The Albany Symphony will be kicking off the Erie Canal bicentennial celebration on July 2 in Albany at Jennings Landing/Corning Preserve followed by Schenectady and Amsterdam performances.  Each will be followed by a fireworks show the whole family is sure to enjoy!

These canal side performances include world premieres by award-winning composers and selections from Handel's Water Music as well as American favorites.

Check out some of the Historic Capital Region's other museums and guided tours.

The Albany Museum of History and Art

The Albany Institute of History and Art was founded in 1791, making it one of the oldest museums in The United States. The museum's best exhibits follow the history and development of Hudson Valley and holds the largest collection of Hudson River School works. 

The New York State Museum

The New York State Museum is the oldest and largest state museum in the country. It holds exhibits on the art, history, anthropology, and sciences of New York State. The collections total more than 16 million scientific specimens and one million cultural objects.

Via Aquarium

Via is the only full-scale aquarium in the Capital Region. The aquarium hosts sea creatures native to New York as well as exotic fish from other countries. The tours are self-guided, with over 2,000 types of fish and sea creatures.

Five Rivers Environmental Education Center

The Five Rivers Environmental Education Center is a living museum comprised of 450 acres of fields, forests, and wetlands. The Environmental Center offers both guided and self-guided tours. Five Rivers fosters "discovery, spiritual refreshment and physical fitness through wholesome outdoor recreation.

miSci Museum of Innovation and Science

The miSci museum is a must-go museum for families. The museum is centered on teaching young kids about science and technology, and hosts a butterfly and dinosaur exhibit as well as a planetarium.

The USS Slater Museum

The USS Slater is the only WWII vintage Destroyer-Escort you can tour in The United States.  The ship was a destroyer escort that served in the United States Navy during World War II. The enthusiastic tour guides and interns make touring the ship fun and informational for the the whole family.