Parking at Empire State Plaza Convention and Albany Hotels (garages, food)

[xxgrzesx]

I am taking BAR exam in Empire State Plaza Convention. Is there an underground or covered parking at convention center, so I can leave my coat and food in the car. They do not allow anything in the rooms and I have heard that there are big lines for coat checks during BAR exam.

Also, I checked that most of the hotels in the area are expensive. What is the good area to stay at the hotel that has easy car drive to convention center. Thank you for all suggestions.

[Junie Moon2009]

Here's some info on parking, including a phone number: NYS OGS - Support Services - Parking
If you stayed at the Crowne Plaza, you would be able to leave your car there, and walk to the convention center in ten minutes.
There's the Holiday Inn Express too.
My personal choice would be to choose one of those two and walk, rather than worry about driving to the convention center and getting lost (the parking garages are a little bit of a rabbit warren) on a day that you're going to want to be there calm and early. The expense of the accommodation might be offset by the increased control over other factors.

When are you taking the exam? This month? If you only have ten days or so to figure out where you're staying you would be well advised to make your decision soon.

[xxgrzesx]

Thanks for reply, unfortunately Crowne Plaze has 3 night minimum to get BAR exam rate, and with regular rate I cannot afford it. Holiday Inn is all booked. I will contact parking services. Thanks.