Ready to explore Albany and its beautiful surroundings? Use the search form above to find the ideal car for your trip. Enter your desired pick-up location in Albany (we cover Albany International Airport (ALB) and convenient spots around town), select your dates, and hit “Search.” In seconds, you’ll be comparing real-time deals from multiple car rental companies throughout the Capital Region. Need a compact car for zipping between meetings downtown? An SUV for a family vacation to the Adirondacks? How about a roomy van for that group trip to Cooperstown? We’ve got them all lined up for you. Booking is fast and secure. Most Albany rentals let you reserve now and pay later at pick-up, and come with free cancellation up to 48 hours before if your plans change. With your car booked, you can focus on planning what to do perhaps a drive to Howe Caverns, a tour of the Hudson Valley’s wineries, or simply soaking in Albany’s downtown dining scene knowing your transport is sorted and money saved.
Introduction: Welcome to Albany, the capital of New York State a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Renting a car in Albany gives you the freedom to discover not only the city’s rich heritage (from the grand New York State Capitol building to the vibrant Warehouse District) but also the diverse attractions of the entire Capital Region and beyond. One moment you could be touring the halls where American history was shaped, and the next you’re cruising through picturesque landscapes of the Hudson Valley or heading up to the Adirondack Mountains. With a rental car, your itinerary is in your hands. This page is your complete guide to securing an affordable car rental in Albany, NY. We’ve packed it with local tips, unbeatable deals, and road trip ideas so you can hit the road with confidence. Whether you’re a business traveler flying into Albany International Airport, a family visiting colleges (hello, UAlbany and RPI!), or a local planning a getaway to Lake George, we’re here to help you find the perfect vehicle at a great price quickly and easily. Let’s get you on the road in New York’s Capital, stress-free and ready for adventure!
While Albany has buses and some train service, a car is by far the best way to experience this region fully. Here’s why renting a car in Albany is a smart move for most visitors (and even locals looking to roam):
If you’re staying strictly in downtown Albany and nearby neighborhoods, you might manage with taxis or rideshares. But for most visitors who want to really see what the Capital Region offers from state parks to historic villages a rental car is the way to go. Locals know it too: many Albany residents rent cars from us for weekend trips or when they need an extra vehicle. In short, a car equals freedom to discover. Let’s look at how AirportVanRental makes that both easy and affordable.
Our Albany Car Rental Benefits
When you book your Albany car through AirportVanRental, you’re tapping into a ton of advantages that make your rental experience smooth and budget-friendly. Here’s what sets us apart and why so many travelers trust us for rentals in Albany:
Top Car Deals in Albany Today
Note: “From” rates are estimated based on Albany rentals in low-demand periods and exclude taxes/fees. Albany’s sales tax is ~8%, and airport rentals include modest surcharges (around 11% total in taxes/fees at ALB). These are included in your quote online. Prices may be higher in peak season e.g., summer (track season in Saratoga, late June through August), fall foliage weekends (October), or when universities have commencement. Always search with your exact dates and desired location to get current rates. We update deal info frequently to highlight the best current offers for Albany.
Driving in Albany: What to Know
Driving around Albany and the Capital Region is generally easier than in larger cities, but it comes with its own set of local nuances. Here’s what you need to know to drive safely and confidently in and around Albany:
Traffic & Commuting: Albany is a smaller city, and while it has rush hour traffic, it’s relatively mild compared to metropolitan areas. Morning rush hour runs roughly 7:00–9:00 AM, and evening rush is about 4:00–6:00 PM. Expect some slowdowns on I-90 (the New York Thruway and its connector through Albany) especially near the I-87 Northway interchange (Exit 24) and approaching downtown exits. The I-787 corridor along the Hudson River, which many use to go between Albany, Menands, and Troy, sees congestion at peak times, particularly near on-ramps and merges like the notorious Clinton Avenue on-ramp downtown. If you’re headed into the city from the suburbs in the morning (or vice versa in the evening), give yourself a bit of extra time. Also note: when the State Legislature is in session (usually January through June), downtown streets around the Capitol and Empire State Plaza can get busier with state workers and events. And if you’re traveling up the Northway (I-87) toward Saratoga or Lake George on a summer Friday afternoon, expect heavy northbound traffic (the same goes southbound on Sunday evenings) as weekenders head to and from the lakes. Overall, plan a cushion of 15 minutes during rush hour, use navigation apps to spot any incidents, and you’ll be fine traffic jams here are usually short-lived.
