Albany’s proud history as the decision-making centre of the state means there are grand examples of architecture all around its riverside location. Hire a car in Albany so you can explore this intriguing mix of old landmarks and scenic outdoor locations.

Thankfully, the city and its surroundings are very easy to drive around. In the inner-city area, there’s a simple grid pattern of streets forming numbered blocks that help you navigate your way around. Away from the urban area the roads are more European in style, winding between the hills. If you're wanting to explore the Hudson River waterfront, look out for the I-787. Highway 20 is the ideal route to find your bearings when driving in central Albany, as it runs through the heart of the city and offers travel options in all directions.

You’ll also find an efficient system of major arterial roads around Albany. The I-87 is one of the major routes, running south to New York City, 135 miles away - it also heads north all the way to Montreal in Canada, a 220-mile drive. Meanwhile, the I-90 heads east into New England or west towards Niagara Falls.

The rules and regulations about driving in New York State are very similar to the neighbouring states. Note that there are special laws about turning right at a red traffic light in upstate New York - you must stop first and check it’s clear.

To find the precise details of the rules of the road, you can read a full guide online here.

A compact city in the heart of New York State, Albany is waiting to be discovered. With an interesting mix of old architecture, new commerce and rolling upstate hills, hiring a car here means you'll be able to take in all this hive of activity and adventure has to offer.

Take a step back in time

Steeped in heritage, the city is one of the oldest surviving European settlements in North America. The site on the west bank of the Hudson River was first occupied by fur traders in 1614 and later named after the Duke of Albany and the future James II of England. It has been a centre for politics and trade ever since. You’ll find the oldest district is the downtown area, centred on State Street and it’s fascinating to see the old terraces of Victorian houses in the ‘Mansion District’ and Arbor Hill.

Albany’s Institute of History and Art is a good place to start tracing the story of the city, the museum itself is the oldest in the state and dates back to the 18th century. The collection covers the history of the Hudson Valley region, with exhibits ranging from dugout canoes to fine landscape paintings.

You’ll find the distinctive Victorian Gothic State Capitol standing among the glossy skyscrapers of the Empire State Plaza area. As a National Historic Landmark, you can take a tour inside and wander this beautiful building, learning all about its history on your way around.

21st century Albany

The architecture in modern day Albany is striking and the wide, open pedestrian spaces between the towers make it easy to walk round. The modern skyscrapers and government institutions cluster around the Empire State Plaza area, including the Justice Department, The Egg Theatre and the Legislative Office Building.

Perhaps the best one to visit is the New York State Museum, in yet another impressive modern building, homing exhibits about the ancient history of the region for you to take in, including fossils and skeletons.

The best place to appreciate the layout of the Plaza is from a spectacular observation deck on the 42nd floor of the Corning Tower, the tallest building in the state outside of New York.

Relaxing here isn't hard either – find the best of the city’s restaurants and chic cafes along Lark Street and Pearl Street.

Exploring Albany's wider limits

Albany stands on the west bank of the Hudson River, just south of its junction with the Mohawk River. To the west are the Helderberg Mountains and the John Boyd Thatcher State Park, where you'll find areas covered in forests and rocky cliffs, with long views back across Albany and the Hudson Valley.

To the north, it’s a short drive to Schenectady and the remarkable National Historic Monument of the Nott Memorial, a 16-sided, domed Victorian building with 288 stained glass windows that forms the centrepiece of Union College.

With an eclectic mix of rich history, a vibrant atmosphere and a beautiful backdrop, Albany is one of New York's go-to cities.