The Renaissance Albany offers 203 guest rooms with oversized windows and views of downtown Albany, including, from the upper floors, the New York State Capitol and Albany City Hall. The hotel combines original architectural details: dark wood paneling, marble floors, restored plasterwork, with modern amenities. On-site is Wellington’s, a full-service restaurant focused on high-end American fare with locally sourced ingredients. Fan favorites include the Hudson Valley Apple Pancakes at breakfast and the Sticky Pork Ribs for dinner. The hotel also features a 24-hour fitness center, a historic ballroom, and several meeting and event spaces. For larger gatherings, the Renaissance connects via a walkway to the Albany Capital Center, which accommodates events up to 5,000 people.
Step aboard the Rip Van Winkle II and settle into a shaded deck seat as Kingston’s waterfront gives way to sweeping river views. Our experienced guide narrates the journey, pointing out the historic Rondout Lighthouse, Esopus Meadows Lighthouse, Gilded Age estates, and charming riverside villages framed by the Catskill Mountains. Grab a drink or snack from the onboard concession bar and watch bald eagles, sailboats, and golden-hour light play across the water. Sightseeing cruises run approximately two hours, offering a perfect midday or sunset activity. Live music cruises add a festive atmosphere with local bands performing as you cruise. It’s an easygoing, all-ages experience that appeals to history buffs, photographers, couples, and families alike.

The Renaissance Albany’s event spaces include the DeWitt Ballroom (up to 250 guests), the Capital Room, the Hyland Library, and The Shelf, as well as smaller boardrooms. The hotel’s R.E.N. events team handles everything from sourcing local food and beverages to organizing live entertainment. The building itself, a restored 1927 landmark, makes for a remarkable backdrop for weddings, receptions, and private events. For event inquiries, call 518-992-2428.
Renaissance Albany Hotel
144 State Street, Albany, NY 12207
Phone: 518-992-2500
Wellington’s Restaurant Hours:
Breakfast takeout: Mon–Fri 6:30–11 a.m. / Sat–Sun 8–11 a.m.
Lunch: Tue–Sat 11:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Dinner: Mon–Sat 5–9 p.m.
Reservations: 518-992-2432
The hotel is open 24 hours. Self-parking is available on-site at $6/hour or $25/day.
Amtrak arrives at Albany-Rensselaer Station (ALB), located just across the Hudson River in Rensselaer — about three miles from the hotel. From there, hop on a CDTA bus for an eight-minute ride into downtown Albany for $2. CDTA also offers FLEX+, an on-demand service with direct stops at the Renaissance Albany Hotel, the Empire State Plaza, the State Capitol, and Albany City Hall — bookable in advance through the Ride Pingo app. Once you’re at the hotel, the location does the rest: the Capitol, Empire State Plaza, and the New York State Museum are all within walking distance, and Albany Bikeshare makes it easy to explore further. A car is not necessary.
Don’t forget to use the New York By Rail 15% discount on your Amtrak fare.