New York Welcomes the 2015-16 Season of Performing Arts Centers!

New York State is lucky to be the home of countless performing arts centers, providing audiences entertainment and access to thrilling performances like the Nutcracker, Swan Lake, and many more that have grown to be iconic fan favorites. With each returning season we are reminded of all of the beauty, joy, and grace that is upheld within the performing arts culture. Consider taking Amtrak for a weekend getaway centered around live orchestrated music, innovative choreography, and more. These performing arts centers are  close to Amtrak stations across the state.

Image Courtesy of the American Ballet Theatre

American Ballet Theatre

(2.2 miles from Penn station)

Join the American Ballet Theatre as it continues its 75th anniversary celebration with its annual two-week engagement for a spectacular Fall Season. The season features exciting all-new choreography under highly acclaimed Mark Morris, as well as Company Premieres of Frederick Ashton's modernistic Monotones I and II, which will be premiered at the Opening Night Gala. The two week celebration of the new season runs through November 1 as the American Ballet Theatre's world-class dancers bring their dramatic artistry and thrilling bravura to such audience favorites as Twyla Tharp's impressively large, The Brahms-Haydn Variations. The fall season is filled with the Company’s diverse repertoire performed by world-class dancers includes the iconic fall favorite, George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. For more information on ticket pricing and show times, visit

http://www.abt.org/default.aspx

Image Courtesy of the Brooklyn Center for the Preforming Arts

Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts

(10.9 miles from Penn station)

Brooklyn Center announces its 2015-16 season of music, dance, theatre, and family programming reflecting the multicultural diversity of Brooklyn. Director of Brooklyn Center says of this season “From Sinatra and The Beatles to classical ballet and step dancing, the 61st season at Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts will celebrate the best of classic and contemporary arts and culture with world class artists.” Among the many new productions, this season features Dance Theatre in Westchester’s The Colonial Nutcracker, Moscow festival Ballet’s Romeo and Juliet, and Step Afrika! The season presents outstanding performance arts and arts education programs that are reflective of Brooklyn’s diverse communities at affordable prices. Join the annual attendance of over 70,000 as they expose themselves to new cultures and ideas. For more details, visit the site at http://www.brooklyncenter.org/index

Image Courtesy of Proctors Theatre

Proctors Theatre

(0.2 miles from Schenectady Amtrak station)

After undergoing many renovations to prevent the theatre from being shut down, Proctors has proven its value to the community and gained momentum, becoming the motivating factor for the revitalization of downtown Schenectady. Over the past decade, Proctors has expanded, making it possible to accommodate large Broadway productions, giant screen films, local performers, and ever-growing audiences from around the country. This season provides ample opportunity to combine thrilling entertainment with education with the many shows in the Key Private Bank Broadway Series. Featuring some of the most highly acclaimed shows on Broadway including Once, Matilda The Musical, and Disney’s The Lion King, Proctors Theatre provides guests with a truly memorable experience. Check the site for detailed information at http://www.proctors.org/content/broadway-shows

Image Courtesy of Palace Theatre

Palace Arts Theatre

(1.9 miles from Albany Amtrak station)

This theatre is a grand cultural and entertainment facility in the heart of downtown Albany. It stands as the sole survivor of the Great Depression period in the area, and continues making history with a widely diverse offering of popular acts and cultural events. Home to the Albany Symphony Orchestra, the theatre stage has been grace with artists as diverse as the Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, and Tony Bennett, along with performers from the world-class ballet, Broadway, family and children’s theatrical productions, city-sponsored events and much more. With a variety of theatrical productions, this season highlights the fan favorite with a twist, the Moscow Ballets spectacular rendition, Great Russian Nutcracker. Receiving rave reviews from the New York Times as a “Knock out,” experience the wonder of Christmas with larger than-life puppets, and life-sized Matrushka Dolls. For more information, be sure to visit http://palacealbany.com/

Image Courtesy of Saratoga Performing Arts Center

Saratoga Performing Arts Center

(2.5 miles from Saratoga Springs Amtrak station)

