Buffalo-Depew Amtrak Station (BUF) is one of the most important passenger rail stations serving Western New York. Located approximately 10 miles east of downtown Buffalo, the station provides Amtrak connections to New York City, Albany, Rochester, Syracuse, Niagara Falls, Toronto, Cleveland, and Chicago.
Buffalo-Depew is particularly important for long-distance travelers because it is the Buffalo-area station used by the Lake Shore Limited, which connects Western New York with Chicago and continues east toward New York City and Boston. The station also serves the Empire Service and Maple Leaf.
One important point for travelers is that Buffalo has two Amtrak stations. Buffalo-Depew is east of downtown and is the station to use for the Lake Shore Limited. Buffalo Exchange Street is closer to downtown and serves Empire Service and Maple Leaf trains, but not the Lake Shore Limited.
This guide explains how Buffalo-Depew works, which Amtrak routes serve the station, what facilities are available, parking and baggage information, transportation options, and how to decide whether Buffalo-Depew or Buffalo Exchange Street is the better station for your trip.
Buffalo-Depew Station at a Glance
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Station Name | Buffalo-Depew Station |
| Amtrak Code | BUF |
| Location | Depew, New York |
| Distance from Downtown Buffalo | Approximately 10 miles |
| Routes Served | Empire Service, Lake Shore Limited, Maple Leaf |
| Checked Baggage | Not available |
| Baggage Storage | Available for a fee |
| Parking | Free same-day and overnight parking |
| Station Type | Staffed Amtrak station |
Current Amtrak information lists Buffalo-Depew as a staffed station with ticket sales, ticketing kiosks, restrooms, vending machines and Wi-Fi. Amtrak recommends arriving at least 45 minutes before departure if you need ticketing, baggage or passenger assistance, and at least 30 minutes before departure if you do not require those services.
Where Is Buffalo-Depew Amtrak Station?
Buffalo-Depew Station is located in Depew, New York, approximately 10 miles east of downtown Buffalo. The station sits near the communities of Depew, Cheektowaga and Lancaster and is convenient for travelers arriving from the eastern suburbs of the Buffalo metropolitan area.
The station’s location is particularly useful for passengers who are driving to catch an Amtrak train because it provides direct access to the surrounding road network and offers free parking.
Why Buffalo-Depew Station Is Important
Buffalo-Depew plays a different role from Buffalo Exchange Street. Travelers sometimes search for simply “Buffalo Amtrak Station,” but the correct station depends on the route they are taking.
Buffalo-Depew is especially important because it is the Buffalo-area stop for the Lake Shore Limited.
The Lake Shore Limited provides long-distance service between:
- Chicago
- Cleveland
- Erie
- Buffalo
- Rochester
- Syracuse
- Albany
- New York City
- Boston
If you are traveling between Buffalo and Chicago by Amtrak, Buffalo-Depew is the station you need to select when booking your trip.
Amtrak Routes Serving Buffalo-Depew
Three major Amtrak routes currently serve Buffalo-Depew Station.
| Route | Major Destinations | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Shore Limited | Chicago, Cleveland, Buffalo, Rochester, Albany, New York City, Boston | Long-distance travel between the Midwest and Northeast |
| Empire Service | Niagara Falls, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, New York City | Travel within New York State |
| Maple Leaf | Toronto, Niagara Falls, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, New York City | New York–Canada travel |
Amtrak’s current station information identifies all three routes as serving Buffalo-Depew.
Lake Shore Limited at Buffalo-Depew
The Lake Shore Limited is arguably the most important route for Buffalo-Depew.
The route provides a direct rail connection between the Great Lakes region and major cities in the Midwest and Northeast.
Travelers can use it to reach destinations including:
- Chicago
- South Bend area connections
- Toledo
- Cleveland
- Erie
- Buffalo
- Rochester
- Syracuse
- Albany
- New York City
- Boston
For travelers coming from Chicago, Buffalo-Depew provides one of the most useful direct rail connections into Western New York.
Empire Service at Buffalo-Depew
The Empire Service connects Buffalo and Western New York with cities throughout the Hudson Valley and the New York City metropolitan area.
