Location: Schenectady
Top Things to do in Schenectady
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Top 10 Things to do in Schenectady, United States
Schenectady /skəˈnɛktədi/ is a city in Schenectady County, New York, United States, of which it is the county seat. As of the 2010 census, the city had a population of 66,135. The name "Schenectady" is derived from a Mohawk word skahnéhtati meaning "beyond the pines". The city was founded on the south side of the Mohawk River by Dutch colonists in the 17th century, many from the Albany area. They were prohibited from the fur trade by the Albany monopoly, which kept its control after the English takeover in 1664. Residents of the new village developed farms on strip plots along the river. Connected to the west via the Mohawk River and Erie Canal, the city developed rapidly in the 19th century as part of the Mohawk Valley trade, manufacturing and transportation corridor. By 1824 more people worked in manufacturing than agriculture or trade, and the city had a cotton mill, processing cotton from the Deep South. Numerous mills in New York had such ties with the South. Through the 19th century, nationally influential companies and industries developed in Schenectady, including General Electric and American Locomotive Company (ALCO), which were powers into the mid-20th century. The city was part of emerging technologies, with GE collaborating in the production of nuclear-powered submarines and, in the 21st century, working on other forms of renewable energy.
Restaurants in Schenectady
1. Proctor's Theater
Overall Ratings
5 based on 505 reviews
Reviewed By richlederer
Saw Body Guard. Excellent fantastic musical. Would go back and see it again. Proctors is a great venue. Great service, sound and lighting system. Excellent and helpful staff. highly recommend Proctors
2. Peebles Island State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 75 reviews
Reviewed By Ru66
It was very easy 2 miles walk/hike, mostly shaded, by the water, couldn't ask for more! We saw eagles' nest but unfortunately no eagles today. Deers, even a small snake, butterflies, and other wildlife. We'll be back soon, next time plan soft a longer stay to rent kayaks.
3. Scotia Cinema
Overall Ratings
5 based on 76 reviews
Reviewed By disneyguy333 - Clifton Park, New York
As a first time visitor, I was blown away by both the low ticket prices and the amazing way this family run theater looks. Everything is neat, modern and nicely decorated. The lobby isn't huge, but it definitely is well organized with the box office located immediately as you walk in the main doors. They still give the now old fashioned ticket stubs, which is really cool also. They don't accept credit cards, but the prices are so low a small amount of cash suffices (and there is also an ATM in the lobby). The concession stand is small but has all the basics such as fresh popcorn, candy, nachos and bottled or fountain soda. Again, the prices were very, very reasonable compared to other local movie chains.
The theater itself is reminiscent of the UA and Hellman theaters of the 70's and 80's which i personally miss. There are dual staircases going up to the balcony, which is pretty large and offers more modern seats than below. The main theater has a main row of several seats with a row of 2 seats on each side. There is alot of leg room and the seats are comfortable too. If attending with a child, they have booster seats in the lobby which proved very useful .
The pre-show starts about 20 minutes or so before the main feature and is a locally produced introduction to the Scotia area. It is probably the most informative pre show i've encountered at a movie theater. It highlights the history of the theater and the village of Scotia and pretty much the entire Schenectady County area.
As an added surprise, when my daughter had eaten all of her popcorn and asked for more, I got up and figured for $2.00 i'd be more than happy to get her more. As i made my way to the concession stand I noticed other parents bringing their empty popcorn buckets and wondered why? Turns out that refills for ANY size popcorn or soda is only $1.00!! I went back and grabbed both the large and small containers and got refills for both.
I honestly, do not have 1 single negative comment about this theater. The owners are there working hard everyday to keep up the immaculate lobby and theater. As soon as the movie ended and people had begun to leave, the owner himself was out there picking up trash and spilled popcorn while other family members were busy with vacuums and trash bags. The dedication of this family is what will guarantee that the theater will be operational for many more years to come. If you haven't been here, do come and enjoy a magnificent locally owned theater unlike any other in the Capital District.
