Tour New York with Connections Suggested Itineraries!

New York By Rail presents Connections, suggested two-day rail/drive itineraries, perfect for group and individual travel! Here are a few summer getaway ideas including tours of wineries, small historic towns, famous destinations, craft breweries and distilleries, Hudson River Valley attractions and much more!

All of these locations are accessible via Amtrak and Enterprise*!

Visit New York By Rail for more information and discounts.

*Reserve an Enterprise car at 1-800-Rent-a-Car or Enterprise.com

Reference account # NYTRAIN for a special discount!

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Photo from Hilltop Hanover

Visit Westchester (7.7 Miles from Croton-Harmon Amtrak Stop)—Westchester, a site of natural beauty and famous architecture. Begin your visit at Kykuit for a remarkable gardens, history and more. Eat at the Stone Barn farm, restaurant and educational center, then head to Union Church of Pocantico Hills. Enjoy a night at the Sheraton—complete with indoor pool, spa and full-service restaurant, or stay at the Doubletree—complete with a sauna, fitness center and more. Spend the next day hiking the 187-acre farm trails at Hilltop Hanover, exploring Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, or Lyndhurst, one of America's Finest Gothic Revival mansions.

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Catskills Beverage Trail (1.1 Miles from Hudson Amtrak Station)—More than the home of a historic village and picturesque views, the Catskills have their very own beverage trail. Visit Honey Hollow—the only farm-brewery in Greene County, Crossroads, voted "Best Restaurant in Green County," or enjoy tastings at Hudson-Chatham winery. Enjoy a beautiful view of the Catskill Creek and stay a night at Caleb Street's Inn, or enjoy some more craft beverages at Hammo's Brewpub & Lodge—pairs with comfort food and a warm bed. Enjoy the next day continuing down the beverage trail or exploring the historic village of Catskill.

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Photo from Stoutridge

Hudson Valley Craft Spirits and Wine (16.3 Miles from Poughkeepsie Amtrak Station)—Enjoy a two-day stay in the Hudson Valley, home to a handful of wineries and craft distilleries, and the vast Minnewaska State Park. Start with a tasting at Tuthilltown, explore the 20,000+acres of Minnewaska or continue your tasting tour at Stoutridge for locally-produced wines and spirits. Stay the night at the luxurious boutique country hotel, The Rhinecliff, and experience another day of tastings at vineyards, or catch the region's annual food festival.

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City of Hudson and Beyond (2.2 Miles from Hudson Amtrak Station)—The City of Hudson is filled with an array of fine restaurants, pubs, galleries, and more to keep you busy for quite some time. On Day One we suggest starting in Downtown Hudson, then heading over to Wm. Farmer & Sons for some "proper drinking" and simple supper, or Helsinki Hudson for homespun seasonally-selected foods. Enjoy a night of eclectic boarding in one of Wm. Farmer & Sons' comfortable suites, and rest up for a fun day of art and history at the Martin Van Buren Historic Site, or Mac-Haydn Theater. Treat yourself to amazing BBQ, comfort food and prohibition-style cocktails at American Glory.

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Albany Craft Beverages and History (2.3 Miles from Albany Amtrak Station)—The Albany area is abundant with art, history and a beverage trail promoting local farm-based craft beverage producers. Start you first day at the Albany Institute of History and Art, visit the MiSci museum and planetarium, and grab a bite at Jack's Oyster House. Spend the night at the "Ultimate Urban Inn," the Morgan State House. On Day Two, tour C.H. Evans Brewery and the Albany Beverage Trail's three other craft breweries and ciders, grab a bite at Crossgates Mall—featuring over 250 stores and restaurants.

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Photo from Gideon Putnam

Saratoga Spas and Culture (2.8 Miles from Saratoga Springs Amtrak Station)—With rich history, cultural hotspots and spas, what's not to enjoy about Saratoga Springs? Have a relaxing day at the Roosevelt Baths, then tale a tour of the Automobile Museum or the Museum of Dance. Rest for the night at the elegant and historical Gideon Putnam, or the state-of-the-art Pavilion Grand. Spend the next day exploring downtown Saratoga, grab a cup of coffee at the oldest coffeehouse in the U.S., Caffe Lena, or visit the "Revolutionary" landmark, Saratoga Battlefield.

