Get Ready for March Madness!

“March Madness” is right around the corner, but we’re talking about more than just basketball. We’re already planning late winter getaways on Amtrak to fun events, shows and yes, sports games. New York State is lucky to be the home of many diverse events, which are all easily accessible through Amtrak, so enjoy this variety of history, hot rods, hoops, hops, Hollywood, and more!

Image courtesy of Queens World Film Festival

Queens World Film Festival -- March 15-20, 2016

(5.6 MILES FROM PENNSYLVANIA STATION)

This film festival will screen between 80 to 100 films-- including narratives, documentaries, LGBTQ, animated and family films! The festival will be taking place at the Museum of Moving Image, as well as other theatre locations all around Queens. In its 6^th year, Queens World Film Festival prides itself on providing a worthwhile experience for filmmakers and film-goers, so along with screening events there will be talk-backs, networking opportunities and access to the press. For additional information, visit queensworldfilmfestival.com

MAAC Basketball Championships -- March 3-7, 2016

(1.4 MILES FROM ALBANY-RENSSELAER STATION)

Get ready for some basketball, because that's what March has in store! New York and surrounding area colleges are competing in men and women’s basketball championships for the MAAC this year in Albany, at the Times Union Center. For more information on ticket pricing and game times, visit timesunioncenter-albany.com

1775 British Garrison Weekend: Living History Event -- March 19, 2016

(1.0 MILE FROM TICONDEROGA AMTRAK STATION)

Image Courtesy of Fort Ticonderoga

Experience Fort Ticonderoga on the eve of the American Revolution as British soldiers and their families live in this peacetime fort on the frontier! What was it like to live during this time? Discover how the British Army was both prepared and unprepared to fight for control of this Key to the Continent! For additional information, visit fortticonderoga.org

Glens Falls Brewfest -- March 19, 2016

(6.0 MILES FROM FORT EDWARDS AMTRAK STATION)

Tastings from over 50 craft beer and ale brewers including local and regional favorites, food and entertainment. Have some fun while supporting the Adirondack Theatre Festival and the Feeder Canal Alliance, as proceeds help benefit these local charities. Perhaps you’ll even discover your new favorite beer! For additional information, visit glensfallsbrewfest.org .

March Meatball Madness -- March 6, 2016

(0.6 MILE FROM UTICA AMTRAK STATION)

Come taste and vote for your favorite meatballs from the Utica area’s finest restaurants! Also enjoy musical entertainment, raffles and tons of food. Coffee, desserts, meat and cheese taste samplings, gourmet flavored popcorn will be available. Be sure to catch the exciting Meatball Eating Contest as well! If you are at least 18 years of age and you think you have a shot at becoming Utica’s Meatball Eating Champion, visit theabrahamhouse.org for more information.

Image courtesy of Cavalcade of Cars

Greater Syracuse Antiques Expo -- March 12-13, 2016

(0.0 MILES FROM SYRACUSE AMTRAK)

Love antiques? Check out this great antiques show featuring over 200 vendors with everything from primitives to vintage to jewelry. Whatever you are looking for, you will find it at the Greater Syracuse Antiques Expo, which is now entering its 26^th year! For additional details, visit allmanpromotions.com

23rd Annual Cavalcade of Cars -- March 4-6, 2016

(11.5 MILES FROM BUFFALO AMTRAK STATION)

Come see hundreds of hot rods, customs, classics, race-prepared vehicles and motorcycles! This year at the Fairgounds Events Center, Cavalcade of Cars will have live music, a tribute to George Barris’s Batmobile, the car from the movie Christine, auto-related vendors, and an “Old S’cool Review”room. For more information regarding this event, visit cavalcadeofcars.com .

Our Favorite Amtrak Stories of 2015!

Traveling by train is so much more than getting from Point A to Point B. At least, the staff here at New York By Rail thinks so. Over the past year, writers and bloggers have shared our sentiment, highlighting the benefits of rail travel—on Amtrak in particular—over other forms of transportation.

If having an adventure via train is one of your New Year’s resolutions for 2016, we hope you’ll find ideas and inspiration in these articles!

Traci Suppa, Editor

New York By Rail Magazine

On Travel + Leisure, Corina Quinn shares “How To Master The Art Of Amtrak Travel,” offering advice on finding discounts and making the most of services such as the Red Caps and Rewards Program.

In his travelogue for USA TODAY, “Coast to coast on Amtrak in winter,” Barry D. Wood—a self-described "train nut"—describes his round-trip journey from Illinois to Washington D.C.

Also for USA TODAY, Carri Wilbanks wrote “Flight delays got you down? Try travelingby train,” reminding us that “Nothing beats a train journey for not only nostalgic value, hinting back at a more simple time, but also for the views and access to parts of America that would not otherwise be accessible.”

Heather Dratler writes on Elliott.org about “Why Your Next East Coast Trip Should Be ByTrain,” citing several advantages of train travel – including comfort, price, and THIS: “You can arrive at the train station and waltz to your gate in the span of five minutes.”

