Exploration – CapNY

5 Sizzling CapNY Summer Arts Experiences

Updated: July 2025

Here are five art experiences that can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone — solo, on a date, or with your kids. Visit one at a time, or make a day trip out of it! So, get outside and enjoy the summer weather, AND support our amazing creative economy.

After more than a year of being cooped up indoors, I’m ready to explore and experience everything CapNY has to offer — safely, of course. I’ve been spending all of my spring and summer weekends exploring the outdoors, hunting for public art and enjoying whatever arts scene I stumble upon and of course, am always on the lookout for a new local spots to grab a craft beer or delicious food.

Perfect for: solo exploration, family fun, a daytime date

The nine-mile Albany County Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail is perfect for walking, biking, or — my transportation mode of choice — rollerblading. I visited the trail on an absolutely gorgeous summer day and was blown away by how beautiful the scenery is! There’s greenery, flowers, and river. It’s a perfect spot to mix up an outdoor adventure while enjoying public art installations created by local artists. There are spots along the trail where you can see the art. Pop by and grab an Instagram pic at each!

Check out the current art installations at these locations along the Art on the Rail Trail (ART):

Susan Togu t art installations between Main St. and Grove St. in Voorheesville (2020).
Young People’s Mural at the Kenwood Ave. trailhead in Slingerlands (created 2019) — community mural designed by student Emily Meier, project work led by artist Andrea Hersh.
Angela Cuozzo‘s mural for Bliss Juice Bar on Delaware Ave. in Delmar (created 2019).
John DeMarco’s art on the columns under the Cherry Ave. bridge in Slingerlands (created 2018).
Ramiro Davaro-Comas mural on the Rail Trail bridge crossing Delaware Ave. in Delmar (created 2018).
Andrea Her sh mural at the Adams St. Rail Trail entrance in Delmar (created 2017).

Perfect for: family fun, a date

Every year, my grandmother and I see a summer New York City Ballet matinee at SPAC. Seating is available in the amphitheater or on the lawn, and it’s a lovely way to spend a beautiful summer’s day or night with the family or on a date. Fun fact: The New York City Ballet performed at the opening ceremony for the Saratoga Performing Arts Center in 1966 and returns each year for their summer residency.

Where to eat, you ask? Before or after the show, my grandma and I usually make reservations at her favorite Saratoga restaurant, Scallions, or if we’re in the mood for a smaller bite, we head to Boca Bistro for tapas and wine.

(P.S. Another one of my absolute favorite summer activities at SPAC is going to the Jazz Fest! This is another annual tradition my grandma and I have. If you haven’t attended, I HIGHLY recommend the experience. It’s a bit more casual than the ballet. We bring in our own food, drinks & meet up for a picnic with some other jazz-loving friends while being serenaded by world-renowned artists. )

Perfect for: solo exploration, family fun, a day date

The array of public art in Downtown Albany is growing by leaps and bounds. One of my favorite initiatives is #CapitalWalls, which is a partnership between Albany Center Gallery, Albany Barn, and Albany Parking Authority. This project seeks to inspire the local community with uplifting, educational, or thought-provoking works of public art. You’ll find pieces under bridges, alongside buildings, and other structures. Click here to check out the current murals and locations and rent a CDPHP cycle to take a tour of your own!

Nearby the art displays, there’s SO much to explore! A few of my favorites… For a drink and/or delicious food, Loch and Quay or The Olde English Pub. For a cool little shop with local goods, Fort Orange Shop. Lastly, my personal favorite (because I’m an obsessed plant mom), River Garden Studio.

Perfect for: Family fun

Looking for a super fun day trip with the kids? Downtown Catskill is where it’s at. Explore Catskill’s Historic Main Street and experience community member renditions of cats! Designed by different local artists, each has its own unique theme and feel. Cat’n Around Catskill takes place Memorial Day through Labor Day. The cats will be auctioned off at the end of the showing period and proceeds will be donated to charity.