The Saratoga Performing Arts Center hosts the New York City Ballet and The Philadelphia Orchestra in an acoustically ideal amphitheatre in the heart of Spa State Park. Named the centerpiece of cultural and performing arts throughout upstate New York, Hudson Valley, Vermont, and Canada among many others, the center presents superior chamber music, jazz, rock and pop concerts, opera, and Saratoga Wine & Food Festival; and oversees the National Museum of Dance. The 25,000 capacity performing arts venue is surrounded by hiking trails, geysers, and natural mineral springs which have set the stage for world class experiences for generations. The new season introduces the launch of the artistic future and innovative programming, along with once-in-a-lifetime special events, and honorary world premieres by New York City Ballet’s Resident Choreographer, Justin Peck, and internationally acclaimed composer, Michael Torke. Ringing in this winter season, tickets to the annual Nutcracker Tea will be sold beginning October 26th. The highly anticipated family-friendly celebration features a traditional English Christmas tea and excerpts from The Nutcracker ballet performed by the Northeast Ballet Company. For ticket and show time information, visit http://www.spac.org/whats-spac-nutcracker-tea

Image Courtesy of Eastman Theatre

Eastman Theatre

(0.8 miles from Rochester Amtrak station)

For years, the Eastman Theatre has looked forward to each new season, maintaining its high standard of artistic excellence, unique tradition of musical versatility, and deep commitment to educational and community engagement. Presenting up to 130 concerts a year, and serving over 150,000 at a wide variety of events throughout the region, the venue has been praised as the premiere cultural organization in the area promoting creativity and innovation. This season brings about many new shows, both classic and modern, theatrical productions new to the program, and the venues famous philharmonic orchestra. The theatre spotlights several thrilling shows including Disney in Concert: Tale as Old as Time, Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score of the enchanting holiday favorite, the Nutcracker, and Cirque Musica, the “Greatest show on earth” with the world’s top circus performers. This venue is the top spot for amazing performances paired with the sonic thrills of some of the most beloved orchestral music in the repertoire. Further details may be found at http://www.rpo.org/s_1/s_288/2015-16_Subscriptions/

Image Courtesy of Paramount Theatre

Paramount Theatre

(0.1 miles from Rutland Amtrak station)

The fully restored and historic Paramount theatre has marked its role as one of Vermont’s oldest arts, cultural, and educational venues, establishing itself as a significant and valuable community resource. Built in 1912 by George T. Chaffee, this theatre offers guests both a cultural experience, and entertainment with classic and modern movies, theatrical shows, and live musical performances. This season, the theatre provides guests with a wide variety of opportunities for entertainment. Among the shows being presented are the 20th annual extraordinary performances of the regions finest collection of amateur talent, The Really Big Show XX, the iconic duo, The Indigo Girls, and James Levine’s rendition of Wagner’s early masterpiece, Tannhauser, which depicts the story of a knights internal battle between true love and passion. More information on special events may be found at http://www.paramountvt.org/events-calendar/

New York's Beautiful Fall Celebration of Craft Beer and Harvest Festivals!

Just because Oktoberfest celebrations are now coming to a close, doesn't mean that the fall fun has to end! New York State has a lot of great experiences in store for you this season. Craft beer trails and harvest festivals provide the perfect blend of guided beer tours and tastings, and family fun with a variety of outdoor activities. Choose among a wide array of unique activities; take an extremely creative day tour along the Hudson Valley, visit the Finger Lakes to taste the 2014 "New York State Brewery of the Year" and stay in the area to enjoy over 35 breweries and ciders at the Finger Lakes Beer Festival, attend the 3rd annual Craft Brewers Festival in the historic Landmark Theatre in Syracuse, pick your own apples and pumpkins in Central New York, explore a four story tree house and launch pumpkins, enter a spooky flashlight maze, and spend a day at the "True treasure of the Capital Region." Grab your friends and families and get ready to create some of your most cherished memories this fall season!

