Move over, New York City! The state’s capital, Albany, has great things to do for everyone who happens to visit. Whether you’re an active person, a little more relaxed, or simply on a budget, there’s something for everyone in Albany.

Outdoor Attractions in Albany, New York

The Albany Pine Bush nature preserve offers plenty of trails where you can see a rare inland pine barren. There are only 20 like it in the world. Trails are open year round, and you may see several species of birds and butterflies. This should be on your must-do list if you’re a hiker, outdoor enthusiast, or bird watcher.

The Best Historical Spots and Entertainment Venues in Albany

Maybe hitting the trail is a bit more intense than what you had in mind, and you want to stay within city limits. In that case, there are plenty of historical locations, museums, and entertainment venues that will make any trip to Albany worthwhile.

The USS Slater has been converted into a museum that offers hour-long tours of the last remaining destroyer escort in the United States. Alternatively, the New York State Museum has several floors of American historical artifacts on display.

In the evening, be sure to take in a show at Times Union Center, where you can see musical acts like Metallica or Elton John.

If you’re only stopping through Albany for a short while, simply head up to the observation deck at the Empire State Plaza. From here, you can take in amazing views of Albany and neighboring mountain ranges.

Image via Flickr by Pete Dzintars

With summer in full swing and fall right around the corner, some of the best weather conditions you could ever hope for have descended on the Albany, New York, area. If you’re looking for ways to make the most of your time during prime weather conditions, consider checking out these two can’t-miss events at the Empire State Plaza.

1. Jazz on the Plaza – Sweet Megg & the Wayfarers

If you love music with some soul, you simply have to see Sweet Megg & the Wayfarers perform live on Sept. 5. The Wayfarers combine the best elements of New Orleans and Harlem Swing with Parisian Cabaret and Bucket Blues to bring you a sound, unlike anything you’ve ever heard before. One night with this group of musical artists will stay with you for a long time. This free performance will start at 5:30 p.m. and run for two straight hours.

2. Hops & Harvest

Hops & Harvest is another event that offers free admission, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t going to want to take some cash with you. If you love a good brew and good music, there’s nothing better than sampling some local craft beers while listening to the blues styling of 2018 Grammy Award-winning group, The Infamous Stringdusters.

Whatever you choose to do this season, make sure you spend some quality time outside soaking up the amazing weather that comes along with this time of year. The Empire State Plaza has plenty to offer, so don’t hesitate to check out some of their other upcoming events.

Image via Flickr by ThatMattWade

 

Are you looking for a brand new Nissan Truck, Crossover, or Car? Well, look no further because Destination Nissan’s August special are here and you can score big and save even bigger! But don’t wait too long to snag these HOT deals because these specials won’t last forever! HURRY into Destination Nissan and start SAVING NOW on a brand new Nissan!

 

This month ONLY save up to $6,500 off the MSRP of a 2018 Nissan Altima.* But The Altima isn’t just any vehicle, It is equipped with Bluetooth Audio, Cruise Control, and Rear-View Camera! Hurry these are sure to go quickly!

 

Looking for a vehicle with some power? Lucky you, because this month Destination Nissan has the 2018 Nissan TITAN SV in their August specials! This Month ONLY save up to $10,000 off MSRP!* NOW THAT’S A DEAL!

 

Looking for a car that has AMAZING features like Bluetooth Audio, Cruise Control, and Rear-View Camera? Want all of that for only $188 per month?* Well then stop in to Destination Nissan this August and pick up your 2018 Nissan Sentra S!

 

Looking for a Crossover to fit the whole family but still gives you the power and control that you love from a sports car? Check out the 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport S AWD which come equipped with AWD, Bluetooth Audio, Cruise Control, Rear-View Camera, and Satellite Radio! Pick up this beauty and all of that for ONLY $238 a month!*

 

Looking for a crossover that is perfect for the whole family? How about a vehicle that has advanced safety features like Rear-View Camera. Convenience features like Cruise Control and Entertainment features like Bluetooth Audio and Satellite Radio? What if you could get all of that for ONLY $ 248 per month?! Well, you can! This month pick up the 2018 Nissan Rogue S for ONLY $248 per month!*

 

*All offers expire 8/31/2018. See dealer for full details.

The Albany Farmers’ Market is in full swing and that means plenty of fresh produce, live performances, and goods from local vendors to sample and enjoy. If you haven’t checked the event out for yourself yet, you have no idea what you’re missing. Just to give you an idea, here are two great vendors coming to the Albany Farmers’ Market this year.

