Hello Spook-Seekers!
Where are my other Capital Region (NY) ghouls? The city of Albany is incredibly old. In fact, it is the second oldest American city, chartered way back in 1686. One can only assume Albany has accumulated some ghosts along the way.
Here’s your overview:
- This is a day trip itinerary but can be adapted into a weekend adventure. I will include a hotel option for those coming from further away or who want to spread it out a bit more.
- If you start in Downtown Albany this entire itinerary is walkable (~5 1/2 miles) or it is a cumulative drive time of 30 minutes.
- Locations on this itinerary include notable sites of reported paranormal activity vs. spooky themed places (real ghosts aren’t for everyone, that’s ok!).
Ok, let’s get into it!
But first coffee:
Head over to Alias Coffee in the Kenmore on Pearl Street. The Kenmore is a Victorian building built in 1878 and was the home of the Rainbo Room from 1922 to 1947. The Rain-bo Room was a nightclub with one of the first radio stations, enticing performers such as Frank Sinatra! But, they also have wonderful coffee and snacks.
Photo from 11/22/1923
Sources:
Stop 2: New York State Capitol
Next, head towards Albany’s iconic NYS Capitol Building. If you’ve never been inside, I highly encourage you to check it out. There is a fascinating amount of different styles of architecture here (due to how long it took to build) and you might even find yourself face-to-face with a ghost. Here are the stories… in the late 1800s, a construction worker fell from scaffolding in the Assembly Chamber tragically killing the man. Reports of strange sounds and even apparitions have remained active in the Chamber room ever since. Later, in 1911, a nightwatchman named Samuel Abbot was killed in a massive fire. It’s been said you can hear the jingling of keys and doors locking, if you stay late enough at night. One person working in the Capitol building even reported having an entire conversation with a guard who later they realized was not quite of this era…
I took the Haunted Tour in October 2022 and was fascinated by how much our tour guide knew about the history of the building and all the eerie occurrences that have been reported. We even visited the exact spot where Abbot was found dead.
Notes:
- The Capitol building is open Monday-Friday from 7:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m
- The free Haunted Tour only runs in October. You must reserve a time slot in advance, there is limited room.
- The rest of the year you can take free historic tours. This tour is offered at 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. Monday-Friday. Reservations are not required, however, the tours are intended for small groups. Larger groups are encouraged to reserve by calling 518-474-2418.
Sources:
Photos: Go ahead, take a gander. Spot any eerie figures, orbs, or impressions?
Stop 3: Washington Park
So, I’ve been to Washington Park many times, but I never knew that this park used to be a cemetery! Indeed, 10,000 people once were buried here, until it became overcrowded and all the bodies were moved to Albany Rural Cemetery. Now that I think about it, I have always felt like someone was watching me whenever I walked in the park at night…
Notes:
- There is plenty of parking all through the park, and it makes a lovely walk from the Capitol Building.
- It’s open all year long and is free to visit.
- May is notable for the Tulip Festival in the Park.
- If you are ready for a snack, Lark Street on the way to our next stop is a great place for eats!
Sources:
Stop 4: Cherry Hill Park (Optional)
This is the furthest location on this particular tour, so I am marking it as optional, especially if you’re on foot. However, I highly encourage a visit or to read the history, because some of this history will pop up later in our day! Ok, it’s 1827. You’ve fallen in love with a strapping young lad. Just one problem, you’re already married…? Not to worry, Jesse Strang (said strapping young lad) is here to save the day, with a bullet through your husband’s head! Jesse Strang’s new relationship didn’t last long after that. He was found guilty and hung at Gallows Hill in Albany’s last public hanging. We’ll talk more about Gallows Hill later. John Whipple, the victim of the shooting, is said to still roam the halls of this amazingly preserved historical site; Built in 1787.
Notes:
- Tours happen Fridays & Saturdays on a first-come, first-serve basis.
- Tour season is typically from May until November.
Sources:
Stop 5: Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
This Georgian-style home belonged to Philip van Rensselaer Schuyler. Eliza Hamilton grew up in this house, and Eliza and Alexander Hamilton were married in the mansion. Yes, from the play! Further, Eliza’s ghost is said to still haunt the Schuyler Mansion. Visiting this location, the house is very well preserved and decorated in authentic antiques, which is a prime setting for your next (or first?) ghostly encounter. Paranormal reports detail hearing footsteps, distant voices, and even a few apparitions…
Notes:
- Tours run May-Oct Wed-Sun: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Reservations Required.
Sources:
Stop 6: Eagle Street (Gallows Hill)
Ok, if you are driving, I hope you will hop out of your car for a little wander for this one. It’s our last “spot” on our way to dinner. If you opted to walk, you’re in great shape. From Schuyler Mansion head towards Lincoln Park up Morton Ave. Turn right on Eagle Street; This is apparently the most haunted street in Albany. Indeed, you’re about to make the walk (in reverse) that prisoners took from the original State Hall (at the current day NYS court of appeals) to Gallows Hill. Gallows Hill is in the modern-day Empire Plaza next to Corning Tower. You might recognize the circular structure in the linked source below. Walk all the way to the NYS Court of Appeals before heading to dinner (FINALLY!).
Sources:
Dinner Time! Old English Pub
Also known as “The Quackenbush House,” this home-converted restaurant has been standing since 1736. The current owners have this restaurant decked out with beautiful antiques, including family portraits and heirlooms from England. They are known for their great English pub food and drinks, however, they may also be known for a spookier side… Staff have reported seeing odd reflections in mirrors. One employee even heard his name being called from the basement while waiting to be picked up. However, his ride was outside on State Street… So, do you dare to dine at this ghastly establishment?
P.S. I have and the food was really good! No ghosts sighted however ):
Notes:
- Open Tuesday – Sunday
- Great English pub food and drinks
Sources:
Itinerary Walking Map:
Itinerary Driving Map:
Hotel Option: Hyatt Place Albany
No, I don’t think the Hyatt is haunted… But if you think it is, let me know! I only chose this spot because it is so close to the Olde English Pub! It’s a great place to start and end this itinerary if you are coming from outside the Albany area, and it seems reasonably priced at the time of writing (November 2023).
Notes:
- Free breakfast and wifi
- Pet friendly ($100 fee per stay)
- There is only valet parking ($28 per night)
- Hyatt.com