Governor Kathy Hochul, in collaboration with Amtrak and the New York State Department of Transportation, has announced that tickets are now available for direct train service to and from the Great New York State Fair. This daily train service provides State Fair visitors with a safe, convenient, and environmentally friendly travel option to enjoy one of New York’s premier summer events. The Fair features musical performances from top artists, agricultural exhibits, family-friendly activities, and delicious food, making it upstate New York’s largest annual event. During the Fair’s 13-day duration, five trains will make daily stops starting on Wednesday, August 20, and continuing through Monday, September 1.
“Taking the train to the Great New York State Fair is a convenient, affordable way to enjoy the best that New York State has to offer,” Governor Hochul said. “From delicious food and live music to rides, games, and the best agricultural exhibits anywhere in the state, this year’s Fair truly has something for everybody. The Great New York State Fair is one of my favorite annual events, and I can’t wait to join the hundreds of thousands of visitors at this annual summertime spectacular.”
By taking the train, visitors will save on traffic, parking fees, and gas by arriving steps from the fairgrounds via select Empire Service and Maple Leaf trains, which will make daily stops at the State Fair (in between stops at Rochester and Syracuse stations). Train service to the Fair includes:
- Maple Leaf Train 63 – Departs New York Moynihan Train Hall at 7:16 a.m. and arrives at the Fair at 1:11 p.m.
- Maple Leaf Train 64 – Departs Toronto at 8:20 a.m. and arrives at the Fair at 2:51 p.m.
- Empire Service Train 281 – Departs New York Moynihan Train Hall at 10:21 a.m. and arrives at the Fair at 4:21 p.m.
- Empire Service Train 283 – Departs New York Moynihan Train Hall at 1:20 p.m. and arrives at the Fair at 7:13 p.m.
- Empire Service Train 284 – Departs Niagara Falls at 6:27 a.m. and arrives at the Fair at 9:31 a.m.
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “The Great New York State Fair is not to be missed! It is a joyful annual tradition, and traveling to the Fair by train is a game-changer for folks who want a fun and convenient travel option. Our great partnership with Amtrak allows fairgoers the chance to experience New York’s incredible traditions, innovations, and agriculture with ease and convenience – literally dropping fairgoers off at the fairgrounds. See you at The Great New York State Fair!”
New York State Fair Director Julie LaFave said, “Making the Great New York State Fair as welcoming and accessible to everyone is a top priority, and partnering with Amtrak and NYSDOT allows us to provide a comfortable, convenient travel option for fairgoers. We’re excited to invite families, friends, and visitors from across New York and beyond to experience all the fun, food, and festivities that make The Fair a beloved summer tradition. We encourage everyone to consider taking the train for an easy and enjoyable journey to and from this year’s event.”
Direct train service to the Great New York State Fair has been offered by Amtrak since 2002. Customers can save when booking online at least five days in advance of travel with Amtrak’s See NY and Save discount, in addition to everyday discounts for kids, seniors, military members, and more. Passengers can enjoy free Wi-Fi, Coach and Business Class seats, Café car, and ample leg room.
The Great New York State Fair opens Wednesday, August 20, and continues through Labor Day, September 1. Admission is $8 plus fees for adults. Tickets are free for adults ages 65 and over and children ages 12 and under. Tickets include access to all grounds entertainment, agricultural competitions and exhibits, and admission to concerts in Chevy Court and Suburban Park. Visit nysfair.ny.gov for fair tickets, details, and schedules.
Founded in 1841, The Great New York State Fair showcases the best of New York agriculture, provides top-quality entertainment, and is a key piece of the state’s CNY Rising strategy of growing the Central New York economy through tourism. It is the oldest fair in the United States and is consistently recognized as being among the top five state fairs in the nation.
Tickets are available now at Amtrak.com, via the Amtrak mobile app, at the station ticket counters, or by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL.
Featured Image: A rainbow over the main gate at the NYS Fair on Sat., Sept 2, 2023. (Photos by Warren Linhart-NYS Fair)
