Founded by Dutch in the early seventeenth century, the city made its money by controlling trade and its reputation by being capital of the state. With its contemporary character almost exclusively shaped by political and bureaucratic affairs there are a few livelier areas on the fringes. The first permanent settlement, named Beverwyck, was built in 1624 by the Dutch. In the 19th century Albany became a major transportation centre. Its focal point today is Empire State Plaza, a governmental, cultural, and convention complex.

It has a humid continental climate, with cold, snowy winters and hot, wet summers. Snowfall is significant, but much less than the lake effect areas to the north and west. Winters are often very cold, with temperatures dropping below zero. Summers temperatures can be above 90. Severe thunderstorms are not uncommon. Tornadoes are rare but not unheard of.

Today Albany is a thriving cultural centre supporting a variety of museums, theatres, and historic buildings. Quackenbush House is the cities oldest building, built along the river in 1736 and now serving as part of the Albany Urban Culture Park. Empire State Plaza replaced 98 acres of nineteenth century buildings, with a complex that includes a subterranean retail arcade lined with impressive modern art.

The New York State Museum is worth a visit.

From bed and breakfast to spacious penthouse suites there are accommodations that will suit any type of traveller. Choose from a wide variety of lodging that offers the best in comfort and hospitality.

Historic neighbourhoods offer specialty shops, eclectic restaurants and nightspots. Many unique shops, antiquarian bookstores and seasonal marketplaces. For indoor shopping, several extensive malls offer hundreds of stores including major national retailers Macys, Filenes and JC Penney. For the experienced shopper, outlet villages and malls offer designer and brand name labels at economical prices.

The highways and byways are well travelled, accessible and convenient.

Albany is firmly rooted in its history and moving toward the future. For almost three centuries, Albany has been hosting meetings that shaped the nation and continue to mould its future.

A great place to be, come and see it for yourself, you wont be disappointed.