New York State Outdoor Music Festivals

Memorial Day has just marked the official start of summer. That means now is the time for summer vacations and getaways! New York State is known for great outdoor music festivals in unique settings and here are a few we recommend that are accessible by a relaxing ride on Amtrak:

38th Annual Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival (2.5 miles from Saratoga Springs Amtrak Station): Located in the cultural core of upstate New York, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) will host this year's festival on June 27 – 28. SPAC is renowned for its acoustic quality and unique atmosphere. Seven performances will occur in the SPAC Amphitheatre, whilst performances proceed simultaneously on the Gazebo Stage. Admission ranges from $60 - $85. Guests are recommended to reserve a hotel room beforehand.

Lake George Elvis Festival (19.5 miles from Fort Edward-Glens Falls Amtrak Station): For the twelfth consecutive year, the Village of Lake George will host one of North America’s largest Elvis Festivals. Five days of entertainment will ensue on May 28 with a free concert on the shore of the lake and will feature the world’s foremost tributes to the King of Rock-n-Roll, a Classic Car parade, Elvis-themed cruises on the lake, and an “Elvis meets the Beatles” segment. Celebrate the influential life and music of Elvis Presley upon the picturesque backdrop of Lake George.  

Photo Credit: New York State Festivals

Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival (1.0 mile from Rochester Amtrak Station): Last year’s festival witnessed attendance of nearly 200,000 guests. The 2015 XRIJF, occurring from June 19 – 27, is one of the nation’s most anticipated music festivals of the year. XRIJF will present over 150 artists at more than 20 different venues, totaling 324 concerts. 95 of the included shows are free of cost.

The Governors Ball (7.5 miles from New York Penn Station): For a festival that has thought of everything, take a trip to Randall’s Island for the 2015 Governors Ball, June 5-7. Headliners this year include Drake, the Black Keys, Deadmau5, Florence and the Machine, Lana Del Rey, Bjork, My Morning Jacket, and Ryan Adams. Other non-music entertainment is also available. Single-day tickets are $120 and a 3-Day General Admission is $275.

Photo Credit: Nature Calendar

Clearwater Festival (2.2 miles from Croton-Harmon Station): Contribute to the health of the Hudson River and have a great time doing so by attending Pete Seeger’s festival at Croton Park on June 20 – 21. Since the 1960s, this festival has entertained guests with storytelling, dance, educational workshops, boat rides, food, community, and music. This year will mark the one-year anniversary of the loss of the festival’s inspirational founder, so help his dream live on and enjoy live entertainment whilst contributing to the betterment of the Hudson River and supporting Clearwater’s environmental research. Prices vary depending upon days of attendance.

Music festivals are an exciting way to experience New York’s culture and scenery, and Amtrak can take you to them. Start your summer getaway by sitting back and enjoying the train ride to your destination. For more information on other summer getaways reachable by Amtrak and a 15% discount for Amtrak travel within New York State, visit New York By Rail.

All New Discovery Tour

                                                                                                           

Between the winding cave walls awaits an adventure for those of any age, at Howe Caverns. A truly mesmerizing wonder that should be on every families bucket list when visiting Upstate New York. It’s no wonder why Howe Caverns is the second most visited natural site in the entire state of New York.

Traditional Tour - Strap on your favorite pair of walking shoes and prepare for a 90 minuet experience like no other. The traditional tour is perfect for families, since the majority of the trip involves walking through the caverns on a clear and well lit path, alongside the tranquil river. Enter the elevator, set to take you 15 stories underground, into a refreshingly cool abyss. Stroll past the living limestone cave walls, a picturesque journey made possible from over millions of years in the making.

      

           

Signature Rock Discovery Tour -Guests will finally find out the answer to the age old question that has been asked on the Traditional Tour for years, ‘What’s behind the dam doors?’ Howe Caverns is unveiling portions of the caverns that have not been open to public in over 100 years! 

This 2.5 hour exploration, gives guests the opportunity to see firsthand the caverns just as Lester Howe did over one century ago. Travel by boat, on foot and on hands and knees. Highlights of the tour include: The Dam, The Old Boat,The Music Hall, The Pipeline, Tower of Babel, The Haunted Castle, and Signature Rock. Containing over hundreds of initials of past visitors, dating back to 1843. Including the signature of Mr.Howe, and possibly past United States Presidents. 

Unlike the traditional tour, there are no modern conveniences such as lights or walkways (Helmets with headlamps, boots and other necessary gear will be provided, ages 14+).

Celebrate Spring at These Festivals

After a long, cold winter, the temperature is finally rising and the weather is getting beautiful. It's time to head outdoors and celebrate the season. New York is home to tons of events that welcome spring; between the flower festivals and food and drink festivals, there is plenty going on to keep you busy every weekend.


Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival - Buffalo was hit hard by snow this winter, but they're ready for a "springtime blizzard" of cherry blossoms and flowers at the Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival. The event takes place from May 2 - 9 in the Japanese Garden in Delaware Park; the focal point is the bright pink cherry trees and admission is free! Events during the week-long celebration include a tea ceremony, a tree planting, traditional Japanese performances and more. Buffalo-Exchange Street Station is 5 miles from Delaware Park.

Hudson Valley Garden Fair - The Hudson Valley Garden Fair is a great event for those with a green thumb- and even those without one! Guests can listen to a lecture on gardening, tour historic gardens, and shop the many plant and garden vendors in attendance on May 2 at Montgomery Place in Red Hook. The garden fair is 7.5 miles from the Rhinecliff-Kingston Amtrak Station.

Photo from Flickr by Liz Lawley

Rochester Lilac Festival - The history of the Rochester Lilac Festival dates back to 1890, but the tradition has remained in place and has continued to grow. From May 8 - 17, go to Highland Park to enjoy 10 days of beautiful spring blooms and live music, as well as art shows and shopping for lilac products and souvenirs. Admission to the festival is free, though a few events, like the wine and chocolate tasting, require guests to purchase tickets. The Lilac Festival is 2.5 miles from Rochester Amtrak Station.

The Albany Tulip Festival - Stroll through Washington Park and admire over 100,000 tulip bulbs in full bloom at The Albany Tulip Festival. The festival takes place on May 9 & 10, and ends with a Mother of the Year Award on Sunday, Mother's Day. Other events include the Tulip Queen Coronation and the Royal Tulip Ball. The festival is free to the public, though the Royal Tulip Ball and the Tulip Queen and Court Luncheon require guests to purchase tickets. The Tulip Festival is 2.5 miles from the Albany-Rensselaer Amtrak Station.

Ninth Avenue International Food Festival - The Ninth Avenue International Food Festival is the oldest and largest food festival in New York City. On May 16 - 17, visit the vendors that line Ninth Avenue between 42nd and 57th Streets, offering samples of food from all over the world. In addition, there are tons of merchants selling jewelry and crafts, as well as international entertainment. The festival is about 1 mile from New York-Penn Station.

Photo from Flickr by Benjamin Golub

Hudson-Berkshire Wine and Food Festival - Head to the Columbia County Fairgrounds on May 23 - 24 for the 3rd Annual Hudson-Berkshire Wine and Food Festival. The $25 admission fee covers your souvenir tasting glass, as well as all of the beer, wine and spirits samples you care to try. For food, there will be meats, cheeses and baked goods for sampling and sale. The festival is 13.2 miles from the Hudson Amtrak Station.


New York is coming alive after a long winter. Head outdoors to one of these great festivals located throughout the state. Take an Amtrak train to these destinations for a fun weekend away, and get there using a discount. For more information about these destinations and other getaway ideas, check out New York By Rail.

6 Places to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in New York

Everyone's Irish on St. Patrick's Day! On March 17, and the days leading up to it, everyone is invited to celebrate the patron saint of Ireland and have a bit of craic (fun), as the Emerald Isle does. Parades and celebrations are being held all over the state, but these are just a few that we recommend taking an Amtrak train to:

Wee little Irish step dancers march down 5th Avenue.
Photo credit: Diana Robinson

New York City (1 mile from Penn Station) - The St. Patrick's Day Parade in New York City is one of the most iconic events in the city and the largest St. Patrick's Day celebration in the world, taking place annually on March 17. The first St. Patty's Day Parade in NYC took place in 1762- over 250 years ago! Participants march down 5th Avenue between 44th and 79th streets, led by this year's Grand Marshal, Cardinal Timothy Dolan. More than 2 million people are expected to attend this year's parade, so wear green and stake out a spot early!

 Buffalo (.7 miles from Buffalo-Exchange Street Amtrak Station) - Buffalo's United Irish American Association has been hosting the St. Patrick's Day Parade since 1940. The 75th installment of this fun event will take place on Sunday, March 15 on Delaware Avenue. The celebration isn't limited to one day, though. There will be live music, dancers and entertainment all weekend. On the actual holiday, which falls on a Tuesday, there is a traditional Irish breakfast.

Photo credit: Diana Robinson

Syracuse (2.3 miles from Syracuse Station Amtrak Station) - The theme of the the 33rd annual Syracuse St. Patrick's Day Parade is "March Into Spring." The city hopes to put the harsh winter weather behind them beginning with this celebration, which has been named one of the biggest parades in the United States. The parade goes through Downtown Syracuse at Clinton Square.