Not only is it fun to walk along Main St. to enjoy the colorful cats, but there is so much more that the area has to offer. Historic architecture and unique shops are a big draw to the area.

Now I will recommend my new favorite place to eat in Catskill, and I am salivating just writing this: J&J Smokehouse BBQ. The flavors, the smells…everything about the place is just delectable. Try it out, you won’t be disappointed.

Perfect for: solo exploration, family fun, a day date

IMHO, the Stonewall Memorial Schenectady memorial/public art display doesn’t get the attention it deserves. And, as June is Pride Month, there’s never been a more perfect time to head to Gateway Plaza, and explore the display. The Stonewall Uprising was a milestone in the gay-rights movement. This piece beautifully memorializes the civil rights struggles of the LGBTQ community, and shines pride brightly.

Recently, new additions were added to the park (right next to the Stonewall structure) to raise awareness of the Black Lives Matter movement. As a Schenectady resident, I’m proud of these pieces and the effort it makes to educate visitors on both Stonewall and Black Lives Matter. This park has become one of celebrating civil rights for everybody and a symbol for equality.

If you’re looking for food or activities nearby, I’ve got you covered. One of my favorite summertime spots is Jumpin’ Jacks Drive-In on the Mohawk River. It’s only a few minutes away by car or bike (there are CDPHP bikes to rent right in the park). I’ve been going there every summer since I was a little kid.

If you have the family with you, right across the street from Jumpin’ Jacks is Collins Park, which has a playground, basketball courts, a splash pad and more! My nephews LOVE it.

Whether you’re looking for family fun, solo exploration, or a new date spot, these five outdoors arts experiences are a great way to support our local creative economy. Enjoy and be sure to tag us in your adventures, @gocapny! #GoCapNY!

4 Self-Care Ideas for CapNY Singles

Capital Heart Connection always celebrates singledom – but that doesn’t mean it can’t be tough sometimes!

Whether you get a little down seeing your coupled up friends on the gram, or maybe you find yourself wishing you had a romantic partner to do some exploring with, or just feeling down due to being stuck in the middle of a pandemic…we get it.

Being single can get a little bit lonely sometimes. The good news is, there are so many great ways to enjoy a little self-care all throughout CapNY. We’ve got a few of our favorite ways to show ourselves a little love for you here:

I’m a big believer that you have to show yourself the love that you want to bring into your life. So, with that, sometimes I take myself on a date.

If you’ve never done it, eating out alone can feel intimidating, but I’d bet many of you have a favorite spot or two where you know some of the bartenders or waitstaff. That’s a great place to start! (And, if you don’t have a favorite spot yet, this is a perfect way to find one). Clean yourself up, put on a favorite outfit and grab yourself a seat at the bar. Order a favorite drink and something decadent and enjoy! A few of my favorite spots for this are The Van Dyck and The City Squire in Schenectady. In my new neighborhood of Downtown Albany, I love DPs and The Hollow.

Pro tips — if you like sports, do this to watch a game and you’ll almost always make friends! And, if you’re not feeling social or chatty, bring a book or magazine with you so you can take a break from your phone while giving off a “no thanks” vibe to those who might try to chat you up.

During the pandemic, I still try to create the same atmosphere for myself with some candles and special takeout. And yes, occasionally, I’ll even put on something cute just to stay home to show my non-sweatpants clothing some love. Some spots even do cocktails to go which is SO fun. Check out Plumb Oyster Bar’s Cocktail Club, or Rosanna’s for some fabulous creations you can enjoy on your couch.

Another favorite form of self-care is to get moving! There are so many ways to do this and you have to figure out what brings you joy. Movement should not feel like a punishment!

I sometimes enjoy running, but lately I’ve found long walks a bit more relaxing. The Mohawk Hudson Bike path is within walking distance of my home. From the Corning Preserve, I can hop right onto the path. I also love the portion of the bike path that starts at Lions Park in Niskayuna.

