TOWN PROFILE: Schenectady, New York

My upcoming trip to Albany this weekend has got me thinking of the last time I drove through there and took a pit stop in Schenectady.   Our waitress friend at the Peekamoose warned us that parts of Schenectady were up to no good.  We almost considered foregoing the drive and pitching our tents right outside their doors.  But, we carried on and drove on up and found ourselves in the immaculately clean city center.  You’d never know that around the bend kids are rioting outside school sporting events.  This city is serious about revitalization and developing into a cultural center, a project they’re hoping will draw in travelers for more than just an overnight pit stop. In 2004 the famous Proctor’s Theater received a $350,000 grant for enhancements from the Governor’s Office, and  the DSIC (Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation) has been hard at work since 1977, expanding their efforts in 2001.  Right now Schenectady is home to a resident ballet and symphony orchestra, two community theaters, 15 movie screens, art galleries, museums, and Stockade, the oldest historic district.  If you’re a history buff rummage through this site.

We stayed in the modern, clean and comfortable Parker Inn.  Our bathroom didn’t work very well, but the old style elevators were awesome.

And, from Schenectady, you’re on your way to the wonderful Saratoga Springs and even further, Lake George.