going on. They have skate apparel to shop, an indoor half pipe open for use AND LIVE MUSIC. That sounds like paradise. If you’re interested is seeing a show checkout their website or Instagram page.

WEB: townandcountryskate.com
IG: @townskate518

  • MAKEOUT REEF

A venue located in Clifton Park (NY). Personally, my favorite underground show I’ve seen was at this venue. It also led me to discover one of my favorite bands – Latchkey Kids. They’re a Philly / NJ based band that sing song’s “in broken English”, as they state on their Instagram page @latchkeykidsnj. This venue also requires a DM on Instagram for the address.

IG: @makeoutreef

  • THE WRAP

The underground scene is thriving. What is being curated amongst these venue’s and creative’s is unheard of and absolutely beautiful. I personally have been able to watch these venues unfold and grow, and it’s something special. Come check out some shows, and get involved because I can guarantee you that you don’t want to miss this. 

Written By: Lily Buckley is an Upstate New York Artist / Event Producer. Find her out and about at all the places you need to know across the Capital Region.

IG: @visualilypleasing

 

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

Autumn in CapNY: Finding the Fun in Fall

Updated: July 2025

For many, Fall is a time for tradition, nostalgia and change. We welcome the new season by saying farewell to Summer and breathing in those first chilly breaths of Fall. Often, those breaths energize us into participating in our favorite Fall activities; the activities we look forward to all year long. 

Tucker Farms, Inc.
56 Hobart Rd. Gabriels, New York 12939

Nothing brings in the season better than a traditional Corn Maze! At Tucker Farms, Inc. you will be able to find a corn maze for all ages and personalities. It can even be challenging for the mathematician in your life! The latest design contains a hybrid with a treasure hunt and multiple mailboxes hidden throughout the maze. Luckily, there are escape routes for those who decide not to finish the maze or those who aren’t able to find all of the mailboxes. At the beginning, you will be given an aerial photograph of the maze and be given a ‘game piece’, it is suggested that from there you will need to find all eight of the hidden mailboxes. 

Be sure to stick around after sunset for the bonfire and S’mores! The perfect ending to a perfect Fall day.

524 Thacher Pk Rd, Voorheesville, NY 12186

Kick off the start of the season by experiencing this awesome zip lining course!

Rope courses and zip-lining are the perfect activities to do with your family or for a date! With the fall foliage about to be in bloom, it makes the experience that much better. The best thing about this course is that there is an adventure for everyone, including kids! There are three levels of obstacles that include wobbly bridges, nets, rope swings and so much more. There’s also an extreme course, made for the courageous and competitive person in your life.

204 Lisha Kill Rd, Colonie, NY 12309

By the time the air starts to feel a little more chilly and when the leaves start to change, I know that I can’t be the only one who is in need of the best cider donut around. Lansing Farm is a small, family owned farm in Colonie that has everything that you would want during the autumn season. From pumpkins and mums to farm grown vegetables and pies. When I think of picking out the perfect pumpkin, it’s gotta be from a local farm.

My absolute favorite thing from Lansing Farm is their cider donuts, made fresh daily. Whenever I pass by, I always have to make a stop in to share with others the best donut that I have ever had. Make sure to pick up your favorite fudge flavor while you’re in there too! Another thing to note is that the staff is incredibly personal and friendly and will give you the best advice on how to plant your mum’s for the season. Every experience at Lansing is better than the last.

This majestic, one of a kind experience is an effortless eight miles hugging the Hudson River. Enjoy the naturesque view of the leaves changing, wildflowers, and the outside creatures that surround “The River Run”. One of the best things about this rail-biking adventure is that once you reach the halfway point you are able to get out and walk down to the banks of the Hudson River to take in the beautiful scenery and to stretch your legs. The intimate time spent in nature with nothing to do but have a conversation and sight see, could be just what you need this Fall.

  • Written by: Chelsea Fisher

CapNY Healthcare Professionals Taking the Lead

Updated: July 2025

The Healthcare Cluster lays the foundation for CapNY’s vibrant economy, accounting for one in eight jobs regionwide. Major employers within the cluster include three major hospital systems as well as several health insurance companies.


One of those hospital systems is St. Peter’s Health Partners, a member of Trinity Health.

