Lark Street - Albany, NY - Home to Art Galleries, Restaurants, Nightclubs, and More

Lark Street is a historic street located in Albany, New York. It is comprised of the following neighborhoods: Arbor Hill, Park South, Hudson Park, and Center Square. Located one block to the east of Washington Park, Lark Street is home to art galleries, coffeehouses, bars, antique shops, restaurants, tattoo parlors, and other shops. Part of Lark Street, mainly the area between Washington Avenue and Madison Avenue was rebuilt in 2002 and 2003. During this time, new roads, sidewalks, and trees were constructed by the more active portion of Lark Street.

Lark Street is a mixture of commercial and residential structures. There are several 19th century brownstones in the area. This area was a turn-of-the-century neighborhood, and some of the cobblestone intersections still remain. Lark Street is now home to a wide variety of artists and organizations. For example, the Upstate Artist Guild (UAG) is active in the area and is working to get more studios and galleries in the area. In the area, there is a phenomenon known as 1st Friday Events. First Friday Events is an arts show that is city-wide. It is organized by the UAG, and Lark Street is at the heart of the show.

Lark Street is home to some of the most prominent nightclubs in the area. Tess's Lark Street Tavern is one of them. Tess's hosts a variety of shows including comedy shows, burlesque shows, jazz shows, and blues shows. Justin's, which is a jazz club and restaurant, is also located on Lark Street. Local musicians regularly play on Lark Street. Some of these musicians include Brian Patneaude, Thomasina Winslow, Tom Winslow, and Sirsy.

Lark Street is home of the annual LarkFest. LarkFest normally takes place in the middle of September. During LarkFest, the street is filled with artists' displays. LarkFest is organized by the Lark Street Business Improvement District. During this time, there are live shows on several stages. In addition, there are painters, sculptors, photographers, ceramicists, jewelers, and glass artists throughout the area. LarkFest typically draws an average attendance of more than 50,000 people. Lark Street is also home of the Winter Festival in December.

There are two gay bars on Lark Street, and the area is home to the Capital District Gay and Lesbian Community Center. In Junes, the annual Gay Pride Parade comes down Lark Street as well.

Lark Street is home to the original Bombers Burrito Bar franchise. In addition, there is a Ben & Jerry's outlet and a Dunkin' Donuts. Restaurants and eateries in the area feature a variety of cuisines, such as Thai, Hunan, Tex-Mex, Japanese, Greek, Indian, Italian, and more.

Lark Street offers access to several Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) buses and routes, making it easy for visitors to access Lark Street or obtain transportation to other areas after their visit. Visitors can also stop by the Washington Avenue Armory. The Washington Avenue Armory hosts rock concerts and sporting events, and it is located at the corner of Washington Avenue and Lark Street.

Additional information about Lark Street can be obtained from the Lark Street Business Improvement District by calling 518-434-3861.