On Consumer Traveler, Malcom Kenton gives tips on “How to Get the Most Out of Amtrak Travel.” He reminds us that we can “Pack freely: Amtrak allows up to 2 pieces of carry-on luggage not exceeding 50 pounds.”

In this viral post from Derek Low, “Across the USA By Train For Just $213,” he reminds us that “American railroads are reminiscent of a bygone era,” while describing his four-day journey from San Francisco to New York.  

Blogger Lauren Modery of Hipstercrite takes a lighthearted approach in her post, “Tips,Tricks and Hacks to Riding the Train.” She suggest bringing your own food and drinks on board. Since they are not checked, “You can probably bring twelve bottles of moonshine and a pet monkey name Dahlia.”  

Although we don't recommend quite that much moonshine, we do like her spirit! 

Full Speed Ahead to a Winter Weekend in Saratoga Springs!

While New York State is known for its extravagant holiday blowouts, there is one place in particular which has built its reputation on creating our annual favorites --  Winterfest, Chowderfest, Frozen Springs Classic and the Dance Flurry. If you're looking for a memorable weekend escape, let Amtrak take you to Saratoga Springs for these events and activities.

Winterfest

Image Courtesy of Saratoga Springs Winterfest

(1.5 miles from the Saratoga
 Springs Amtrak station)

Providing you with this years best winter "Thing-to-do" in Saratoga Springs, the Spa City presents its highly-anticipated annual Winterfest. Revel in the spirit of winter with live music, wine tastings, special events, entertainment and of course, Chowderfest. Each year the event draws crowds of people from all across New York State eager to explore local crafts, dabble in beer samplings, and taste a variety of Chowders. Running the week of February 5th through the 14th, the Spa City invites you for a week of endless entertainment.

Chowderfest

(1.5 miles from the Saratoga

 Springs Amtrak station)

Image Courtesy of Saratoga Springs Chowderfest

There is no better way to start off your stay in Spa City than with a cup of chowder at just $1 a cup. Saratoga’s Annual Chowderfest is one of the area’s most highly anticipated events of the year. Featuring more than 90 vendors, including Saratoga County’s best restaurants and caterers, who open their doors to the public and serve hot bowls of chowder to event goers. The event takes place on February 6th, at 11:00 am, where you may pick up a ballot form, taste different soups and chowders (3 oz serving) and vote for your favorite. The winner will be announced at 6:30 pm that day. Visitors are encouraged to bring their dogs, as some establishments offer doggy chowder -- sorry cats.

The Dance Flurry

Image Courtesy of the Dance Flurry

(1.6 miles from the Saratoga Springs Amtrak station)

Put on your dancing shoes and get ready for a great weekend of dancing, dipping and whirling with thousands of other spirited dancers! In its 28th year, the Flurry Festival in Spa City has engaged thousands in dance and music from all over the world. The weekend long festival draws dancers of all ages, all abilities and all styles of dance. Dancers may participate in a variety of workshops and programs designed for all levels of experience. From waltzes to tango and swing to contra, the Flurry Festival features many styles of dance and draws a yearly attendance of over 5,000 participants. The festival also includes an array of performances, singing, workshops, concerts, jamming, crafts and more.

Image Courtesy of Saratoga Beer Week

Saratoga Beer Week

(1.6 miles from the Saratoga Springs Amtrak station)

Join fellow beer enthusiasts for a five-day city-wide beer celebration. From February 16-20th locals and visitors alike will enjoy quality tastings of local, regional and national brews. Experience the dozens of beer-centered events scheduled and venture around town to the local restaurants, shops, and hotels. Attend the fifth anniversary and see the best of what Saratoga has to offer.

Image Courtesy of the Saratoga Frozen Springs Classic

Frozen Springs Classic

(2.6 miles from the Saratoga 

Springs Amtrak Station)

Take the ice from February 12-14th at the Saratoga Frozen Springs Classic Pond Hockey Tournament. Join other hockey lovers in a weekend of friendly competition and good old-fashioned pond hockey. Come as a team, or be a free agent. The schedule of events and full list of band performances and tournament rules will be posted closer to the date.

Take Amtrak to These Top Five Holiday Events and Traditions!

Winter is here and the celebrations can finally begin! Holiday events, shows, and attractions illuminate the entire City for all to enjoy! New York City is iconic for spreading the holiday spirit and creating long-lasting memories for people everywhere. Here's a list of the top five must see and/or do during the winter in New York City:

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

Image Courtesy of Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

(1.2 miles from Penn Station)

The most iconic yearly event in New York City is the traditional Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting. Tens of thousands of revelers fill the streets to embrace the iconic tree illuminate Rockefeller Plaza right in the heart of the City. This event has been acclaimed the world-wide symbol of the holidays in New York City. Available for viewing from now through early January,  a visit to revel in the tree and all of its beauty is truly a must this winter!