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.

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.

Sip, Savor, Sniff, and Swirl Through New York State's Finest Beverage Trails!

Whether you enjoy beer, wine or any other libation, you can enjoy it in New York State. These trails offer a wide array of unique activities for you to enjoy while tasting your way through the different regions. Each of these locations is easily accessible by the local Amtrak stations.

Image Courtesy of Millbrook Winery

Dutchess Wine Trail

(14.4 miles or 21.6 miles from Rhinecliff-Kingston Amtrak, depending on which winery you choose to visit first)

The Dutchess Wine Trail connects Clinton Vineyards and Millbrook Vineyards and Winery. Nestled in eastern Dutchess County, this trail leads you past bountiful vineyards, orchards and farms. Along the trail you will find thoroughbred horse farms, woodlands, lakes and streams. Clinton Vineyards was awarded the "Best Wine Produced in the Hudson Valley" for their Jubilee champagne in 2011. Located just 15 minutes away is "Hudson Valley's Flagship Winery," Millbrook Vineyards and Winery. Serving guests with world-class wines, Millbrook has earned acclaim as one of the top wineries in New York State. This trail also offers fine restaurants, country inns, bed and breakfasts and antique shops nearby.

                                                                  Hudson Berkshires

(15.5 miles from Rhinecliff Amtrak station)

Image Courtesy of Furnace Brook Winery

One of the premiere beverage trails in New York State, this trail features handcrafted and award-winning wines, beers, and spirits. The trail, which extends from Southeast of Albany down to Hudson, NY, includes five venues: Brookview Station Winery; Harvest Spirits; Hudson-Chatham Winery; Furnace Brook Winery; and Hudson Valley Distillers. Enjoy “Second Saturdays” on the trail where a $15 Special Trail Passport will allow you entry to all five. The last day of the season for this special event is 

                                                                                   December 12th.

Image Courtesy of Cazenovia Beverage Trail

Cazenovia Beverage Trail

(26.8 miles from Syracuse Amtrak station)

Visit one of the most beautiful regions in New York State for a unique experience in the countryside at Cazenovia Lake. The Cazenovia Beverage Trail is a collaboration of three craft beverage producers including the Harvest Moon Cidery at Crite Farms, Owera Vineyards, and the Henneberg Brewing Company. These producers promote delicious farm-based, handcrafted beverages, such as wine, hard cider, and beer.  

Image Courtesy of Shawangunk Wine Trail

Shawangunk Wine Trail

(11.3 miles from Poughkeepsie Amtrak)

Home to 14 diverse wineries, this eighty-mile-long trail is nestled between the Shawangunk Mountains and the Hudson River in Ulster and Orange Counties. Here you’ll enjoy an experience rich in history and culture with museums, attractions, local shops, live music and cuisine from locally-sourced ingredients. Start your holiday season on the trail with “Wreath Fineries at the Wineries” where you can enjoy special tastings and receive a free souvenir glass, grapevine wreath, and ornament from each winery.

Image Courtesy of Niagara Landing Wine Cellars

Niagara Wine Trail (17.5 miles from Niagara Falls Amtrak): Spreading across the Niagara, Rochester and Buffalo areas, this wine trail is strategically located near Lake Ontario in a moderate climate, ideal for growing a wide variety of fruit. Along the trail are interesting towns with great restaurants, historic sites and antique shops – all just a short drive to Niagara Falls.

