River Week drawing: AOA tour tickets, riverside dining at Brown's and Waters Edge Lighthouse
Drawing's closed! Winner's been emailed!
For River Week, we thought it'd be fun to have a drawing. And here's the prize package:
+ Two tickets for the sold-out AOA Rail, River, Hudson tour this Saturday, July 11. ($130 value)
+ Dinner for four at Brown's Brewing in Troy.
+ A $50 gift certificate to the The Waters Edge Lighthouse in Glenville.
So, that's a pair of tickets for our trip along the Hudson River, plus gift certificates to dine along two different rivers.
To enter, please answer this question in the comments:
What's your favorite river, stream, lake, pond, or other sort of body of water in the Capital Region? And why is that place a favorite.
It could be any body of water around the region, and for any reason -- because of the scenery, because of recreation there, because there was a special moment there, whatever. We'll draw one winner at random. That person gets the prize pack.
Important: All comments must be submitted by 2 pm on Thursday, July 9, 2015 to be entered in the drawing. You must answer the question to be part of the drawing. (Normal commenting guidelines apply.) One entry per person, please. You must enter a valid email address (that you check regularly) with your comment. The winner will be notified via email by 3 pm that day must respond by 11:59 pm July 9.
River Week is sponsored by: Albany County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Downtown Albany BID, Dutch Apple Cruises, Harmony Mills, Hudson River Greenway, Nine Pin Cider, Sweet Sue's, and Downtown Troy BID.
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Comments
Crooked Lake in Averill Park. So beautiful, and I got married there!
... said Megan on Jul 8, 2015 at 1:36 PM | link
The Hudson River itself. It connects us to other parts of the state and the world! I love watching the rise and fall, ice build up and flows throughout the year. It provides a calming nature whenever you are close to it.
... said Jessica R W on Jul 8, 2015 at 1:41 PM | link
Six Mile Waterworks, because it is a beautiful body of water with fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking, a children's playground and much more. Most importantly, it is inside the city of Albany. Not many cities in the country can boast of something like this inside their city limits.
... said greg on Jul 8, 2015 at 1:57 PM | link
Dyken Pond in Cropsyville. Great hiking, very scenic!
... said Elise Hearn on Jul 8, 2015 at 1:57 PM | link
The Hudson River. Majestic, historic, iconic. What more can you ask of a river?
... said zas1214 on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:02 PM | link
Round Lake, if you can find a time when its quiet- which is harder now with the new parking layout. If you get into the back channel, its so picturesque
... said Sarah on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:03 PM | link
The Hudson - it has its mix of scrap yards and is notorious for its pollution, but it's beautiful, too, and full of historical significance.
... said Kobe on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:04 PM | link
I love the Tomhannock Reservoir - specifically, the view you get as you're taking route 7 back towards Brunswick/Troy from VT. It's always so lovely and peaceful, no matter what time of year it is, and it's a surefire sign that home is only a few minutes away.
... said s on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:09 PM | link
Moreau Lake. It's so clear and flat, great for kayaking and there are awesome trails. And it makes for great snowshoeing in the winter!
... said Kerry on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:14 PM | link
I don't know if this is technically a body of water but I would say the fountain at UAlbany. After a walk or run around campus, it's nice to sit by the fountain and relax. A little oasis in the middle of the campus. Indian pond is nice as well!
... said Ashley on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:21 PM | link
Kinderhook Lake, Niverville, NY.
reason: it is big enough to kayak, boat, swim, have fun and never see all of it, yet small enough where the (car, boat, and people traffic) isn't a problem. most days on the lake, it is like a glass top - with no one to be seen or heard in any direction - and the Lake "mascot" 1 tree island is pretty cool too.
... said Kent on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:23 PM | link
Rogers Beach in Bolton Landing because you can see the Sagamore across the lake -- my husband and I got engaged there!
... said jpg on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:28 PM | link
Awesome memories made at Grafton Lakes with family and friends with swimming, beach volleyball, sand castles, picnics, boating and trails.
