With roughly 70,000 people making their home here, Schenectady sits about 20 minutes from Albany and offers a suburban lifestyle to its relatively young population. There's a lot to love about this upstate city, filled with coffee shops, parks, and restaurants.

Named for the Mohawk word meaning, "beyond the pines," Schenectady was first settled by Dutch colonists in 1661, and incorporated in 1798. By the middle of the 19th century, Schenectady had become an important transportation, trade, and manufacturing point. Edison Machine Works arrived in 1887, and the American Locomotive Company soon followed. Not only did these businesses fuel growth in the region, but they earned Schenectady the moniker, "The City that Lights and Hauls the World."

While the nickname has waned in popularity, the era's impact is still visible everywhere you look. Edison Tech Center provides a detailed tour of the technology and engineering that changed the world. Historic homes from the 18th and 19th centuries fill the Stockade Historic District. Additionally, The Schenectady Museum and Schenectady County Historical Society bring together the stories and artifacts behind Electric City.

Covering as much land as it does water, there are plenty of fun things to do here. Locals enjoy tennis courts, pools, golf courses, pedal boating, softball diamonds, and pavilions at more than two dozen parks within the city. Central Park is the highlight of the park system and sits at the highest elevation in the city. Iroquois Lake and the rose garden are two of the best-known features in this park first established in 1913.

Another place to gather as a community is the Schenectady Greenmarket each weekend. Surrounding City Hall, this farmer's market includes distillers, artisans, and restaurateurs. Shop for fresh flowers, handmade jewelry, micro-roasted coffee, gourmet foods, and fresh produce. While in the area, check out City Hall, constructed in the early 1930s.

Also erected in the early 20th century, Proctors theater is another Schenectady gem. Formerly a vaudeville house, this theater hosts world-famous performers and Broadway shows. Proctors lies at the heart of the city and is its most significant tourist attraction. Another point of pride is the Nott Memorial on the campus of Union College. The 16-sided structure, capped with a ribbed dome and over 700 glass windows, is a must-see architectural achievement.

After taking in a show or checking out the city's architecture, you'll have a tough time deciding where to eat. If you're in the mood for an American take on Italian classics, Johnny's is the place for you. Moroccan cuisine is the specialty at Tara Kitchen, and Blue Ribbon Family Restaurant is the spot if you're craving seafood. Gershon's Deli is another iconic place eatery. Whatever you've got a taste for, Schenectady has a local spot you'll love.

With so many places to eat and so much to do, you don't want to be stuck at home, mowing the grass, weeding the flower beds, or mulching the side yard. Good news. LawnStarter has the pros to handle all your landscaping needs. From routine mowing to complete yard overhauls, LawnStarter has you covered.

Download our simple app, enter your ZIP code, select your preferences, and relax. We'll take care of the rest, on your schedule. This lets you stay out late at Rivers Casino & Resort or get up early to explore the Mohawk River.