DH and I are going to Albany for the Riverfront Jazzfest on 9/6, but are looking for something to do on Friday night. We're not sure if we'll be staying downtown or closer to Wolf Rd on Friday--seeing what Priceline can do for us. On Saturday, we'll be staying downtown.

We're just looking for someplace to enjoy a few cocktails, maybe a band, and would love to be outside. We're leaving our four month old for the weekend so relaxation is key.

We'll be staying in downtown Albany at the Crowne Plaza (for $55--I love Priceline!) Any recommendations for some Friday night fun (besides the clubs) in Downtown Albany. Is the Barge still open in September?

let's try this one more time...anyone?

As a resident of the Albany area, I can tell you that there is not a lot of night life in downtown Albany except for drinking! One suggestion - The Albany Pump Station just off Broadway. Nice atmosphere but I don't know if they have live music. Later in the "season" there will be theatre and symphony performances, but not right now. I don't know if the barge restaurant is still there. It may have moved to Watervliet. Have you checked local publications such as the Times Union or Metroland? There is also a visitors/tourist office.

Check the Albany Times-Union newspaper for local entertainment--it's online. There's a street in Albany with a number of bars with entertainment (and of course I can't remember the name). Albany also has a First Thurs or Fri event each month when art galleries and local bars/restaurants are open late. If you can check that out you'll find the street name I can't recall. Sorry I can't be more specific but I'm not from Albany and not that familiar with local details. The barge LOJO wrote about is a bar on a barge in a public park on the Hudson--great in the summer but I don't know if they're open after Labor Day.

The street the previous poster was referring to is Lark Street. It's Albany's somewhat "alternative" area. Some nice shops and restaurants - Justin's might be just what you're looking for! It's about a ten minute (up hill) walk from your hotel.