Surrounded on the north and east by the gorgeous Mohawk and Hudson Rivers, Albany County is the heartbeat of New York State's government and school system. With the beautiful capital city among its borders, Albany County is home to the some of the finest schools, museums and historical attractions in the state. Rich in history and culture, Albany hosts the State Education Department, putting its schools on the cutting edge of research and information. Aside form the capital region and all of its amazing resources, there are dozens of delightful communities in Albany County, each with their own charm and appeal. There are many natural wonders in Albany County including Thompson's Lake State Park, located in East Berne and perfect for a beautiful sandy beach swim and camping under the stars. Or perhaps you'd prefer the country feel of the outdoor Farmer's Market in the town of Bethlehem, voted one of the top 25 Great American Towns by MONEY Magazine. Whatever your taste, Albany County has something to satisfy. It’s an all-around great place to live, to work and to play.