Schenectady, New York, is 15 mi/25 km northwest of Albany and features a large residential area with a host of cultural venues and colleges. Its historic stockade district has several homes dating from the early 1700s. Many are open to the public during the annual walkabout in September, but some can be viewed at other times of year, as well. Inquire at the County Historical Society for information on the tours. http://www.schist.org.

We have a special fondness for Proctor's, one of the few remaining 1920s vaudeville palaces/movie theaters. Proctor's now hosts touring shows and, in the summer, presents a series of silent films accompanied by Goldie, an authentic Wurlitzer theater organ. The Schenectady Museum, with its planetarium and nature preserve, is also a great stop for kids.