Radio City Christmas Spectacular

(1.2 miles from Penn Station)

Image Courtesy of Radio City Christmas Spectacular

This year, give your loved ones a gift that will create new memories to be forever cherished! The legendary Rockettes are back with their unique song-and-dance extravaganza! Showcasing the shows most classic scenes including “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” and “New York at Christmas” with all new numbers, this show offers a more dynamic and more magical show than ever before.

Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center

(1.2 miles from Penn Station)

Image Courtesy of The Rink at Rockefeller Center

Add to your winter visit with a fun and memorable experience at the World Famous Ice Skating Rink. Located at the base of the Rockefeller Center Tree, the rink is the perfect way to soak in all of the glorious City views. Millions of visitors center their trips to the City around watching skaters take a spin and twirl on the ice below the famous Christmas tree and gilded statue of Prometheus. Don’t stop there - wait in line to experience this glorious event for yourself.

Holiday Train Show at Grand Central

(1.1 miles from Penn Station)

Image Courtesy of Patrick Cashin: Holiday Train
Show at Grand Central

Attend the 14th annual holiday train show presented by the New York Transit Museum through January 21, 2016. This popular exhibition features models of Metro-North, New York Central and subway trains departing from a miniature Grand Central Terminal. The Museum’s store and booths at holiday fairs also provide great gifts for your holiday shopping needs!

Winter Village at Bryant Park

(0.6 miles from Penn Station)

Image Courtesy of Bryant Park Corporation

Enjoy free skating at The Rink, better known as the centerpiece of Bank of America's Winter Village at Bryant Park. This venue attracts thousands to one of New York City's spotlight events. Hosting more than 125 boutique-like shops which offer exquisite gifts - unique apparel, jewelry, decorative goods, local foods, and much more. The European inspired outdoor market features vendors from around the world, and housed in "jewel box" kiosks. After working up an appetite, grab a bite to eat at Celsius, Ice Bites, or Bryant Park Grill.

All Aboard These Holiday-Themed Train Rides to Winter!

As we anticipate the rush of the chilly winter weather, we naturally tend to embrace the comforts of holiday traditions - hot chocolate, warm cookies and cozy pajamas. Holiday classics like the iconic Polar Express make any holiday lover wish they could relive the magic of the story in real life! Railroads throughout New York State have dedicated the last month of each year to helping you capture your favorite memories of the season with holiday-themed train rides. These holiday excursions are the perfect way to celebrate the magic of the season with friends and family.

Image Courtesy of the Catskill Mountain Railroad

Catskill Mountain Railroad
(13.0 miles from the Rhinecliff Amtrak station)
Kingston welcomes back the fan favorite Polar Express Train Ride. Enjoy the motion picture soundtrack as you relax comfortably in your pajamas and are whisked away to the North Pole. Be sure to have your ticket in hand because the conductor will be coming around to check it as you are kept full and entertained by your dancing chefs. Enjoy a special sing along as Santa makes his way to greet you with a special gift…only if you “believe.”

Image Courtesy of Saratoga and
North Creek Railway

Saratoga and North Creek Railway
(0.0 miles from Saratoga Springs station)

Enjoy a magical train ride departing from the Saratoga Springs station bound for the "North Pole!" As a live narration of "The Polar Express" is being read, dancing chefs will deliver cookies and hot cocoa which you may enjoy from a limited edition souvenir mug. This festively decorated vintage train car will keep you fully entertained before arriving to meet Santa just outside of the North Pole Village. During the return trip, Santa will make his way to greet each child and present them with a special gift.




Adirondack Scenic Railroad
(66ft from the Utica Amtrak station)

Traveling northbound from the Utica Union Station, you will be accompanied by Santa’s elves while en route to the North Pole. While listening to Liam Neeson’s reading of The Polar Express by Chris van Allsburg, you will be left in a magical trance just before arriving to meet Santa. Both children and parents are encouraged to wear their pajamas.

Image Courtesy of Cooperstown and
Charlotte Valley Railroad

Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad
(46.5 miles from the Utica Amtrak station)
For three special weekends only you can experience the ever so popular Santa Express Trains. The trains are beautifully decorated from the inside out with lights, garland, and ornaments making for a truly magical experience. Parents are requested to provide a small personalized gift for Santa to present to their child. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be entertaining all of the passengers as you bond over holiday music, goodies, and refreshments.  

Medina Railroad Museum
(35.2 miles from the Buffalo Depew Amtrak station)

This one hour long train ride is filled with hot cocoa with whipped cream, warm cookies, and laughs with Santa. Plan to arrive early to pick up your tickets at Will Call…or you’ll be late to pick up Santa at the North Pole! All ticket purchases include admission to the Medina Railroad Museum.

Image Courtesy of Arcade and Attica Railroad

Arcade and Attica Railroad
(35.7 miles from the Buffalo Depew Amtrak station)

Presenting their last Santa Train on December 22^nd, this is one experience you don’t want to miss. Receive a free Elf hat as you board the train and spend the next magical hour and a half with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Santa’s helpers. Enjoy holiday treats and bring your camera to snap the perfect holiday picture with Santa and his live reindeer. Be sure to grab your Santa goody bag as you exit the train.