Albany is New York's state capital, and has been since 1797. First settled by the Dutch in 1686, Albany is a beautiful city located on the Hudson River. Tour the city on foot or on a guided trolley tour. The city comes alive with events such as the annual Tulip Festival in May and a riverfront concert series during the summer. The Shaker Heritage Society in Albany introduces visitors to the first Shaker colony in the United States. The New York State Museum is also found in Albany and features a wealth of information and artifacts related to the history of New York state. While in the area, visitors should also tour the historic town of Schenectady. The Altamont Fairground is the scene of local events, including fairs and touring exhibitions. The Erie Canal, which runs from Albany to Lake Erie, can also be seen in the Albany area.