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dream destinations getaway guide listings

AMA Waterways

With over two decades of experience on the world’s rivers, our family-owned and operated company has remained focused on what we do best: providing our guests with innovative and unforgettable travel experiences. As recipient of Cruise Critic’s coveted “Best River Cruise Line” award, AmaWaterways offers you exciting journeys that are unrivaled on the rivers.

Antigua & Barbuda Tourism

The island has warm, steady winds, a complex coastline of safe harbors, and a protective, nearly unbroken wall of coral reef. The expansive, winding coastline is where today’s trekkers encounter a tremendous wealth of secluded, powdery soft beaches and coral reefs. Temperatures generally range from the mid-seventies in the winter to the mid-eighties in the summer. Annual rainfall averages only 45 inches, making it the sunniest of the Eastern Caribbean Islands, and the northeast trade winds are nearly constant, flagging only in September. Low humidity year-round.

Barbados Tourist Board

The Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. is the premier marketing agency/tourism board for the island of Barbados. We invite you to visit our booth and learn why Barbados should be next on your travel list.

Boston Passport Agency

The Department of State, Passport Services issues a U.S. passport to eligible U.S. citizens and nationals as verification of citizenship and identity. Our passport agencies/centers approve the issuance of passport books and/or cards for international and domestic travel.

Bradley International Airport

Bradley International Airport (BDL) offers nonstop flights to over 45 domestic and international destinations from 12 airlines. Enjoy convenient travel with quick check-ins, short wait times, and new dining and shopping options.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity is different. As in “you’ll never want to vacation any other way” kind of different. Every detail is elevated beyond what you ever thought a vacation could be. You’ll enjoy the intimate feel and thoughtful service of a smaller ship, the variety and excitement of a bigger one, and experiences you won’t find anywhere else. So, if you want to explore the world or get away from it for a little while, Nothing Comes Close to Celebrity Cruises.

Columbia County Tourism

Columbia County, NY is situated in the upper Hudson Valley region of New York State bordering Berkshire County. This premier destination boasts a wealth of wine and craft beverage purveyors, delicious dining opportunities, eclectic boutique shops, and breathtaking countryside to explore by car or bike.

Curacao Tourist Board

Curacao is a dream destination that lives beyond compare. All who visit are bound to fall in love with the island’s magnetic energy, colorful views, gorgeous beaches, top-rated hotels and resorts, endless activities, and one-of-a-kind European and Caribbean flair.

Destination Niagara

Destination Niagara USA, we have the incredibly fun job of inspiring leisure and business

travelers to explore not only the iconic waterfalls but everything else that we have to offer across our expansive and diverse destination.

Elite Island Resorts

The founders of Elite Resorts have been providing guests a genuine taste of warmth and hospitality in the Caribbean for over 50 years! Elite has an impressive collection of 9 All-Inclusive, beach front resorts in the Caribbean, and a luxurious ranch style boutique in Panama. Each resort is perfect for a wide and varied type of traveler... couples, singles, families, adults only, romance, retreat, weddings, honeymoon, ecovacations, active; all covered and all unique.

Friendship Tours

Since 1977, Friendship Tours/The Ship Shop has been providing the highest quality Motorcoach Daytrips, Overnight Tours, Luncheon Shows, Ship Shop Cruises, and Fly Tours. Join us as we travel together building friendships through shared travel experiences. www. friendshiptours.net

Great Canadian Railtour Company & Canyon Spirit

All inclusive, daylight journeys throughout the US & Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Greater Merrimack Valley

Based in Lowell, MA The Greater Merrimack Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMVCVB) is the official destination marketing organization for the Greater Merrimack Valley. We are designated by the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism (MOTT) to market the region as a premier travel destination for domestic and international leisure travelers, meetings

and conferences, sportsrelated travel, group travel, and incentive travel.