I also absolutely love yoga! Connecting breath to movement — and being really intentional about checking in with myself — feels amazing for my body and my brain. Now is a great time to try yoga if you’re a newbie. Thankfully, you can find tons of free and low-cost online options. Many local studios are also offering online courses that will allow you to practice safely and support small business. One of my favorite spaces that I can’t wait to get back to post-pandemic is Studio 4 Hot Yoga — with a special shout out to the “Sweet Sunday Surrender” Class!

I’ve done a lot of solo travel, domestic and abroad. I traveled solo for a month and a half through Europe and it was one of the most awakening experiences of my life. I’m what one would call an ambivert – with extrovert and introvert qualities. So, despite the fact that I love being around and meeting new people, I rejuvenate through alone time, where I can reflect in peace. Solo travel is my definition of self-care. I’ve put together some of my favorite overnight stays in CapNY, which you can see via these links — Albany and Catskills.

If I’m riding solo, I’d choose to stay in a Getaway tiny home in the Catskills. I’d bring my pup, Mochi, and spend a night in nature — phone off. Bring a book you’ve been wanting to read, turn up your favorite podcast, and cozy in for a night of stillness and peace. Wake up in the morning, brew yourself a cup of coffee, and take a stroll through the calm woods. There’s nothing like it.

Self-care is about feeling good and paying attention to your health – mental, emotional, and physical. When I consume fresh, healthy goods and support small local business, it makes me feel whole and it truly nourishes my soul. Spend a day browsing local shops and farmers markets, and invest in some foods that make you happy. Find some treats that you love but rarely have. Buy yourself a bouquet of flowers. I tend to engage in these type of self-care days often and here are some of my favorite CapNY spots to do it:

The Local in Cohoes – I’ll grab a breakfast sandwich and coffee (only $6!) and then buy a locally made candle, a plant or two (I’m an obsessed plant mom – my collection consists of more than 30 plants at this point), and I’ll always pick up some fresh veggies.

Olde Hudson Speciality Foods in Hudson — I love going here to get everything I need to make a charcuterie board…charcuterie board for one — with organic wine from 22 2nd St, Wine Co. in downtown Troy. I mix up stuff from all parts of CapNY…makes for the best smorgashboard.
Sometimes I like to stay close to home. Less than a mile away my from house is The Schenectady Trading Co., which now provides produce from Capital Roots, flowers from Village Floral of Scotia, and countless other local goods.

Becky Daniels of Albany, 34, and Gabby Fisher of Schenectady, 28, are two boss women who ROCK being single. Now, they want to share with you why they love living and experiencing CapNY solo…so they present to you, Capital Heart Connection! Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to be kept in the loop on singles content, events, and more fun than you could imagine.

Drink Exploration Food Single

5 Great NY State Parks: Empire Pass

Updated: July 2025

The Empire Pass Card is a perfect way to become acquainted with the natural wonders of the Capital Region.

Open the gates to the pleasures of the great NY State parks with the amazing Empire Pass! The shareable, wallet-sized card is a full-season parking pass to New York’s 180 state parks. Empire Passes can be purchased online here. The Empire Pass is a great option for a single adventurer and their dog, a fun-seeking family, or a boisterous group of friends looking for low-cost outdoor activities.

What started as a money-saver quickly became an exploratory tool and recreation motivator for me. Purchasing an Empire Pass encouraged me to learn more about the Capital Region and the local beauty that I would otherwise drive by. Here I share 5 great NY State parks you can visit with your Empire Pass. Plus, there are ideas about what you can do at the park, and attractions in the surrounding areas.

Impressive architecture, glittering pools, and amazing history are hallmarks of Saratoga Spa State. Plus, you’ll find museums, SPAC, a golf course, a historic hotel, an amazing day spa, restaurants, walking trails, and more. This state park offers something to everyone.

My visit started with a slow, outdoor, self-guided walking tour of the Hall of Springs and Avenue of the Pines. These are both perfect spots for a photo shoot or an Instagram shot. At noon I ate lunch and caught some sun on the grounds outside of the Roosevelt Baths and Spa, a luxury spa that specializes in natural mineral baths. If the sun is too much, retreat to the refuge of the shady forest trails nearby.

