Hudson River Fall Foliage

Arrive in Albany before your cruise and check into your hotel. Spend time exploring one of the nation's oldest state capitals, known for its historic landmarks and Hudson River setting. Walk through Empire State Plaza, visit the New York State Museum, or tour the New York State Capitol. Explore nearby parks and historic neighborhoods before beginning your Hudson River cruise.

Board your small ship in Albany and begin cruising south along the Hudson River. Settle into your stateroom before taking in views of the river, rolling hills, and colorful fall landscapes. Relax on deck or in the lounge as you cruise through the Hudson Valley and enjoy your first look at the region's scenic shoreline.

Explore Catskill, a charming river town where the Hudson shapes the landscape and the Catskill Mountains rise on the horizon. Stroll along Main Street, lined with antique shops, cafés, and galleries. Discover the Thomas Cole National Historic Site, the home and studio of the Hudson River School founder, offering a glimpse into the birth of American landscape painting. At Olana State Historic Site, admire the richly decorated interiors of Frederic Church’s home and studio, including the central Court Hall and Isabel Church’s Sitting Room inspired by El Khasné, Petra. A scenic ride through Catskill State Park, with a stop at the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, showcases spectacular Catskill Mountains fall foliage along the Hudson.

Overlooking the Hudson River is West Point Military Academy, established in 1802 and known for its rich military and historical heritage. Enjoy a West Point Military Academy visit with an exploration of the campus, including the Cadet Chapel, Trophy Point, and the West Point Museum. Beyond the academy, experience the Walkway Over the Hudson, a historic bridge that once spanned the river as the world’s longest and played a key role during the Industrial Revolution. With museums, architecture, and riverside panoramas, with nearby villages and seasonal fall activities that add to the charm.

Arrive in New York City and spend the day taking in the city’s iconic sights, from Central Park’s fall foliage to world-class museums, Broadway, and Times Square. 

Shore excursions allow visits to iconic sites such as the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, where the stories of those affected are shared and allows time at the Memorial Pools and Survivor Tree. Other excursions highlight Midtown Manhattan, including Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Bryant Park, Grand Central Station, and views of Central Park. 

Intrepid Museum Exploration – Complimentary Excursion
Journey through decades of innovation and achievement at this engaging museum. Step aboard the legendary aircraft carrier Intrepid and explore a remarkable collection that includes the world’s first space shuttle, a nuclear-armed submarine, dozens of military aircraft, a supersonic spy plane, and one of the fastest commercial airliners in history. As you wander the decks and exhibits, discover the stories behind these iconic machines and the people who built and flew them.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes 

Along the first stretch of the Hudson River lies Sleepy Hollow, a riverside village steeped in folklore and literary history. Fall is the perfect time to visit, when colorful foliage and a hint of Halloween magic bring the village to life. Wander past the Old Dutch Church and Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where Washington Irving is laid to rest, and soak in the seasonal charm on leisurely walks through this historic community. Take in the grandeur of Gothic Lyndhurst Mansion with its sweeping river views and explore the stories of Irving’s legend while enjoying the rich autumn scenery.

Gothic Lyndhurst Mansion - Complimentary Excursion
Overlooking the Hudson River in Tarrytown, NY is Lyndhurst, one of America’s finest Gothic Revival mansions. Join a guided exploration of this remarkable example of the Hudson River’s grand and historic estates while enjoying the spectacular beauty of the Hudson River.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Experience two sides of the Hudson River in one memorable stop, beginning in Kingston, NY, a historic river town and former New York State capital. Stroll the Stockade District, with its 17th-century stone buildings, and enjoy the waterfront arts scene along Rondout Creek, where galleries, boutiques, and cafés meet rich maritime history. Fall brings seasonal touches like apple tasting, adding to the village’s charm.

A short drive leads to Hyde Park, home to the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site and the grand Vanderbilt Mansion. Explore the FDR Library and Museum and glide along the river to the Roundout Lighthouse aboard a quiet, solar-powered vessel. 

Hudson River Maritime Museum - Complimentary Excursion
Gain fascinating insight into the story of the Hudson River and its rich maritime history in this guided museum exploration. Join one of the expert guides, as you explore Hudson River Maritime Museum's fascinating exhibits and collections. Learn about the river's tributaries and the industries that thrived along its banks, like brick making, bluestone quarrying, and coal transportation. Ever wondered how the New York Canal system and the steam era revolutionized transport on the river? Discover how these influences paved the way for the booming industries of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Rondout Lighthouse Adventure - Complimentary Excursion
Step into maritime history on a guided exploration of the historic Rondout Lighthouse, one of only seven remaining lighthouses on the Hudson River. Led by guides and crew of the Hudson River Maritime Museum, be ferried to the lighthouse, which is accessible only by boat, aboard the museum’s fully solar-powered Solaris, an exceptionally quiet passenger vessel. While leading guests through the interior of the 1913 brick lighthouse, the guide will tell tales of the lives of lighthouse keepers past and the bustling history of the largest river port between New York City and Albany. The excursion culminates in an optional climb to the top of the tower and onto the observation deck around the light itself, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Hudson River, the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge, and, on a clear day, the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No

Spend a full day immersed in the beauty of the Hudson River, where the pace is unhurried and the scenery takes center stage. Watch vibrant fall colors unfold from your private balcony or the outdoor decks and join fellow travelers for destination-focused enrichment programs with guest speakers presenting topics on the region.

Onboard experiences range from, Art Classes, Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology, Trivia, and Game Shows. This day of river cruising allows you to unwind, soak in the changing landscape, and enjoy the calm rhythm of the river. Don’t miss out on the signature nightly happy hour or relax with onboard entertainment while your small ship carries you through the Hudson Valley.

Conclude your Hudson River journey in Albany, where the city’s historic skyline unfolds before your eyes, blending modern architecture with glimpses of its rich past. Enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarkation, taking time to reflect on your unforgettable Hudson River Fall Foliage cruise. For those continuing their travels, Albany offers easy access to nearby Hudson Valley villages and other scenic destinations, making it a perfect gateway for extended exploration.