... said Rich R on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:36 PM | link
Had so much fun on the last day of Aqua Ducks Tours on the Hudson River with my family.
... said Michelle R on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:38 PM | link
We wouldn't be here without the Hudson River!
... said Tara on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:38 PM | link
Saratoga lake- have a lot of great family memories there.
... said Becky on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:40 PM | link
Washington Park lake - a nice oasis in the heart of Albany to fish, watch the ducks, and in the past at least, take a paddle boat ride.
... said Dave R. on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:40 PM | link
The Hudson River - because of its historic, artistic, social, economic and environmental significance -- past, present and future -- for so many communities and people throughout the Hudson Valley.
... said Tom Murnane on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:42 PM | link
Buckingham Pond. Such a nice little park and kind of hidden away. It's part of my daily run.
... said bb on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:43 PM | link
I love Lake George - the mountains surrounding the lake are gorgeous! Its a big lake - you can be alone in some parts and crowded in other parts!
... said Ron on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:45 PM | link
Lake Luzerne. It's my getaway when life gets too hectic. I love that it's not far and I can rent a cabin and just relax.
... said Amy on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:49 PM | link
I would have to say Nassau Lake. Sure, it has a bad reputation (thanks GE!) but it's where I grew up. Fishing outings with my dad. Ice skating with my mom. It's beautiful all year. You just have to watch out for those three-eyed fish. I kid, I kid.
... said James Yetto Jr on Jul 8, 2015 at 2:51 PM | link
Buckingham Pond, great place to jog/walk any evening and ice skate in the winter.
... said Nick on Jul 8, 2015 at 3:02 PM | link
Crystal Lake. It's a beautiful lake surrounded by lovely homes.
... said Dawn on Jul 8, 2015 at 3:02 PM | link
Bradley Lake in Frear Park, Troy! I grew up on a lake outside the Capital Region and now this is the closest I've got. I love watching it change through the seasons.
... said Kaitlyn on Jul 8, 2015 at 3:05 PM | link
Poestenkill Falls aka "The Gorge" -
The gorge is one of the most beautiful and hidden gems of the capital region and it is located right in Downtown Troy! The waterfall itself is gorgeous and the pond below is great for swimming; plus there is hardly ever a crowd.
... said Michelle on Jul 8, 2015 at 3:10 PM | link
Lock 7 is a great place to rollerblade
... said Susan on Jul 8, 2015 at 3:23 PM | link
Sacandaga. Childhood memories of swimming and boating.
... said John on Jul 8, 2015 at 3:23 PM | link
Grafton Lakes!
... said Kelly on Jul 8, 2015 at 3:24 PM | link
Great Sacandaga Lake. Its a poor man's Lake George without the crowds and pretension.
... said Cliff on Jul 8, 2015 at 3:25 PM | link
The Hudson!! I just moved here 4 months ago from across the world ad it was almost the first thing that I saw from the plane. I love it!
... said Ana on Jul 8, 2015 at 3:46 PM | link
Snyders Lake in North Greenbush. Such a nice spot for BBQing and swimming!
... said Meg on Jul 8, 2015 at 3:54 PM | link
Saratoga Lake, its very close and easily accessible, even after work. I always have a great time. The weather is always gorgeous with amazing sunsets. There's boating, dining, kayaking and now a beach! I love taking my motorcycle up along the coast. It's also very close to Saratoga springs to do fun things afterwards.
... said Nick on Jul 8, 2015 at 3:55 PM | link
As a former Albanian, I have always loved the Normanskill. One of the five original creeks in Albany and a contemporary landmark for short hikes into nature. Truly a reprieve from the surrounding concrete and asphalt.
... said Kristoph on Jul 8, 2015 at 4:05 PM | link
Kaaterskill Falls - it's where I got engaged!
... said Laura on Jul 8, 2015 at 4:10 PM | link
Okay, maybe it's a stretch to say it's the Capital Region, but I think Silver Bay on Lake George is the most incredible place. Went to writing camp there back in the day! It was inspiring.
