Driving to New York from Toronto for New Years. Decided to stop in Albany overnight.
The Renaissance is a beautiful old building with a classy lobby, in the heart of Albany.
Upon check in I was very impressed with the preservation and noticed that the property had received awards for the design and renovations. When we reached the room all that ended. Ultra modern room with aluminium tables. Space age lighting and hanging barn style bathroom doors. Not what we expected. The decor is attractive but not for a historical property. The staff were pleasant and helpful. We only stayed the one night but did have a late night cocktail at the bar. Bartender was new to area from Boston and introduced us to a new “baby bourbon” from Hudson. Excellent recommendation. If we made this trip again we would likely stay at the a Renaissance again.

This may be our favorite place to stay in New York and have done so a handful of times. Our first stay a few years ago we got a complementary upgrade and the room was AMAZING. Another time we came up for my sister's birthday and they hooked us up with adjoining rooms. Every time we stay we are blown away by the décor and service. Great location and convenient garage parking.

I stayed for a couple of night for work. The staff were friendly, the room was spacious, clean and comfortable overall.
the location is premium and the price was good too.
lots of touristic sites nearby.