Rochester (.6 miles from Rochester Amtrak Station) - Rochester's annual St. Patrick's Day parade usually draws about 50,000 people to the event that takes place on East and Main Streets. Those wishing to start the Irish weekend early can attend the Rochester American's Irish Night and hockey game, which will include Irish step dancers, bagpipers, children's programs and happy hour with Irish drafts for those 21+.

Yonkers (2.8 miles from Yonkers Amtrak Station) - Last year, 2 historic parades merged to form one, giant parade taking place on McLean Avenue in Yonkers. This year's 60th Annual Yonkers St. Patrick's Day Parade takes place on Saturday, March 21 at 1 p.m. The festivities have been growing each year and you can expect that this one will be bigger and greener than ever.

Photo credit: Diana Robinson

Utica (.5 miles from Utica Amtrak Station) - Utica's St. Patrick's Day Parade will be held on Saturday, March 14 at 10 a.m. The event has been held since 1978, and in 2008 The Great American Irish Festival took over organizational duties of the parade. Over 2000 people march and thousands more watch from the sidewalks of Genesee Street. If you attend, don't forget your non-perishables for the Parade Food Drive.

Each of these parades is located close to an Amtrak station, making your travel plans for St. Patrick's Day easy and comfortable. Need another reason to get away for a weekend? Amtrak is running tons of promotions to get you to your St. Patty's Day destination with a discount. If you're looking for more ways to enjoy a weekend in these cities, check out New York By Rail.

Yes, We Have Wi-fi!

The next time you travel on an Amtrak train in New York, stay productive with AmtrakConnect Wi-Fi services. Now, traveling a long distance does not have to mean disconnecting! Let the time pass quickly by keeping up with work, sending a few e-mails, or even just relaxing while you browse the Internet. Wi-Fi on Amtrak reaches 85 percent of all passengers and is available on every shorter distance route across the United States. And the best part of all - it’s free!


How to Connect to Amtrak Wi-Fi  

Follow this procedure if your device does not instantly connect you to the service:

1. Locate “Amtrak Connect” in your offered wireless networks. If you are sitting on the train, it states “AmtrakConnect,” and if you are still at the station it will state “AmtrakConnectStation.”
2. Now join the Wi-Fi network by tapping or clicking the name.
3. Either open or refresh an Internet browser, and wait for the Amtrak welcome screen to appear.
4. When the Amtrak welcome screen is opened, select “I Agree. Get Connected.” The Internet should automatically connect.


Where is Wi-Fi Supported?

Wi-Fi is fully available on the Empire Service trains, including the Adirondack, Ethan Allen Express, and Maple Leaf lines. It is not available in Canada on the Adirondack and Maple Leaf trains, however.

Just look for the “hot spot” stickers on the windows that indicate there is Wi-Fi.

Wi-Fi is also available in the Amtrak gate areas in New York City’s Penn Station.

It is important to keep in mind that many others riding the train may be using the service at the same time, so the amount of bandwidth available is dispersed evenly to all Wi-Fi users. Therefore, in order to keep everything running smoothly, Amtrak can only allow up to 10 MB of downloadable data per person, and all video streaming content is blocked due to the greater file sizes.

Our advice? Download  those larger files to your laptop, tablet, or smartphone in advance, so you can enjoy that movie or e-book and avoid any technical issues.

If you need any last minute travel suggestions, remember to go to New York By Rail!

Saratoga Springs: A Weekend Getaway Reachable by Train

If you're looking for a last-minute getaway, less than 4 hours from New York City by train, Saratoga Springs may be your answer. Embrace the chilly weather at the annual Winterfest, taking place from January 30 - February 8, 2015. There are plenty of activities for families and couples who want a weekend away from New York City. One of the most convenient ways to get to Saratoga is taking an Amtrak train from Penn Station.

Amtrak is running a promotion that allows customers to purchase a $90 round-trip ticket that they can use between any two Adirondack line stations, including Saratoga Springs. For details about the offer, go to Amtrak.com. With this great promotion, there's no better time to escape the city. 

If you only stay in beautiful Saratoga Springs for a weekend, Winterfest offers a wide array of activities to keep people of all ages entertained. The weekend kicks off with the Beer and Wine Tasting on January 30. The next day, eat your way through Saratoga at Chowderfest. At $1 a cup, you are free to eat as many bowls as you can and vote for your favorite. Other Winterfest opening weekend activities include the CANdlelight Ski & Snowshoe, Winterfest 5K Race, Limoncello's Taste of Italy and Winterfest at Complexions Spa for Beauty & Wellness. 

