Albany

The banks of the great river now bearing his name served as a stopping place for Henry Hudson and his ship the Half Moon in 1609, as he sought a Northwest passage to the Orient. Later, a fur trading post called Fort Orange would be established. In 1688 the settlement was granted a city charter and renamed for the Duke of Albany.  The Capitol , with its grand staircase and breathtaking exterior, is the seat of New York State government. The New York State Museum is dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural history of New York State.  Add a visit to Howe Caverns for a treat.