Downtown Driving & Parking: Albany’s downtown combines modern streets with some old, narrow ones around the Capitol and Center Square neighborhoods. Be ready for some one-way streets in the core (e.g., Pine and Chapel Streets are one-way pairs). Lark Street, the hub of Albany’s arts/restaurant scene, is a tight but manageable two-way road drive slowly, watch for pedestrians crossing between parked cars, especially in the evenings. Parking downtown is relatively plentiful and affordable. Meters are in effect typically 8 AM to 5 PM on weekdays, and many spots are free on evenings and weekends (check the signs Albany uses a lot of electronic parking kiosks now; you’ll enter your license plate instead of displaying a slip). Rates are around $1.50/hour in much of downtown. The Empire State Plaza has large underground visitor parking ($2–$10 depending on duration, free on weekends when there aren’t events). Street parking in residential areas like around Washington Park or Center Square can be trickier those areas use alternate-side parking rules (sweeping days, etc.) and permits for residents. Pay close attention to posted signs to avoid tickets, as Albany does enforce parking rules (especially around snow emergencies or street cleaning days). If you’re staying at a downtown hotel, many offer parking in garages or lots for a fee (usually $10–$20/night). One nice feature: the “MVP Arena” (formerly Times Union Center) garage often has cheap evening rates when there’s no event, which can be a convenient central parking spot for an evening out. Overall, compared to NYC or Boston, parking in Albany is a breeze and won’t break the bank just read the signs and you’re good.
Tolls & E-ZPass: Driving in and around Albany, you’ll likely encounter the New York State Thruway (I-87/I-90) if you’re doing any intercity travel. Like the rest of NY, tolls are cashless. Between exits 24 (Albany) and 50 (Buffalo), and down I-87 toward NYC, the Thruway will toll your license plate or E-ZPass. If your rental car doesn’t have an E-ZPass and you didn’t bring one, no problem cameras will bill the rental company via plate and you’ll be charged later (with that small admin fee we discussed). Other toll considerations: heading east into Massachusetts on I-90 (Mass Pike) Mass Pike is also cashless and will bill similar. If you drive north on I-87 past Albany into the Adirondacks good news, the Northway section of I-87 north of Albany has no tolls at all (the toll portion ends at Exit 24 toll barrier). Same goes for I-88 towards Binghamton no tolls. One unique toll near Albany: the New York State Thruway Berkshire Connector (I-90 east toward Massachusetts) has a fixed toll (around $1) at the exit B3 (Canaan) for the MA border. If you’re exploring locally, most bridges over the Hudson in the Capital Region are toll-free, except those much farther south near NYC. If you drive down toward the Catskills and cross the Hudson (e.g., Rip Van Winkle Bridge, Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge), those smaller bridges do have cashless tolls (usually ~$1.50) heading eastbound only. Summing up: consider using the rental’s toll pass if you plan multiple toll roads, or bring your own E-ZPass. If you avoid the Thruway (taking local roads), you can skip tolls entirely, but for longer trips it often isn’t worth the added time. We make sure toll info is transparent, so you won’t be caught off guard by where they are.
Driving Laws & Local Rules: Driving laws in Albany (and New York State) will be familiar to most U.S. drivers. Always wear seat belts it’s mandatory for all ages (and children must be in proper car seats/boosters according to age/height). Right turn on red is permitted after a full stop, unless a sign says “No Turn on Red.” In Albany, most intersections do allow it, but a few downtown have restrictions due to pedestrian traffic just keep an eye out for signs. School zones (near schools) often have 15 mph limits during school days and school buses, if you’re here when they’re running, require you to stop when their red lights flash, even on the opposite side of the road (this is strictly enforced for safety). New York is a hands-free state for cell phones no texting or hand-held calling while driving. Albany police and state troopers will pull you over for phone use if spotted. Another statewide law: if your wipers are on due to rain or snow, your headlights must be on (it helps visibility). Many newer cars have automatic lights, but double-check in foul weather that your lights are indeed on (not just DRLs). Around Albany, you might also encounter some roundabouts the region has added quite a few traffic circles in suburbs like Colonie and around Saratoga County. Remember the rule: vehicles in the roundabout have the right of way; yield upon entry, then proceed to your exit signalizing as you leave. They’re generally low-speed and smooth to navigate once you’re used to them. Lastly, watch the speed limits: city streets are usually 30 mph unless posted otherwise (25 mph in some residential areas). The State Police keep a close eye on the Thruway and Northway 65 mph zones mean 65 (they often patrol by aircraft too). If you’re driving through small towns or villages outside Albany, slow down as posted not just to avoid tickets, but because pedestrians and local traffic patterns can vary. Obeying the rules will keep you and others safe and your road trip stress-free.