4. Rollarama Skating Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 11 reviews
Beautifully updated Rollerskating rink located in the heart of the Town of Rotterdam, NY. Featuring hardwood skating surface, full concession area, free wifi throughout the building, game room, Stuff Shop, we sell skates and equipment. We do the BEST Birthday parties around! We also do private skating or non skating parties and corporate events, we offer classes for children and adults, private lessons, adult skating sessions. Rollarama is home rink for the Hellions of Troy all women Roller Derby League. The Hellions hold bouts at the rink several times per year. We have plenty of free parking.
Reviewed By Linda P - Schenectady, New York, United States
The rollarama was updated not too long ago - vibrant colors greet you as you approach. My nephew visits there frequently, meeting up with his friends and enjoying some good ole' fashion clean fun. Prepare to be mesmerized by the crowd!
5. Central Park Rose Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 140 reviews
Reviewed By IBJosey - Niskayuna, New York
This is a hidden gem ! They keep this beautiful garden immaculate! The smells alone will keep you on a bench for the afternoon. People watching is great since many weddings stop for pictures. They keep improving this peaceful little spot every year something new seems added. Such great memories, since my husband purposed under the arch.
6. Empire State Aeroscineces Museum
Overall Ratings
4 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By yellowbirdVermont
This museum is set up in away that tells a story yet, gives you a look at history and artifacts of the aeorscience history. There were some amazing exhibits that you need to see for yourself. Different media was used to interest just about anyone. Even a person like myself who has little knowledge in this field of interest.
I actually got into a fighter and was amazed at all the controls. There are many planes on display in the yard. The curator, Peter, was excellent at explaining.
7. Schenectady County Public Library
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 39 reviews
Reviewed By Shirley D
The Schenectady Public Library is a jewel near downtown Schenectady. It is spacious and has a fantastic array of resources and services. The librarians are friendly and helpful, and the entire space is designed with the user in mind. The library also hosts several book sales throughout the year for the book aficionados in the community, and offers many community events as well.
8. Bottoms Up on Broadway
Overall Ratings
5 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By Craig F - Schenectady, New York
Do you want to go where everyone knows your name? Then head over to the Bottoms Up on Broadway Bar. A great place in Rotterdam, with great people, great drinks and a great time. The bar offers pub foods and has evenings with a DJ and an open Mic night. You and your friends will want to come back over and over again.
9. Via Aquarium
Overall Ratings
4 based on 67 reviews
Experience the wonders of the ocean in your backyard! The Via Aquarium is the capital regions only full scale aquarium. Explore over 25,000 square feet of oceanic treasure as you and your family embark an exciting self-guided tour visiting over 2,000 creatures of the sea.
Reviewed By OceanWonders - Upstate New York
Just visited Via Aquarium today for the first time and was very impressed. What a great aquarium in Rotterdam, NY- only a few minutes from downtown Schenectady. Great selection of sea life including small sharks, stingrays, sea horses, horseshoe crabs, and many different beautiful fish. Kids will love the experience to touch stingrays and fish. We spent about two hours here and took our time in each section. It wasn’t too crowded on a Sunday afternoon and we were able to take our time. Kids can complete a scavenger hunt for different fish and submit for a badge when finished. We will definitely return here. Gift shop had a nice selection of souvenirs. Great aquarium and we have visited larger ones as well- this is one of our favorites!
10. Museum of Innovation and Science
Overall Ratings
4 based on 93 reviews
Reviewed By sheilal921 - Albany, New York
We took our grandchildren to the museum on an icy day and it had something to catch the interest of all. The trains were wonderful and the hands on exhibits were the best. Although it's a small museum, attempts to modernize are greatly appreciated by the kids. some of the exhibits are looking a bit old but they're trying to modernize. Look for a discount coupon because a family entrance can be expensive.
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