                                                                                    Hudson Valley Beer Trail 

(2.1 miles from the Poughkeepsie Amtrak station)

Image Courtesy of The Little Beer Bus

Named one of the "Top 7 beer trails to tour in America," the Hudson Valley Beer Trail has become one of the most highly requested tours among visitors and beer enthusiasts. Take a tour and visit a brewery, find a place for lunch, and even visit a hops farm. If you'd rather someone else do the driving, guided tours of breweries and distilleries are available. The tour features "Westchesters only craft brewery," Captain Lawrence Brewing Co., Blue Collar Brewery conveniently located by the Poughkeepsie Amtrak Station, and Hyde Park Brewing Company where you may enjoy their restaurant, live music, and tap room during your visit, among many others. Experience the trail with themed tours including but not limited to the signature "Take Me to the Brewski" tour, "Brewski Lunch and Learn With the Brewmaster" tour, or get adventurous and create your own themed party! For more information, call (917) 414-7947 or email directly: hvbeertrail@gmail.com.

Finger Lakes Beer Trail
(66.2 miles from Rochester Amtrak station)

Image Courtesy of Finger Lakes Beer Company

Award winning microbreweries and brewpubs in Corning and the Southern Finger Lakes have quickly become a hot post for locals and travelers alike. With remarkable views and impeccable quality, it's no surprise that this trail has become a fan favorite. The trail makes its way through New York States "Best Craft Brewery" at Keuka Brewing Co., stopping at Market Street Brewing Co., just in time for you to experience all around great tastes in the heart of Corning's Historic District, and leaves you gazing at breathtaking views overlooking the Keuka Lake as you enjoy excellent brews at Steuben Brewing Company. For your chance to experience these wonderful breweries and view the full beer trail list, visit Corningfingerlakes.com.

                Finger Lakes Beer Festival

                                      (80.4 miles from the Rochester Amtrak station)

Image Courtesy of Finger Lakes Beer Trail

Extend your stay in the Finger Lakes area to experience one of the biggest events in the region. For one day only, on October 24th, enjoy over 35 New York State breweries and ciders as they join under one roof, accompanied by great food and live music. Receive a complimentary commemorative sampling glass for free tasting at the brewery booths, enjoy delicious regional cuisine, purchase brewery and event merchandise, or a selection of craft beers which will be for sale, and partake in a variety of fun activities including a 32 team corn-hole tournaments, and a stein holding competition. Get your tickets before their gone at Fingerlakesbeertrail.com. 

Craft New York Brewers Festival
(2.5 miles from the Syracuse Amtrak station)

Image Courtesy of New York State Brewers Association

Taking place on November 7th, the historic Landmark Theatre in Syracuse is hosting the 3rd annual Craft Beer Festival. Bringing together over 50 New York breweries from every region of the state, this festival features up to 130 award winning beers. Pairing great brews with food sampling from local Syracuse restaurants and food vendors, this event is the first of its kind that offers you the opportunity to meet the brewers that make the beer and the owners of the food scene that play such an important role in community. The purchase of a ticket comes equipped with a 5-ounce souvenir tasting glass with which you can enjoy unlimited samples of the various beer present at the event. VIP tickets are available to those who wish to enter earlier and have access to the limited quantity of specialty beers not available to the general public. To purchase your tickets today, visit Thinknydrinkny.com.

                                 Critz Farms Fall Harvest Celebration

                                 (25.5 miles from Syracuse Amtrak station)

Image Courtesy of Critz Farm

If you're looking for a place to enjoy the wonderful autumn season in Central New York, look no further than Critz Farms. With ongoing activities, special events, and  festival entertainment taking place every weekend, this event is sure to provide great fun for all ages. View cider pressing demonstrations, explore the farm on wagon rides, get lost in corn mazes, and dine in Critz Cafe where you can indulge in a hot apple fritter. Adults may drop their kids off at the Slide Mountain playground and visit the farm winery and hard cider tasting room. For a complete list of special events including the annual "Gigantic Corn Maze" and the "Giant Hay Bale Climbing Tower," and other activities available on the farm, visit Critzfarms.com.