Weather Conditions: Albany experiences all four seasons in full force. Summer driving is easy just be prepared for the occasional thunderstorm that can bring heavy rain (slow down during downpours to avoid hydroplaning). Autumn brings leaf-peeping traffic especially on weekends scenic routes like through the Adirondacks or Vermont will have more cars and also watch for wet leaves on roads which can be surprisingly slippery. Winter (roughly late November through early March) requires more attention: snow and ice are common. The city and NYDOT do an excellent job plowing and salting main roads, but you may encounter snow-covered side streets or slushy highways during a storm. If you’re not experienced in winter driving, remember reduce your speed, increase following distance, brake very gently to avoid skids, and give yourself extra time to get places. Many rental cars in NY are front-wheel drive which handles light snow decently, but if a big snowstorm is forecast during your trip, consider renting an AWD/4x4 vehicle for added traction (and even then, drive carefully!). Black ice (transparent ice) can form on bridges and untreated roads especially on cold mornings if a road looks wet and it’s below freezing; assume it could be icy. Spring can be rainy and muddy as snow melts, so again, be cautious on wet roads and watch for potholes the freeze-thaw cycle creates some deep potholes by late winter; crews fix many by spring but keep an eye out to avoid tire damage. The bottom line: check the forecast daily, plan around any major weather (if a Nor’easter is blasting through, maybe delay that mountain drive by a day), and utilize that rental car heater/AC to keep comfortable. New York’s 511 road condition service is handy for checking highway conditions in winter. And on bright sunny days year-round, don’t be surprised by the beauty you’ll see on your drives from snow-laden pines to fields of spring wildflowers this region shines in every season for those exploring by car.
Road Trip Ideas from Albany, NY
Albany’s central location makes it a perfect launching pad for road trips. Whether you’re into history, nature, or quaint small towns, a short drive can transport you to a variety of experiences. Here are three awesome road trip ideas to consider during your Albany stay:
Highlights: Head north on I-87 (the Adirondack Northway) for about an hour to Lake George, often called the “Queen of American Lakes.” In Lake George Village, you’ll find a lively waterfront with shops and the historic Fort William Henry. Take a stroll along the lake or even a short cruise on a steamship like the Minne-Ha-Ha. For a panoramic view, drive up Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway (a 5-mile scenic toll road) to the summit overlook you’ll see the lake’s 32-mile length dotted with islands. Continuing north, I-87 will lead you deeper into the Adirondack Park, a vast 6-million-acre wilderness. Get off the interstate at exit 30 and take Route 73 through the High Peaks region toward Lake Placid (about another hour from Lake George). This drive is part of the adventure you’ll pass dramatic mountain scenery, including the cliffs of Chapel Pond and the iconic Cascade Lakes. Arrive in Lake Placid, a charming village famous for hosting two Winter Olympics (1932 and 1980). Visit the Olympic Ski Jumping Complex you can ride an elevator to the top of the 120m ski jump tower for jaw-dropping views and a new appreciation for Olympic ski jumpers’ courage. Check out the Olympic Center in town where the “Miracle on Ice” hockey game took place in 1980, or take a leisurely walk around Mirror Lake (right in the village). If you’re up for a challenge and it’s summer/fall, drive up the Whiteface Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway (a toll road just outside Lake Placid) which brings you near the 4,867-ft summit of Whiteface Mountain on a clear day the views stretch into Canada. For the return to Albany, you can either retrace Route 73 to I-87 or, for a change of scenery, take Route 9N south through scenic Adirondack towns like Elizabethtown and Schroon Lake to rejoin I-87, or even loop east into Vermont and come down VT-7 (a longer route, but you could pass through Burlington and the Lake Champlain region).
