Wine, Water & Wonders of New York State: Scenic Charm, Natural Marvels

Craft beverages, waterfront towns and cultural gems greet you around each turn of this New York State trip. Explore historic sites and take in rolling countryside views on your journey from the picturesque Hudson Valley to majestic Niagara Falls, with plenty of local charm to discover along the way.

Natural Charms in the Hudson Valley

Start your adventure in the Hudson Valley, where over 3,000 hectares of scenic forests, cliffs and wetlands welcome hiking and biking in the Mohonk Preserve. During the warmer months, sign up for horseback or carriage rides through this expansive natural paradise. Water recreation is just as abundant here: Rockland County’s Bear Mountain State Park and Piermont Marsh are stunning starting points for paddling and birdwatching fun along the Hudson River. In Orange County, explore West Point, home to the storied U.S. Military Academy, or enjoy family-friendly fun at LEGOLAND New York Resort. 

Next, visit farms for hands-on tours and ultra-fresh local produce. During late summer or fall, participate in seasonal festivities, including apple picking and hayrides. Afterward, wind down at cozy cideries, breweries and vineyards. Sample floral and fruity wines at Applewood Winery, tour the USA’s oldest wine cellars at Brotherhood Winery, or discover unique taprooms and beer gardens along the Westchester Craft Beverage Trail. While in Westchester County, tour Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate known for its lush gardens and sweeping Hudson River views. Then head north to Ulster County to stop in Highland for a scenic stroll across the Walkway Over the Hudson.

Lakefront Luxuries in the Lake George Area

Experience the Lake George Area by air, water, rail and trail. Enjoy a day on the water aboard the Lake George Steamboat Company’s historic vessels, including the largest cruise ship on inland waters in New York, the USA’s oldest continuously operating boat tour and the only steam paddlewheel ship in the country. Enjoy views of Lake George and the surrounding Adirondack Mountains as well as lively events like Sunday brunch voyages and evening fireworks cruises. Journey to Gore Mountain in North Creek for crisp mountain air and summertime skyrides, hiking and mountain biking. While in North Creek, set off for a serene railbike adventure with Revolution Rail Company. Pedal on a picturesque journey through off-the-beaten-path landscapes with incredible views of the forest canopy and the Hudson River.

Farm Tours & Water Fun in the Finger Lakes

Named for the 11 breathtaking lakes that stretch across the area, New York’s Finger Lakes region combines idyllic landscapes with charming culture and culinary delights. Take farm and dairy tours, attend wine tastings, or check out unique events like goat yoga at Lively Run Dairy. For nature lovers, Ithaca boasts more than 150 gorgeous waterfalls carved out by ancient glaciers. In Watkins Glen State Park, explore shaded stone paths and admire striking rock formations as you hike. Paddle through clear blue waters at Seneca Lake State Park in Geneva before browsing galleries celebrating 3,500 years of glass art history at the Corning Museum of Glass. There, you can see live glass-blowing demonstrations and participate in your own glass workshop. To cap off your day, treat yourself to a glass of award-winning dry or sweet wine in The Finger Lakes American Viticultural Region, the largest wine-producing region on the East Coast. Choose your pick from more than 120 delicious wineries, cideries, craft breweries and distilleries.

A Dose of Culture in Rochester

Immerse yourself in Rochester’s prominent arts, culture and dining scenes. Explore the George Eastman Museum, the world’s oldest museum dedicated to film and photography, or the Memorial Art Gallery with 5,000 years of art history on display. Performing arts are abundant across the city including the Rochester City Ballet, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and Rochester Broadway Theatre League. Those looking to reconnect with their inner child must visit The Strong National Museum of Play. Here, kids and adults of all ages can get hands-on with the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls and games. History buffs should see where prominent abolitionist Frederick Douglass and suffragette Susan B. Anthony conducted some of their most noted work with a visit to Susan B. Anthony Square to admire the “Let’s Have Tea” sculpture that celebrates their legacy and friendship. Your stay should also include Genesee Country Village & Museum, the largest living history museum in New York State. Finally, take a boat tour of the historic Erie Canal for unforgettable sightseeing and storytelling.

Niagara Falls: World-Famous Cascades & Wine Country

Best known for the world-famous Niagara Falls, the Niagara Falls USA region is a multifaceted haven for history buffs, foodies and art lovers. At Niagara Falls State Park, the USA’s oldest state park, feel the water spray your face on the viewing platform at the Cave of the Winds, glide past Horseshoe Falls on the Maid of the Mist boat tour and learn more about the park’s history with a narrated ride on the Niagara Scenic Trolley. Uncover the true stories and heroic efforts made to help enslaved people escape to freedom via the Underground Railroad in multimedia museum exhibits at the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center. Before bidding Niagara Falls farewell, explore the Niagara Wine Trail. Sip local wines at boutique vineyards and wineries across the region, like Black Willow Winery, whose tastings pair award-winning whites and reds with local cheeses and chocolates.