We had the honor of interviewing our local healthcare heroes and are pleased to highlight just a few individuals leading the way in providing excellent healthcare across CapNY. In this article, you’ll meet the following SPHP employees:

Dr. Vishwala Kasbekar, Physician with Capital Region Family Healthcare, a practice of SPHP
Dr. Sarah Pesek, Breast Surgeon
Dr. Thea Dalfino, Chief Medical Officer of SPHP Acute Care
Dr. Catherine Adams, Chief of Pallative Medicine
Dr. Holly Payne, Pediatrician

  • Meet Dr. Vishwala Kasbekar, Physician with Capital Region Family Healthcare, a practice of SPHP

Where are you from? Where in CapNY do you live now?

I was born in Indianapolis, Indiana but grew up in Monmouth County, New Jersey.  I currently live in the Latham area. I was looking for jobs from Boston to Washington, DC during my job search in preparation from graduating from residency in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics.  I have traveled a lot for school.  I started at the University of Rochester for undergraduate degree and then went to George Washington University Mailman School of Public Health in Washington, DC for my master’s degree; followed by the island of Grenada for medical school at St. George’s University.  At the end of the day, I am an East Coast girl who wanted to stay close to home base in NJ.  CapNY was close to family and allowed me to be close to other major cities like Boston and New York City. 

Describe your role and how you ended up in the field

I was a determined child. Even as a child I knew I wanted to be a physician. I truly believe that if one is afforded the opportunity to succeed and shown how from a young age, they are able to achieve anything on their journey. As I grew up, I made sure that I took every opportunity available to explore this dream, which included going to a career academy high school that was geared towards the medical-sciences, The Academy of Allied Health and Science (AAHS) in Neptune, NJ. I am still involved in my high school by sitting on the AAHS’s Advisory Council.  The intellectual curiosity that began while at AAHS allowed me to succeed in my undergraduate degree at the University of Rochester in Neuroscience, then in my Masters Degree in Public Health in International Health at George Washington University, and finally my medical degree at St. George’s University in Grenada.

I am currently practicing primary care as an Internal Medicine and Pediatrics physician at Capital Region Family Health Care, in Rensselaer, NY. I also work as a Physician Consultant at Siena College Health Services in Loudonville, NY.  I also am involved in a significant amount of administrative work at St. Peter’s Health Partners Medical Associates. 

I serve as the chairwoman of the Primary Care Joint Operating Committee, serve on the Quality and Compliance Committees of the Board, as well as serve as a member of the Board of Directors for St. Peter’s Health Partners Medical Associates.  My other administrative roles are at Innovative Health Alliance of New York (IHANY) as a member of the Governing Board and Chairwoman of the Membership and Network Development Committee.  At SPHPMA I have won awards for Service to the Organization in 2018 and Provider Excellence Award in 2019. 

What do you enjoy most about working for SPHP?

I have worked in healthcare since I was 16 years old, in the back of an Ambulance and I can honestly say the people I work with at my office are some of best people I have worked with in my career.  The camaraderie of my colleagues and staff in my office allows us to get our unending work done in an enjoyable way .  Working with people who understand that there are frustrating parts in our day, but we have to put our patients’ care first.  Also, the key to SPHPMA’s success is that our administrative team is approachable.  They understand and are frank with colleagues that there are some things that we can’t make change due to the way healthcare is right now however, they are always willing to listen and ready, willing, and able to be change agents when needed.

Favorite thing about living and working in CapNY?

The diversity.  Multicultural, socioeconomic, and industrial.  You can be in farm country in some parts and then travel a few miles down the road and be in a small city atmosphere.  This allows for a diversity of people as well, which makes being a physician enjoyable.  The performing arts buff in me loves all the venues from SPAC and the Egg to Proctors and The Capital Reparatory Theatre.  One of the first things I did when I moved here was buy a subscription to Broadway shows at Proctors. 

  • Meet Dr. Sarah Pesek, Breast Surgeon

Where are you from?
I am originally from a small town in Western PA about one hour north of Pittsburgh called Mercer. However, I lived in Burlington, VT for six years for residency and did a one year fellowship in Providence, RI.

Where in CapNY do you live now?
I currently live in Albany in the Helderberg neighborhood. I moved here for the job. I had been in New England for 7 years total before coming here and wanted to stay close to the skiing and hiking that I had come to love in residency in Vermont.

Describe your role. How did you end up in the breast surgery field?
I am a breast surgeon and take care of patients with benign and malignant breast disease. I also work with patients who are at higher risk of breast cancer to help manage their screening and risk. Not all my patients are surgical!

