Celebrate the Season in Albany:
A Post-Thanksgiving Getaway

Whether you’re visiting family nearby or planning a seasonal getaway, this three-day itinerary is packed with festive charm, local flavor, and cozy places to unwind.

Perched on a hilltop with sweeping views of the Coast Range, Springhill transforms its restored red barn into a glowing, late-autumn gathering the weekend after Thanksgiving. There’s a chill in the air, but warmth radiates from patio heaters inside, a roaring bonfire outside, and the shared laughter of friends and newcomers alike. Each table holds glasses of Federweisser, a gently fermented, semi-sweet white Pinot Noir that tastes like fall in a glass.

To eat, there’s Zwiebelkuchen, a rich onion pie with egg, bacon, and Swiss cheese, or grilled sausages — Bratwurst, Cajun, or Polish — from Pepper Tree Sausage House, a longtime Albany favorite. 

Daytime brings live oompah music, the thump of beanbags on cornhole boards, trivia questions called across the room, and the clatter of dice on tabletops. Guests are welcome, even encouraged, to bring their favorite board games and settle in for the afternoon. Whether you're deep into a strategy game or just enjoying good company, no one’s in a rush.

On Sunday evening, the music shifts as the barn fills with the smooth sound of live jazz. Just Lōnna and The Lake Effect take the stage, blending mellow ballads with holiday favorites as the sun sets over the hills — a perfect end to the weekend.

Admission is $5 per person, per day, including a complimentary tasting for adults 21 and older. Kids under 15 get in free, and so does anyone bold enough to wear lederhosen or a dirndl. Food is cash-only.

There’s nothing fancy about it: just good food, great wine, and genuine community spirit. It’s one of those small-town traditions you stumble upon once and find yourself returning to every year.

Ease into the weekend with a relaxed Friday exploring Albany’s historic downtown, where beautifully preserved buildings, cozy cafés, and locally owned shops invite you to slow down and stay a while. 

Pick up a coffee at Margin Coffee Roasters or Sidekicks Cafe to take along while you wander downtown. If you need more sustenance, stop by Pono Bowl Co. for a smoothie bowl, avocado toast, or a fresh fruit smoothie.

The Albany Historic Carousel & Museum is a must-see for all ages. Ride a hand-carved animal, explore the whimsical museum, and peek into the carving studio to see works in progress.

For history lovers, Albany is home to one of Oregon’s largest collections of historic homes and commercial buildings, many dating back to the 1800s. While the Albany Visitors Association is closed the day after Thanksgiving, you can explore on your own using the Albany Explorer app, which offers self-guided walking tours and rich stories behind each location. Fall is the perfect time for a stroll through the Monteith Historic District, where tree-lined streets and preserved architecture tell the story of Albany’s past.

In the afternoon, head to Springhill Cellars Winery for the first day of Federweisser, from noon to 5 p.m. Enjoy warm hospitality, wine tasting, and savory German fare served in a restored barn.

If you’re skipping the festival or looking for something different, downtown Albany offers several dinner options within a walkable few blocks. Head to The Depot for casual fish and chips or Loafer’s Station, a family-friendly option with hearty comfort food and a popular Friday night prime rib special. For a relaxed setting, try Calapooia Brewing, with local beer on tap, cocktails made their Vivacity spirits, and classic pub fare.

Bonus for Out-of-State Visitors: Oregon has no sales tax, so it’s the perfect time to shop and save.

Saturday in Albany is made for exploring. Fill up on hearty portions and indulge in a mimosa flight at Brick & Mortar Café. Or, try decadently adorned waffles or Southern-inspired fare like cajun Crab Cake Benedict Jo Jo Macs. Then, head downtown, where shop windows are dressed for the season and ready to welcome you with Small Business Saturday specials. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., enjoy twinkling lights, festive music, and personal service from the people behind the counters. Many stores even open as early as 9 a.m.!

Downtown Albany is a treasure hunter’s dream. Spend time at Albany Antique Mall, where two floors hold historic treasures and collectible gems. Upstairs, they have a massive collection of vintage clothing organized by decade, a must-see if you're a fan of old-fashioned fashion. Peach & Pear offers a whimsical mix of antiques, handmade items, and vintage clothing, while Urban on 1st blends furniture and fashion with modern flair. 1st Hand Seconds is a thrift and bridal boutique that supports a local women’s shelter, a great place to shop with purpose.

If you’re feeling inspired, stop by Gallery Calapooia to browse original art from local creators, or visit Spearit Beads for a hands-on project. Brigitte’s Place is a haven for sewing enthusiasts, and Two Rivers Fly Shop offers gear and guidance for anglers exploring Oregon’s waterways. Even skaters are covered. Stoked 2 SK8 is a downtown staple for boards, gear, and local skate culture. They recently added salvaged threads, where you can find old-school skate fashion.

Start your final day in Albany with a warm drink and a little sweet indulgence. If you’re heading toward the Linn County Expo Center for Christmas Storybook Land, stop by Margin Coffee East or swing through Bentley’s Coffee drive-thru. For something more unique, visit Bobo Boba, where you’ll find milk teas, Vietnamese coffee, and Japanese-style taiyaki, a fish-shaped pastry filled with custard or Nutella, served hot and crisp from the griddle.

From there, spend the morning exploring Christmas Storybook Land, a whimsical, walk-through holiday display that brings fairy tales and festive nostalgia to life. Held inside the Linn County Expo Center, it’s filled with handcrafted scenes, glowing lights, model trains, and a cheerful visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. With food donations accepted for local families and free admission, it’s a feel-good favorite that draws visitors year after year.

If you still have some names left on your gift list, head to Heritage Mall, just minutes away. This indoor shopping center is home to stores like Hickory Farms, Jack n Jill Resale, Bath & Body Works, and several other national and local retailers. It’s a convenient stop to warm up, stretch your legs, and check off a few more presents before hitting the road, and if you’re traveling with kids, they can burn off some energy at Jump City inside the mall.

In the afternoon, make one last stop at Springhill Cellars Winery for the final day of the Federweisser Fall Festival. From noon to 6:30 p.m., enjoy the warm glow of the barn, savory German fare, and glasses of gently fermented white Pinot Noir. At 4:45 p.m., Just Lōnna and The Lake Effect take the stage with live jazz and holiday classics to send you off in style. It’s a mellow, memorable way to close out the weekend — and a tradition you’ll want to return to.