1. The Food Florist

The Food Florist is a local food truck that prides themselves on the presentation of their dishes as much as the taste and ingredients that go into them. No, you’re not going to find five-star plates served up here, but what you will find is some of the most delicious home-style cooking you’ve ever had. The best part is that your meal is presented in a casserole dish that you can take home and bake as if you had spent hours slaving over the meal yourself.

2. The ADCo Bar and Bottle Shop

The Albany Distilling Company is one of the most popular micro-breweries in the area and serves up some of the tastiest beers around. You’re sure to find a brew or two that you just can’t live without once you’ve tried it at their market stand. The good news is, they have a local bar right in town so you can always stop in for more, whenever you want.

There are plenty of other great things to see and do at the Albany Farmers’ Market this year. Head out and see it all for yourself before it’s too late!

Image via Flickr by Prima Civitas Foundation

Here at Destination Nissan, we are a local, family-owned business, and we believe very strongly in giving back to our local community. We believe we have a responsibility to our customers to keep our charitable support close to home, so they or their loved ones will have an opportunity to benefit. This week want to talk about some charities that we support, and you will be indirectly supporting by purchasing and servicing your vehicle with us.
ToLife:

This is a local breast cancer charity which serves a 10 county local area from locations in Delmar and Saratoga. During breast cancer awareness month (October) for every Nissan sold we donated $100. These were our results over the past several years!

  • 2014: Donated $16,300
  • 2015: Donated $13,800
  • 2016: Donated $16,500
  • 2017: Donated $15,500
  • Received: Community Advocate Award 2016

Siena College:

Siena is a local college in the capital region. We have donated over the past couple of years to buildings and scholarships. Below is what your contribution has helped build!
Donated The Morrell Science Center Building

The Morrell Science Center encompasses the chemistry department and most parts of the biology department. The 55,000-square-foot facility houses 10 teaching labs, 24 research labs, and three electronically enhanced classrooms.
Donate Two Annual Scholarships:

  • THE MORRELL FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

The Morrell Family Scholarship is awarded annually to an upper-class student who exhibits James J. Morrell ‘66 active involvement in community service endeavors and commitment to his fellow man. The scholarship was established by James and Kathleen Morrell in honor of their families

  • THE MORRELL FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP FOR BROADCAST JOURNALISM/COMMUNICATIONS

The Morrell Family Scholarship for Broadcast Journalism/Communications is awarded annually to students who exhibit James J. Morrell’s ‘66 active involvement in community service endeavors and commitment to his fellow man. The scholarship was established by James and Kathleen Morrell in honor of their families.
Community Hospice:

Community Hospice is a local hospice and palliative care provider which serves 8  local counties. Over the past two years, we have become dedicated to lending our sponsorship to various walks to help raise money for this amazing care provider. Check out the walks we helped sponsor!

  • 2016: Walk for Hospice Platinum Sponsor
  • 2017: Walk for Hospice Platinum Sponsor
  • 2017: Swinging on a Star Gala Pegasus Sponsor
  • 2018: Walk for Hospice Platinum Sponsor
  • 2018: Swinging on a Star Gala Pegasus Sponsor
  • 2016 to present: James served on Board of Directors

Blue Star Mothers Of The Capital Region:

Capital Region mothers who now have, or have had, children serving in the U.S. Military.  Our companies provide them with space at no charge. They receive donations and put together care packages for troops there.  In addition, our sister companies support and promote their annual fundraising drive at Colonie Center
Books For Troops:

Books for Troops collects book donations, curates them for ones that would interest our troops, packages them and ships them to our troops serving overseas. We provide multiple book drop locations, donate books, and provide space at no charge for the storage and packaging of the collected books before shipment.
Capital City Crime Stoppers:

A program that allows people to provide anonymous tips and information to local law enforcement with the possibility of receiving a cash reward.

  • We donated a Nissan for their use as the official Crime Stoppers vehicle

So next time you stop into Destination Nissan and you’re looking for a new Nissan know your purchase helps contribute to these amazing groups! Thank you!

If you’re in the Albany area and are interested in doing a little shopping, then you should head over to the Empire State Plaza Concourse. This underground shopping mall is where you’re sure to have a great time. Here are a few tips that will help you have a memorable underground shopping experience.

Start with the Visitors Center

Although there are a lot of places you could begin your outing at the Empire State Plaza Concourse, spending a little time in the Visitors Center is the best idea. You can learn a bit about the shops in the Concourse and also pick up a souvenir so that you can remember your visit.