Popular destinations include:
- Niagara Falls
- Buffalo
- Rochester
- Syracuse
- Utica
- Schenectady
- Albany
- Poughkeepsie
- New York City
The route makes Buffalo-Depew useful for travelers who want to explore multiple cities across New York without driving between them.
Maple Leaf at Buffalo-Depew
The Maple Leaf provides international rail service between New York City and Toronto, with Buffalo and Niagara Falls among its important stops.
Popular destinations include:
- New York City
- Albany
- Syracuse
- Rochester
- Buffalo
- Niagara Falls
- Toronto
This route makes Buffalo-Depew useful for travelers planning a trip between Western New York and Canada.
Buffalo-Depew vs. Buffalo Exchange Street
Choosing the correct Buffalo-area Amtrak station is important because the two stations serve different purposes.
| Feature | Buffalo-Depew | Buffalo Exchange Street |
|---|---|---|
| Station Code | BUF | BFX |
| Location | Depew, east of Buffalo | Downtown Buffalo |
| Lake Shore Limited | Yes | No |
| Empire Service | Yes | Yes |
| Maple Leaf | Yes | Yes |
| Downtown Buffalo Access | Requires local transportation | Much closer to downtown |
| Free Parking | Yes | Yes |
If your itinerary includes Chicago and Buffalo on the Lake Shore Limited, choose Buffalo-Depew. If your train is an Empire Service or Maple Leaf and your destination is downtown Buffalo, Buffalo Exchange Street may be more convenient.
Buffalo-Depew Station Facilities
The station is a relatively simple, functional Amtrak facility rather than a large metropolitan terminal.
Current station information includes:
- Staffed station
- Ticket sales office
- Amtrak ticketing kiosk
- Indoor waiting room
- Restrooms
- Vending machines
- Wi-Fi
- Passenger assistance
- Free parking
- Baggage storage for a fee
Buffalo-Depew does not currently offer checked baggage service, so travelers should plan accordingly if they are carrying large luggage.
Baggage at Buffalo-Depew
One of the most important things to know before traveling through Buffalo-Depew is that checked baggage service is not currently available at this station.
However, baggage storage is available for a fee, and baggage assistance is provided by station staff. citeturn0search0
Travelers should review the current Amtrak baggage policy before departure, particularly if traveling on a long-distance itinerary.
Parking at Buffalo-Depew Amtrak Station
Free parking is one of the major advantages of Buffalo-Depew compared with many large urban rail stations.
Current station information lists both same-day and overnight parking as free. Accessible parking is also available.
This makes Buffalo-Depew particularly convenient for travelers from suburban Western New York who prefer to drive to the station and leave their vehicle while traveling.
How Early Should You Arrive at Buffalo-Depew?
Amtrak currently recommends arriving at least:
| Situation | Recommended Arrival |
|---|---|
| Checking baggage or needing passenger assistance | At least 45 minutes before departure |
| Needing ticketing services | At least 45 minutes before departure |
| Traveling with carry-on baggage only | At least 30 minutes before departure |
Allow additional time during winter weather, holidays, or periods of heavy travel.
Getting to Buffalo-Depew Amtrak Station
Because Buffalo-Depew is located outside downtown Buffalo, travelers should plan their local transportation before arriving at the station. The station is convenient for passengers driving from the eastern suburbs and surrounding communities, while visitors staying in downtown Buffalo will generally need a taxi, rideshare, rental car, or local transportation connection.
From Downtown Buffalo
Travelers staying in downtown Buffalo can reach Buffalo-Depew by taxi or rideshare. Allow additional time during weekday traffic, sporting events, concerts, and major downtown events.
If your Amtrak itinerary is on the Lake Shore Limited, remember that Buffalo-Depew is the Buffalo-area station for this service.
Taxi and Rideshare Services
Taxi and rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft provide convenient transportation between Buffalo-Depew and destinations throughout the Buffalo metropolitan area.
Common destinations include:
- Downtown Buffalo
- Buffalo Niagara International Airport
- Cheektowaga
- Depew
- Lancaster
- Williamsville
- University at Buffalo
- Niagara Falls
Travelers with significant luggage may find a direct taxi or rideshare more convenient than making multiple public transportation connections.
