The Times Union Center in Downtown Albany lets you attend a huge stadium show without having to leave the city. Set amid the tall buildings that line the western shore of the Hudson River, the center provides an easy opportunity to catch a show or a game. Glimpse some of the biggest artists for far less hassle than seeing them in bigger markets nearby. The center is one of the biggest stadiums in America for the size of the city it’s in.
In front of the stadium, admire the contrast between the stadium’s gleaming bright exterior and the orange-red high-rises behind it. Imagine it as it was on its first night, in 1990, when Frank Sinatra opened what was then called the Knickerbocker Arena to throngs of attendees and local residents excited about their idol and the brand-new venue in the city.
Head inside with the rest of the fans, who can number up to 17,500 people at concerts and 15,500 for sporting events. Take a break and purchase a drink or snack from the many vendors along the walls, including local favorites such as Dinosaur Bar-B-Que.
At the end of the night, venture back onto the street and make the short trip home or head out onto the nearby blocks to continue the night at some of Albany’s best bars and restaurants.
Find the Times Union Center in the heart of Downtown Albany, only a few blocks from the Hudson River. Walk here in 6 minutes from the main bus terminal or in 10 minutes from the New York State Capitol building. Local bus connections are available nearby to all parts of the city. Drive from the Albany airport in 17 minutes. Access and exit is easy using several nearby highways. Park in the nearby metered parking garage run by the center or in several other garages within walking distance.
The center is open only during show times. The box office is open from Monday to Saturday during regular business hours, on Saturday mornings and on Sundays when events are being held.
