Daily train service now available for the Great New York State Fair

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — A low-cost, safe and environmentally friendly way to get the Great New York State Fair has just been announced. Starting July 22, you can now buy direct train service to the fair from New York City, Niagara Falls and Toronto.

Throughout The Fair’s 13-day duration, Amtrak trains will make five daily stops starting Wednesday, August 26 and continuing through Labor Day, Monday, September 7. Tickets are available now at Amtrak.com, via the Amtrak mobile app, at the station ticket counters, or by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL.

A quick search shows tickets range from $59 for coach seats and can go up to $176 for business class.

By taking the train, visitors will save on gas, traffic and parking fees 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). To purchase tickets, customers should select the “NYF” destination on Amtrak’s website; tickets are only available on dates when the fair is open. Train service to The Fair includes:

Maple Leaf Train 63 – Departs Moynihan Train Hall at 7:15 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 2:29 p.m.Empire Service Train 281 – Departs Moynihan Train Hall at 10:20 a.m. and arrives at The Fair at 4:21 p.m.Empire Service Train 283 – Departs 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 9:29 a.m.

“Nothing says summer in New York like the Great New York State Fair, with its spectacular exhibits, musical performances, delicious food and exciting rides and games,” Governor Hochul said. “It’s something everyone should experience firsthand and taking the train makes that even easier. Riding the rails gets you right to The Fair’s doorstep without the hassles of driving. It’s easy, convenient and affordable. So get on board and come to The Great New York State Fair. You won’t regret it.”

New York State Fair Director Julie LaFave said, “We want The Great New York State Fair to be part of everyone’s summer plans. By partnering with Amtrak and NYSDOT, The Fair as a destination is more accessible than ever, with the comfort and convenience travelers have come to know. 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.”

The Great New York State Fair features agricultural exhibits, musical performances from top artists, mouth-watering food and fun for the whole family as the most affordable state fair in the country.

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.

The Great New York State Fair opens Wednesday, August 26 and continues through Labor Day, September 7. 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.