Hop aboard the CDTA's newest transit line and explore the county from the Washington & Western corridors all the way down to Downtown Albany. Launched in November 2023, the Purple Line offers fast and frequent service connecting locations like the University at Albany, Crossgates Mall, branches of the Albany Public Library, and downtown. Perfect for students, visitors, and locals alike, travel along the Purple Line for $2 or less. Scroll down for more info on just some of the stops along the line. Find more information and a full map of the bus route here.
1. Crossgates Mall/Crossgates Commons
Looking to shop the day away? The Purple Line is your fast lane to both Crossgates Mall and Crossgates Commons. With 150 retail shops, Crossgates Mall is the region's largest shopping, dining, and entertainment destination. Shop at locally owned stores and major retail outlets. Play the day away at Dave & Buster's or 5 Wits, watch a blockbuster at Regal Cinemas, or plan a relaxing day at Spa Mirabeau. Finish your mall trip at one of their sit-down restaurants.
Located just 0.4 miles from the mall, hitch a ride on the Purple Line to Crossgates Commons. This large shopping plaza offers everything you need from grocery shopping essentials to needs for your home to crafting supplies.
2. University at Albany - Uptown Campus
The Purple Line is a fast and easy connection to and from UAlbany's uptown campus. Perfect for students, visitors of students, or those just utilizing the campus' public access facilities. Hop aboard the Purple Line to attend an event hosted by the NYS Writer's Institute, a sporting event, or a theatrical program taking place on campus.
3. N. Allen St & Madison Ave
Take a trip on the Purple Line to Albany's Pine Hills neighborhood. Visit popular eateries such as the breakfast and brunch spot Cafe Madison, Kismet Mediterranean Grill, and Junior's Bar & Grill. Spend the day at the local library by visiting the Pine Hills branch of the Albany Public Library or catch a show at Steamer N.10 Theatre.
4. University at Albany - Downtown Campus/Washington Park
Whether you're a student taking classes or a visitor attending a public event, the Purple Line provides easy access to UAlbany's Downtown Campus. Plus, the campus is just footsteps away from Washington Park. The park offers relaxation and entertainment year-round. It's the site of multiple festivals including the Tulip Festival, Capital Pride Festival, Albany Lantern Parade, and Albany Latin Festival. In the summer, watch the Playhouse Stage Company bring favorite plays and musicals to life at the Washington Park Lakehouse. Once the weather gets cooler, wander among fall foliage or enjoy a stroll amongst a stunning snowy scene.
5. Lark Street/Library
The Purple Line takes riders right over to Lark Street, dubbed Albany's "Village in the City." Shop at locally owned stores and gift shops and grab a bite at favorite eateries like Herbie's Burgers and Bitchin' Donuts. Plus, make sure to stop into New Scotland Spirits' new tasting room at 209 Lark Street. The Purple Line stop can be found right outside of the Washington Ave branch of the Albany Public Library and right next door to the Washington Avenue Armory. The Armory is a popular venue for concerts, art exhibitions, sporting events (including home games played by the Albany Patroons) and more!
6. New York State Capitol
Uncover the history of Albany and New York State at the stunning Capitol building. The Purple Line takes visitors right to the Albany landmark where guests can enjoy free tours Monday through Friday. While in the area, don't miss a visit around the entire Empire State Plaza. Marvel at the world-renowned Empire State Plaza Art Collection, dive into the state's past at the New York State Museum and enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the capital city at the Corning Tower Observation Deck.
7. Broadway/SUNY Plaza
One of the last stops along the Purple Line is the SUNY Plaza. The SUNY System Administration Building is a historic location, formerly the Delaware and Hudson Railroad Company Building. The structure is often said to resemble a castle. Visitors can enjoy views of the building right on the lawn with events hosted by the Downtown Albany BID during the warm weather months. Across the street, shop along Broadway at the Vandy Thrift Shoppe, The Bevy Vintage Collective, and Fort Orange General Store. The stop is also a short walk away from Albany Center Gallery and pedestrian bridge access to the Corning Preserve.