I started in general surgery after I fell in love with surgery during my third year of medical school.  I loved the immediate impact you can have on a patient. Once I was in residency, I was drawn to surgical oncology, specifically breast. I loved the subtle nuances of taking care of individual cancer patients and personalizing the plan for each patient. I also enjoyed the finesse involved in the surgeries and the challenge of leaving the patient with a breast or chest wall that looked good with minimal deformity after their surgery.

I was an awardee for the “40 under 40 in Cancer” presented by the Lynx Group in 2020. I am also a Fellow of the American College of surgeons, inducted in 2020.

What are you future career goals & how do you feel you can make a difference at SPHP?
I want to continue to work on my oncoplastic skills, meaning giving the patient the best cosmetic outcome I can after a breast surgery. I want to make it so people do not feel that they need to ask for a cosmetic closure as something special, but expect it as standard of care treatment.

I work with some pretty amazing people. My partner, my office manager and I came to SPHP all around the same time in 2015 and for a while it was just us. I am amazed at the solid breast surgery program we have built and grown.  My OR team is also amazing and I always look forward to seeing them. The research team in the cancer department has helped immensely in bringing in and running a clinical trial here as part of multisite study for breast cancer localization.

What’s your favorite thing about living and working in CapNY?
I enjoy hiking and became an ADK 46er in 2021. I love my neighborhood in Albany, especially my street. We all became very close during the pandemic and still do a Friday night wave/happy hour out on the sidewalk each week. Halloween on my street is also amazing. I got 400 trick or treaters last year! As to Albany in general, I like that it is a city that feels like a small community. It feels like everyone is connected in a good way.

  • Meet Dr. Sarah Pesek, Breast Surgeon

Where are you from? Where in CapNY do you live now?

CapNY native! I grew up in Clifton Park and currently live in North Greenbush.

How did you end up in this role?

It was a long road to become the Chief Medical Officer of St. Peter’s Health Partners Acute Care Hospitals. After graduating from Shenendehowa High School, I majored in Biology at SUNY Geneseo then went on to complete medical school at Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia. I met and married my husband while in medical school. He matched in neurosurgery at Albany Medical Center and I matched there in Internal Medicine. After completing residency I worked as a Hospitalist Physician at St. Peter’s before being promoted to the hospital’s first ever Chief of Hospital Medicine.

Over the next 13 years, the program grew from 10 providers to over 150 across 3 hospitals at its peak. I loved being able to split my time between the clinical practice of seeing patients in the hospital and running the hospitalist program, leading initiatives to improve the care of patients in the hospital, and learning about the business of medicine. In 2019 I graduated from Carnegie Mellon’s Heinz College, with Master of Medical Management in 2019 and in 2021 became the first female Chief Medical Officer at St. Peter’s Health Partners.

Other rewards and recognitions include a 40 Under 40 from the Albany Business Review in 2011 and a Professional Achievement Award in 2012 from the SUNY Geneseo Foundation.

What’s challenging and what’s rewarding about your work?

Nothing is easy in healthcare right now. Colleagues who have worked for decades as physicians and nurses tell me they’ve never seen anything like it. What’s challenging is providing the highest quality care in the midst of a labor shortage. On a personal level, keeping up with the multitude of demands and projects is a daunting task.

There’s nothing quite as rewarding as making the right diagnosis or connecting with a patient or family and helping them through a difficult time. I don’t get to do frontline patient care as often as I’d like, but know that the work we’re doing with other leaders in the organization helps to improve care for the patients in CapNY. I love leading projects to create a safer, more efficient and compassionate work environment for our colleagues. The people are the most rewarding part of the job; I have the opportunity to work with some incredibly skilled leaders, physicians and nurses and learn from them every day.

What do you enjoy most about working for SPHP?

What I enjoy most about working for SPHP is the culture. Having been at numerous other hospitals throughout my training and career, I enjoy the compassionate, caring environment at SPHP. People not only care about patients, they care about each other.

What’s your favorite part about living and working in CapNY?

This is a tough question because there are a lot of things I love about the region. In the summer I love the close proximity to Lake George where we can go to our family’s house on the lake. In the winter I love the countless ski resorts near Albany. On a day to day basis I love that my children are receiving the same outstanding public school education that I received, that I don’t have any traffic on my daily commute and that I can live on 10 acres in the country and still make it to work in less than 20 minutes.

  • Dr. Catherine Adams, Chief of Pallative Medicine

Where are you from? Where in CapNY do you live now?

