Luggage Storage at Penn Station: A Detailed Guide

On any given day, Pennsylvania station, or as any New Yorker calls it “Penn Station,” probably has more going on than almost any other train station in the world. Constructed in 1910, it serves as a hub where travelers and commuters can use the Amtrak, the New York City subway system, the Long Island Railroad, and the New Jersey Transit. As a result, Penn station connects people from New York, New Jersey, and Long Island, bringing them together and ferrying them to their destination; is it any wonder that it is always so busy?

Penn Station, one of the city’s major transportation hubs, sees thousands of travelers daily, many of whom are in search of convenient and secure places to store their bags. Whether you’re a tourist wanting to explore the city unencumbered, or a local waiting for a late train, knowing your luggage storage options can make all the difference. This guide delves into the various storage solutions available around Penn Station, from traditional locker services to innovative ‘sharing economy’ models. We’ll also touch upon some nearby attractions to make the most of your time in the Big Apple. Let’s unpack these options!

New York Penn Station Luggage Storage (Lockers)

After the September 11th attacks, New York tightened its security measures in its stations, removing all storage lockers in most of the major stations, including Penn Station. In fact, most forms of on-site luggage storage have been terminated, and there aren’t even live luggage attendants anymore.

However, not all is lost for those in need of temporary bag storage. If you’re an Amtrak ticket holder, there’s a silver lining. Amtrak offers a luggage storage facility exclusively for its passengers. At a rate of $10 per piece, it might not be the most economical choice, but it’s undeniably convenient, especially if you’re in a rush or have limited options.

For those without an Amtrak ticket, there’s still a possibility to use their storage facility, but it comes with a caveat. Non-ticket holders can avail of the service only when space permits, and the cost doubles to $20 per item. While this might seem steep, especially for larger groups or extended storage durations, it’s essential to weigh the convenience against the cost. However, as we’ll explore in the sections to come, there are more affordable and innovative storage solutions available in the vicinity of Penn Station.

Luggage Storage Penn Station NYC – The Apps

In response to the removal of storage lockers in stations, several services have popped up to fill this supply gap. One such service draws heavy inspiration from the sharing economy (you know, the same business model that fueled companies like Airbnb and Uber).

A popular way to store your luggage near Penn Station is by using one of the various luggage storage apps available. These platforms connect travelers with local businesses that offer secure and affordable luggage storage. Some popular options include:

Stasher

Stasher is a global luggage storage app that provides travelers with a convenient and affordable solution to store their bags in Penn Station. Available in thousands of locations worldwide, Stasher connects users with local businesses such as shops, hotels, and restaurants that offer secure luggage storage locations, referred to as “Stashpoints.”

How Does Stasher Luggage Storage Service Work?

Stasher’s process is straightforward and user-friendly. Here’s how you can find luggage storage in convenient locations around Penn Station:

1. Visit the Stasher website or download their app and enter your location, the date and times you need to store your luggage, and the number of bags you need to store.
2. Browse through the map of available StashPoints near your location. Click on a spot to see details such as the price and business hours.
3. After choosing a spot, click the “Book” button and go through the steps to create an account, checkout, and pay. You’ll receive a confirmation email with drop-off instructions and the exact address.
4. When it’s time to store luggage, head to the StashPoint, show them your booking confirmation email on your phone, and your picture ID.
5. The host will tag your luggage with a unique number and give you a matching tag, which you’ll need to present when you pick up your bags later.

Vertoe

Vertoe operates in a similar way to Airbnb, partnering with local businesses to provide baggage storage spaces for customers. With prices as low as $5.95 for 24 hours of storage and insurance of up to $5,000 per item, Vertoe is a great alternative to traditional on-site luggage lockers for storing luggage. They have over 125 locations in New York City alone, many of which are open 24/7.

LuggageHero

LuggageHero is a highly recommended luggage storage service near Penn Station. They offer storage for every kind of luggage, regardless of size. You can store anything from backpacks and suitcases to ski equipment. The service is flexible and easy to use, with payment options by the hour or daily. After the first day, you’ll only pay $5 per bag, making it an affordable choice for longer stays. You can access LuggageHero’s services through their app, which provides a map of storage locations in NYC.

Bounce

Bounce is a luggage storage-sharing company offering competitive prices starting at just $4.75 per piece per day at Penn Station. With over 380 luggage storage spots in NYC, you won’t have to travel far to find a place to drop off your luggage. Bounce also offers baggage insurance of up to $3000, adding an extra layer of security for your belongings.

Other Luggage Storage Options – Mobile Luggage Pick Up and Drop Off

In an era where convenience is paramount, the luggage storage industry is not to be left behind. Taking cues from the success of ride-sharing platforms like Uber, a new and revolutionary service has emerged: mobile luggage pick-up and drop-off.