Hit the North Concourse

Once you’ve finished in the visitor’s center and are ready to do some shopping, step outside and stroll around the rest of the North Concourse. This is where you’ll find most of the shops and restaurants in the underground mall. The Liberty Market Cafeteria and the Albany Room Restaurant are in this area, and you’ll also be right next door to the Capitol Building.

Visit the Cultural Education Center

If you want your time at the Empire State Plaza Concourse to be both fun and informative, you can finish off your day at the Cultural Education Center, which can be found in the South Concourse. At this location, you can browse a variety of interesting cultural exhibits and art collections.

The next time you’re in Albany, make sure to take a trip to the underground shopping mall at the Empire State Plaza Concourse for an unforgettable afternoon.

Image via Flickr by joevare

 

Chances are if you’re a car owner you have pumped your own gas before unless you’re super rich and have your own personal butler, so if that is the case please refer your butler to this blog, please and thank you! Anyway, we have all been at the pump before and if you’re like most of us you probably always hit the “Regular” choice in gas aka my favorite because it’s the cheapest! But have you ever stopped to think hmm “who actually chooses the other two options?” or even “what is the difference between all of them?” I sure did when I called my mom crying because I accidentally put in the most expensive choice and then thought my car was going to blow up if I turned on the ignition…so yeah, I guess we should know the difference right? Or at least so you don’t end up calling your mom crying… Don’t worry the worst part of the whole situation was that I ended up paying way more than usual *CRIES*!

 

What’s the difference?

  1. The price! It is pretty obvious that the “premium” fuel would be more expensive right? Well, if you said yes you guessed right. Premium fuel runs about 20 cents higher than regular fuel.
  2. Premium fuel also comes with a higher octane level—92 or 93 compared to 87 for regular gas. Fun fact that’s what those numbers mean on each choice of gas! Octane is how much compression a fuel can withstand before igniting. A higher octane gas won’t pre-ignite or explode as quickly.

 

Why the right fuel matters?

 

Every car is designed differently and every car is designed to run best with a specific type of fuel. If you’re unsure which type of fuel you should be putting in your car check your owners manual!

 

For the drivers who have been filling up your car with premium fuel, you may be tempted to put in regular fuel to save yourself some money. The issue with that is if you use a lower recommended level of fuel, the gas may combust too fast in your engine. That can cause the engine to make knocking noises, reducing your car’s power and fuel economy, and cause potentially cause engine damage.  

When it comes to the opposite, using higher octane fuel when you usually use regular, the risk is lower. If you use regular gas and switch to premium gas there are not any extra benefits to your engine life. So in my personal opinion, I would recommend saving your money!

If you’re looking for a vehicle that’s perfect for your large family, there are several Nissan models that you should consider. Check out these family-friendly Nissan vehicles that will keep your family safe and happy.

1. Nissan Rogue

Although Nissan manufactures a variety of vehicles that are ideal for families, one of their most family-friendly models is the Rogue. This crossover SUV provides several features families will appreciate, including the Divide-N-Hide Cargo system. This feature makes it easy to transport all the equipment you need for an enjoyable family road trip. With the Rogue, your family will also have access to useful technology such as Bluetooth connectivity and USB charging ports.

2. Nissan Altima

If your idea of the perfect vehicle is a sedan, the Nissan Altima is the right choice for you. Newer model Altimas, for example, provide your family with consistent comfort thanks to zero gravity seating. The Altima can also be equipped with great entertainment features such as a Bose premium stereo system. Perhaps most importantly, you can keep your family safe by equipping your Altima with security features such as blind spot monitoring and forward collision warning.

3. Nissan Quest

For larger families, a minivan such as the Nissan Quest is the ideal vehicle. This minivan is capable of seating up to seven passengers, and families with small children will appreciate the available DVD entertainment system. Thanks to 175 cubic feet of passenger volume, your family will never feel cramped while on a drive.

Take any of these Nissan models for a test drive if you’re looking for a vehicle built with families in mind.

Image via Flickr by THE SMADE JOURNAL

 

Summer is all about having fun in the sun, and what gets you to that fun in the sun? Your Nissan of course! Lots of people make the misconception that because there isn’t snow on the ground you don’t have to service/take more care of your car! Well I have to be the bearer of bad news but that isn’t true, actually, you need to take just as much care of your vehicle, sometimes even more! The warmer months present some challenges to personal transportation from overheating to AC issues, and don’t forget about the tires! but don’t stress yet! I have a list that will help us all have a summer we can enjoy.

