Albany, the capital of New York State, is often overlooked as a travel destination compared to places like New York City or the Adirondacks, but it has plenty to offer. The history, the museums, the unique blend of old and new architecture, and the proximity to nature make it an excellent stop for those exploring upstate New York. For those traveling on a budget, one of the most important considerations is where to stay. In this post, I’ll share my experience in Albany, with a particular focus on some of the most budget-friendly, high-value hotels that I found during my visit. I’ll also dive into my stay at one of them, providing details on location, cost, booking process, and what to expect during your stay.
1. Why Albany?
I didn’t expect much from Albany at first. It seemed like just another small city with a political reputation (given it’s the state capital), but I was pleasantly surprised. The city has a nice balance of history, culture, and green spaces. Whether you’re interested in walking through the state capital’s historical sites or hiking along the nearby Hudson River, there’s plenty to keep you occupied without burning a hole in your wallet.
When you’re planning a trip to Albany, whether it’s for a quick weekend getaway or a longer stay, the cost of accommodation can quickly add up if you don’t do your research. That’s why I’m here to share some hotels that provide great value for money.
2. What to Expect in Albany Hotels
Albany is a mid-sized city, so you won’t find the high-end luxury resorts you might find in major metropolitan areas. However, what it lacks in luxury, it makes up for in affordability. The key to booking a good hotel in Albany is looking for places that are central, comfortable, and provide a good balance between cost and amenities. Many of the hotels I found during my trip were priced well below $150 a night, and I was lucky enough to stay in one that really exceeded my expectations for the price.
Hotel #1: Hampton Inn & Suites Albany-Downtown
Location and Atmosphere
One of the top budget-friendly hotels I stayed at was the Hampton Inn & Suites Albany-Downtown. It’s located right in the heart of Albany, on the edge of downtown, making it easy to walk to a lot of key attractions. The New York State Capitol, Empire State Plaza, and Albany Institute of History & Art are all within walking distance. This hotel really struck a balance between comfort and price, making it an ideal option for those who don’t want to break the bank but still want to be in a prime location.
Booking and Cost
I booked my stay through Booking.com (I often find the best deals there), and I was pleasantly surprised by the rate. For a mid-week stay, I was able to get a room for about $120 per night, which is a steal for the area, especially considering its proximity to downtown and all the amenities. The room was large, clean, and included a complimentary breakfast, which was a nice touch that helped me save a bit more during my stay.
Room Features
The room was simple yet very comfortable. It came with a queen-sized bed, a flat-screen TV, a mini-fridge, and a coffee maker (perfect for my early mornings). The bed was particularly cozy, which is always a win in my book. While the design is standard for a Hampton Inn, it was modern enough and felt welcoming. The bathroom was clean, with a large walk-in shower and plenty of toiletries.
On-Site Amenities
One of the biggest perks of staying at this Hampton Inn was the free breakfast every morning. It wasn’t the most extravagant spread, but there were plenty of options: fresh fruit, pastries, scrambled eggs, sausage, and waffles. This made it super convenient for getting a quick meal before heading out for the day.
The hotel also has a small fitness center and an indoor pool. While I didn’t get a chance to use either (I was too busy exploring the city), the pool looked clean, and the fitness center had all the basics for a quick workout.
What I Loved
- Prime location: Being able to walk to key downtown attractions was a huge bonus. I didn’t need a car or public transportation to explore.
- Affordable price: At around $120 per night, this hotel offered excellent value considering its location and the quality of the room.
- Free breakfast: I didn’t have to worry about finding breakfast every morning, and the selection was good enough to fuel me for a busy day of sightseeing.
What Could Be Improved
- Limited parking: While there is parking available, it’s limited and can be quite expensive. I opted to park on the street, which was cheaper, but finding a spot can be challenging at times.
- No restaurant on-site: While the breakfast was great, I wish there was a restaurant or bar on-site for dinner or evening drinks. That said, there are plenty of options nearby, so it’s not a huge issue.
Overall, the Hampton Inn & Suites Albany-Downtown offers a great combination of comfort, convenience, and affordability. I’d highly recommend it for anyone looking to stay in a central location without overspending.
Hotel #2: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Albany University Area
Location and Atmosphere
The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Albany University Area is another excellent option if you’re looking for value for money. Located a little further from downtown, it’s near the University at Albany and is well-connected to major roads. It’s a quieter location compared to staying in the heart of the city, which some may prefer for a more relaxing stay.