I am originally from the suburbs of Philadelphia and then did my medical school and residency training in Connecticut. Currently I am living in the hamlet of Slingerlands in Bethlehem. I wanted to settle down in an area with growth and leadership opportunities for me professionally as well as great schools for my son. I appreciate the variety of family events and activities available in Bethlehem as well as the short commute to work.

What are you future career goals & how do you feel you can make a different at SPHP?

While expanding palliative care services within St. Peter’s, Samaritan and Ellis hospitals, within the last year we have also developed a home-based palliative care program. It has been rewarding to be able to provide palliative care services to patients both earlier in their illness and in the comfort of their own homes. Both locally and nationally within the Trinity Health System, I am working on plans to expand the availability of this service.

What do you enjoy most about working for SPHP and living in CapNY?

I enjoy the family feel of working in a small community hospital while also having the opportunity to collaborate with palliative care leaders that are part of our larger Trinity Health system across the country. I also feel very fortunate that our Chief Clinical Officer Steve Hanks as well as the greater Trinity Health leadership understand and value the importance of palliative care.

My favorite thing about living in this region is access to the wide range of outdoor activities that help me make the most of my time away from work. From camping in the Adirondacks to fishing on Lake George, there are weekend activities within driving distance that I can enjoy with my family in all seasons.

  • Dr. Holly Payne, Pediatrician

Where are you from? Where in CapNY do you live now?

I’m originally from Cary, NC but my family and I are coming to New York from Kentucky, where we lived for six and a half years. We currently live in Clifton Park with our two young children.  I targeted the Northeast for a variety of factors, including culture and climate, and eventually narrowed my search down to New York state. When I saw this position available the area seemed like a great fit! There’s so much natural beauty here plus plenty of opportunities for my family.

Describe your role & how you ended up in pediatrics

I got into this kind of work because I enjoy helping families grow and watching children develop as individuals. There are a lot of challenges though, both general to any child and specific to some children, and that’s where families need a pediatrician to come alongside them and provide some assistance. I’ve found it’s better to teach healthy habits and lifestyles at a young age so children can keep those skills with them as they grow.  

People come from different backgrounds and experiences. There’s no one right answer for every child or every family, and that can be challenging to work through. Kids go through so many phases, not all of them easy! Helping to navigate through those difficult times and making a difference in their lives is rewarding.

What do you enjoy most about working for SPHP and living in CapNY?

There’s a wide network of specialists and referral options to make sure my patients are receiving the best and most appropriate care, hospital management has been respectful and collaborative, and I know I can rely on my partner in the practice. I feel like our patients are in good hands! As for CapNY, the parks! We have two energetic boys and having so many great options for outdoor play has been wonderful.

  • Written by: Gabby Fisher

2 Hot Woman-Run Startups in CapNY

Updated: July 2025

Startup formation throughout Upstate New York has been second strongest in the Capital Region, according to a Center for Economic Growth analysis of data from U.S. Census Bureau Business Dynamics Statistics.

Our startup economy is booming and people, we invite you to BYOB (bring your own business) here to CapNY!

  • Support & Resources for Startups

From incubators and co-working spaces to funding and entrepreneurial bootcamps, there are countless opportunities for you to secure the resources you need to build your business.

The Center for Economic Growth (CEG)’s Business Growth Solutions (BGS) unit offers a menu of support services for entrepreneurs. CEG is also an operational partner of Innovate518, a collaborative effort managed by the University at Albany of incubators and accelerators and co-working spaces. The Capital Region Chamber provides support services for entrepreneurs including loan programs, entrepreneur boot camps and an MWBE program. Just to name a few…

Today, we’ll focus on two booming woman-run startups in CapNY that are making waves. Read on!

  • Inspect Point

Inspect Point gives you everything you need to run a fire inspection business. It helps you perform more inspections, win more contracts, and grow your inspection business to new heights.

Jennifer Doyle, CapNY native & Co-Founder/VP of Customer Success, said “after graduating from The Sage Colleges, I worked at several technology companies in the area in the marketing departments. While I learned a lot during my time with each, I did not feel fulfilled. After several years of working in the area, I quit my job and started a consulting company with my then boyfriend (now husband).

The concept of the business was inspired by a friend in the fire protection space came to us upset with their current software solution. After doing some research on the other solutions, as well as the market space, we saw an opportunity to build something that the industry needed and went all in.

Having a support system, outside of work, has been vital to our success. Since all of us (founders) have grown up and attended college in the area (Sage and RPI), our families and friends have been able to help us with babysitting, hot meals, and support throughout the years. Growing up in and starting our business in the Capital Region has also given us the opportunity to lean on resources and people we have known for many years.”

