Amtrak · Regional
Empire Service
Hudson Valley and Upstate New York service from Manhattan to Albany and Buffalo, with river views for the first two hours out of New York.
Train numbers
230–288 series
End-to-end
7h 50m · 700 km
Frequency
Up to 13× daily (NYC–Albany)
On-time
~74%
Route & indicative timetable
Outbound departure 07:15 · return departs 06:05
- New York Moynihan Train Hall NYP
New York, New York
dep 07:15
- Albany-Rensselaer Station ALB
Albany, New York
arr 09:45 dep 09:45
- Buffalo Exchange Street Station BFX
Buffalo, New York
arr 15:05
Classes & indicative end-to-end fares
Coach
Reserved reclining seat
indicative
Business Class
Extra legroom
indicative
- Coach: Reserved reclining seat · Power outlets · Big luggage allowance
- Business Class: Extra legroom · Complimentary non-alcoholic drinks · Flexible fare
Onboard amenities
- • Sit on the left side heading north for Hudson River views.
Amtrak policies
- Baggage:
- Two personal items + two carry-on bags free (25 lb / 50 lb limits); up to four checked bags (two free) on routes with checked-baggage service.
- Pets:
- Dogs and cats up to 20 lb (pet + carrier) allowed on most routes up to 7 hours in a carrier, $29–$39 fee, book in advance — not on Auto Train or in sleepers.
- Bikes:
- Trainside or checked bike service on most routes for $10–$20; folding bikes ride free as carry-on. Reserve a bike space when booking.
- Refunds:
- Fully refundable up to 24h after purchase; after that, refundability depends on fare family (Flex fully refundable, Value 75% or eCredit, Saver 50% eCredit within window).
- Accessibility:
- Accessible seating/bedrooms on every train, wheelchair assistance at staffed stations, 10% rail-fare discount for passengers with a disability.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Empire Service take?
The full run from New York Moynihan Train Hall to Buffalo Exchange Street Station is scheduled at about 7h 50m. It operates up to 13× daily (nyc–albany).
How much is a ticket on the Empire Service?
Indicative end-to-end fares start at $65 in Coach, rising through Business Class. Fares are dynamic — we confirm exact pricing at booking.
Does the Empire Service have Wi-Fi?
Yes — complimentary onboard Wi-Fi is provided (coverage can drop in remote stretches and tunnels).
Is food available on the Empire Service?
Yes — a café car sells drinks, snacks and light meals.
Can I take luggage on the Empire Service?
Two personal items + two carry-on bags free (25 lb / 50 lb limits); up to four checked bags (two free) on routes with checked-baggage service.
Are pets allowed on the Empire Service?
Dogs and cats up to 20 lb (pet + carrier) allowed on most routes up to 7 hours in a carrier, $29–$39 fee, book in advance — not on Auto Train or in sleepers.
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Schedules and fares shown are indicative, compiled from official operator timetables. Rail operators adjust timings, fares and running days without notice — our rail desk confirms live availability and exact pricing before any booking is ticketed.