Four Season Fun at Spa State Park

The park offers several options to those who want to swim or cool off. I like to wander along Geyser Creek, because it is quiet and shady. The Peerless Pool is great for families with kids. Want to glam it up? Then Victoria Pool is for you. It’s perfect for lounging and leisurely dips.

A unique feature of this park are the 12 mineral springs that are scattered throughout. Searching for the springs is a good way to tour the park with young children — click here for a map. Following one of the park’s eleven trails is another great way to see the land. The Geyser Trail is the longest trail and reaches almost every corner of the park. Trails are open all year, weather permitting. In winter, you can cross country ski and snowshoe on these trails!

If you visit on a Sunday, go to the Spa City Farmers’ Market and peruse seasonal vegetables and crafts. Need coffee? Stop by Wired Coffee for a cold brew. Both the market and the café are conveniently located in the park, so you don’t have to give up that parking spot if you’re hungry or want to shop! You can also rent CDTA’s CDPHP Cycle bikes at several locations throughout the Park, which will allow you to see all the sites, and then peddle to downtown Saratoga Springs via the bike trail.

Nestled in the dense woods of Saratoga County, Moreau Lake State Park offers walking trails, camping in the summer, and snowshoeing in the winter. What I love most about Moreau is the stunning view of the lake from the beach area. The large, sandy beach on the west shore of the lake is great for kids and fishing; the smaller north shore is better for pets. After a swim at noon, my partner and I took our dog on the Nature Trail and the Wetland Walk around Mud Pond. I enjoyed the variety of ecosystems on the Nature Trail. Some trails are flat and quite easy, so they are a good hiking option for novices or hikers of different abilities. There are also some more challenging scrambles, for those seeking amazing views of the southern Adirondacks.

More great options:

Have breakfast, lunch, or dinner at Scotty’s 24-Hour Restaurant before, during, or after your visit!
After a morning on the lake, take a break and drive 15 minutes to Glens Falls to tour The Chapman Museum or The Hyde Collection.
Pavilions, cabins, and campsites are available for rent if you want to camp overnight, or (restrictions permitting) hold an event at the park. You can reserve by phone or at ReserveAmerica.com

Grafton Lakes State Park, located in the lush forests of Grafton, is one of the most popular parks in CapNY. There’s a great beach on Long Pond, plus five other ponds for fishing and boating. The woods behind the beach are great area for hanging out and grilling with a group or eating lunch from Grafton’s Town Store ( 2436 NY-2, Cropseyville). I suggest going during the week or arriving early on the weekends in the summer, to ensure you’ll find a spot on the beach or a picnic bench.

Capital District explorer, New York State worker, and local music lover (and, yes, my friend) Susan Rice recommended Grafton Lakes State Park to me because it’s “beautiful and very family oriented” – and she’s right! With over 30 trails, there are hiking options for every family member and every ability level.

The park offers an abundance of recreation options, including a basketball court, a softball field, a volleyball court, and playgrounds. My favorite part of the park is the small, dog-friendly beach next to the swimming beach. Here, leashed pets are permitted to play. Before you leave Grafton, take amazing photos of the sunset at Dickinson Hill Fire Tower, or chill out at the marvelous Grafton Peace Pagoda. Almost anything you need for a fun day outdoors is available at Grafton Lakes State Park.

Cherry Plain State Park is in Petersburg, NY, on the east side of Rensselaer County. Within the small park is a beach on Black River Pond, five hiking trails, campgrounds, a boat launch, and a playground. Because of its small size and location, this park is a great option for visitors and campers who want a quieter experience.

During my visit, I parked along State Park Road, walked to the Boat Launch, then took a short hike along Lakeside Trail with my dog. All trails are less than 2.5 miles and vary from easy to difficult. If you like aquatic activities, Black River Pond is wonderful for a calm kayak float, or a long day of fishing in the winter or summer. If you don’t own a boat, but still want to set sail, Cherry Plain has boat rental options for kayaks and rowboats. Click here for information about kayak and rowboat rental availability.

