Back to School Itinerary in Albany

With summertime officially over, it’s time to get into the back-to-school mindset! The move-in date for freshmen attending Albany State University is August 11, so we’ve curated a guide for move-in day tips and essentials. From overnight accommodations and restaurant recommendations to locally owned shops for last-minute shopping, we’ve got you covered!

Fuel Up and Refresh

Move-in day is always a bit hectic, from helping your college student locate their dorm room to hauling all of their belongings inside. In the midst of this moving chaos, don’t forget to stay fueled up by checking out one of Albany’s local establishments! We’re home to a variety of local spots to fit your family’s cravings and needs. Whether you’re looking to get a quick bite from Jimmie’s Hot Dogs or enjoy a delicious BBQ grub fest from Blackbeards, there are plenty of foodie spots to choose from. If you’d rather save the dining experience for the evening once your student is settled in, there are a variety of upscale restaurants to choose from, like the Decanter International Chophouse, The Flint and more. Don’t forget to stay caffeinated during the day by heading over to the Cornerstone Coffee Company, a modern coffee shop known for its handcrafted lattes and pastries. To explore all of our incredible restaurant offerings, head over to our dining page!

Last-Minute Shopping Essentials

It’s nearly impossible to remember to pack everything, so if you need some last-minute items, Albany’s got you covered. For any clothing needs, explore our curated boutiques, including Karlee 229, Ibiza Boutique, Then & Now Consignment Shop and many others. We’re home to a variety of unique boutiques, so there’s plenty of styles to choose from! Along with our locally-owned shops, there’s the Albany Mall, where you can peruse the latest trends. For a full list of our boutique and shop offerings, head over to our shopping page!

Accommodation Options

After a long day of getting your college freshman settled into their dorm room, you deserve to relax in a comfortable hotel room instead of making the trek home! Albany is home to a variety of incredible spots that have luxe amenities so you can recharge and relax. For a boutique hotel stay, St. Nicholas is an exceptional accommodation option! This historic hotel resides in a 1906 building in downtown Albany, blending historic charm with modern comforts. Key highlights include individually designed rooms, a private outdoor courtyard, a gourmet coffee bar and an on-site restaurant and bar. Other great accommodations in the area include the Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield Inn & Suites, the Hampton Inn, the Hilton Garden Inn and many more! Head over to our lodging page to check out our full offerings to select the best fit for you and your family.

While move-in day can be bittersweet for parents, make the most of your day by exploring Albany’s incredible shops and restaurants! Once you’ve gotten your freshman all settled, cozy up in one of our comfortable and conveniently located hotels to catch up on some much-deserved rest.