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.