Albany Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems, must-try food and drink, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures of Albany, Oregon in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Albany

Nestled in the heart of Willamette Valley, Albany is a charming town in Oregon that offers a blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore the Pacific Northwest’s beauty and allure. Portland is just an hour away, and Eugene is 30 minutes south. Albany is easily accessible via I-5 or Amtrak’s Carl Cascio train.

List of Places to Visit in Albany

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Albany is home to several museums and historical sites that allow visitors to travel back in time and learn more about the town’s rich history. Don’t miss these:

  • Albany Carousel & Museum: A whimsical museum that highlights the art and history of carousels. Watch artists create wooden animals and view over 20 completed animals on display.

  • Monteith House Museum: A Victorian house museum that showcases the lifestyle of early Albany settlers.

  • The Historic Carousel and Museum: One of the most unique things you’ll see in Albany is the beautifully crafted Norman Rockwell-style carousel featuring 52 animals.

Natural Attractions of Albany: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Albany is surrounded by picturesque landscape and offers several opportunities for outdoor adventures. Here are some of the most popular outdoor activities in Albany:

  • Bald Hill Natural Area: A 260-acre park with forested trails and stunning views of the Willamette Valley.

  • Takena Landing Park: A picturesque park located by the Willamette River, Offering hiking trails, a boat ramp, and picnic shelter.

  • Hopscotch Farm & Cannery: This picturesque farm and cannery in Albany offers a variety of outdoor activities, from berry picking to a guided tour of their honeybee hives.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Albany

Albany boasts several scenic hiking and biking trails that showcase the town’s natural beauty. Here are some of the top hiking and biking trails in Albany:

  • Marys Peak: A perennial favorite that offers spectacular views of the surrounding valley.

  • Macleay-to-Vietnam: A scenic trail that connects two historic cemeteries while offering views of the Willamette Valley.

Best Things to Do in Albany: Activities and Tours

In addition to museums, there are plenty of other exciting things to do in Albany:

  • Linn County Expo Center: This large-scale venue hosts many events throughout the year, including the Linn County Fair, Antique Fair, and more.

  • Red Barn Hemp: A hemp farm in Albany that offers tours of its facilities and products.

Week-Long Itinerary for Albany

Here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Albany:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Historic Carousel & Museum, enjoy food at Calapooia Brewery
Day 2 Hike the Mary’s Peak Trail, take a guided tour of buffalo ranch, visit the Takena Landing Park
Day 3 Tour the Monteith House Museum, visit the small shops and boutiques downtown
Day 4 Visit the Albany Farmers’ Market, check out the live music at the Expo Center
Day 5 Visit the Hopscotch Farm & Cannery, and pick your own fruits
Day 6 Biking trip from Macleay Park to Vietnam Cemetery, visit the Red Barn Hemp farm
Day 7 Explore the Willamette River by kayak paddle-boarding, or rafting

Food and Drink Scene of Albany

Must-Try Dishes

Albany offers an eclectic range of culinary delights. Here are some regional dishes you should definitely try:

  • Marionberry Pie: Made from marionberries that grow locally, this pie is a must-try dessert item in Albany.

  • Oregon hazelnuts: Hazelnuts are grown in Oregon, famous for their premium taste and quality, and are used in many different dishes in Albany.

Local Beverages

Albany has a thriving food and drink scene, with microbreweries, wineries, and cideries scattered throughout the town. Here are some of the most notable craft beverages in Albany:

  • Calapooia Brewing Company: This brewery offers a range of handcrafted ales, porters, and stouts, and has won awards for their unique beer flavors.

  • Springhill Cellars Winery: A winery located in the outskirts of town, offering delicious wines that truly reflect the Willamette Valley region.

  • 2 Towns Ciderhouse: A local cider brewery specializing in handcrafted ciders.

Where to Stay in Albany: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Albany that cater to all budgets. Here are some of the top places to stay:

  • Phoenix Inn Suites: A comfortable hotel located near the downtwon, offering suites with full amenities.

  • Albany Garden Inn: A family-owned and operated motel located in the heart of the city.

What to Buy in Albany: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for a unique souvenir or some local products to bring back home? Check out these shopping spots in Albany:

  • Albany Farmers’ Market: This market offers locally-grown fruits, vegetables, and homemade food items.

  • Oregon Coffee and Tea: A local coffee and tea shop that offers exclusive blends and unique accessories.

Local Culture and Customs of Albany

Albany’s cultural heritage is reflected in many of its historical sites and museums. The local citizens are also friendly and known for their hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Albany

The best time to visit Albany is from May through October when the weather is pleasant enough to enjoy outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Albany

Do:

  • Respect local customs and heritage.

  • Take the time to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the natural areas.

  • Don’t forget to tip.

Safety and Health

Safety in Albany

Albany is a safe place with low crime rates. However, your safety should still be a priority. Stay safe by:

  • Locking your car and valuables in your hotel room.

  • Being cautious if walking around downtown areas late at night.

Health in Albany

Albany has good health facilities, including a community hospital and emergency care.

Getting to Albany: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Albany

The nearest airport to Albany is Eugene Airport, located just 30 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Albany

Several bus companies, including Greyhound, offer regular stops in nearby towns.

Other Options

Amtrak’s program Cascadia offers regular stops in Albany for those traveling by train.

How to Get Around in Albany

Albany is best explored on foot, but for those who prefer other transportation options, there are taxis and rental cars available.

Where to Go Next from Albany: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Albany is perfectly situated between several other charming towns and attractions that make excellent day or weekend trips, including:

  • Silver Falls State Park

  • Corvallis

  • Salem

  • The Oregon Coast

Conclusion

Albany, Oregon, is a small town that packs a punch with its rich history, natural beauty, and excellent food and drink scene. Explore the town’s museums, hike the scenic trails, and indulge in the local produce and drinks. With so much to do, you won’t regret making Albany your next travel destination.

Willamette River from downtown Albany Willamette River from downtown Albany Albany Municipal Airport Albany Municipal Airport