You’re driving down Central Avenue, the neon signs of Colonie blurring past, and there it is. The orange. It’s a specific shade of orange that triggers a weird sort of nostalgia, even if you weren't alive during the Howard Johnson’s heyday. But let’s be real for a second. If you’re looking at Howard Johnson Albany NY, you aren't searching for a five-star resort with a pillow menu and a valet named Jeeves. You’re looking for a place to crash near the airport or SUNY Albany that won't drain your savings account before you even hit the New York State Thruway.
People get this place wrong. They either expect a time capsule from 1965 or they expect a modern tech-hub hotel. Honestly? It’s neither. It is a functional, budget-friendly anchor in a very busy part of town.
The Reality of Staying at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Albany
Location is the king here. You’ve got the Howard Johnson by Wyndham Albany sitting at 1614 Central Avenue. If you know Albany, you know Central Ave is basically the backbone of the Capital Region's shopping and transit. You are less than 3 miles from Albany International Airport (ALB).
Need to get to a morning meeting at SUNY Albany? You’re about a 10-minute drive away.
It’s a classic two-story layout. Exterior corridors. You park your car, you walk a few steps, and you’re in your room. No waiting for a slow elevator with three other people and a luggage cart. For some, that feels a bit "old school," but for someone hauling a bunch of gear or just wanting to get inside quickly, it’s a win.
What’s actually inside?
Let’s talk about the rooms. They aren't going to win any architectural digest awards, but they’ve seen updates. You’ll find flat-screen TVs and the standard-issue coffee maker. Some guests have actually pointed out that the "mid-century modern" bones of the place give it a bit more character than your average beige-on-beige chain motel.
- WiFi: It’s free. It works. Good enough for checking emails or streaming a show.
- Breakfast: They call it a "light breakfast." Think coffee, tea, and some grab-and-go items. Don't expect a full omelet station.
- The Pool: There’s an outdoor pool in the courtyard. It’s seasonal (usually open June through August), so if you're visiting in January to see the Legislative session, don't bring your swimsuit expecting to do laps.
Why the Reviews are All Over the Place
If you look at TripAdvisor or Expedia, the ratings for Howard Johnson Albany NY are a rollercoaster. One person says it’s the best value in town; the next says they hated the carpet. Here’s the nuance: it’s an economy hotel.
Recent travelers in late 2025 and early 2026 have noted that the staff is generally the highlight. They’re locals. They know where the good pizza is. However, the property is older. It’s got "character," which is code for "you might see some wear and tear."
If you are a business traveler who just needs a desk and a quiet night, it fits the bill. If you are a family on a tight budget visiting the Albany Pine Bush Preserve (which is only 5 minutes away, by the way), the price point is hard to beat. Just keep your expectations in check. You’re paying for the convenience of the Northway (I-87) access, not for silk sheets.
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The Food Situation
You won't go hungry. There is an on-site restaurant called Umi Hotpot Sushi & Seafood Buffet. It’s actually pretty popular with locals, not just hotel guests. Having a massive seafood buffet right in your parking lot is a weirdly specific perk of this HoJo. If that’s not your vibe, you’re literally surrounded by every chain and local diner Albany has to offer.
Is it Safe? Is it Clean?
This is what everyone actually wants to know. The hotel has implemented enhanced cleaning protocols over the last few years. They use disinfectants and wash linens at high temperatures.
As for safety, the front desk is staffed 24/7. Central Avenue is a high-traffic area. It’s busy. You’ll see people. You’ll hear cars. It’s the suburbs, but it’s the "busy" suburbs. Most regulars suggest asking for a room away from the main road if you’re a light sleeper.
Comparing the "HoJo" to Nearby Options
Albany’s hotel market is crowded. You’ve got the Holiday Inn Express on Wolf Road and the Days Inn near SUNY. Why pick the Howard Johnson?
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Usually, it comes down to about twenty or thirty bucks.
On a random Tuesday in March, you might find a room here for $65, while the "fancier" spots are pushing $110. Over a three-day trip, that’s your food budget. Plus, Howard Johnson is part of the Wyndham Rewards program. If you’re a points chaser, you can earn or burn points here just like you would at a high-end Wyndham Grand.
A Slice of Albany History
There’s something kinda cool about the Howard Johnson brand in New York. The very last Howard Johnson's restaurant in the entire world was up the road in Lake George—it finally closed its doors in 2022. While the restaurants are gone, the motor lodges like this one in Albany represent a specific era of American travel.
Back in the 1950s and 60s, these were the gold standard for the "Great American Road Trip." While the orange roofs have been replaced or repainted in many spots, the DNA of that "friendly host" mentality still lingers in these franchise locations.
Actionable Tips for Your Stay
If you’ve decided to book a stay at Howard Johnson Albany NY, do these three things to ensure you actually have a good time:
- Inspect the Room Immediately: It’s an older building. Check the AC unit and the bathroom as soon as you drop your bags. If something isn't right, tell the front desk right away. They’re much more likely to move you to a "fresher" room if you ask nicely before you've unpacked everything.
- Bring Earplugs: Between the proximity to the airport and the traffic on Route 5 (Central Ave), it can get noisy. A simple pair of foam earplugs turns a "loud" night into a solid eight hours of sleep.
- Check the "Umi" Hours: If you’re planning on eating at the buffet, check their mid-day closing times. It’s a great way to save on an Uber since you don't even have to leave the property to get a massive meal.
The Howard Johnson in Albany isn't trying to be something it’s not. It’s an affordable, well-located spot for people who prioritize their schedule and their wallet over luxury. Pack your own toiletries, grab a coffee at the front desk, and you're perfectly positioned to explore everything the Capital District has to offer.
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To get the best possible rate, check the Wyndham official site directly rather than third-party apps, as they often have "member-only" rates that save you an extra 10%. Also, if you are visiting for a SUNY Albany event, call the front desk directly to ask if they have any local campus discounts—sometimes these aren't listed on the main booking sites but can save you a few extra dollars on the "incidental" deposit.