Pro Tip:Timing & Wildlife: This trip covers a lot of ground, so if possible make it a two-day adventure with an overnight in Lake Placid or nearby (there are many lodges and B&Bs). That way you can enjoy an evening by the lake and perhaps catch a sunrise over the mountains. If you’re doing it in a single day, start very early to maximize daylight especially important outside summer. Keep in mind, driving in the Adirondacks means sharing the road with wildlife. Deer are common, especially around dawn and dusk stay alert, as a deer crossing unexpectedly is a real hazard. In summer, be prepared for some slow-moving RVs or cyclists on the scenic roads; patience is key on the winding routes. Also, cell service can be spotty in the High Peaks area download maps offline or bring a physical map. Lastly, pack a jacket or layer up even in summer, it can be cooler in the mountains (Lake Placid evenings are refreshingly cool, and on Whiteface’s summit it can be quite chilly). This road trip is a nature lover’s dream from the crystal waters of Lake George to the alpine charm of Lake Placid, you’ll get a full dose of Adirondack splendor.
Highlights: This drive combines scenic mountain roads with historic Hudson River towns. Start by heading south on I-87 about 30 miles to Exit 21 (Catskill). Follow Route 23A west into the Catskill Mountains. In just a few miles, you’ll enter Kaaterskill Clove, a dramatic gorge that wowed painters of the Hudson River School. There’s a parking area for Kaaterskill Falls near Haines Falls a short but steep hike (about 0.5 mile) leads to a viewing platform for the two-tiered waterfall, one of NY’s tallest at 260 feet. Next, continue to the town of Woodstock (via Route 23A and Route 212). Despite the name, the famous 1969 festival was actually held elsewhere, but Woodstock the town remains an artsy, laid-back village that keeps the hippie vibe alive. Browse the quirky shops and galleries, grab lunch at a organic café, and maybe spot a tie-dye clad street musician or two. From Woodstock, drive south to Kingston, the onetime capital of NY State. Kingston’s uptown Stockade District offers beautifully preserved colonial architecture you can park and walk around Wall Street and Main Street to see buildings dating to the 1700s, including the old Senate House. If it’s a Saturday, Kingston’s bustling farmers market might be running, full of local produce and artisan goods. Down by Kingston’s Rondout Creek waterfront, you’ll find the Hudson River Maritime Museum and a charming marina area a great spot for an ice cream or to watch boats on the river. After Kingston, cross the Hudson heading east via the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge (toll eastbound). Now you’re in Rhinebeck, an upscale village known for its boutique shops and the famous Beekman Arms (America’s oldest continually operating inn, circa 1766). Rhinebeck is lovely for an afternoon stroll if time permits. Finally, head north on the scenic Route 9 along the east side of the Hudson. You’ll pass through Hudson, a city that’s become a Brooklynite retreat full of antique shops, chic galleries, and a vibrant food scene on Warren Street. Stretch your legs here if you wish, and soak in some Hudson River views at the waterfront park. From Hudson, Albany is just a 40-minute drive north via Routes 9H and I-90, through pretty countryside.
Pro Tip:Seasonal Suggestions: This loop is stunning in fall. If you can, time it for mid-October when Catskill forests are ablaze with color you won’t be alone (fall weekends get busy), but the sights are worth it. During peak foliage or summer weekends, aim to hit popular spots like Kaaterskill Falls early in the day for easier parking and lighter crowds. In summer, consider bringing swimwear there are some public swimming holes/streams in the Catskills (Mink Hollow or a dip in the Esopus Creek) and the Hudson Valley can get hot, so a quick cool-off is nice. History buff? Detour to Olana (just south of Hudson) it’s the Persian-style hilltop home of painter Frederic Church, with gorgeous views of the Hudson Valley (and a great picnic spot). Driving wise, Route 23A through the Catskills is steep and winding as it climbs the clove drive cautiously, use pull-offs to let faster locals pass, and enjoy the views safely. This route gives you a taste of mountain vistas, bohemian culture, and riverfront charm all in one go truly a sampler of what makes upstate NY special.
