Buffalo Exchange Street Amtrak Station (BFX) is the primary Amtrak station for travelers who want convenient rail access to downtown Buffalo, New York. Located at 75 Exchange Street, the station is within walking distance of Canalside, Sahlen Field, KeyBank Center, Niagara Square, and Buffalo’s downtown business and entertainment districts.
The station is served by two Amtrak routes: the Empire Service and the Maple Leaf. These services connect Buffalo with Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, Niagara Falls, New York City, and Toronto. citeturn0search2
One of the most important things to understand when planning a Buffalo train trip is the difference between Buffalo Exchange Street and Buffalo-Depew. Exchange Street is the better choice for travelers whose destination is downtown Buffalo, while passengers traveling on the Lake Shore Limited to or from Chicago must use Buffalo-Depew. citeturn0search2turn0search4
This guide explains everything you need to know about Buffalo Exchange Street Station, including Amtrak routes, station facilities, parking, baggage, accessibility, public transportation, nearby attractions, and how to choose between Buffalo’s two Amtrak stations.
Buffalo Exchange Street Station at a Glance
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Station Name | Buffalo Exchange Street Station |
| Amtrak Code | BFX |
| Address | 75 Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY 14203 |
| Location | Downtown Buffalo |
| Routes Served | Empire Service, Maple Leaf |
| Lake Shore Limited | Not served |
| Checked Baggage | Not available |
| Parking | Free same-day and overnight parking |
| Wi-Fi | Available |
| Station Type | Staffed station with waiting room |
Current Amtrak information lists Buffalo Exchange Street as a staffed station with a ticket sales office, restrooms, Wi-Fi, accessible platform and waiting facilities, and free same-day and overnight parking. There is no Amtrak ticketing kiosk at the station. citeturn0search0
Where Is Buffalo Exchange Street Amtrak Station?
Buffalo Exchange Street Station is located at 75 Exchange Street in downtown Buffalo.
The station is positioned just south of Sahlen Field, home of the Buffalo Bisons, and is close to several of Buffalo’s major attractions and transportation connections. citeturn0search2
Unlike Buffalo-Depew, which is located east of the city, Exchange Street puts passengers close to the heart of downtown Buffalo immediately after arriving by train.
Why Buffalo Exchange Street Station Is Important
The biggest advantage of Buffalo Exchange Street is its downtown location.
Passengers arriving here can reach many important Buffalo destinations without first traveling from an outlying suburban station into the city.
The station is close to:
- Canalside
- Sahlen Field
- KeyBank Center
- Niagara Square
- Buffalo City Hall
- Buffalo waterfront
- Downtown hotels
- Buffalo Metro Rail
- Downtown restaurants and entertainment
The station’s location also makes it useful for travelers attending sporting events, concerts, business meetings, festivals, and downtown attractions. citeturn0search2
Amtrak Routes Serving Buffalo Exchange Street
Two Amtrak routes currently serve Buffalo Exchange Street.
| Route | Major Destinations | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Empire Service | Niagara Falls, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, New York City | Travel throughout New York State |
| Maple Leaf | Toronto, Niagara Falls, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, New York City | Western New York and Canada |
Great American Stations confirms that Exchange Street serves Empire Service and Maple Leaf trains. Passengers traveling west or east on the Lake Shore Limited must instead use Buffalo-Depew. citeturn0search2
Empire Service at Buffalo Exchange Street
The Empire Service provides a convenient rail connection between downtown Buffalo and destinations throughout New York State.
Depending on the specific service, travelers can connect with destinations including:
- Niagara Falls
- Rochester
- Syracuse
- Utica
- Schenectady
- Albany
- Hudson
- Poughkeepsie
- New York City
This makes Exchange Street particularly useful for travelers who want to arrive directly in downtown Buffalo rather than first reaching Buffalo-Depew and then arranging another transfer.
Maple Leaf at Buffalo Exchange Street
The Maple Leaf provides international rail service between New York City and Toronto.
Important stops include:
- New York City
- Albany
- Syracuse
- Rochester
- Buffalo
- Niagara Falls
- Toronto
For travelers combining Buffalo with Niagara Falls or Toronto, Exchange Street can be particularly convenient because it places you close to downtown Buffalo attractions and transportation connections.