Public Transportation
Local public transportation provides connections between Buffalo-Depew and communities throughout the Buffalo metropolitan area.
Travelers heading into downtown Buffalo should check current public transportation routes and schedules before their trip because service patterns can change.
For visitors carrying several bags or arriving late at night, a direct taxi or rideshare may be the simpler option.
Buffalo Niagara International Airport Connection
Buffalo-Depew Station is located relatively close to Buffalo Niagara International Airport, making the station useful for travelers combining rail and air transportation.
Passengers can use a taxi or rideshare to connect between the station and airport.
If you are transferring between an Amtrak train and a flight, allow sufficient time for the transfer rather than relying on the minimum travel time between the two locations.
Rental Cars Near Buffalo-Depew
Rental cars can be particularly useful for travelers planning to explore Western New York beyond the Buffalo metropolitan area.
A vehicle provides greater flexibility for destinations such as:
- Niagara Falls
- Niagara-on-the-Lake
- Chautauqua
- Finger Lakes
- Lake Erie communities
- Western New York wineries
- State parks
Travelers should compare the cost of a rental car with taxi, rideshare, and local transportation before deciding how to continue their journey.
Accessibility at Buffalo-Depew Station
Buffalo-Depew provides accessible facilities for passengers with disabilities and mobility needs.
Passengers who require assistance should contact Amtrak when making their reservation and allow additional time at the station before departure.
Accessible travel features and assistance can include:
- Accessible station areas
- Accessible parking
- Accessible boarding facilities
- Passenger assistance
- Wheelchair assistance
Because accessibility arrangements can depend on the specific train and passenger requirements, travelers should confirm their needs with Amtrak before traveling.
Boarding at Buffalo-Depew
Buffalo-Depew is a relatively compact station, but passengers should still arrive early enough to complete ticketing or other required services before their train arrives.
- Check your train status before leaving for the station.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure if you already have your ticket and do not need additional assistance.
- Allow at least 45 minutes if you need ticketing or passenger assistance.
- Keep your ticket and identification accessible.
- Monitor station announcements for boarding information.
- Follow instructions from Amtrak personnel when proceeding to the train.
Traveling from Buffalo-Depew to Major Destinations
Buffalo-Depew to New York City
Travelers heading to New York City can use the Empire Service, Maple Leaf, or Lake Shore Limited.
These routes connect Buffalo with Rochester, Syracuse, Albany and other communities before continuing toward New York City.
For passengers staying in Manhattan, the train provides a convenient alternative to driving the entire distance across New York State.
Buffalo-Depew to Rochester
Rochester is one of the easiest destinations to combine with Buffalo by train.
The Rochester Amtrak Station is served by the Empire Service, Maple Leaf, and Lake Shore Limited, providing multiple route options between the two cities.
Buffalo-Depew to Syracuse
Travelers heading east toward Syracuse can use the Empire Service, Maple Leaf, or Lake Shore Limited.
The route creates a useful rail corridor connecting Western New York with Central New York and the Capital Region.
See our Syracuse Regional Transportation Center guide for more information.
Buffalo-Depew to Albany
Albany–Rensselaer can be reached directly from Buffalo-Depew on the Empire Service, Maple Leaf, and Lake Shore Limited.
From Albany, passengers can connect with additional services toward New York City, Vermont, Massachusetts, and other destinations.
Read our Albany–Rensselaer Station guide before planning your connection.
Buffalo-Depew to Chicago
The Lake Shore Limited provides direct long-distance service between Buffalo-Depew and Chicago.
This makes Buffalo-Depew an important station for travelers beginning or ending a cross-country rail journey between Western New York and the Midwest.
Passengers continuing beyond Chicago can use the city’s extensive Amtrak network to reach additional destinations across the United States.
Buffalo-Depew to Niagara Falls
Travelers heading to Niagara Falls can use the Empire Service or Maple Leaf.
However, travelers should pay close attention to the station selected when searching for a Buffalo itinerary. Niagara Falls has its own Amtrak station, while Buffalo-Depew is located east of the city.
For visitors whose primary destination is downtown Buffalo, Buffalo Exchange Street Station may be more convenient.
Buffalo-Depew to Toronto
The Maple Leaf provides rail service toward Toronto via Niagara Falls.
