The Hudson Valley Explorer gives travelers an adventure both inside the train and out. The weekend trips, departing from New York, feature a five-course dinner with fine china and white linens. The chef-prepared meals include jumbo shrimp, sirloin steaks and Mediterranean salads and are accompanied by complementary wine, beer and cocktails. Dessert is followed by entertainment in the same dining car, the restored 1950s Pullman, "Epicurus."
The 300-mile round trip through the Hudson Valley showcases views of West Point, Bear Mountain, mansions, bridges, boats and lighthouses that you can't see from the highway. The train makes its way to several destinations, including Saratoga Springs, Lake George, and South-Central Vermont. (See Reference 1)
Rail and Cruise Travel Center
PO Box 652, Union, NJ 07083-0652
908-688-7277, 800-292-7245
railandcruisetravel.com
The Upper Hudson River Railroad offers unique rail trips into the Adirondacks. It leaves from North Creek in the Lake George region, or Riparius, and winds along the Hudson River. The rails were formerly the Adirondack Branch of the D&H Railroad.
The train pulls up to restored stations within walking distance of shops, where travelers can buy gifts, fine art and crafts, as well as find restaurants and a 4 Diamond Hotel.
The trip is perfect for couples, families, and corporate events, and accommodates wheelchairs, walkers and strollers. (See Reference 2)
Upper Hudson River Railroad
Railroad Place, North Creek, NY 12853
518-251-5334
uhrr.com
The Grand Fall Foliage Tour extends for 11 days, giving travelers the experience of a New England autumn, with breathtaking train-window views, lake cruises, meals in rustic inns and more. Travelers enjoy a diverse collection of railways, from the steam-powered Mount Washington Cog, to Amtrak's Vermonter. You'll enjoy a turkey dinner in the Winnipesaukee RR diner, overlooking beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee.
The package covers 10 nights in hotels, all rail travel, boat fares, all motorcoach travel, designated sightseeing, 21 meals, luggage handling and a tour manager. Highlights include views from the Frankenstein Trestle, the Canterbury Shaker Village, Shelburne Farms and museum and Fort Ticonderoga. (See Reference 3)
Amtrak
877-929-7245
vacationsbyrail.com
