Car Rental Albany International Airport

Parking in Albany

• Green-Hudson Garage (12207) is monitored 24/7 and has more than 800 spaces, including five EV charging stations. Located in central Downtown, it’s close to Time Union Center and Albany Capital Center.
• Elk Street Parking Lot (12210) is just behind Albany Institute of History and Art, and is within walking distance of West Capitol Park. It has more than 400 spaces.
• Madison Avenue Lot (12207) is located between New York State Museum and Lincoln park, with around 200 available spaces.

Traffic in Albany

The roads in and around Albany can get congested around rush hour. This is usually between 7am and 9am, then again from 3pm until 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Roads and Freeways

Main routes in Albany

• Interstate 787 (I-787) is the main highway in and out of downtown Albany, starting in Delaware Avenue, south Albany, and travelling north along the Hudson River towards Troy.
• Interstate 90 (I-90) is the longest highway in the US and cuts through the northern outskirts of Albany. Use this to reach Massachusetts and Boston to the east, or Syracuse and Rochester to the west.
• Interstate 87 (I-87) runs north to south of the state. Join this direct from the airport or south of Albany to reach New York City.

Albany to Saratoga Springs

Horse racing fans shouldn’t miss a chance to see Saratoga Springs, just 40 minutes from Albany in your rental. To get there, take the I-787 north before merging on the NY-7 W and I-87 N.

Albany to Syracuse

For those looking for a longer New York road trip, the snowy city of Syracuse is just over two hours, or roughly 150 miles, away in your rental. Head on the I-90 W to join the I-690 W into the city.

Top attractions in Albany

New York State Museum

Set on Madison Avenue in central Albany, this impressive museum takes you through the history of the state, from the Ice Age to the terrible events of 9/11. There’s always something new being added to the roster of New York exhibitions too, so check out their events calendar before you go.

Lark Street

Nicknamed the ‘Greenwich Village of Albany’ thanks to its colorful and bohemian exterior, Lark Street is a great place to eat, shop or wander. This trendy neighborhood looks like its been plucked straight from NYC itself, with a variety of quirky shops, international restaurants and artsy cafes. The neighborhood also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as LarkFest, an epic one-day street festival.

Albany Pine Bush Preserve

Standing as one of the largest pine barrens in the world, and just 15-minutes’ drive from central Albany, this nature preserve is a great day out.

There are more than 3,000 acres of natural landscape and trails to explore, with a chance to spot rare wildlife, from birds and butterflies to deer and rabbits.

Where to stay in Albany

Residence Inn by Marriott Albany Airport

227 Wolf Road (12205)

Just south of the airport, on the other side of the I-87, this 3-star hotel offers a convenient and comfortable stay. Wake up to a complimentary breakfast, keep fit in the 24-hour fitness center or relax after a busy day of sightseeing with a smart TV with Netflix in your room.

Hilton Albany

40 Lodge Street (12207)

Set in downtown Albany, this central hotel is near to many city attractions, including Times Union Center and Albany City Hall. Soak up the views of the Hudson River from your room and unwind in the indoor pool and whirlpool.

The Century House, Ascend Hotel Collection

997 New Loudon Road (12110)

Just north of the airport, in a little hamlet called Latham, is this charming 3-star hotel in a natural setting. Head out on a local nature trail and enjoy dinner at the onsite restaurant, The Tavern. There’s also free parking on-site.

Where to eat in Albany

Son of Egg

418 Madison Avenue (12210)

This Korean American restaurant on Madison Avenue is popular with locals looking for a quick bite to eat. Enjoy rice bowls and dumplings washed down with a K-coffee or Korean juices such as Sikhye (rice punch).

Rosanna's

23 Dove Street (12210)

Set in a renovated historical building near to West Capitol Park, Rosanna’s is a stylish Italian American restaurant with a vintage twist. Dine on Old World Italian cuisine such as chicken parmigiana, meatballs and baked gnocchi.

New World Bistro Bar

300 Delaware Avenue 12209)

Set in the neighborhood of Delaware Avenue, this cozy restaurant offers up a fresh and local menu, with ingredients sourced at nearby farms. Menus can change daily depending on availability, but usually includes world fare, from fresh trout to butternut squash.