Buffalo Exchange Street vs. Buffalo-Depew
If you search for “Buffalo Amtrak Station,” you may encounter both Exchange Street and Buffalo-Depew. They are not interchangeable for every train.
| Feature | Exchange Street | Buffalo-Depew |
|---|---|---|
| Station Code | BFX | BUF |
| Location | Downtown Buffalo | Depew, east of Buffalo |
| Empire Service | Yes | Yes |
| Maple Leaf | Yes | Yes |
| Lake Shore Limited | No | Yes |
| Downtown Attractions | Excellent access | Requires local transportation |
| Free Parking | Yes | Yes |
| Checked Baggage | No | Yes |
For a detailed explanation of the two stations, see our Buffalo-Depew Amtrak Station guide.
Buffalo Exchange Street Station Facilities
Exchange Street is a relatively compact downtown station, but it provides the essential facilities needed by passengers waiting for Amtrak trains.
Current station facilities include:
- Staffed station
- Ticket sales office
- Indoor waiting room
- Restrooms
- Wi-Fi
- Accessible waiting room
- Accessible ticket office
- Accessible restrooms
- Accessible platform
- Accessible water fountain
- Wheelchair assistance
- Free parking
The station does not currently have an Amtrak ticketing kiosk, elevator, ATM, vending machines, or payphones.
Baggage at Buffalo Exchange Street
Travelers should pay close attention to baggage arrangements when using Exchange Street.
Checked baggage service is not available at Buffalo Exchange Street Station. However, baggage assistance is available, and baggage storage may be available for a fee. citeturn0search0
If you are traveling with large luggage, review the current Amtrak baggage policy before departure.
Passengers who specifically need checked baggage service should confirm whether Buffalo-Depew or another station better suits their itinerary.
Parking at Buffalo Exchange Street
Buffalo Exchange Street offers both same-day and overnight parking free of charge, according to current Amtrak station information.
However, Amtrak notes that parking availability cannot be guaranteed. Travelers leaving a vehicle overnight should arrive with sufficient time to find an available space. citeturn0search0
The station also provides accessible parking.
Station Hours
Current Amtrak information lists the waiting room, ticket office, and passenger assistance services as operating from approximately 3:30 AM to 11:00 PM daily.
Parking is listed as available 24 hours a day.
Because station hours and service availability can change, travelers with very early or late departures should verify the current information before traveling.
Getting from Buffalo Exchange Street Station to Downtown Buffalo
One of the biggest advantages of Buffalo Exchange Street Station is that you are already in downtown Buffalo when you step off the train. Unlike Buffalo-Depew, which requires a separate trip into the city, Exchange Street puts travelers close to Buffalo’s waterfront, sports venues, entertainment districts, restaurants, and downtown hotels.
Depending on your destination and luggage, you can continue your journey by walking, Buffalo Metro Rail, bus, taxi, or rideshare.
Buffalo Metro Rail from Exchange Street
Buffalo Exchange Street is close to the Buffalo Metro Rail system, making the station particularly convenient for visitors exploring downtown and nearby neighborhoods.
The Metro Rail can be useful for reaching areas such as:
- Downtown Buffalo
- Canalside
- KeyBank Center
- Buffalo Niagara Square
- Medical Campus
- University District
Travelers should check the current NFTA Metro Rail schedule and service information before relying on a particular departure or connection.
Walking from Buffalo Exchange Street Station
Several major Buffalo attractions are within a reasonable walking distance of the station.
Depending on your destination, you can walk toward:
- Canalside
- Sahlen Field
- KeyBank Center
- Buffalo River waterfront
- Downtown restaurants
- Downtown hotels
- Buffalo’s entertainment district
Walking can be particularly convenient for travelers staying downtown who have light luggage and arrive during daylight hours.
Taxi and Rideshare Services
Taxi and rideshare services provide direct transportation from Exchange Street to destinations throughout Buffalo.
They can be particularly useful when traveling with luggage or continuing to destinations outside the downtown area.
Popular destinations include:
- Buffalo Niagara International Airport
- University at Buffalo
- Elmwood Village
- Allentown
- Buffalo Zoo
- Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus
- North Buffalo
- Cheektowaga
- Amherst
Getting to Buffalo Niagara International Airport
Buffalo Niagara International Airport is located northeast of downtown Buffalo. Travelers arriving at Exchange Street can continue to the airport by taxi, rideshare, rental car, or public transportation.
