Explore Hudson Valley & Finger Lakes

9 Days / 8 Nights
All year round

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Trip code: 16135

Embark on an unforgettable 8-night holiday, immersing yourself in the historic charm of Hudson Valley and the tranquil allure of the Finger Lakes. Indulge in a plethora of outdoor adventures and culinary delights, from exploring historic sites to savouring the flavours of local vineyards.

  • Round-trip scheduled flights to New York
  • Intermediate 4-door car hire including insurances
  • Accommodation as stated

Itinerary

Depart the UK on your chosen scheduled flight to New York. Upon arrival at Newark or JFK, collect your rental car and take the short drive to Poughkeepsie in Hudson Valley, which provides your base for the next two nights. 

Accommodation

80 Miles / 129 Kilometres

Today marks your inaugural full day in the city of Poughkeepsie, offering a plethora of activities ripe for exploration. History enthusiasts might delight in visiting impeccably preserved 19th-century landmarks such as the Bardavon 1869 Opera House or the majestic Cunneen-Hackett Arts Centre. These architectural gems serve as bustling centers for a variety of cultural happenings, from stirring concerts to enthralling theatrical performances.

For unparalleled vistas of the Hudson River and its surroundings, consider a visit to the Walkway Over the Hudson, formerly a crucial railway passage and now acclaimed as the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge. As night descends, indulge in the city’s lively dining scene, with options ranging from Essie’s Restaurant, Brasserie 292, to Mill House Brewing Company.

Accommodation

226 Miles / 364 Kilometres

This morning, you’ll journey to Albany, the capital city of New York State, where you’ll stay for two nights. The drive is brief, taking just over an hour. Along the way, we suggest making a stop in Rhinebeck, a charming historic town that offers stunning views of the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson River.

At the heart of Albany lies its historic downtown area, distinguished by striking architecture dating back to the colonial era. The city’s skyline is adorned with landmarks like the New York State Capitol Building, a splendid representation of 19th-century Romanesque architecture, and the Empire State Plaza, a modernised complex accommodating museums and cultural institutions. Albany boasts numerous parks, trails, and outdoor recreational areas, providing ample opportunities for activities such as hiking, biking, and boating. We suggest considering a Hudson Valley sightseeing cruise for a scenic experience, or for a unique activity, trying your hand at archery.

Accommodation

80 Miles / 129 Kilometres

Today marks the longest journey of this wonderful journey, but it is well worth it. You’ll venture across the state to Rochester, where you’ll spend the next two nights. To break your journey, we suggest making a stop in Syracuse as it would be a shame to miss it. At the heart of Syracuse lies the historic Armory Square district, characterised by its beautifully restored architecture, chic boutiques, and diverse culinary offerings. Visitors can wander through local shops, peruse art galleries, and dine in an array of eateries serving everything from locally sourced delicacies to international cuisine.

Once you’ve arrived in Rochester, you’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of experiences including arts, theatre, music, photography, history, nature and recreation options a-plenty! From standing in the very parlour where Susan B. Anthony was arrested for voting, to immersing yourself in the soulful melodies of jazz echoing through the streets, Rochester promises a wealth of museums, attractions, cultural events, and culinary delights. Don’t miss the chance to sample a “white hot,” a local variation of the classic hot dog

For those craving outdoor adventures, Rochester’s picturesque trails and waterways offer boundless opportunities for exploration. Whether it’s boating on the serene lakes and rivers or hiking and biking through over 12,000 acres of parkland, the city caters to outdoor enthusiasts of all types.

Sightseeing in the Finger Lakes region

Accommodation

271 Miles / 436 Kilometres

The final stop on this adveture is Watkins Glen. It is here where you spend your final two nights in New York State. En route to Watkins Glen, we highly recommend a visit to the Corning Museum of Glass, showcasing the world’s finest collection of art and historical glass. Of all the options on this majestic journey, the Corning Museum is an absolute must. World-renowned, you won’t fail to be tempted to take a piece home with you.

Watkins Glen is a charming village celebrated for its breathtaking natural scenery and rich racing heritage. Its main attraction is the magnificent state park, renowned for its stunning gorge and impressive waterfalls. Carved over thousands of years by Glen Creek, the gorge features a series of 19 stunning waterfalls, each more mesmerising than the last. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike along the winding trails that traverse the gorge, passing behind cascading waterfalls and taking in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Racing enthusiasts can explore the International Motor Racing Research Centre to delve into the history of motorsports in Watkins Glen and view exhibits featuring vintage race cars and memorabilia.

Watkins Glen serves as an excellent hub for exploring neighbouring towns in the Finger Lakes region, such as Ithaca and Geneva. Ithaca’s vibrant downtown area buzzes with activity, offering a variety of unique boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. Meanwhile, Geneva exudes charm and provides numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, including challenging golf courses, picturesque hiking trails, and exhilarating mountain biking adventures.

Sightseeing in the Finger Lakes region

Accommodation

Today you will make the 271-mile journey back to either Newark or JFK International Airport, return your rental car, and check in for your flight back to the UK. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have some time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing in The Big Apple.

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Trip code: 16135
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