Image Courtesy of Pumpkin Patch Farm

Pick-a-Pumpkin Patch
(21.3 miles from the Amsterdam Amtrak station)

Each year the farm introduces new events and activities while bringing back old family favorites. Open Monday through Saturday, this farm offers a full day packed with a broad range of activities for the whole family to enjoy. This year at the Pumpkin Patch you can take a hayride to the pick your own farms, race rubber ducks, climb a four story tree house, see farm animals, enjoy delicious cider donuts, watch pumpkins get launched out of a pumpkin cannon, and much more. Don't miss your chance at a fun-filled memorable experience at the Pumpkin Patch. For more information, contact (518) 868-4893.

Fink's Country Farm Festival
(69.5 miles from New York Penn station)

Image Courtesy of Fink's Country Farm

Family owned and operated for over 50 years, Fink's Country Farm is best known for its traditional charm. Join their festival full of hayrides, a 7-acre corn maze, U-pick pumpkins, kiddy train rides, pig races, pumpkin slingshot and much more. The farm, and its activities are entirely handicapped accessible. Explore the Long Island farm stand, filled with fresh local vegetables, fruits, potatoes, corn stalks, holiday decorations, and more. Special events include the "Flashlight Maze," and the "Spookie Flashlight Maze," both only taking place at night time. Open daily Monday through Sunday, a $15 ticket will get you access to a full day of family fun.


Liberty Ridge Fall Festival
(17.6 miles from Saratoga Springs Amtrak station)
Named a "True treasure of the Capital 
Region," Liberty Ridge Farm offers you 

Image Courtesy of Liberty Ridge Farm

lots of family fun in Schaghticoke, nestled in Rensselaer County. Dive in all of the amazing activities on the farm including the pumpkin patch, cornfield maze, entertaining shows, and feeding the farm animals at "Brad's Barnyard Adventure." Venture through the 12-acre labyrinth of 13 foot high cornstalks, and take a scenic trolley ride along the banks of the Hoosic River. The theme for this years 2015 corn maize is "Fall this year just makes Cents." This fall season, running through the month of October, Liberty Ridge presents their highly requested "Fall FestEVIL." Get lost in the field of horror where the land is heavy with decay, and evil oozes up from the earth. Admission to the attraction includes the farms five haunted attractions, Haunted corn mazes and hayrides, the Psychic Sideshow, and Barnyard activities. A Non-Haunt ticket is available for those under age 10 who wish to enter the Psychic Sideshow and Barnyard. With these many events and attractions, this farm is surely one that's not to be missed. For more information on special events and operating hours, call (518) 664-1515.

New York State houses relaxing getaways for all ages and interest. Take a trip to any of the breweries or farms and start your fall relaxation with a leisurely Amtrak train ride to get you there. For more information on other New York destinations reachable by Amtrak, details on Enterprise locations that offer station pick-up, and a 15% discount for Amtrak travel within New York State, visit NewYorkbyRail.com.

Congratulations to MaryEllen S., The First Prize Winner of New York By Rail's Fall Photo Contest!

MaryEllen submitted this photo of the beautiful rural splendor of early fall foliage views that accompanied her in Niagara Falls while on a family trip. Audrey E. and Terry S. are the two runners-up!

The New York By Rail Fall Photo Contest Is Now Closed. 

Thank You To All Who Entered.

Explore the Wonders of Fall in Central New York

Photo courtesy of Howe Caverns

As we embark on the autumn season, we slowly remember all of the beauty that it holds; the crispness of the air, the leaves bursting into the many colors of the rainbow, and the tasty fall inspired treats that we've all come to enjoy. There's something about the transition from summer to fall that creates the perfect ambient atmosphere to relax. Winding down from the fast paced craziness of the summer is never an easy task, but a weekend getaway in Central New York will help you embrace the amazing opportunities that fall has to offer -- walk through an underground cave, experience a live theatrical production, visit a National Historic Landmark, enjoy a unique wine slushy, and try your luck at a roulette table! With everything from small towns to big cities, the central region of New York State offers visitors wide variety of experiences!