While in Cherry Plain, visit the Rocky Hill Country Store on Route 22, where you can get a delicious sandwich for breakfast or lunch, or select from a variety of local honeys, syrups, and jams. Drive a little further to Stephentown and stop by Four Fat Fowl, an artisan creamery that makes and distributes some of New York’s tastiest cheeses.

The breath-taking view from Thacher State Park is magnificent all year round. The park sits on a mountain, and is worth your, or your vehicle’s, gently inclining climb.

When we parked in the Overlook area, my partner and I took in the gorgeous view of the fall foliage across Albany County. I was slightly shocked and pleasantly surprised to see as far as the tallest buildings on UAlbany’s campus and state offices downtown.

Thacher State Park isn’t popular for its vista alone. Trails for all-season activities can be found throughout the park, with some winding (safely) along the cliff. The playgrounds and campsites near Thompson Lake provide a suitable area to spend a weekend with your family. Thacher State Park is also a local top choice for day trips. Its proximity to Albany (only a half hour away!) makes the park a prime location for a sunset stroll.

After your visit, grab dinner downtown at Rain Modern Chinese on Lark Street, or El Mariachi, with locations on Hamilton and Lark Street. If you like beer and ciders, take a peek at what’s happening near the park at Indian Ladder Farms Cidery and Brewery. Their bottle shop is open every day and they serve scrumptious fo ods on weekends. And of course, they’ve got amazing apple picking in the fall — a perfect complement to the views at Thacher State Park.

Exploration outdoor Parks

5 Great Places to Visit in Schenectady: A Local Renaissance

Schenectady is undergoing a renaissance! There’s something new to explore every time you pop by. Come explore the craft breweries and distilleries, dynamic restaurants with authentic flavors, and everything in between.

Schenectady has become a center for unique boutiques and retail incubators that house local talent. Come see for yourself!

Clinton Street Mercantile, AKA the “Merc” is the first of our great places to visit in Schenectady. It’s the downtown go-to spot to shop for local goods made by artisans all over the Capital Region. The cozy storefront is host to furniture makers, jewelers, photographer, fashion designers, and much more. Everything is creatively curated by the owners, Brandon and Michelle Whittall, who opened the store in order to give artists a chance to build their brands. By learning business skills such as interacting with customers, artists begin to realize their dreams of owning a business. The Merc also offers workshops and classes that are led by the vendors themselves. Additionally, the Merc has expanded to a second location on Lark St. in Albany.

When you walk into Bluebird Home Decor, you be treated to a peaceful, comforting, home-like space. You’ll find yourself surrounded by beautiful work from over 20 artists and businesses from around the U.S., as well as six fair-trade companies. They sell many vintage pieces that are one-of-a-kind. In our opinions, these really speak to the soul. The array of beauty and self-care products ensure this shop is truly an experience for the senses.

Eating well and taking care is always in season. That’s where The Schenectady Trading Company comes in. Schenectady-native Caroline Bardwell was inspired by the creativity of the people around her. She opened her business to showcase local goods and connect the modern consumer to the modern producer. We think she’s nailed it. With products covering almost every genre from food to apparel (plus workshops!), you’ll walk away with a load of goodies and an appreciation for the amazing breadth of talent living and creating in Schenectady.

Ain’t no sweet tooth like a CapGirl sweet tooth! We couldn’t be happier that Villa Italia exists in this world. Step inside and let your senses be treated to a heavenly array of baked goods from cannoli to rugelach to cupcakes and beyond. Seriously, give yourself a moment to take it all in. Inhale. Exhale. Ahhh… For over 50 years, Villa Italia has been treating locals to delicious sweets. And, if you’re feeling something savory, they have you covered too with soup, salads, and sandwiches.