Image Courtesy of Victory View Vineyard

Upper Hudson Valley Wine Trail

(21.4 miles from Fort Edward-Glens Falls Amtrak)

Along this trail, you’ll savor the unique tastes from Washington County, visit “horse racing country” in Saratoga County, and the “Queen of American Lakes” in Warren County. You can try wines from new northern grape vines as well as the old-world classics. Each winery on the trail has its own seasonal hours. With the new Upper Hudson Valley Wine Trail Passport Deal, you may buy one wine tasting at regular price and get a second tasting at

                                                                                      any winery on the trail for free.

Image Courtesy of Finger Lakes Wine Center

Canandaigua Wine Trail

(29.2 miles from Rochester Amtrak)

This wine trail offers a full Finger Lakes experience. In addition to the six world-class wineries and up-and-coming breweries, the trail is surrounded by local attractions, restaurants, hotels, B & B's attractions, shopping, and more. For an afternoon of wine tasting, you can buy the Canandaigua Wine Trail Passport for only $10 from any of the six wineries, each offering its own special discounts for their wines.

                                                                   Adirondack Coast Wine Trail

                                                                           (2.8 miles from Plattsburgh Amtrak)

Image Courtesy of Adirondack Coast Wine Trail

This newly-created wine trail has received rave reviews from guests who have experienced the combination of stunning views and delicious flavors of the Adirondack Coast. This December, the trail will host a Holiday Open House when visitors can enjoy great deals on wines, hard cider and gifts while visiting all the wineries along the trail.

The Lincoln Connection

To commemorate the 150^th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's assassination, ILOVENY and New York's Path Through History have teamed up to expose visitors to events and historic sites throughout New York State that directly relate to Lincoln's life and era. 

A Flag for the Ages: Abraham Lincoln and the New York State Capitol (2.2 miles from Albany-Rensselaer Amtrak station): On August 6 and September 3, the New York State Capitol Building in Albany will host this exhibition, highlighting the 16^th president's historic connections to New York State, his 1861 visit to the State Capitol, as well as his laying in state at the Old New York State Capitol on April 26, 1865.

This exhibition will also showcase the national flag placed around the bier upon which Lincoln's casket was rested. Artifacts will be on display that explore Lincoln's death and funeral more closely, and New York State's contribution to the Civil War will also be noted.

Civil War Artifacts Exhibit (1.6 miles from Saratoga Springs Amtrak station): Now through December 31, explore the New York State Military Museum's sizable collection of authentic civil war artifacts. Highlights include a civil war canon, soldiers' uniforms, and the A.C. Redwood painting, “Red-Legged Devils at Gettysburg.”

The Lincoln Depot Museum (8.1 miles from Croton-Harmon Amtrak station) currently hosts two different collections of vintage Lincoln items and photos:

• The Brian D. Caplan Collection: Containing over one hundred artifacts, images, and trinkets – including vintage campaign buttons from Lincoln's presidential runs, lockets, and hand carved pipes in Lincoln's likeness.

• Lincoln and New York: The Indispensable Relationship: Explores Lincoln's ties to the town of Peekskill, as well as the role New Yorkers played in Lincoln's two elections. Artifacts on display include rare maps, photos, and a Lincoln signed order.

The Grant Cottage State Historic Site (9.4 miles from Saratoga Springs Amtrak station), home of Lincoln's Commanding General, Ulysses S. Grant, will also host several educational programs in August and September:

• 
  Grant and his Saratoga Connections: 1865-1885: On August 19, the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation, in collaboration with Friends of Grant Cottage, will present an informative PowerPoint program exploring Ulysses S. Grant's connections with the people and places of Saratoga, through a selection of stories and pictures.

• You Are There: April 9, 1865: On September 12, experience the surrender at Appomattox through an old-fashioned radio broadcast. This radio re-enactment and dramatization is based on reports of the actual event, with musical selections by the 77^th NY Regimental Balladeers, sound effects, reporter coverage, and appearances by notable historical characters.

For more historical, Lincoln-related events and information on a 15% discount for Amtrak travelers within New York State, visit Newyorkbyrail.com.

Visit iloveny.com/lincoln to learn more about this special commemoration and plan your family's next historical experience! #iloveny #Lincoln150