Visiting Albany and Central New York State

Spring has sprung in New York's capital and central regions. The Mohawk River is fueling Cohoes Falls at its maximum. Second to Niagara Fall's beauty and grandeur, a spring trip to Cohoes is the ideal time. Spring runoff over Cohoes Falls 1,000 foot width is reminiscent of how original explorers discovered it. Albany, the state capital, is just 10 miles south on the banks of the Hudson River. The Albany Aqua Ducks and Trolleys opened for its 7th season mid April, ready to tour family and friends through Albany's historic sites. Saratoga Springs, to the north, beckons summer visitors with its popular mineral springs and race course. An ideal destination when you need a quick getaway or vacation.

Saratoga Springs' spring and summer events include a first for 2010. The Saratoga Performing Arts Center is sponsoring the 1st Annual 5K Rock & Run May 23rd. The start and finish are at the Center, with post race party for runners and fans. A great athletic event to engage kids, there is separate children's run prior to the 5k with medals for all participants. Live music, refreshments and special kid's activities will make it a fun day for all. Come support SPAC's first annual race and get your exercise routine on track for summer.

June brings the 33rd Annual Freihofer's Saratoga Jazz Festival June 26th and 27th. Join jazz fans from across the Northeast and US for an amazing 2010 lineup. Headlines include; Al Jarreau, Gladys Knight, Taj Mahal and the Ramsey Lewis Trio. An amazing weekend you won't want to miss – the Ramsy Lewis Trio last performed here 21 years ago. The Best Western Park Inn in Saratoga Springs is close to SPAC, convenient for visitors looking for weekend accommodations.

Albany, within an hour of Saratoga Springs, is alive with summer fun and festivals. The St Sophia Greek Orthodox Church hosts its 41st Annual Greek Festival mid May. Enjoy great food and fun to kickoff summer. A great family festival featuring live music and dancing and even rides for the kids. When traveling to Albany, the Best Western Sovereign Hotel and the Best Western Albany Airport Inn are convenient and affordable. Stay a few days and enjoy a visit to the state capital or enjoy some summer fun with the family at the Great Escape Theme Park.

Bicycling enthusiasts are gearing up for the 12th Annual Cycling the Erie Canal Bike Tour 2010. This 400 mile ride takes you from Buffalo to Albany over July 11th through 18th. The finish is at Albany's Corning Preserve along the Riverfront after an amazing course through the beautiful and historic scenery along the Erie Canal. Central New Yorker cyclists, there is a special weekend ride July 16th through 18th on the last leg of the ride from Canajoharie to Albany. Take advantage of this opportunity to participate in one of upstate New York's premier cycling events. The Best Western Inn of Cobleskill is about 30 miles away, enjoy clean and comfortable accommodations to begin your weekend ride.