Named for English explorer Henry Hudson who arrived is 1609, the Hudson River Valley region of New York State offers a warm welcome. Known for its spectacular landscapes, vineyards, orchards and farms, this designated National Heritage Area is steeped in history, culture, and an exciting food and farmer’s market scene. It’s the oldest wine-producing area in the country, and the magnificent scenery, especially vibrant in the fall, inspired artists whose works became the Hudson River School of Painters. 

Visit the iconic Roosevelt-Vanderbilt National Historic Sites in Hyde Park. The Springwood estate is the family home of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, together with the Franklin D. Roosevelt Library and Museum. Other homes worth visiting are Eleanor Roosevelt’s Val-Kill and the Gilded Age Vanderbilt Mansion. Afterwards, enjoy a student guided tour and dinner at America’s premier culinary college, The Culinary Institute of America. Stay two nights in Hudson Valley in either Rhinebeck or Fishkill.

Known for the Saratoga Race Course, this area has been welcoming visitors to its healing mineral springs since the 14th century. Visit a spa, explore one of the many museums, play a round of golf or enjoy the award-winning downtown area. Perhaps take a trip on the Catskill Mountain Railroad to enjoy the fall foliage. Overnight in Saratoga Springs.

Begin your journey into the natural paradise of the Adirondacks. Noted for its sparkling lakes, majestic mountains and rushing streams, this region is the perfect place to get in tune with the outdoors. The area is also well known for its history and heritage. Why not pick up ingredients for the perfect picnic enroute at the Saratoga Springs Outdoor Market?  

The Adirondack Region boasts one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the country, providing an incredible getaway for photographers, hikers, and couples looking to experience its natural beauty. Behold the colourful array of reds, oranges, and yellows. Explore the harvest festivals and beautiful landscapes where you can try apple picking and wine tasting. If you love the outdoors, 160 lakes and ponds with endless miles of trails await. In between, you’ll discover historic villages, intimate dining, museums, galleries and antiques. Hike miles of trails through Adirondack Park, raft the rivers, go fly fishing, bungee jumping, horseriding, mountain climbing or cycling. Ride a ski gondola to the top of one of the mountains, check out the galleries, boutiques, glass blowers and other shops, visit the Adirondack Park Visitor Interpretive Center or meander over to Saranac Lake. Stay two nights in Lake Placid.

The 1000 Islands is a region of endless shorelines, rich history and unique culture. This archipelago of more than 1,800 islands is breathtakingly beautiful and perhaps best seen from the water. Cruise past fairytale castle, historic lighthouses and stately mansions that take you back to the area’s heyday as a playground for the rich and famous. The reflection of the reds, oranges and yellows hues of fall in the crystal clear waters of the St Lawrence River is magnificent. Overnight in the 1000 Islands area.

Explore the Cayuga Wine Trail, a collection of 27 wineries which surround the sapphire waters of Cayuga Lake or the Seneca Lake Wine Trail which has even more wineries to choose from. Enjoy a warm apple pie or cider doughnut washed down with a craft cider on a visit to a local apple orchard. Overnight in Ithaca. 

Fall is a beautiful time in the Finger Lakes. Warm days and cool nights, farmers’ markets and many outdoor activities to enjoy on the lakes, creeks and waterfalls. Undoubtedly, the magical part is the vibrant oranges, yellows, reds, and purples that adorn the landscape. Enjoy a hike, take a drive, get lost in a maze or relax with a glass of wine as you soak in the rich colours. Visit Letchworth State Park, known as the Grand Canyon of the East, sample tasty treats from world-renowned chefs and famous winemakers at the New York Wine and Culinary Center in Canandaigua or visit The Strong National Museum of Play. Overnight in the Northern Finger Lakes in Geneva.

A short distance from the Finger Lakes, Rochester is a blend of old and new, culture and industry, natural beauty and fascinating history. Visit the Museum of Photography & Film at the George Eastman House (founder of Kodak) and the Rochester Public Market. Overnight in Rochester.

Thrill to the thunder and roar at Niagara Falls as six million cubic feet of water falls over the rocks every minute and don’t miss the illumination at night! Enjoy the museums, history and architecture of Buffalo, take a walking food tour or a wine trail and a boat cruise on Lake Erie. Stay two nights in Niagara region.

Along the way stop at Watkins Glen State Park to explore the waterfalls that cascade down the stream and rock formations. Visit Corning Museum of Glass where you can explore glass from all perspectives through works of art, stained glass, modern glass innovations and even make your own. Perhaps visit a pumpkin patch to sample a slice of warm pumpkin pie! Overnight in Corning.

On your way back to New York City, stop for a night in Sleepy Hollow, the birthplace of the Headless Horseman. Neighbouring Tarrytown is the former home of Legend of Sleepy Hollow author Washington Irving, the perfect place to get in the spirit of Halloween. Overnight Sleepy Hollow.

Either head back to the airport today for your flight home, or spend a few nights in New York City.