If you are connecting from an Amtrak train to a flight, allow substantial time for the transfer rather than relying on the shortest possible driving time.
Winter weather, traffic, sporting events, and downtown events can affect travel times.
Getting to KeyBank Center
KeyBank Center is one of Buffalo’s major sports and entertainment venues and is located close to Exchange Street Station.
The location makes Buffalo Exchange Street particularly convenient for passengers traveling to Buffalo for:
- Buffalo Sabres games
- Concerts
- Major sporting events
- Special events
Visitors attending an event should check the event schedule and allow extra time around the station because large crowds can affect local transportation.
Getting to Sahlen Field
Sahlen Field, home of the Buffalo Bisons, is located immediately near Buffalo Exchange Street Station.
This makes the station an especially convenient choice for baseball fans traveling into Buffalo without a car.
Visitors can combine an Amtrak journey with a baseball game and return to the station or nearby downtown accommodation after the event.
Getting to Canalside
Canalside is one of Buffalo’s most popular waterfront destinations and is located a short distance from Exchange Street Station.
The area offers waterfront activities, public spaces, events, restaurants, and access to other Buffalo attractions.
Travelers arriving at Exchange Street can make Canalside part of a convenient walking-based downtown itinerary.
Things to Do Near Buffalo Exchange Street Station
Canalside
Canalside is Buffalo’s major waterfront entertainment district and one of the most convenient attractions to visit after arriving by train.
The waterfront features public spaces, seasonal activities, events, restaurants, and access to Buffalo’s Inner Harbor.
KeyBank Center
KeyBank Center is one of Buffalo’s largest entertainment venues and hosts professional sports and major concerts.
Its proximity to Exchange Street makes the station a practical option for visitors traveling to events from Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, and other cities served by Amtrak.
Sahlen Field
Sahlen Field is home to the Buffalo Bisons and is located immediately adjacent to the downtown station area.
Baseball fans can combine an Amtrak trip with a game without needing to rent a car.
Buffalo City Hall
Buffalo City Hall is one of the city’s most recognizable civic buildings and is located within the downtown area.
Visitors exploring Buffalo’s architecture can combine City Hall with nearby downtown landmarks and waterfront attractions.
Niagara Square
Niagara Square is an important public space in central Buffalo and is surrounded by historic buildings and civic landmarks.
It can be incorporated into a walking tour of downtown Buffalo.
Buffalo Waterfront
Buffalo’s waterfront has undergone significant redevelopment and provides visitors with opportunities to explore Lake Erie and the city’s historic relationship with the Great Lakes.
Visitors staying downtown can easily combine waterfront attractions with a train trip through Exchange Street.
Hotels Near Buffalo Exchange Street Station
Downtown Buffalo has numerous hotels within a short distance of Exchange Street Station.
Staying downtown can be particularly convenient for travelers who want to explore the city without renting a car.
Popular accommodation areas include:
- Downtown Buffalo
- Canalside
- Waterfront
- Entertainment District
- Allentown
- Elmwood Village
When choosing a hotel, travelers should consider whether they want to be closer to the station, waterfront attractions, restaurants, or nightlife.
Restaurants Near Buffalo Exchange Street
Travelers arriving at Exchange Street have access to numerous restaurants, cafés, bars, and entertainment venues throughout downtown Buffalo.
The area around Canalside, downtown, and the entertainment districts offers a variety of dining options.
Buffalo is particularly well known for its chicken wings, but visitors can also find Italian, American, seafood, Asian, and international cuisine throughout the downtown area.
Accessibility at Buffalo Exchange Street
Buffalo Exchange Street provides accessible passenger facilities, including an accessible waiting area, ticket office, restrooms, platform, and water fountain. Wheelchair assistance is also available.
Passengers who need assistance should notify Amtrak when making their reservation and allow additional time at the station before departure.
Accessibility requirements can vary depending on the passenger and train, so travelers should confirm their specific needs with Amtrak before traveling.
How Early Should You Arrive at Buffalo Exchange Street?
For a straightforward trip with a ticket already purchased and carry-on luggage, arriving at least 30 minutes before departure provides a reasonable buffer.
Passengers who need ticketing assistance, accessibility assistance, or other station services should allow additional time.
Always check the current Amtrak guidance and your train status before leaving for the station.