Booking and Cost
I booked my stay here through Expedia and found a deal for $109 per night. For that price, I got a king-sized room with a couch and workspace, which was a nice bonus. I stayed here for two nights, and the overall value was fantastic, considering the amenities and the room size.
Room Features
This hotel room had a modern, clean design with all the amenities you’d expect from a Marriott brand. The king-sized bed was very comfortable, and the room had plenty of space to stretch out. I was especially impressed with the larger-than-usual bathroom and the selection of toiletries, which included high-quality items. There was also a good-sized workspace with a desk and chair, which would be useful for business travelers.
On-Site Amenities
The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a fitness center, an indoor pool, and a business center. There’s also a small convenience store in the lobby, where you can pick up snacks and drinks. I didn’t get to use the pool, but the fitness center had a decent selection of equipment, perfect for a morning workout before heading out to explore the city.
What I Loved
- Good location: While it’s not in the downtown area, the hotel’s location near the University at Albany meant it was still very accessible. It also had easy access to highways, which made it convenient if you’re driving.
- Great value for the price: At $109 per night, the room was spacious, modern, and well-equipped. It’s definitely one of the best deals in the area.
- Friendly staff: The staff was welcoming and helpful during my stay. They provided great recommendations for local restaurants and things to do.
What Could Be Improved
- No breakfast included: Unlike the Hampton Inn, this Fairfield Inn did not include breakfast in the rate, which was a bit disappointing. They did offer breakfast for an additional charge, but it would have been nice if it was included.
- The area can feel a bit isolated: While it’s near the university, there aren’t many attractions within walking distance. You’ll need a car or a short drive to get to most places of interest.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back stay with a little more space and don’t mind being a bit further from the city center, this Fairfield Inn is a solid choice.
Hotel #3: Best Western Sovereign Hotel Albany
Location and Atmosphere
The Best Western Sovereign Hotel is another great budget-friendly option, located near the University at Albany and not too far from downtown. It’s a more classic hotel compared to the newer, more modern options I’ve listed so far, but it offers plenty of comfort for the price. The area is quieter, with easy access to the highways.
Booking and Cost
I found a room for $99 per night on Hotels.com, which was an unbeatable price for the location. The booking process was smooth, and I was able to get a room at the last minute, which was convenient.
Room Features
The room was comfortable and fairly spacious, with a queen-sized bed, a desk, and a small sitting area. The bathroom was a bit dated, but it was clean and had all the basics you’d expect, like a bathtub, toiletries, and fluffy towels. The room included a flat-screen TV and a mini-fridge, which made it easy to store some snacks and drinks for later.
On-Site Amenities
This Best Western offers a range of amenities, including a small fitness center, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant. I didn’t dine at the restaurant, but it’s nice to know there’s an option on-site. The hotel also provides free parking, which was a huge plus considering the downtown hotels often charge for parking.
What I Loved
- Inexpensive: At $99 per night, this hotel is one of the cheapest options in Albany, especially considering it offers free parking.
- Convenient location: It’s a short drive from downtown and the University at Albany, which was
great for me as I had to visit both during my trip.
- Free parking: Having free parking was a big perk. Parking in downtown Albany can be tricky and expensive, so I really appreciated this feature.
What Could Be Improved
- Older rooms: While the room was clean, it did feel a little dated compared to some of the newer hotels. The décor could use an update, but it didn’t bother me too much since everything worked well.
- Limited breakfast options: The breakfast provided was basic—nothing fancy, but it worked well enough.
If you’re looking for a budget option that offers the essentials and doesn’t require paying for parking, the Best Western Sovereign Hotel Albany is a solid choice.
3. Final Thoughts
Whether you’re visiting Albany for a quick work trip, a cultural tour, or just a relaxing weekend getaway, there are a number of affordable hotels that offer great value without sacrificing comfort or location. From the centrally located Hampton Inn & Suites Albany-Downtown to the quiet, affordable options like Fairfield Inn & Suites and Best Western Sovereign, Albany has something for every budget. My stay was comfortable and easy on the wallet, and I would highly recommend these hotels for anyone looking to enjoy all that Albany has to offer without spending a fortune.