Passengers traveling internationally should make sure they have the required identification and travel documents before departure.
Border procedures can affect journey times, so international travelers should avoid planning extremely tight connections around the border crossing.
Hotels Near Buffalo-Depew Station
Several hotels are available in Depew, Cheektowaga, Williamsville, and the airport area.
Staying near Buffalo-Depew can be particularly convenient if you have an early-morning train or arrive late at night.
Visitors who want to explore Buffalo’s downtown attractions may instead prefer to stay downtown and use a taxi or rideshare to reach the station.
When choosing accommodation, consider the location of your hotel in relation to both your train departure time and the attractions you plan to visit.
Things to Do in Buffalo
Buffalo is a major destination in Western New York and offers a combination of architecture, history, sports, food, waterfront attractions, and cultural experiences.
Canalside
Buffalo’s Canalside waterfront is one of the city’s major visitor areas, with public spaces, events, restaurants, and access to attractions along Lake Erie.
Buffalo Waterfront
The Buffalo waterfront provides opportunities to explore Lake Erie and experience the city’s transformation of its former industrial waterfront.
Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture
Buffalo has an important collection of buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, making the city an interesting destination for architecture enthusiasts.
Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
The botanical gardens provide a different experience from Buffalo’s downtown attractions and can be included in a longer visit to the region.
Sports
Buffalo is home to major professional sports teams, and visitors may plan rail trips around football, hockey, or other sporting events.
Buffalo-Depew for Niagara Falls Travelers
Buffalo-Depew can be useful as part of a wider Western New York itinerary, but travelers visiting Niagara Falls should compare the available train stations and transportation options before booking.
A multi-city itinerary could include:
- Rochester
- Buffalo
- Niagara Falls
- Toronto
This type of itinerary allows travelers to explore several destinations along the Lake Ontario and Niagara River corridor without driving between every city.
Which Buffalo Amtrak Station Should You Use?
The answer depends primarily on your train and destination.
| Your Trip | Recommended Station |
|---|---|
| Chicago to Buffalo on Lake Shore Limited | Buffalo-Depew |
| Buffalo to Chicago | Buffalo-Depew |
| Downtown Buffalo by Empire Service | Buffalo Exchange Street |
| Downtown Buffalo by Maple Leaf | Buffalo Exchange Street |
| Buffalo to Toronto | Check the train and station shown on your itinerary |
| Buffalo to Niagara Falls | Check the specific train and destination station |
Always verify the station shown on your ticket before traveling. The two Buffalo-area stations are not interchangeable for every Amtrak service.
Plan Your Buffalo Train Trip
Use these Railway.Guide resources to plan your journey through Western New York and beyond.
🚆 Amtrak Routes
🚉 Nearby Station Guides
- Rochester Amtrak Station
- Syracuse Regional Transportation Center
- Schenectady Amtrak Station
- Albany–Rensselaer Station
- Buffalo Exchange Street Station (Coming Soon)
- Niagara Falls Amtrak Station (Coming Soon)
🎟️ Travel Planning Guides
- Amtrak Ticket Booking Guide
- Amtrak Baggage Policy
- Amtrak Seat Types & Classes
- Coach vs. Sleeper
- Amtrak Food & Dining Guide
🗺️ Western New York Guides
- How to Get to Niagara Falls by Train (Coming Soon)
- Buffalo vs. Niagara Falls by Train (Coming Soon)
- Things to Do in Buffalo Without a Car (Coming Soon)
- How to Get to Downtown Buffalo by Train (Coming Soon)
Final Thoughts
Buffalo-Depew Amtrak Station is an important rail gateway for Western New York, particularly for passengers traveling on the Lake Shore Limited between Chicago and the Northeast.
The station also provides Empire Service and Maple Leaf connections, allowing travelers to build multi-city itineraries through Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, Niagara Falls, and Toronto.
The most important thing to remember is that Buffalo has two Amtrak stations. If your itinerary involves the Lake Shore Limited, Buffalo-Depew is the station to use. If your train is serving downtown Buffalo, check whether Buffalo Exchange Street is the more convenient option.
Before traveling, verify your train number, station, departure time, baggage requirements, and current service information with Amtrak.