  • Micropolitan Matchmakers

Micropolitan Matchmakers, formerly Capital Heart Connection, provides matchmaking services, dating coaching, a podcast & more to help people in CapNY and other micropolitan areas “find their big love in their micropolitan region!” They’re the only matchmaking service of their kind in the region.

Founded by two CapNY natives and current Schenectady residents, Becky Daniels and Gabby Fisher. As two young professionals living in CapNY, they wanted to get off the apps and into the real dating world by curating singles events at local businesses. “As much as apps can help extend personal networks, it’s kind of dehumanizing,” said Daniels, “People aren’t people — they’re just a picture.” Diversity and inclusiveness play a central role, too. While both Fisher and Daniels are cis-gendered white women looking for men, “we really want to make sure the community is open for love across the spectrum,” Daniels said.

You can check out their services, listen to their podcast, join the free singles database, & find upcoming CapNY-based singles events, here!

  • These Founders Love CapNY
“My husband and I traveled for many years before moving back to the area and starting Inspect Point. What drew us back here was not only family, but the proximity to hiking, restaurants, travel opportunities, and a great place to build a company. I enjoy hiking with my kids at Peebles Island, grabbing a coffee with my coworkers at JACOB ALEJANDRO, grabbing a beer with my friends at The Ruck, and enjoying a date night with my husband at Browns or Nicole’s.”
Jennifer Doyle
Inspect Point
“When I moved back after graduate school, I was lucky to have a great group of friends from high school to come back to. But I still wanted to expand my professional circle, find a mentor… and maybe some potential dates. There are so many ways to build a network. I found my people through joining the Palette Cafe Community and Junior League of Albany, attending events with our awesome local chambers and young professionals groups. Volunteering with community organizations including the local St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital team, New Leaders Council, and Capital Region Sponsor a Scholar also helped.”
Becky Daniels
Micropolitan Matchmakers
  • Written by: Gabby Fisher

Making an Impact: 3 Black Entrepreneurs in CapNY

Updated: July 2025

Despite systemic barriers in place for marginalized communities, there are countless thriving Black-owned businesses in CapNY. Many use their resources to pay it forward, bettering the communities around them.
  • Leaving a Legacy

Whether it’s by combating poverty through transportation, supporting new business owners from marginalized groups, or creating a gym that welcomes those often left out of the fitness world, these three Black entrepreneurs have made an impact in CapNY.

  • Trent Griffin-Braaf, Tech Valley Hospitality Shuttle & GB Logistics

Trent Griffin-Braaf is the founder and CEO of transportation companies Tech Valley Hospitality Shuttle and GB Logistics. In 2021, the 37-year-old was named one of Forbes’ Next 1,000 Entrepreneurs. GB Logistics is currently partnered with Amazon, making deliveries out of the tech giant’s Colonie base. Tech Valley Shuttle offers a variety of modes of transportation, with a special focus on the community. Their main mission is to combat poverty through transportation. According to Griffin-Braaf, “Transportation and poverty go hand in hand, and we’re trying to change that, to flip the switch.” Tech Valley Shuttle offers shuttles to aid those living in local food deserts, commuter rides to work, as well as transportation to the New York State’s correctional facilities, allowing people in the community to visit loved ones, which is found to lower recidivism rates.

We asked, why are you passionate about what you do?

“Two things. I think the biggest thing is that I’ve had times in my life when I wasn’t able to drive, so I understand the barriers. And then I was someone who was previously incarcerated in my youth. So I lived all of these things, from not being able to get a job, to having to utilize public transportation, which minimized my work opportunities, to being in prison. I lived in food insecure areas, I grew up on Hamilton Hill, in Schenectady, and the Heights in Troy, where there are no grocery stores nearby. So, I’ve actually had to deal with these same issues. And now being able to help others in the Capital Region get past those barriers, I feel good. I feel like I have a mission every day. I know my purpose. I know I’m helping change lives, and that allows me to keep going.”

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

“The best advice that I would give to anybody who wants to be an entrepreneur is one, to believe in yourself. I believe that so many times people don’t have the true belief in themselves that they can accomplish what it is they set out to do, or that they can make the kind of money they say they want to make. I say belief starts with belief, and knowing that you really can accomplish anything. We all have greatness within us. It’s just identifying that greatness, and pulling it out and working on it. You have to make the time to work on yourself. No one can be successful without being the best version of themselves. And if they do, it’s just luck and then that would be squandered. But for anything that’s sustainable, and for the long term, it takes education and in the know how. Take courses, or if you’re not the best in school, utilize YouTube and read books. Take advantage of networks that help small businesses entrepreneurs.”