 

  1. Coolant: keeping your vehicle cool is super important during the summer, not just for us but for your vehicle as well! Making sure the coolant level is correct is super important, this makes sure that your engine doesn’t overheat. Go the extra mile and check the state of the hoses and coolant reservoir, look for leaks or damage. If you find any make sure you get it fixed as soon as possible!

 

  1. Engine Belts: There is usually a serpentine belt that runs between the alternator, the fan, and several other components. It can deteriorate, become loose, start to squeal, and sometimes just break for no apparent reason. It needs to be in good condition and at the right amount of tension. If you see cracks in the belt or small pieces missing, it’s time to replace the belt.

 

  1. Wipers: With hot summer days, come those summer storms we love to watch…even if we don’t want to be stuck in the middle of them. Things happen though and when it does you want to make sure your wipers are working properly so you can stay safe through any type of weather.

 

  1. Other Essential Fluids: Check oil, brake, power-steering and windshield-washer fluids regularly. These liquids never stop being used and consumed. Speaking of brake fluid, how do the brakes on your car feel in general? Are they lacking in a bit? Feeling a bit spongy? If so, new pads and a system bleed might be required.

 

  1. Air-Conditioning System: A summer essential is your car’s AC! If the system isn’t working properly, check for leaks. If the AC is leaking when on that is not good, there are plenty of sealing products you can use to fix this issue. IF this doesn’t resolve the issue bring your car to a mechanic to be serviced.

 

  1. Air Filter: The winter’s decomposing leaves may be clogging up drainage points, windshield-washer nozzles or your car’s air filter. Now might be a good time to buy a new one or take the current one out and give it a cleaning.

 

  1. Tires: Tires really need to be checked all year long. Your tire pressure needs to be correct (check the owner’s manual) in order to work properly and not cause damage to your vehicle. And since summer is the time for road trips you want your tire to be in tip-top shape!

 

  1. Dashboard Sunshade: For those times when you’re not driving, but the car is still out in the sun, a cover that goes in the windshield will protect the dashboard against ultraviolet rays and help the cabin stay a little cooler. Some even have solar panels to keep the battery charged.

 

  1. Clean the Car: Now that the sun stays out longer you might catch yourself gazing at the orange orb hanging low in a pinky-blue sky, but if your windshield is dirty you could find this to very dangerous! Even from the inside, that haze will diffuse the light and make things hard to see. That grime has a tendency to build up over a long period, so we don’t really notice it. Things look much sharper after your car has had a good wash, though

 

  1. Driver and Passengers: Prepare your car for road trips and adventures with passengers. If a scheduled service is coming up, think about getting it done before a long drive. It’s also wise to make sure your insurance and driving license are up to date. Have a great summer, enjoy the roads, and take care of yourself and your car. And in the case that you find yourself in an emergency make sure your car has an emergency flashlight and small tool kit!

 

Going out dancing with a group of friends is a great way to spend an evening, and in Albany, you have a choice of lively nightclubs, all brimming with excellent music and large dance floors. Gather your friends or a date and dance the night away at these Albany spots.

Fuze Box

Fuze Box attracts an eclectic crowd and plays a variety of music. Depending on what night you go, you’ll hear punk or new wave music, and on one Saturday a month, you and your friends can dance the night away to 80s music. The bartenders are friendly and mix up some delicious drinks, the DJ plays a mix of great music, and the walls have a psychedelic look that works with the house lights.

Waterworks Pub

If you like electronic dance music (EDM), then Waterworks Pub is the place to go in Albany. The first floor of this club has a bar, cozy seating for those who want to relax, and a variety of entertainment options, including games, TVs, and a jukebox and stage. If you head up to the second level, you’ll find one of the hottest dance floors Albany has to offer. There is always something going on at Waterworks — from live shows to themed events.

Jupiter Hall

Head over to Crossgates Mall to check out Jupiter Hall for a great night of music and dancing. This place holds 650 people, has a large dance floor, and even offers a VIP section. Depending on when you go, Jupiter Hall has either a DJ or a live band — there is always dancing — and you can even rent the entire venue for private parties when there are no live events on the schedule.

Check out these Albany nightclubs the next time you and your friends are in the mood for a fun night of dancing and music.

Image via Flickr by www.audio-luci-store.it