Highlights: Drive west from Albany on I-90 (Thruway) to exit 25A, then take I-88 toward Central New York. In about an hour and 15 minutes, you’ll reach the exit for Cooperstown (Route 20 to NY-80). Tucked by the shores of Otsego Lake, Cooperstown is world-famous as the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Even casual baseball fans will appreciate the Hall it’s full of memorabilia from over a century of baseball history (Babe Ruth’s bat, Jackie Robinson’s jersey, etc.) and the plaque gallery honoring legends of the game. But Cooperstown isn’t only about baseball: the village itself is storybook charming, with brick sidewalks and quaint storefronts. There’s the Fenimore Art Museum (American folk and Native art, plus lovely lakefront grounds) and The Farmers’ Museum, a living history village demonstrating 1800s rural life (with an awesome hand-carved carousel). Stroll down Main Street for some homemade fudge or to browse baseball souvenir shops. Just outside the village, you can relax at Brewery Ommegang a Belgian-style farmhouse brewery known for craft beer and gourmet bites (yes, kids are welcome on the grounds, and they make a mean soft pretzel too). After enjoying Cooperstown, consider a slight detour on the way back to Albany: Howe Caverns. To get there, from Cooperstown take scenic Route 166 south to Route 7, heading east toward Cobleskill Howe Caverns is about a 45-minute drive from Cooperstown. The caverns offer a cool (literally, 52°F year-round) underground boat ride and walking tour through spectacular limestone cave formations. It’s a fun family-friendly attraction and a great way to break up the drive. Finally, from Howe Caverns, Albany is only an hour away via I-88 East to I-90 East.
Pro Tip:Plan for a Full Day: Cooperstown might look small on a map, but you can easily spend an entire day there, especially if you visit multiple attractions. The Hall of Fame alone often takes 2-3 hours to do it justice (more if you’re a superfan). In peak summer (and during the annual Hall of Fame Induction Weekend each July), the village gets busy parking can be found at paid lots or the Red Parking Lot with trolley service into downtown. If you’re visiting in summer, bring some swimsuits or at least towels there are public beaches on Otsego Lake (like Glimmerglass State Park at the lake’s northern end) if you fancy a freshwater dip. If including Howe Caverns, note their tour times and consider buying tickets ahead online to secure a spot, particularly on weekends. The caverns tour is about 90 minutes. As you drive through rural New York, enjoy the scenery you’ll pass lots of rolling dairy farms (stop for ice cream at a roadside stand for an authentic taste of upstate!). And a quirky note: Cooperstown has no chain restaurants or traffic lights it’s part of the charm so drive slowly, yield to pedestrians, and soak in the small-town Americana feel. This road trip mixes nostalgia, natural wonder, and a dose of Americana a perfect outing from Albany that will leave you with lasting memories (and probably a baseball cap or two).
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, yes. Albany is a mid-sized city with a fairly straightforward road network. The downtown area has a mix of one-way and two-way streets, but it’s laid out in a logical grid in many parts. As a newcomer, you might find a GPS helpful, particularly with navigating the few one-way streets and finding highway on-ramp locations (for example, getting onto I-787 or I-90 from downtown involves some turns that aren’t immediately obvious without directions). Drivers in Albany are typically polite and not as aggressive as those in NYC or Boston, so that’s a plus. Just be mindful of speed limits, especially in the city (30 mph unless posted lower). One thing to note: Albany has a lot of hills it's built on steep bluffs above the Hudson. So don’t be surprised by some hilly streets (e.g., climbing State Street up toward the Capitol). In winter, the city does a good job clearing snow, but if it’s actively snowing, take it slow on those hills and leave extra room to brake. Parking, as discussed, is reasonable and plentiful compared to big cities use garages or metered street parking depending on where you are. Outside of Albany, highways are the primary way to get around; they’re well-marked and relatively uncongested. If you’re headed to rural or mountainous areas, you’ll be on smaller roads which can be curvy just drive attentively and enjoy the scenery. All in all, many first-time visitors comment that driving around Albany was easier than they expected. With a bit of common sense and your favorite navigation app, you should have no trouble getting around.
