Curator’s statement
There is nothing quite like the color drenched landscape of the Hudson River Valley in the fall. "Leaf peeping" is a popular activity in the area but there is so much more to see and do, such as tours of historic homes, apple picking and even a Star Trek museum. Pull your coziest sweaters out of storage and get ready to immerse yourself in all-things-autumn.
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Where to stay in Hudson River Valley
Lake Placid Lodge
Experience nature's beauty at Lake Placid Lodge.
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Food & beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Troutbeck
Hudson Valley estate made for romantic escapes and rural adventures, from fishing to horseback riding.
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Wheatleigh
If you’re leaving the kids at home, this super chic estate from the 1800s offers gorgeous views in an amazing location.
Fora Perks
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$125 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Habitas on Hudson
Embark on a serene escape to Habitas on Hudson, where stylish accommodations, natural beauty and a tranquil atmosphere invite you to unwind and reconnect with nature along the picturesque Hudson River.
The Adelphi Hotel
Indulge in luxurious elegance and timeless charm at The Adelphi Hotel, where historic grandeur, impeccable service and sophisticated accommodations offer an exceptional stay in the heart of Saratoga Springs, New York.
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Things to do in Hudson River Valley
Tours
Fort Ticonderoga, Ticonderoga, NY
Fort Ticonderoga, located in upstate New York, is a historically significant site that played a crucial role during the American Revolutionary War. Tour the fort, the gardens, and the museum. Don't miss the opportunity to travel around Lake Champlain with Carillon Boat Tours, which launches from the grounds.
Star Trek Original Series Set Tour: Ticonderoga, NY
Calling all Trekkies! This tour provides visitors with a unique opportunity to step onto the meticulously recreated sets from the iconic Starship Enterprise from the original Star Trek television series, which aired from 1966 to 1969.
Olana State Historic Site, Greenport, NY
A visit to the Olana State Historic Site is a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the artistic vision of Frederic Edwin Church, as well as to enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of the Hudson River Valley.
Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and Sanctuary, Garrison, NY
This sanctuary is a beautiful and educational experience for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Enjoy the network of nature trails that wind through various habitats, including marshes, woodlands and meadows.
West Point Military Academy, West Point, NY
The United States Military Academy at West Point one of the most renowned military academies in the world, offers guided tours that provide visitors with a fascinating insight into the prestigious institution and its historic campus.
Boat Tours
Lake Placid Marina & Boat Tours, Lake Placid, NY
This hour-long boat tour is especially memorable if you go when the fall colors are at their most vibrant.
Erie Canal Cruises, Herkimer, NY
These 90-minute boat tours travel along the Mohawk River and enters one of the Erie Canal Locks.
Dutch Apple Cruises, Albany, NY
Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Hudson River while seeing the Albany skyline and historic riverfront homes. If you're lucky, you'll spot a Bald Eagle or two.
Hikes
Some of the many fantastic hikes to try: Storm King Mountain, Mt. Beacon Fire Tower, Bear Mountain State Park, Kaaterskill Falls and hikes in the John Boyd Thatcher State Park.
More Places to Visit
New York State Museum (Albany, NY)
Vanderbilt Mansion (Hyde Park, NY)
Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Site (Hyde Park, NY)
Boscobel House & Gardens (Garrison, NY)
Bannerman Castle (Beacon, NY)
Norman Rockwell Home and Studio (New Rochelle, NY)
Apple Picking at Windy Hill Farm (Great Barrington, MA)
Saratoga Racetrack (Saratoga Springs, NY)
Saratoga Springs State Park (Saratoga Spring, NY)
Lake Placid Olympic Museum (Lake Placid, NY)
Mt. Van Hoevenberg Bobsled Experience (Lake Placid, NY)
Places to eat & drink in Hudson River Valley
Breakfast
The Merc (Saratoga Springs, NY)
Hudson Hil's Cafe (Cold Spring, NY)
Le Perche (Hudson, NY)
Bartlett House (Ghent, NY)
Lunch
The Whistling Kettle (Troy, NY)
Mrs. London's Bakery (Saratoga Springs, NY)
American Bounty at the Culinary Institute of America (Hyde Park, NY)
Dinner
Salt of the Earth Bistro (Lake Placid, NY)
Hamlet & Ghost (Saratoga Springs, NY)
Nighthawks (Troy, NY)
Wm. Farmer and Sons (Hudson, NY)
Rivertown Lodge Tavern (Hudson, NY)
Mezze Bistro & Bar (Williamstown, MA)
Sweet Treats
Cider Belly Doughnuts (Albany, NY)
Ben & Jerry's (Saratoga Springs, NY)
Moo Moo's Creamery (Cold Spring, NY)
The Dutch Udder (Troy, NY)
Bartlett's Apple Orchard & Farm Market (Richmond, MA)
High Lawn Farm Dairy and ice creamery (Lee, MA)
Need to Know
For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Lee Newell’s guide, The Perfect Hudson Valley Weekend.
![Advisor - Jennifer Lopez](https://media.foratravel.com/image/upload/v1711119623/contentful-migration/advisors/image/24aec32dc4fc-Fora2.jpg)
Travel Advisor
Jennifer Lopez
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on Nature Escapes.