Located on the North Pearl Street, Bayou Cafe has made its mark in the city's nightlife by offering the late-night revelers a vibrant atmosphere that is accentuated by live music events. Particularly famous among the regulars here are the upcoming cover/ tribute bands as well as country musicians like The Elkoholics and Square Pegs, who have performed to a packed house in the past. Apart from live music, Bayou Cafe is also known for serving cajun and creole delicacies with the jumbo-laya wings being a favorite for most of the diners visiting the cafe. As for the beverages, the bar menu comprises an excellent selection of bottled and draft beers like Davidson Bio's Scotch Ale and Labatt Blue Light. Visit the bar on weekday happy hour and you can avail of exciting offers on appetizers and beer. All in all, Bayou Cafe is a perfect spot to make the most out of your night in this city.

Located across Western Avenue, the Steamer No.10 Theatre is a non-profit theater. The founders chose its name from the non-operational fire station namely, the Steamer No. 10 Fire Station, its former occupants. Today, this 120-seater theater hosts variety of shows and plays for children and the entire family. After a complete makeover in 2005, this venue is equipped with comfortable seats, modern lighting and sound systems. Steamer No.10 Theatre also conducts special theater workshops and lecture series for kids; they are introduced to the fun world of theater and different aspects of stage. For more details, check website or call ahead.

So, it is Saturday night, and you and your friends decide to head out for a fun night, but you cannot reach a consensus on the kind of place you want to head to. Some of you want to head to a live music bar, while others want to dance the night away in a club. What do you do in such a situation? Well, you head to Jillian's of Albany. A complete entertainment experience awaits you here; a bar, a nightclub, and concert space all rolled into one. Spread over three floors, Jillian's of Albany is packed with the promise of a memorable night out. See the website or call to know more.

The deep red colored lights of this club will grab your attention.  Comfortable yet lively ambiance of Red Square will simply not make you want to leave this place. A great music venue to relax and lounge, Red Square offers live music and is privy to several bands every week. Some of the bands playing at this venue include Eclectic Method, The Nightmare River Band, The Have Nots and the Future Rock. A great place to hold private parties, this club undoubtedly attracts the city's hip and young crowd.

Located in the bottom of a 1930s building, Stagecoach Coffee is one of the most popular coffeehouses close to Empire State Plaza, the New York Capital Building and all of the activity Downtown. This cafe prides itself on roasting Arabica beans in small, 20-pound batches and you can pick up some grounds or beans online or in the store. Stop by for coffee and a pastry, or have your lunch at one of the counters overlooking State Street.

The Egg is an ultra-modern performing arts center in Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza where New York artists are prominently featured at limited-run performances. Its peculiar shape is especially evident from the Corning Tower, but from the ground it appears as though it is a capsule from a science-fiction movie.

Lakehouse is a modern amphitheater, housed in the Washington Park. Featuring plays, concerts and other art events, Lakehouse hosts variety of events throughout the year. This venue is always abuzz with activities and there is never a single dull moment here. For details, call ahead.

One of the most popular gay bars in the city, ROCKS welcomes all, with great drinks and entertaining events on offer. Each day of the week, there is something lined up for your pleasure, from drag shows, to karaoke nights, and special events, so you can party your way into the wee hours of the morning. Do contact the venue for more information on upcoming events and other details.

A local favorite, Mamoun's Mideast Café serves up some of the finest falafel in the city along with tamarind juice and Turkish coffee. This small, 12-table restaurant has sit-down and counter seating, but you can also get food to go. There are plenty of vegetarian options and sweet treats that you can get to accompany your meal.

Fuze Box is located on Central Avenue in what used to be a White Tower Hamburger joint, built during the 1930s. The club maintains that White Tower charm with chrome fixtures, a bar at the original lunch counter and plush, red sparkly booths. A one-of-a-kind find in Albany and anywhere else in the area.