Absolutely. Albany International Airport’s rental car center is open to anyone you don’t need a boarding pass or flight reservation to rent from there. Many locals actually do rent from ALB because the hours are longer and inventory is large. The rental counters at ALB are conveniently located in the baggage claim area of the terminal, and the cars are right on-site (a short walk to the parking garage no shuttle needed). So if, say, you live in Albany and need a car for a weekend trip, you can certainly book at ALB and pick it up like any other customer. One thing to note: the airport does impose some extra fees (airport concession fee, etc.), which usually amount to about 10-11% of the rental cost. Sometimes renting at a city location can avoid those fees, but then again, city locations might close early or have less selection. It’s wise to compare prices our site will show you ALB vs. non-airport options if available. If ALB’s price is a tad higher, weigh that against the convenience of 24-hour pick-up/drop-off at the airport. Fun fact ALB is “International” in name but primarily serves domestic flights; it’s a user-friendly small airport. If you are flying in, you’ll find it super easy to go from plane to rental car in minutes. And if you’re local, parking at the airport is free for the first hour in the garage, which is usually enough time to handle the rental pickup. So yes, anyone can rent at ALB whether you flew 1,000 miles or drove 10 minutes to get there!
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) can be a confidence booster in winter, but it’s not a strict necessity for Albany, especially if you’ll mainly be in the city or on highways. Albany does get snow on average around 50-60 inches over the season and the city and state plow crews are proficient at clearing roads quickly. Most rentals will have all-season tires, which are generally sufficient for typical winter conditions on treated roads. If you’re visiting in winter and plan to head into the mountains (Adirondacks, Catskills) or rural areas that might not be plowed immediately, renting an SUV with AWD might be a good idea for peace of mind. It provides better traction on unplowed or icy roads. However, remember that AWD helps with acceleration but not necessarily with stopping so regardless of drivetrain, you must drive cautiously on snow/ice. Winter tires (snow tires) are not commonly offered by rental companies in the U.S., including Albany, except perhaps on select specialty vehicles, so you likely won’t have that option. The good news is major routes like I-87, I-90, and I-88 are priority plow routes and often kept clear. If a huge storm hits (say a foot or more of snow in a day), it might be wise to delay travel until plows have done their work often within a half-day many main roads are passable again. We also suggest carrying a basic winter kit in the car if you’re here in deep winter: an ice scraper (usually provided), maybe a small shovel (in case of getting snowed in around the wheels), and some washer fluid rated for cold temps (salt spray can quickly dirty your windshield). In summary: AWD is nice-to-have for winter, especially if venturing outside the city and we can filter search results for AWD vehicles if you prefer one. But if you end up with a front-wheel drive car, that’s okay too; just drive prudently. And if you’re not used to winter driving, take it slow and give extra space you’ll adapt quickly. Safe travels are the priority, and we’re happy to advise if you have specific concerns when you book (just ask us!).
Yes, one-way rentals are commonly available from Albany. Whether you want to pick up in Albany and drop in New York City, Boston, Montreal (Canada), or elsewhere, we can usually find you an option. When booking on our site, select your drop-off city in the search. The system will show you which vehicles are offered for one-way and any drop fee included in the price. Albany to NYC or Boston is a popular one-way route drop fees for those can range from relatively low (~$50-100) to sometimes zero if there’s high demand the other way (it fluctuates). Longer one-ways, like Albany to Florida or the West Coast, will have higher drop fees (a couple hundred or more). One-ways to Canada (like Albany to Toronto or Montreal) may be possible with certain companies, but they’re less common and often quite pricey due to cross-border complications you might be better off dropping at a U.S. city near the border and re-renting in Canada if that’s your plan. A few things to keep in mind: always confirm the allowed mileage on a one-way (most are unlimited, but a few long one-ways might have caps). Also, try to book one-ways a bit in advance; availability can be tighter since the company has to have a car available that they’re okay with not coming back. AirportVanRental specializes in these comparisons, so we’ll clearly highlight any one-way fees upfront no surprises. Many travelers do a one-way to make the most of a road trip (for example, drive Albany → Niagara Falls → drop in Buffalo and fly out, rather than looping back). We’re all for helping you plan an epic journey. If you have a route in mind and aren’t seeing an option online, contact us sometimes we can arrange a custom one-way with our partners. The freedom to drop off elsewhere can be a trip-saver, and we’re happy to make it happen if possible!