  • Cori Rodriguez, Cussin’s Nails

Cori Rodriguez is the owner of Cussin’s Nails in Downtown Schenectady. The 34-year-old moved to the Capital Region in 1997, and has lived in the hamlet of Delmar ever since. Cussin’s Nails focuses on keeping nails healthy, and clients safe, as well as being an inclusive space where all feel welcome. Rodriguez opened the nail salon in 2018, and now hosts the space “for six micro-businesses,” as Rodriguez likes to call it, that operate independently inside of her salon. The six micro-businesses currently working out of her salon are all women-owned, and include minority and disabled owners as well. The salon has a popular following on social media, and Rodriguez herself has a waiting list for future clients. 

We asked, why are you passionate about what you do?

“I like that I have the freedom to make my business the space that I want it to be. I’m also able to help my renters out, by mentoring them as they create their businesses, get their licensing and insurance, just overall mentorship. Being nail technicians, most of my renters came to me straight from school, so they’re starting from scratch, with no clientele, and that can be very jarring and alarming. You kind of just jump in, and hope that you can swim. I create a lifeboat, where any question they have, I can hopefully provide an answer. What is also really important to me, is that a lot of Black women spend money on beauty services, and while the hair industry and waxing industry are very diverse, the nail industry is a bit less so. While there are nail salons that are owned by other marginalized community members, many are not Black-owned, so Black women can often find themselves being mistreated in another environment. So I wanted to make a space that’s safe for everybody.”

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

“The best advice that I could give, and what I give my new renters as they’re coming in, is that we are capable. We are programmed to think that there is one way to do everything, and one way to live. You go to high school, you get your diploma, you go to college, you get your diploma, you get the job, and you work, and then you retire. But that doesn’t work for a lot of people. Instead of struggling for years to live happy later, what can I do now? Realize that you do have the potential, and the resources available, where anybody has the ability to start something new today.”

  • Trinel Mcdermott, Synergy Albany

Trinel Mcdermott is the owner of Synergy Albany, located on Everett Road. The 29-year-old Long Island-native opened Synergy Albany in 2018. Mcdermott says he chose Albany as Synergy’s location because of its diverse demographic, and affordability compared to the pricier Long Island, allowing him to start his business with less initial overhead. Whereas many gyms operate as a one-size-fits-all model, Synergy provides a personalized fitness experience at a group value. Mcdermott’s approach allows patrons to “get that community feel, but also get a personalized experience that caters to [them], and whatever [their] goals are.”  

We asked, why are you passionate about what you do?

“I’m passionate about what I do because I get to help people on a consistent basis. I think oftentimes, a lot of people get caught up or consumed with the everyday hustle and bustle, and you get pulled into just making money and just surviving for the most part. For me to be able to do what I love in terms of helping people, and help someone who may be struggling with hypertension, or struggling with fibromyalgia, is super fulfilling. When someone is struggling with their weight loss journey, and they’ve tried everything, it’s fulfilling to see them get from point A to point B, when things finally click. The feeling you get, knowing that you’ve helped someone, and it doesn’t have to be a ton of people, it always starts small, but before you know it, the compounding effect of just helping people and being able to bring a smile every day keeps me passionate about what I do.”

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

“Make sure you have a plan of action, and you execute that plan. A lot of times, we will create a plan, but we won’t execute it for a lot of different reasons. And we’ll always tell ourselves, “Well, I need to do this before I can do that.” Sometimes it’s just about finding a way to execute your dream, knowing it’s okay to fail. And if you fail, fail fast and move on fast. If you’re passionate and genuine about what you do, in the long run, it will always pay off, because it’s more so about relationships. And from those relationships, you can cultivate better success. When I was starting Synergy, I was knocking on doors, and saying, “My name is Trinel, and I’m opening up a gym not too far from here. I’d love for you to come down and check it out.” Just creating some sort of rapport, so that I’m able to know them on a first name basis, and create some type of relationship. It doesn’t always work, of course, but if you do that consistently, you’ll get maybe five people that will come down and check out your business or give you a call back. And before you know it, they have a friend and you can start to create a community just simply off of one or two meaningful connections.”

  • Written by: Victoria Diana

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