Howe Caverns:

(29.2 miles from Amsterdam Amtrak station)

If you're looking for a trip that provides the perfect balance of historical value and excitement, look no further than Howe Caverns. Here, you will find the largest cave in the Northeast that is available to the public, with about 160,000 visitors each year. Being the second most-visited natural attraction in New York State, Howe Caverns is the perfect get-away activity for families, couples, and all those who wish to be a little more adventurous. Well-trained guides provide tours uncovering the deep myths of this land which was carved by water throughout millions of years. Visit the Cavern's most recent addition, "Howe High Adventure," featuring a number of seasonal attractions including a four-tower zip line, Sky Trail ropes course, a 26 foot climbing wall, and air jumper. There's also a new 6,000 square foot Gemstone mining building open year-round, allowing for visitors to go gemstone panning for semi-precious minerals. New for 2015, experience the thrill of the haunting adventure that is the Howe Haunted Lantern Tour. Join the exploration of the mysteries and legends of the cave while ghost hosts take you on a special two hour lantern tour.

                                                                                        Rome Capitol Theatre

                                                                                   (1.4 miles from Rome Amtrak station)

Photo Courtesy of Rome Capitol Theatre

Classic theatre and performance fans from all over the world gather to experience the hidden gem of Downtown Rome's historic Capitol Theatre. After undergoing a number of renovations since its opening in 1928, this 1,788 seat performing and visual arts space with its original Möller theatre organ, has become one of Upstate New York's most iconic attractions. The theatre holds over 100 performances a year featuring live theatrical performances, dance programs, classic silent and talking films, and world famous big bands such as Glenn Miller, Artie Shaw, and Tommy Dorsey. Maintaining its traditional sconces and chandeliers accompanied by Spanish-Morrocan themed colors, and modernistic geometric designs, this classic theatre provides visitors with a historical and cultural experience.

Old Fort Johnson

(1.3 mile from Amsterdam Amtrak station)

The Old Fort Johnson limestone house, originated in 1749, was the residence of Sir William Johnson. The British Superintendent of Indian Affairs, and hero of the Battles of Lake 

Photo courtesy of Old Fort Johnson

George and Fort Niagara resided in the home throughout the French and Indian War. Today, seasonal tours of this national historic Landmark describe the social, cultural, military and industrial past of the Mohawk Valley. A $4 entry fee will get you inside the home of the British Loyalist, where you may experience a wide array of themed events such as the "Voices of the Past," where a host will lead you through a guided candlelight tour with historic readings from the days of the French and Indian Wars.

Villa Verona Vineyard

(11.5 miles from Rome Amtrak Station)

Photo courtesy of Villa Verona Vineyard

Visit Central New York's premiere winery, Villa Verona Vineyard. The first of its kind in Oneida County, this intimate winery provides visitors with great offerings and quality. The vineyard produces its own Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and other blends. Wine tastings are offered daily, Wednesday through Sunday, where guests may enjoy a variety of sweet to dry wines and try a unique wine slushy made from special blends. After a long day of wine tasting, head down to the beautiful gift shop where you will find yourself surrounded by a variety of gifts worth treasuring including hand-painted glassware, clothing apparel, accessories and much more.

Turning Stone Resort Casino

(10.2 miles from Rome Amtrak station)

Located just 1.7 miles west of Villa Verona Winery, the Turning Stone Resort Casino is a world-class resort owned and operated by the Oneida Indian Nation. Whether you like to spin the wheel, deal the deck, or roll the dice, Turning Stone Resort Casino brings to the table a broad range of your favorite games. In addition to 120,000 square feet of gaming, guests enjoy the abundant amenities including the Skanka Spa, five golf courses, eleven specifically themed nightlife venues and twelve dining lounges. The resort

Photo courtesy of Turning Stone Resort Casino

holds live entertainment and events in an intimate 800 seat cabaret style showroom. The venue hosts everything from chart topping singers and stand-up comedians to full scale musical productions. For the 2015 fall season, Turning Stone welcomes their 4th annual, "3 Nights of Horror." Guests, ghosts, ghouls, and goblins won't want to miss their chance at winning over $10,000 in cash prizes for three nights only.