Enter “My Bag Check” – a service that flips the traditional storage model on its head. Instead of travelers seeking out storage locations, “My Bag Check” brings the storage to them. Here’s how it works: after booking through their website, a vehicle arrives to collect your luggage from your specified location. Your belongings are then securely stored, and when you’re ready, they’re delivered to your desired destination. This could be train stations like Penn Station, your hotel, or even the airport.

The pricing structure for this unique service is as follows:

• Manhattan Orders: $35
• Manhattan to Borough OR Borough to Borough: $50
• Borough (excluding Manhattan) to Airport: $80
• Manhattan to/from Major Airports (JFK, Newark, LaGuardia): $100

For travelers with tight schedules or those who prefer not to navigate the city with heavy bags in tow, “My Bag Check” offers an unparalleled level of convenience. It’s a testament to how technology and innovation continue to reshape the travel experience, making it more seamless and stress-free.

Hotels Luggage Storage Near Penn Station

The following hotels near Penn Station offer luggage storage services for their guests. While the services are generally free for guests, it is advisable to confirm the details with the hotel before your arrival.

1. The New Yorker, A Wyndham Hotel: Located just a few blocks from Penn Station, this historic hotel offers luggage storage services for its guests, making it a convenient option for travelers arriving early or departing late.
2. Moxy NYC Chelsea: This trendy boutique hotel is situated a short walk from Penn Station and provides luggage storage services for its guests. The hotel also features stylish décor and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.
3. Hilton New York Fashion District: A 10-minute walk from Penn Station, this Hilton property offers luggage storage services for its guests. The hotel is located in the heart of the Fashion District, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
4. Hotel Pennsylvania: Located directly across the street from Penn Station, Hotel Pennsylvania offers luggage storage services to non-guests for a nominal fee. This service can be particularly useful if you’re only in the city for a short time and need a convenient place to store your bags.
5. Stewart Hotel: Situated a few blocks from Penn Station, the Stewart Hotel offers luggage storage services to non-guests for a fee. This service can be helpful if you’re exploring the city before checking in or after checking out of your accommodations.

Before using luggage storage services at any hotel, make sure to call ahead and confirm the availability, fees, and any specific policies they might have.

Things To Do Around Penn Station

Storing your luggage isn’t just about convenience; it’s about freedom. With your bags safely tucked away, the vibrant city of New York opens up with a plethora of activities and sights to explore, especially around the Penn Station area.

If you find yourself with a few hours to spare due to an early hotel checkout or a late train departure, why not immerse yourself in the city’s rich tapestry of experiences? Here are some suggestions:

• Guided Walking Tours: One of the best ways to get acquainted with NYC is on foot. Consider joining one of the daily ‘pay-what-you-wish’ walking tours. With roughly 12 guided tours a day, including explorations of Midtown Manhattan and the scenic High Line, you’re bound to find one that piques your interest. Both these locations are within a comfortable walking distance from Penn Station.
• GPS-Enabled Audio Tours: For those who prefer a more self-paced experience, there are a dozen GPS-enabled, guided audio tours available. All you need is a smartphone, and you can embark on a curated journey through the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
• Nearby Attractions: Penn Station’s central location makes it a gateway to some of NYC’s most iconic attractions. Here are a few you shouldn’t miss:
  • Times Square: The pulsating heart of NYC, Times Square is a sensory overload of lights, sounds, and energy.
  • Bryant Park: A serene oasis amidst the urban hustle, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a quick coffee break.
  • Madison Square Garden: Just a short walk from Penn Station, Madison Square Garden is an iconic sports and entertainment venue. You can catch a New York Knicks basketball game or watch a concert featuring some of the world’s biggest stars.
  • The High Line: This unique elevated park was built on a former railway line and offers stunning views of the city. The High Line is about a mile away from Penn Station, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy some green space.
  • Chelsea Market: A 20-minute walk from Penn Station, Chelsea Market is a popular food and shopping destination. Explore the unique shops, grab a bite to eat at one of the many eateries, or enjoy the lively atmosphere.
  • The Empire State Building: One of the most famous landmarks in the world, the Empire State Building is a must-see attraction. It’s located just a 15-minute walk from Penn Station, making it easily accessible.
• Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tours: If you’re new to NYC, these bus tours offer a comprehensive overview of the city’s major attractions. With 24-hour tickets available, you can explore at your own pace, hopping off at sites that intrigue you and hopping back on when you’re ready to move to the next destination.

Lastly, if you’re planning to visit multiple paid attractions or tours in NYC, consider investing in a tourist discount pass. Not only do they offer significant savings, but they also often include added perks like fast-track entry.

So, with your luggage safely stored, step out and make the most of your time in the Big Apple. The city awaits!

Conclusion

Although Penn Station no longer offers lockers for luggage storage, there are still plenty of convenient options available. By using luggage storage apps like Vertoe, Stasher, or LuggageHero, you can securely store your bags and enjoy your time in the city. So, with your luggage safely stored, step out and make the most of your time in the Big Apple. The city awaits!