Photo courtesy of Saratoga Convention  and Tourism Bureau

Hockey fans can participate in or cheer at the Saratoga Frozen Springs Classic Pond Hockey Tournament on February 6-8. Whether you want to join in the excitement or sit back and sip cocoa from the sidelines, the event is a classic winter activity that draws tons of fans every year. On this final weekend of Winterfest, you can also attend the Bartender's Ball or take the kids to Wilton Wildlife: WinterFest Snowshoe Event at Camp Saratoga. 

Saratoga Springs is the perfect winter destination for New York City residents without a car because Amtrak takes you right to the city. From the Saratoga Springs Amtrak station you can take a cab for generally $10 or less to your choice of downtown hotels. The Pavilion Grand Hotel has a special Amtrak rate and is offering a free room upgrade upon availability for Winterfest visitors. Call the hotel at 518-583-2727 for details. The Pavilion Grand Hotel is a brand new boutique hotel that offers tons of amenities for the traveler looking for a comfy weekend in Saratoga. After a day spent walking around the city and chowing down on chowder, guests can enjoy the spa at The Pavilion Grand Hotel for ultimate relaxation. This hotel is central to most

Photo courtesy of Pavilion Grand Hotel

of the Winterfest activities as well as the clubs and restaurants that bring tourists back to Saratoga time after time. 

In downtown Saratoga, don't miss one of the most renowned and popular music venues, Cafe Lena; Bob Dylan and Arlo Guthrie are among the many famous musicians who have performed at this coffeehouse. You'll also find plenty of dancing, pubs and every kind of cuisine or restaurant you can imagine downtown. The Pavilion Grand Hotel's restaurant, Mingle on the Avenue, offers an eclectic menu featuring Korean-fusion and American comfort food. The restaurant uses local food and produce, guaranteeing fresh and delicious cuisine. 

By choosing to spend a weekend in Saratoga this winter, you'll be able to celebrate the season with locals and tourists. With Amtrak's $90 round-trip promotion, you can sit back and relax before arriving for a fun weekend in Saratoga, which will surely have you wanting to return. For more details about the promotion and other destinations accessible by train, see NewYorkByRail.com.

A Winter Weekend in Montreal

As temperatures go south, leave New York City and head north for a fun winter weekend. Amtrak is running a promotion that allows customers to buy a $90 round-trip ticket between any two Adirondack stations, even going as far as Montreal, Canada. This promotion is valid through April 27, 2015. For more details about this offer, check out Amtrak's website.

From Penn Station in New York, the trip to Montreal takes about 10 hours. While it may seem long, the trip is 10 hours of relaxation, wifi access, comfy seats, dining services and beautiful Hudson River scenery. The train brings you right to downtown Montreal, where you can check in to The Queen Elizabeth hotel, which has direct access to the Amtrak station. As soon as your arrive, Montreal will charm you with its combination of old and new: beautiful Victorian buildings alongside modern skyscrapers, which cannot be taller than Montreal's Mount Royal, to maintain the city's natural
beauty.

If you're looking to celebrate the winter, MONTREAL EN LUMIERE is one of the world's largest winter festivals, held from February 19 to March 1, 2015. Prepare yourself for an abundance of delicious foods, performances and tons of free activities for adults and kids. If the cold weather has you longing for the indoors, you can spend your time in the RESO, Montreal's underground city, which spans over 20 miles. The underground city is a huge tourist destination because of its shopping, hotels and museums, via street and metro access.

MONTREAL EN LUMIERE festival.
Photo credit: Kristina Servant

One of the best parts about taking Amtrak is that you step off the train and are in the heart of downtown Montreal. You don't need a car for your weekend in this beautiful city because of the Montreal Metro. All of that lends itself to a relaxing and fun weekend in one of Canada's most vibrant and exciting cities.

If you don't want to head as far north as Montreal, consider using your $90 round-trip Amtrak ticket to visit Saratoga Springs or Lake Placid this winter. In Saratoga Springs, you can warm up in the cold at the Saratoga Chowderfest on January 31st during Saratoga's Winterfest Week. If you get off at the Westport stop, you can take the Amtrak Thruway bus service to Lake Placid, the village known for the 1980 winter Olympic games and its small town charm; here you can play winter sports to your heart's content or enjoy restaurants and boutique shopping.

If you need a break from New York City this winter, use Amtrak as your means to get away. You may not escape the cold in Montreal, but you will get a change in atmosphere and a fun weekend in an amazing city, with no hassle on an Amtrak train. For more information on Amtrak Adirondack route destinations, visit New York By Rail.