We love, love, love this store and its impact on its local community. b. Inspired was originally located just outside downtown Schenectady in Scotia, and now it has a second location on Upper Union Street. b. Inspired hopes this lifestyle concept store acts as a catalyst to spark further development of the walkable downtown area. The goal of the shop is to inspire and motivate. Create your lifestyle that tells your unique story in new and interesting ways. Choose from among their handpicked items with an emphasis on a boho-chic vibe. Oh, don’t forget to stop at the terrarium bar and create your own terrarium to bring home!

There’s a flavor for everybody’s taste in Schenectady. These great places to visit in Schenectady are worth a road trip or weekend adventure. Explore these gems and get lost discovering Schenectady on your own! Be sure to tag us in your adventures, so we can share the love: @CapGirlsNY.

Two women living in CapNY, who say if you’re not having fun here, you’re doing it wrong. Follow them on IG!

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Exploring the Albany Pine Bush Preserve

CapNY is home to one of the rarest habitats in the world – get ready to explore!

The Albany Pine Bush Preserve boasts one of the largest inland pine barrens in the world — one of only 20 in existence!

The sandy stretch of land around the Thruway in the Guilderland/Colonie area is the Albany Pine Bush Preserve. It is a totally unique and ecologically rare piece of preserved land, teeming with rare plants and animals. Come explore the Pine Bush Preserve — am amazing jewel right in our CapNY backyard.

During college I interned at the Albany Pine Bush, where I spent many days in the preserve leading school and camp groups. I know many of the trails like the back of my hand. Yet, I never tire of meandering among the towering pitch pines. There are so many elements to the Pine Bush that make it a unique place. Yet the preserve is not just one chunk of land. The Thruway, Crossgates Mall and suburban neighborhoods split the land up into several parcels. With 12 trailheads and over 20 miles of trail, you have endless exploration options!

Let’s start right at The Discovery Center off of Route 155. Several miles of trail start from here, including a 1 mile loop and a 2.5 mile loop over rolling sand dunes. This is a great part of the preserve to explore if you’re interested in seeing wildlife. In September you’ll catch sight of black, orange and white inland buck moths flying above the scrub oak. Be on the lookout for turtles, deer and a wide variety of birds as well!

Moving down the road to Madison Ave Extension, we come to my favorite trailhead of the Albany Pine Bush. The Madison Avenue Pine Barrens is one of the best spots to feel dwarfed by the distinct pitch pine trees that tower overhead. This gentle, rolling terrain makes for a relaxing walk. Meanwhile, take in the beauty of the land around you. My dog Remy and I love the wide, sandy paths on this trailhead. The full loop at this trailhead is only about .6 miles. Add the purple connector trail for an extended 3.7 mile walk to DiCaprio Park in Guilderland!

Just down the road from the Madison Ave. Pine Barrens is one of the crown jewels of the whole preserve, the Great Dune trailhead. This area contains–you guessed it– the largest sand dune of the preserve, standing at 75 feet tall! Most of the Pine Bush’s habitat is made up of sandy soil, pitch pines, and other species that prefer a dryer climate. However, the Kaikout Kill stream runs through the Great Dune area, supporting ferns and mosses providing some charming greenery. During spring look for the endangered Karner blue butterfly, which only feeds on the leaves of wild lupine. Several loops can be made from here, the longest being just under 2 miles.

Finally, make a stop at the Six Mile Waterworks trailhead! Home to Rensselaer Lake, this section of the preserve allows for fishing, paddling and picnicking. If fishing is your thing you can try your hand at catching bass, carp, pike and pumpkin seed. If you’re a hiker, you can pick up a .5 mile trail from Six Mile Waterworks, leading you to the neighboring Rapp Road Barrens.

There are several more trailheads in the preserve with superb hiking and bird watching opportunities! You can check out all of the trails and what they have to offer by visiting the preserve’s website.

Blessing’s Tavern in Colonie is located on Watervliet Shaker Road, just down the road from the Albany Pine Bush. This local favorite has top notch pub food to refuel after your day of adventuring. You can’t go wrong with any of their sandwiches or wings!