... said Laura on Jul 8, 2015 at 4:15 PM | link
I spend all day looking at the fountains at the ESP. Not too shabby.
... said Cassie on Jul 8, 2015 at 4:18 PM | link
I've been running along - and kayaking on - the Mohawk River for years, and I'm grateful that something so beautiful is so close to home.
... said RMH on Jul 8, 2015 at 4:47 PM | link
Buckingham Lake. It's a relaxing place to take a walk and unwind after a long day at the office. I love living so close to it.
... said Mike on Jul 8, 2015 at 4:57 PM | link
Nassau Lake. It's such a nice lake that it's a shame it's in the shape it is.
... said Shaun on Jul 8, 2015 at 6:38 PM | link
Burden lake in averill park. Great place to go paddle boarding or kayaking then going to kay pizza after for beer and food!
... said mark on Jul 8, 2015 at 6:40 PM | link
The Hoosic river which is kayakable (mostly) all the way from North Adams to the Hudson.
... said Big 'Vic' Proton on Jul 8, 2015 at 6:58 PM | link
Hannacroix Creek and the falls and nature preserve
never busy, easy parking, good walking/hiking area
Nice easy walk to get to the two different waterways and I just like to sit on the rocks and listen to the water run.
Peaceful and ducks swim by...
... said Isela Hernandez on Jul 8, 2015 at 8:12 PM | link
The Hoosick river. I just started kayaking this summer and our mondays spent on the Hoosick have made my year!
... said Stephanie on Jul 8, 2015 at 8:13 PM | link
Kinderhook lake.......great kayaking, fishing, swimming, pontoon boating and enjoyment. Views of sunsets are stunning. A majestic great blue heroin flies up and down the lake.......quiet most days and evenings for lakeside meditation watching the water and skies. Wonderful!
... said Paula on Jul 8, 2015 at 9:19 PM | link
The Hudson River - I moved here just over a year ago, and I absolutely love living so close to the river. From walking my dog to taking a canoe ride, I have enjoyed every time I have been near or on the Hudson River.
... said Laura on Jul 8, 2015 at 9:35 PM | link
Buckingham Pond; in the 17 years that I have lived in the neighborhood I have seen the most beautiful things: turtles sunning on logs, sun setting behind the fountains, adorable friendly dogs and their parents, the spring time baby ducklings, kids ice-skating on bitter cold days and one quiet morning when I came upon a lovely group of elderly men and women practicing tai chi. It's the place to be!
... said Maryhelen Lounello on Jul 8, 2015 at 9:41 PM | link
Washington Park lake. It's in walking distance from my house and I can see ducklings, turtles and a blue heron there.
... said Theresa on Jul 8, 2015 at 10:00 PM | link
The Mohawk. It's history is in my Native American blood.
... said Chris R on Jul 8, 2015 at 10:31 PM | link
Washington Park Pond: I spent many quiet mornings there walking my dog. He loved it too.
... said Amy on Jul 9, 2015 at 5:28 AM | link
Moreau Lake. The crystal clear water lends for great swimming and kayaking.
... said Jordan on Jul 9, 2015 at 8:06 AM | link
The waterfalls along the Indian Ladder Trail at Thacher. Indian Ladder was my first hike in the Capital Region, and that waterfall is a nice treat along the short walk.
... said Amanda on Jul 9, 2015 at 8:46 AM | link
just swim in Lake George and you'll know
... said JES on Jul 9, 2015 at 8:48 AM | link
The Hudson Crossing Park in Schuylerville,where they hold their annual cardboard boat race. Lots of laughs and fun memories!
... said Kevin Kellett on Jul 9, 2015 at 10:03 AM | link
Lake George for a day of swimming and exploring.
... said spencer on Jul 9, 2015 at 10:12 AM | link
My favorite would be the confluence of Hudson and Mohawk Rivers where Peebles Island State Park resides. My partner and I went hiking there with our dogs a couple of weeks ago and it was a great way to wind down after a busy work week. The park offers beautiful views of the water and even has a few opportunities where you can dip your toes (and paws) in!
