About Troy
As a city on the verge of evolving from a hidden gem into the hippest suburb of Albany NY, Troy is anything but suburban. A burgeoning tech scene and three colleges have drawn more young people to live in the area full time, inspiring an influx of farm-to-table dining, trendy breweries, unique shops and a blossoming arts scene – all while still preserving the city’s rich history and 19th century architecture.
History of the Collar City
Located on the Hudson River, Troy was once a booming steel and textile manufacturing center. In fact, it was one of the richest cities in the United States at the height of the Industrial Revolution. Second only to Pittsburgh PA in iron production, and well-known for its shirt and collar manufacturing, the latter earned Troy the nickname “Collar City” – a moniker still commonly used by both locals and visitors.
Jobs & Education
Today, Troy is home to three colleges, including Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). Founded in 1824, it is the oldest private engineering and technical university in the United States. In addition to being Troy’s largest private employer, the college has helped the city develop a small technology sector with a specialization in video game development, which has, in turn, attracted other tech companies, including Warner Bros. Downtown Troy also boasts a handful of advertising agencies, architecture firms and other creative businesses attracted by the city’s distinctive Victorian and Gothic Revival architecture.
Things to Do
From farm-to-table dining and Brooklyn-style breweries to the Children’s Museum of Science and Technology and the world renowned Troy Music Hall there’s no shortage of places to go and things to do in Troy NY.
Walk to Riverfront Park and downtown Troy, or explore the Central Troy Historic District. Described as “one of the most perfectly preserved 19th-century downtowns” by the New York Times, it’s filled with much more than historic places and landmarks. Here you’ll find flea markets, art galleries and shops full of jewelry, antiques, clothing, books and more.
Downtown Troy, too, is a shopper’s paradise, with ground floor retail on both sides of the street, including clothing boutiques and art galleries, as well as 22 2nd Street Wine Co. and Superior Merchandise Company coffee bar.
In the warmer months, Starbuck Island residents enjoy Troy’s Waterfront Farmers’ Market at Monument Square, which features more than 100 local farmers and fresh food vendors, plus live music every Saturday. Or, head to Riverfront Park on Wednesday nights for Rockin’ on the River, Troy’s free summer concert series.
View our Troy Business Directory for more Dining, Shopping and Things to Do in Troy NY.
Troy’s Newest Luxury Apartment Community
Starbuck Island Apartment Community is easily accessible via the Green Island Bridge and within walking distance of all the best Troy has to offer, yet it’s far enough away to provide residents with a welcome escape from the noise and hurried metropolitan life. To experience the unparalleled luxury and distinctive style of our apartments for yourself, schedule a tour or call (518) 478-1172.