Wine, Water and Wonders Road Trip: Experience Food, History and Nature in New York State

The stunning Hudson Valley makes for a perfect escape for the outdoorsy, who will delight at the chance to savor rolling hills and river views. This countryside isn’t just beautiful, though: It also yields some of the USA’s most flavorful produce and craft beverages. Start your adventure hiking or biking Mohonk Preserve’s over 3,000 hectares of scenic forests, cliffs and wetlands in New Paltz. When the weather is mild, sign up for horseback or carriage rides through this expansive natural paradise. Water adventures are just as abundant in the region: Piermont Marsh is a picturesque starting point for paddling (and birdwatching) adventures along the Hudson River. Next, check out local farms for hands-on tours and fresh produce. If you’re visiting during late summer or fall, you might get the chance to take part in seasonal festivities such as apple picking and hayrides. After your day outdoors, wind down in Hudson Valley’s local cideries, breweries and vineyards. Sample floral and fruity wines at Applewood Winery in Warwick, tour the USA’s oldest wine cellars at Brotherhood Winery in Washingtonville or discover boutique destinations on the Westchester Craft Beverage Trail.

Home of the “Queen of American Lakes,” the Lake George Area has breathtaking views of the Adirondack Mountains you can experience by air, water, rail and trail. Head two hours north of Hudson Valley to Lake George, where you can enjoy a day on the water aboard Lake George Steamboat Company’s historic vessels – which include the largest cruise ship on inland waters in New York, the USA’s oldest continuously operated boat tour and the only steam paddle wheel ship in the USA. Guided tours offer stunning views of Lake George and the surrounding Adirondack Mountains as well as unique options like Sunday brunch voyages and evening fireworks cruises.

Breathe in crisp mountain air at Gore Mountain in North Creek, a 40-minute drive from Lake George. While winter is the best time to ski or snowboard at Gore Mountain, this destination offers year-round excitement. Hike a vast network of trails or take in scenic views of the High Peaks and Southern Adirondacks on a ride aboard the Northwoods Gondola. While in North Creek, make sure to schedule a serene railbike adventure with Revolution Rail Company. Pedal yourself on a picturesque journey through off-the-beaten-path landscapes with incredible views of the forest canopy and the Hudson River.

Named for the 11 deep, narrow lakes that stretch across the area, New York’s Finger Lakes region combines idyllic landscapes with charming culture. Four hours west of North Creek, there’s much to explore, from farm and dairy tours and tastings to special programming like goat yoga at Lively Run Dairy just outside Ithaca. For nature lovers, gorgeous waterfalls and stone paths await at Watkins Glen State Park. Paddle through clear blue waters at Seneca Lake State Park in Geneva before browsing galleries celebrating 3,500 years of glass art history at Corning Museum of Glass in the town of Corning. There, you can see live glass working demonstrations and participate in your own glass workshop. To cap off your day, indulge in a vibrant craft beverage scene: The Finger Lakes American Viticultural Region, the largest wine producing region on the East Coast, is made up of more than 120 wineries, cideries, craft breweries and distilleries.

New York State’s third largest metropolitan area, the colorful city of Rochester is a hotbed for history and culture. This city just 90 minutes north of the Finger Lakes boasts a deep history as a major trade hub – and an epicenter for many of the USA's activist movements. Prominent abolitionist Frederick Douglass and outspoken suffragette Susan B. Anthony both conducted some of their most vital work in Rochester. Make sure to visit Susan B. Anthony Square to admire the sculpture entitled "Let's Have Tea" that enshrines their mutual respect for one another.

Experience Rochester's storied trading past firsthand on a boat tour of the Erie Canal. Climb aboard the spacious Colonial Belle or the 1800s-style packet boat the Sam Patch and get ready to travel back in time. Immerse yourself in the Neighborhood of the Arts, where you’ll find the George Eastman Museum (founder of Kodak and the world’s oldest museum dedicated to film and photography), the Memorial Art Gallery with 5,000 years of art history on display, as well as innovative cuisines at Village Gate Square. Live performances are also abundant all over the city. Be dazzled by dancers of the Rochester City Ballet, serenaded by the classical concerts of Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and enchanted by the live theater performances of Rochester Broadway Theatre League. A visit would not be complete without a stop at The Strong National Museum of Play. Kids and adults of all ages will revel in the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls and games.

Perhaps best known for the iconic natural wonder known as Niagara Falls, the Niagara Falls USA region is a multifaceted haven for history buffs, foodies and art lovers alike. Drive an hour and a half west of Rochester to explore the world-famous waterfalls and dive into local culture. At Niagara Falls State Park, the USA's oldest, get close to the rushing water on Cave of the Winds, glide past Horseshoe Falls on the Maid of the Mist boat tour and learn more about the park's history with a narrated ride on the Niagara Scenic Trolley. Did you know that Niagara Falls played an important role in the abolitionist movement in the USA? You can uncover the unique stories and heroic efforts made to help enslaved people escape to freedom via the Underground Railroad in multimedia museum exhibits at the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center. Before bidding Niagara Falls farewell, explore the Niagara Wine Trail. Sample local sips at boutique vineyards and wineries across the region, like Black Willow Winery, whose tastings pair award-winning whites and reds with local cheeses and chocolates. Reflect on your many adventures across New York State as you drive to the Buffalo Niagara International Airport to catch a flight home.