Cohoes New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cohoes, New York.
1. Cohoes Falls, Falls View Park
MAJESTIC WATERFALL VIEWS
Cohoes Falls, viewed from Falls View Park, offers breathtaking vistas of one of New York's largest and most powerful waterfalls. The park spans four acres along the Mohawk River and provides walking paths, interpretive signage, and seasonal access for both casual visitors and avid photographers. Each visit promises a unique experience, whether you're enjoying a peaceful stroll or observing the falls' dramatic water flow.
2. Cohoes Music Hall
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Cohoes Music Hall is a beautifully restored 19th-century theater that serves as a cultural heart of the city. It features an eclectic schedule of performances including concerts, plays, and comedy acts, all within its historic and intimate setting. Visitors can appreciate both the architectural details of this iconic building and the vibrant performances that keep local arts thriving.
3. Cohoes Visitor Center
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Cohoes Visitor Center provides a fascinating look into the area's industrial and cultural history. Guests can explore interactive exhibits, historic artifacts, and listen to audio stories from Cohoes' past. It's a perfect starting point for understanding how the city was shaped by its mills, waterways, and immigrant workforce.
4. Van Schaick Island
RIVERSIDE ISLAND EXPLORATION
Van Schaick Island is nestled between the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers, offering scenic beauty and a glimpse of colonial-era history. The island is home to the Van Schaick Mansion, a historic site that played a notable role during the Revolutionary War. Visitors enjoy walking the quiet streets, observing historic homes, and taking in tranquil river views.
5. Spindle City Vineyard
URBAN WINERY EXPERIENCE
Spindle City Vineyard offers a local winery experience right in the heart of Cohoes. Guests can sample a selection of wines made from New York State grapes, often while enjoying live music or special community events. The inviting atmosphere and frequent tastings make it a popular stop for both residents and visitors.
6. Table 41 Brewing Company
CRAFT BREW PUB
Table 41 Brewing Company is a local hotspot for craft beer enthusiasts. The brewery features a rotating selection of house-brewed beers and often hosts trivia nights, food trucks, and live music, enhancing its vibrant community feel. It's a friendly gathering place to sample creative brews and enjoy the company of locals.
7. Lions Park
RIVERFRONT RECREATION AREA
Lions Park is a beloved local recreation spot along the Mohawk River, offering green space and river access. Visitors enjoy picnic areas, playgrounds, and a launching point for kayaks and canoes. Its location makes it perfect for relaxing by the water or starting a biking or hiking adventure.
8. Erie Canal Remains and Bridge
CANAL HISTORY WALK
The Erie Canal Remains and Bridge in Cohoes allow visitors to walk through a unique piece of New York's canal history. Interpretive signs explain the canal's significance, and a bridge over its remains connects modern visitors to the region's past transportation lifelines. The area is peaceful and ideal for photography and leisurely strolls.
9. Harmony Mills Historic District
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE LANDMARK
The Harmony Mills Historic District stands as a testament to Cohoes's storied textile manufacturing past. Visitors can admire the beautifully restored brick mill buildings, many now repurposed as luxury apartments and office spaces. The district's walking trails and interpretive markers bring the industrial era alive for history buffs.
10. Lock 38
ERIE CANAL ENGINEERING MARVEL
Lock 38 is part of the historic Erie Canal system and showcases the 19th-century engineering that helped fuel New York's economic growth. Visitors can observe the lock's original stonework and learn about canal transportation at interpretive stations nearby. It's a great spot for those interested in American history and waterways.
11. Shopping
LOCAL RETAIL THERAPY
Shopping in Cohoes includes unique local shops and shopping centers such as Cohoes Commons and Remsen Street boutiques. Visitors can browse for antiques, specialty foods, and locally made crafts along Remsen Street, the heart of downtown retail. The city's shopping scene combines historic charm with contemporary finds, providing something for every taste.
12. Dining
CULINARY DELIGHTS
Dining in Cohoes features a diverse range of restaurants, including local favorites like Tugboat Tavern, Spindles on Remsen, and Yuan Japanese Restaurant. From traditional American comfort food to international flavors and classic diners, the city's eateries cater to a variety of palates. Visitors can enjoy a casual bite, a hearty meal, or a sweet treat at establishments like Guptill's Ice Cream.
13. Hiking
TRAILS AND NATURE WALKS
Hiking opportunities in Cohoes include scenic trails along the Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail and the walking paths at Falls View Park. The Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail offers beautiful river views, while the wetlands near the Erie Canal provide peaceful nature walks and birdwatching spots. Each trail gives hikers a chance to connect with the area's waterways and history.
14. Fishing
ANGLER'S MOHAWK RIVER HAVEN
Fishing in Cohoes is popular along the Mohawk River, particularly at Falls View Park and Lions Park, both of which offer river access and scenic backdrops. Anglers frequent these spots for a chance to catch bass, walleye, and other native fish species. Whether experienced or new to fishing, visitors appreciate the tranquility and accessibility of these local favorites.
15. Camping
NATURE-IMMERSIVE STAYS
Camping near Cohoes can be enjoyed at sites such as Schodack Island State Park and nearby campgrounds like Arrowhead Marina & RV Park in the Capital Region. These parks provide tent, camper, and RV options along with river views and easy access to hiking and fishing areas. Whispering Pines Campsite is another local favorite for family-friendly amenities and wooded settings within a short drive of Cohoes.