There is no better way to spend the brisk fall season than by hopping on a train and going on an adventure. Amtrak knows just how to get you to your destination. Need another reason to get away for a weekend? Amtrak is running tons of promotions to make your travel needs easier including their Enterprise deal, where you may earn 50 Amtrak Guest Rewards points per day each time you rent, or redeem your current points for a free car rental. For more ways to enjoy a weekend in these cities, check out New York By Rail.

Enter New York By Rail's Fall Photo Contest!

All across New York State, autumn descends in southward bands of riotous rainbows of

reds, oranges, and yellow. After a long day--full of fun festivals, events, and attractions--there’s no better way to wind down than taking in the beautiful fall foliage views. New York By Rail would love to see the picturesque fall views you’ve been able to

Image Courtesy of Dutchess County Tourism

capture. Enter our fall photo contest -- you could win four (4) Individual Admission tickets to The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester or a New York By Rail tote bag! ALL winning photos will be featured in a future article on THIS blog, with proper credit given to the prize winning photographers! For detailed entry requirements and further information, see Terms & Conditions below.

Eligibility: No purchase is necessary to enter New York By Rail’s “Fall Foliage” photo contest. Contest is open to the general public. Participants must be 18 or older at the time of photo submission. Employees of New York By Rail and its affiliates, as well as their immediate family members, are not eligible to participate. Submitted images must consist of a fall foliage view somewhere in New York State. Color or black and white images are acceptable. Horizontal orientation is preferred.

Agreement to Rules: By participating, you give New York By Rail the permission to use your submitted images on all of its social media sites, including but not limited to: Facebook, Twitter, and the New York By Rail blog, as well as the print and digital editions of New York By Rail magazine and the mobile app. Photo credit will be given when your photo is used. No monetary compensation will be given.

Sweepstakes Period: Entries will be accepted starting 12:00AM on Wednesday, October 7, 2015 and ending 11:59PM EST on Tuesday, October 13, 2015.

Fall at the New York Botanical Garden, T. Suppa

How to Enter: Please email the following to marketing@martinellicustompublishing.com: No more than two (2) photos of at least 300 dpi quality, your name, preferred email address, your hometown, and a brief description of your photos, including the location taken.

Prizes: The grand prize winner will receive four (4) Individual Admission tickets to The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester (good thru 6/30/16)! Two runners-up will receive New York By Rail tote bags!

Odds: Odds of winning depend on the number of photo entries received.

Winner selection and notification: Employees of the contest’s sponsor, Martinelli Custom Publishing, will select three (3) of their favorite photos from those submitted and then conduct a random drawing of the three winning participants to match each of them with their prize. Winners will be notified via email at the email address they provided within five (5) days following the winner selection. Martinelli Custom Publishing shall have no liability for a winner’s failure to receive emails due to recipients’ spam settings or the provision of an incorrect email address. If a winner cannot be contacted or fails to claim their prize within 14 days of notification, prize may be forfeited and an alternate winner may be selected.

Terms: Martinelli Custom Publishing reserves the right to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the photo contest should a virus, bugs, non-authorized human intervention, fraud or other causes beyond its control corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness or proper conduct of the contest. In such case, Martinelli Custom Publishing may select the recipients from all eligible entries received prior to and/or after the action taken by Martinelli Custom Publishing. Martinelli Custom Publishing reserves the right to disqualify any individual who tampers or attempts to tamper with the entry process or the operation of the contest or website or violates these Terms & Conditions.

Disclaimer: New York By Rail will not accept images taken on or near active railroad tracks. Extreme caution must be taken near any train tracks.

The sponsor of this photo contest is Martinelli Custom Publishing, 2656 South Road, Poughkeepsie, New York, 12601, United States