Free things to do in albany ny 2. New York State Museum: The New York State Museum is located next to the Capitol and offers free admission. The museum has a wide range of exhibits, including natural history, art, and cultural artifacts. Highlights include the mastodon skeleton, the Adirondack wilderness exhibit, and the World Trade Center exhibit. 3. Empire State Plaza: The Empire State Plaza is a large public space in downtown Albany that features several free attractions. The plaza is home to the New York State Museum, the New York State Capitol, and the Corning Tower, which offers free tours and panoramic views of the city. The plaza also hosts free concerts and events throughout the year. Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM 8. Ten Broeck Mansion: The Ten Broeck Mansion is a historic house museum located in Albany's Arbor Hill neighborhood. The museum offers free tours on select days throughout the year. Visitors can learn about the history of the house and the Ten Broeck family, as well as the history of Albany. 9. Albany Pine Bush Preserve: The Albany Pine Bush Preserve is a unique ecosystem located on the outskirts of Albany. The preserve features several hiking trails, as well as educational programs and events. Visitors can learn about the ecology of the pine bush and the importance of preserving this unique habitat. 10. Free Outdoor Movies: During the summer months, the city of Albany hosts free outdoor movies in several locations throughout the city. Visitors can bring a blanket or a chair and enjoy a movie under the stars. In conclusion, there are plenty of free things to do in Albany, NY. From museums and historic sites to parks and outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Albany, the capital city of New York, is a great destination for travelers on a budget. There are plenty of free things to do and see in this historic city. Here are some ideas to get you started: 1. New York State Capitol: Take a free tour of the New York State Capitol building, which is open to the public Monday through Friday. The tours last about an hour and cover the history and architecture of the building, as well as the legislative process in New York State. 2. New York State Museum: The New York State Museum is located next to the Capitol and offers free admission. The museum has a wide range of exhibits, including natural history, art, and cultural artifacts. Highlights include the mastodon skeleton, the Adirondack wilderness exhibit, and the World Trade Center exhibit. St. Patrick's Day (March 17) 5. Albany Institute of History & Art: The Albany Institute of History & Art is a museum and research library that offers free admission on the first Friday of every month from 5 pm to 8 pm. The museum has a wide range of exhibits, including fine arts, decorative arts, and historical artifacts. 6. USS Slater: The USS Slater is a decommissioned World War II destroyer escort that is now a museum ship in Albany. The museum offers free tours on select days throughout the year. Visitors can explore the ship and learn about its history and the role of the U.S. Navy in World War II. 7. Corning Preserve: The Corning Preserve is a waterfront park located along the Hudson River in Albany. The park features a bike path, walking paths, and a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can also take a free boat ride on the Hudson River during the summer months. 8. Ten Broeck Mansion: The Ten Broeck Mansion is a historic house museum located in Albany's Arbor Hill neighborhood. The museum offers free tours on select days throughout the year. Visitors can learn about the history of the house and the Ten Broeck family, as well as the history of Albany.