Albany-Rensselaer Amtrak Station: Pickup and Drop-Off Tips

Albany-Rensselaer Station on East Street in Rensselaer is one of the busiest Amtrak stations in the country. Empire Service trains to New York City, the Lake Shore Limited, the Adirondack, the Ethan Allen Express and the Maple Leaf all stop here, which means the parking lots and the drop-off lane can get crowded.

Why take a taxi to the train

Parking at the station is paid and often full at peak times, especially on Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings. A taxi drops you at the entrance and avoids the lot entirely, and you do not have to think about your car while you are away.

How long the drive takes

The station is just across the Hudson River from downtown Albany, usually a 10 to 15 minute drive. From Troy it is about 15 to 20 minutes, and from Schenectady about 25 to 30 minutes.

When to arrive

Plan to be at the station 20 to 30 minutes before departure, and earlier if you are checking bags or need help boarding. Book your taxi for a pickup time that covers the drive plus that buffer.

Getting picked up

• Schedule your ride for your train’s arrival time.
• Add your train number in the booking notes.
• If your train is running late, call dispatch at (917) 331-8916 and we will move your pickup.

Learn more about our train station rides or book a ride to the station.