Traveling from Buffalo Exchange Street to Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is one of the most popular destinations to combine with a Buffalo trip.
The Maple Leaf and Empire Service provide rail connections toward Niagara Falls.
For visitors planning a Niagara Falls trip, it is important to distinguish between the Buffalo station and the Niagara Falls Amtrak Station. The train station in Niagara Falls is not located directly at the major falls attractions, so travelers should plan their local transportation after arrival.
Niagara Falls Amtrak Station Guide (Coming Soon)
Traveling from Buffalo Exchange Street to Rochester
Rochester is an easy destination to combine with Buffalo on an Amtrak itinerary.
The Rochester Amtrak Station is served by the Empire Service, Maple Leaf, and Lake Shore Limited.
This makes it possible to build a Western New York itinerary such as:
- Rochester
- Buffalo
- Niagara Falls
- Toronto
Traveling between these cities by train can reduce the need for a rental car.
Traveling from Buffalo Exchange Street to New York City
The Empire Service and Maple Leaf connect Buffalo with New York City.
The journey provides access to several important New York State cities along the way, including Rochester, Syracuse, and Albany.
Travelers should remember that the Lake Shore Limited is not served at Exchange Street. Passengers specifically booking that service should use Buffalo-Depew.
Traveling from Buffalo Exchange Street to Toronto
The Maple Leaf provides service from Buffalo toward Toronto via Niagara Falls.
Because this is an international journey, travelers should confirm current border and identification requirements before departure.
Allow additional time for border formalities and avoid scheduling tight onward connections.
Buffalo Exchange Street for Travelers Without a Car
Exchange Street is one of the more convenient choices in Western New York for travelers who do not want to rent a car.
The combination of downtown accommodation, public transportation, nearby attractions, restaurants, and Amtrak service makes it possible to create a largely car-free Buffalo visit.
A simple itinerary could include:
- Arrive at Buffalo Exchange Street by Amtrak.
- Walk or use local transportation to your hotel.
- Explore downtown Buffalo and Canalside.
- Visit a sporting or entertainment venue.
- Use Amtrak for your onward journey to Rochester or Niagara Falls.
When Should You Use Buffalo-Depew Instead?
Buffalo-Depew is the better choice when your itinerary requires a service that does not stop at Exchange Street.
The most important example is the Lake Shore Limited.
If you are traveling between Buffalo and Chicago on the Lake Shore Limited, you must select Buffalo-Depew rather than Buffalo Exchange Street.
Buffalo-Depew can also be more convenient for travelers approaching Buffalo from the eastern suburbs or passengers who prefer to drive and leave their vehicle at the station.
See our complete Buffalo-Depew Amtrak Station Guide.
Plan Your Buffalo Train Trip
Use these Railway.Guide resources to plan your trip through Buffalo and Western New York.
🚆 Amtrak Routes
🚉 Buffalo & Nearby Station Guides
- Buffalo-Depew Amtrak Station
- Rochester Amtrak Station
- Syracuse Regional Transportation Center
- Niagara Falls Amtrak Station (Coming Soon)
🎟️ Essential Amtrak Guides
- Amtrak Ticket Booking Guide
- Amtrak Baggage Policy
- Amtrak Seat Types & Classes
- Coach vs. Sleeper
- Amtrak Food & Dining Guide
🗺️ Western New York Destinations
- How to Get to Niagara Falls by Train (Coming Soon)
- Things to Do in Buffalo Without a Car (Coming Soon)
- How to Get to Canalside by Train (Coming Soon)
- How to Get to KeyBank Center by Train (Coming Soon)
- Buffalo vs. Niagara Falls by Train (Coming Soon)
Final Thoughts
Buffalo Exchange Street Amtrak Station is the best rail gateway for travelers who want to arrive directly in downtown Buffalo. Its location near Canalside, Sahlen Field, KeyBank Center, downtown hotels, restaurants, and public transportation makes it especially convenient for visitors without a car.
The station serves the Empire Service and Maple Leaf, providing connections to Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, Niagara Falls, New York City, and Toronto.
The most important thing to remember is that Buffalo has two Amtrak stations. Use Buffalo Exchange Street for the trains that serve downtown, but use Buffalo-Depew for the Lake Shore Limited.
Before traveling, verify your train number, station code, departure time, baggage requirements, and current service information with Amtrak.