Fiden’s Brewing Company: Mere minutes from several Pine Bush trailheads is Fidens, a local microbrewery. If you’re a fan of IPAs, they’ve got you covered with their “Socratic Questioning” lineup that features 7 different kinds of IPAs and DIPAs.

Maria Gigliello is an avid hiker, paddler and writer who enjoys spending as much time as possible doing all three things in the Adirondack State Park. She is just as passionate about beer as she is about responsible outdoor recreation and is always in search of a good view and a brew. You can follow her adventures on her blog, The Dirt.

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4 Fantastic Murals: Public Art in CapNY

One of the first things I research before exploring a new area is the city’s best street art.

All it takes is one exceptionally talented individual with a vision to turn a forgotten building, a bridge underpass, or an easily overlooked alleyway into a destination itself as an outdoor art gallery.

There are so many fantastic murals in CapNY to explore, but these are a few of my favorites.

Artist Kevin Clark created a beautiful mural on the side of the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall to give visitors an idea of what the amazing venue looks like inside. The painting makes you feel like you’re in the audience, adding some visually stunning imagery to what was once just a bland bank building.

As you’re viewing the mural, you might notice a bunch of names edged into the bottom. Those are names of past performers that have stood on that stage. Some pretty impressive people — from Wynton Marsalis and Diana Krall and SO many more — are on that list. After you take a look at the piece, walk on over to the Whistling Kettle at 254 Broadway for a sandwich, tea, or pastries. If they have the roasted red pepper soup with smoked gouda, you must try it. You’ll pass shops and boutiques along the way, be sure to pop in.

You can see this mural at 50 2nd Street, adjacent to the Troy Music Hall parking lot.

Downtown Albany has so many fantastic murals popping up, bringing life to buildings and neighborhoods throughout the city. For example, when exploring the area for the first time I came across ‘Blue birds’ by Michael Conlin (located on the Quackenbush Garage at 25 Orange St.) and ‘Float and Flight’ by John Breiner (under the I-787 ramp Clinton Ave exit, behind the Quackenbush Garage). Both stopped me in my tracks.

One of my personal favorites is ‘Love Goes On’ by Nick Walker. It was one of the first murals I saw in the area and I fell in love with it! After exploring some local fantastic murals, grab a flavorful, healthy lunch at one of my favorite spots — Lark St. Poke Bar.

The Love Goes On mural is on the eastern-facing wall of the Green-Hudson Parking Garage.

My boyfriend and I were recently driving through Chatham in Columbia County. Besides the adorable shops (there are many!), I spotted a bright turquoise boxcar. Located in what looked like the remnants of a parking lot, artist Brian Buono decided to take an old boxcar and turn it into a work of art.

After taking photos of Brian‘s beautiful work, head over to Bimi’s Cheese Shop to grab some cheeses to go for a charcuterie board at home or a delicious grilled cheese sandwich with a cup of steaming hot soup.

You can see this mural on Main Street in Chatham.

Hudson is such an amazing town. There are SO many boutique shops to explore and delicious restaurants to try. Another thing I noticed while browsing the streets was the mural. There are some really interesting paintings within this collaborative collage, from Hudson-based artists like Alexander West Guerrero. And, it’s a great place to capture some IG pics.

You can see the mural at 2 Park Place.

Jess is a journalist and photographer with a focus on food, travel, and entertainment. She’s written for over 10 different local publications in New York State, in addition to the Huffington Post, Cosmopolitan, AAA Northeast, Eater, Dame Traveler, Food52, Insider, Wine Enthusiast, Kitchn, AAA World Magazine, Thrillist, and more. Follow her adventures on Instagram @Adventures.Are.Waiting.

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Tag: Exploration

5 Sizzling CapNY Summer Arts Experiences

4 Self-Care Ideas for CapNY Singles

5 Great NY State Parks: Empire Pass

5 Great Places to Visit in Schenectady: A Local Renaissance

Exploring the Albany Pine Bush Preserve

4 Fantastic Murals: Public Art in CapNY

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