Best Train Journeys Around the World in Albany, New York, United States
1. Adirondack Scenic Railroad
Enjoy a scenic journey through the Adirondack Mountains, offering panoramic views of lakes and forests.
- Historic Preservation: Rides on vintage railcars along restored tracks dating back to the late 19th century
- Scenic Beauty: Offers various routes with breathtaking landscapes, including the High Peaks and Saranac Lake
- Events and Activities: Special events like Santa's Workshop and Murder Mystery Dinner Theater during selected trips
2. Cape Vincent Ferry to Canada
Experience a short train ride followed by a ferry crossing to visit beautiful Ontario, Canada.
- Cross-Border Travel: Direct connection between Albany and Brockville, Ontario
- Scenic Ocean Views: Enjoy stunning views of the St. Lawrence River during your journey
- Cultural Immersion: Explore a new country and immerse yourself in Canadian culture and history
3. Amtrak Vermonter
Travel to scenic destinations like Stowe, VT and Washington, D.C., with stops in Albany.
- Long-Distance Travel: Offers one-stop travel to multiple iconic destinations
- Scenic Routes: Passes through beautiful landscapes of the Green Mountains and Shenandoah Valley
- Comfortable Travel: Spacious seating, dining options, and sleeping accommodations for longer trips
4. Mohawk-Hudson River Railway Trail
A biking and hiking trail that follows an old rail line from Albany to Schenectady.
- Active Outdoor Experience: Offers a variety of activities, including cycling, jogging, and walking
- Historical Significance: Follows the route of an early 19th-century railroad line
- Scenic Landscapes: Provides stunning views of the Hudson River and Mohawk Valley
5. New York Central Train Station
Visit Albany's historic train station with its beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
- Architectural Wonder: Beautifully restored Beaux-Arts building, designated a National Historic Landmark
- Transportation Hub: Central transportation center for Amtrak and various regional train services
- Community Gathering Space: Hosts events, farmers markets, and concerts throughout the year
6. Adirondack Coast Rail-Trail
A biking and hiking trail that follows a historic rail line from Port Henry to Ticonderoga.
- Active Outdoor Experience: Offers a variety of activities, including cycling, jogging, and walking
- Historical Significance: Follows the route of an early 20th-century railroad line
- Scenic Landscapes: Provides stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains
7. Empire Service Train to New York City
Travel by train from Albany directly to iconic destinations like Manhattan, NYC.
- Long-Distance Travel: Offers one-stop travel to the bustling city of New York
- Scenic Routes: Passes through beautiful landscapes of the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains
- Comfortable Travel: Spacious seating, dining options, and sleeping accommodations for longer trips
8. Saratoga & North Creek Railway
A scenic train ride through the Adirondacks, with stops at Saratoga Springs and North Creek.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Adirondack Mountains and forests
- Historical Significance: Operates on tracks laid in the late 19th century
- Special Events: Seasonal events like the Polar Express and Santa's Workshop during selected trips
9. New York Central Canal System
Explore a network of canals and historic locks connected to Albany's train system.
- Historical Significance: Included in the National Register of Historic Places
- Natural Wonders: Provides scenic views of waterways and wildlife habitats
- Recreational Opportunities: Opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking along the canals
10. Mohawk Valley Scenic Byway
A scenic drive that follows an old rail line from Albany to Oneida, offering panoramic views.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Mohawk Valley and surrounding hills
- Historical Significance: Follows the route of an early 20th-century railroad line
- Cultural Immersion: Passes through historic towns with rich cultural heritage
11. Amtrak Ethan Allen Express
Travel to scenic destinations like Rutland, VT and New York City, with stops in Albany.
- Long-Distance Travel: Offers one-stop travel to multiple iconic destinations
- Scenic Routes: Passes through beautiful landscapes of the Green Mountains and Taconic Range
- Comfortable Travel: Spacious seating, dining options, and sleeping accommodations for longer trips
12. Champlain Valley Rail Trail
A biking and hiking trail that follows a historic rail line from Rouses Point to Swanton, VT.
- Active Outdoor Experience: Offers a variety of activities, including cycling, jogging, and walking
- Historical Significance: Follows the route of an early 20th-century railroad line
- Scenic Landscapes: Provides stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains
13. Adirondack Trail Explorer Rail-Trail
A biking and hiking trail that follows a historic rail line from Old Forge to Utica.
- Active Outdoor Experience: Offers a variety of activities, including cycling, jogging, and walking
- Historical Significance: Follows the route of an early 20th-century railroad line
- Scenic Landscapes: Provides stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains and forests
14. Erie Canalway Trail
A biking and hiking trail that follows the historic Erie Canal from Albany to Buffalo.
- Active Outdoor Experience: Offers a variety of activities, including cycling, jogging, and walking
- Historical Significance: Follows the route of the legendary Erie Canal
- Scenic Landscapes: Provides stunning views of waterways, villages, and surrounding countryside
15. The Northway Trail
A biking and hiking trail that follows I-87, offering views of the Adirondacks and Champlain Valley.
- Active Outdoor Experience: Offers a variety of activities, including cycling, jogging, and walking
- Scenic Beauty: Provides stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain
- Convenient Access: Follows the route of Interstate 87, making it easily accessible from Albany