Hidden Gems- Want To Be a Tourist in the 518?

I saw this article where a guy traveled coast-to-coast for just $213 just to see something in each Amtrak stop. It got me thinking, if he came here, what would I tell him he couldn't miss?

Travel blogger Derek Low travelled from San Francisco to New York by train for only $213. He did utilize some stopovers at each Amtrak site and posted pictures of some can't miss places at each stop. I would love to know what it's like to be a tourist in the Capital Region. I can't ever know that. I've lived in Schenectady my whole life and the 518 is my home. So I took a minute, took some of the bigger cities and if he came to our part of the world, this is what I would tell him to add to his list that his travel books may not tell him about. Where are you from and what's your city's hidden gem?

Jessica Sims, Townsquare Media
Jessica Sims, Townsquare Media
1
Schenectady
I have to start with Schenectady- it's my hometown. If a tourist were to ask me for a hidden gem, I'd tell them to stop by Lock 7 in Niskayuna. I forget sometimes that the Erie Canal is right there and this is the perfect opportunity to see working history first-hand. Plus, on a beautiful day, nothing beats a BBQ out there by the water!
Jessica Sims, Townsquare Media
Jessica Sims, Townsquare Media
2
Albany
Albany is our capital so there's a ton of things to see, do, or experience. Since starting at WGNA, I've been reintroduced to the Albany Pine Bush. Many of the geographic features date back to before the ice age & is one of the largest of its kind in the whole world! Travel books may bring you another place first, but as a tourist, I'd take respite here for a bit .
Jessica Sims, Townsquare Media
Jessica Sims, Townsquare Media
3
Troy
One of my favorite places in Troy is EMPAC. Found inside RPI, it's the Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center. The performances inside of the theater are a little outside of the ordinary but if you're at all interested in architecture, this building is incredible in person.
Jessica Sims, Townsquare Media
Jessica Sims, Townsquare Media
4
Saratoga
Okay, so technically it's in Rensselaer County but in terms of the Northway my brain is putting it in Saratoga. If you've ever been to Grafton State Park, take a quick drive to the Peace Pagoda. It's another beautiful building hid among the trees that a lot of people are unaware of. Take a look, take a breath- we all need it every so often.

Filed Under: albany, saratoga, schenectady, tourism, travel, troy, wgna

Categories: Best Of Albany Saratoga Area, GNA Morning Rush

Hidden Gems- Want To Be a Tourist in the 518? [LIST]