Things to Do at Washington Park

Complete Guide to Washington Park in Albany

About Washington Park

Free admission year-round to Albany's premier urban park, though paid parking meters operate around the perimeter ($1.50 USD per hour). Frederick Law Olmsted designed the landscape in 1869 before creating Central Park, incorporating natural terrain changes that create intimate spaces within the 90-acre grounds. The park's 140 tree species include rare specimens like the dawn redwood and Kentucky coffee tree, while spring brings thousands of tulips that create colorful carpets beneath mature oaks. Early morning visits reward walkers with fewer crowds and better bird watching, plus the chance to see dew collecting on spider webs strung between garden plantings.

What to See & Do

Tulip Gardens

140,000 tulips, peak bloom late April to early May. The reds and yellows hit first, then the purples and whites a week later. During Tulip Festival weekend, the park draws 80,000+ visitors - arrive before 8am for photos without crowds. Off-season, the formal beds still look maintained and calm.

Lake House Amphitheater

Small outdoor amphitheater on the lake's edge. Free summer concerts here are one of Albany's best-kept secrets - bring a blanket, grab food from Lark Street on the way, and settle in. The water reflects the stage lights after dark.

Playgrounds and Recreation Areas

Three playground areas split by age group. The newer equipment near the Madison Avenue entrance has climbing structures that keep older kids busy for an hour. Tennis courts are first-come, free. The big open lawn near the center is where pickup frisbee and soccer happen on weekends.

Walking Trails

Paved loop around the lake is about 1.5 miles - flat and easy. The unpaved trails through the wooded sections on the west side are hillier and shadier. In fall, the canopy turns gold and red, and the crunching leaves underfoot are half the experience.

Historic Moses Fountain

Victorian-era cast iron, ornate and slightly over-the-top in the best way. The flower beds circling it peak in late May and again in September. Best photo angle: from the southeast path in morning light.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Open daily from dawn to dusk, year-round. No gates or entry restrictions.

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission to the park. Some special events during Tulip Festival may have fees.

Best Time to Visit

Late April through May for tulips, though the park is pleasant year-round. Early morning or late afternoon tend to be less crowded.

Suggested Duration

1-2 hours for a casual visit, though you could easily spend a full afternoon here during peak season

Getting There

Center Square neighborhood, between Madison and Western Avenue. A 10-minute walk from the Empire State Plaza - head up State Street and hang a left. Free street parking around the perimeter, but during Tulip Festival, forget it. Park on Lark Street or take a CDTA bus. The Madison Avenue entrance is the main access point; the State Street side is quieter.

Things to Do Nearby

New York State Museum
A comprehensive museum covering New York's natural and cultural history, located in the Empire State Plaza complex.

Empire State Plaza
Albany's government complex with distinctive modernist architecture, art collections, and observation deck.

Albany Institute of History & Art
One of the oldest museums in the US, featuring Hudson Valley art and Albany's local history.

Lark Street
Albany's bohemian strip with eclectic shops, cafes, and restaurants, just a few blocks from the park.

New York State Capitol
Free tours of the ornate 19th-century state capitol building, known for its impressive architecture and Million Dollar Staircase.

Tips & Advice

Tulip Festival crowds peak between 11am and 3pm. Before 8am, you'll have the gardens nearly to yourself

The west side hills are steeper than they look. Wear real shoes if you're hitting the wooded trails, especially after rain when the unpaved paths get muddy

Parking is free but limited during peak times. Consider walking from downtown or taking public transit during major events

The lake's north shore has benches tucked under old willows. Quietest spot in the park, even during festivals