... said Kelly on Jul 9, 2015 at 10:13 AM | link
Rensselaerville Falls at the Huyck Preserve. There are just so darn pretty. My alternative answer: the pools at Bethlehem Town Park - good lifeguards, lots of pool options for kids and adults, reasonable price, and a snack bar.
... said Kelly on Jul 9, 2015 at 10:16 AM | link
I love having access to Washington Park's pond in Albany. It's 0.7 of a mile of tranquility. Plus, I get to see everyone walking their dogs (and sometimes I catch sight of some baby ducks and the occasional Heron!)
... said Keren on Jul 9, 2015 at 10:39 AM | link
Lake George is by far the most beautiful lake in this region. The scenery with mountains and wildlife are amazing and breathtaking. My favorite place to relax.
... said Suzanne on Jul 9, 2015 at 10:41 AM | link
The pond in Washington Park because it is my favorite place to run
... said lindsay on Jul 9, 2015 at 10:56 AM | link
Schroon Lake. We love to go camping on the lake. Its beautiful, quiet and so peaceful.
... said Amy on Jul 9, 2015 at 11:23 AM | link
Buckingham Pond! We live within a mile and love going for evening walks in the summer when the fountains are on
... said Caroline on Jul 9, 2015 at 11:41 AM | link
I'm a big fan of the Plotterkill. The waterfalls there are world class.
... said Bill on Jul 9, 2015 at 12:06 PM | link
The reflecting pool at Empire State Plaza - was there for Jazz last night! I'm not condoning the construction of the plaza, but it's there and the reflecting pool enhances its presence. Very vast and full of duck families!
... said Meg on Jul 9, 2015 at 12:08 PM | link
The Crossings. It was the first park I went to when I moved here. I love walking around or sitting by the pond. The fountain adds a nice touch. It's very peaceful and beautiful.
... said Bernadette on Jul 9, 2015 at 12:10 PM | link
The Sacandaga lake! Nice boating & Beautiful surroundings!
... said Kel on Jul 9, 2015 at 12:23 PM | link
Definitely Hannacroix. I wasn't going to mention it until I saw someone else had. It's an easy hike in, a lovely series of small pools and little waterfalls, and easy to get to from Albany. Plus bonus, near Yanni's Too.
... said Jenna on Jul 9, 2015 at 12:34 PM | link
The Mighty Mohawk. The river that inspired a hairstyle.
... said fuddley on Jul 9, 2015 at 12:39 PM | link
I have always enjoyed walking by the Normanskill, just a short walk from my house, I suddenly feel like I'm far from the city!
... said willow on Jul 9, 2015 at 12:43 PM | link
Poestenkill. Plenty of history and a variety of settings, including some incredibly picturesque spots up on the plateau.
... said Ed on Jul 9, 2015 at 12:51 PM | link
Saratoga lake - because its in my home town!
... said Geoff on Jul 9, 2015 at 1:14 PM | link
Buckingham pond.
That place is a 3 years old's paradise. We can ride our bikes there, it has swings, geese, slides, ducks, turtles, fountains, and giant orange koi fish chillin in the shallow waters.
... said Spoon on Jul 9, 2015 at 1:31 PM | link
The bit of the Normans Kill behind Tawasentha Park. Very relaxing and a nice spot for bird watching.
... said CC on Jul 9, 2015 at 1:37 PM | link
I'd say the lake in Washington Park. Its a central location in the city, many wonderful events happen there. There's the Park Playhouse, Tulip Fest, and so many others where people celebrate Albany. But then, there are times when I go there alone to think, or cry, or just to look at the ducks and the people.
... said Lee Dames on Jul 10, 2015 at 7:50 AM | link
Grafton Lake. The drive to get there is breathtaking through Renn. County, and there is a lake house and facilities. But most importantly, a sandy lake bottom makes for some great wading and swimming. You see all ages there, having some fun. It has helped me not to miss the ocean.
... said Amy on Aug 5, 2015 at 9:38 AM | link