Greene County

Just a scenic two hour drive west of Springfield, MA, the Great Northern Catskills of Greene County offer some of the best attractions in the Catskills. Visit the mountaintop to hike the Catskill Park, walk through Thomas Cole’s house, or fly down the longest, fastest and highest zipline canopy tour in North America

The

Perch Hotel

Originally built in the early 19th century as a lookout outpost, this historic landmark has transformed into The Perch Hotel—a 14room mountainside boutique retreat and wedding venue located in the Catskills. Blending modern comfort with mid-century charm, it offers sweeping views of the Hudson Valley and a breathtaking five-state panoramic view, the perfect backdrop for any occasion.

Inn Season Resorts Hotel/Resort Marketing

Jamaica Tourism

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is the national tourism agency whose mission is to develop and market the island’s tourist industry so that Jamaica remains the premier Caribbean tourism destination.

Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce

The Lake George region is the crown jewel of the 6-million acre Adirondack Park. Known as the “Queen of the American Lakes”, Lake George is 32-miles long and dotted with approximately 180 islands. With 200+ atttractions and 9,000+ rooms, there is no shortage of things to see and do and

places to stay all year. Rich in history and culture including several museums and historical trails, 200+ miles of trails for hiking and biking, and so much more!

LeafFilter

Gutter cleaning is a tedius, messy, and potentially dangerous task that you have to complete year after year. With LeafFilter Gutter Protection, you can end the hassle of cleaning out gutters for good. LeafFilter’s award-winning and patented technology is scientifically designed to keep everything out of your gutters--except for water.

Lifestyle Holidays Hotels & Resorts

Lifestyle is not just a Resort-- it’s a vacation lifestyle, a community built around quality, service and unforgettable experiences. Founded in 2002 in Puerto Plata Dominican Republic, it has grown over the past 20 years from one single resort into a destination of its own with 5 hotels in the same location. Unique resort concepts under one umbrella, 2 beach clubs, VIP Pool zone, snack bars, and top-shelf bards, a la carte restaurants and buffets offering more restaurants than there are days in your vacation, 20+ food & beverage venues, and 2 high-end spas (including a full-service medi-spa).

Members Choice Vacations

AAA Member Choice

Vacations is leading the evolution of guided travel with expertly crafted tours that connect the modern traveler to the people and culture of a destination. Driven by the philosophy: By Travelers. For Travelers. Our team curates premium experiences across all seven continents, breaking the mold of traditional tours.

dream destinations getaway guide listings

MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau

MetroWest Boston offers amazing outdoor recreation, arts & cultural attractions, activities, dining, shopping and more for all ages and interests, plus 48 hotels from budget to luxury and historic and unique to well-known family-friendly brands. Itineraries, classes, performances, and events can be explored online at www.metrowestvisitors.org.

Northampton Chamber of Commerce

Locals adore it here. Guests daydream about returning. Why all the love? Hampshire County has arts and culture; scenic beauty, biking and hiking; and creative farmto-table cuisine. All the amenities of big city life, with slow country living you can’t resist.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line® invites guests to experience more with their ‘More At Sea™’package that includes unlimited open bar; specialty dining credits; high-speed Wi-Fi; shore excursion credits; as well as free airfare and third and fourth guests sail free on select sailings. Its fleet of 20 contemporary ships sail to 450 of the world’s most desirable destinations.

NYSTIA

New York State offers travelers world-class cities and the best of America’s great outdoors. Explore the unmatched diversity of New York destinations!

Oneida County Tourism

Discover the diverse wonders of Oneida County, NY, where every traveler finds their perfect escape. Whether craving outdoor adventures,

cultural exploration, or tranquil relaxation by scenic lakes, our area offers something for everyone. Embrace endless possibilities and create unforgettable memories in our vibrant destination.

Orange County Tourism

You can take a bite out of the Big Apple, but you can pick them right here in Orange County, where we are the home to a few of New York States largest attractions including  LEGOLAND NY Resort,  Storm King Art Center and Woodbury Common Premium Outlets. Orange County is just 50 miles North  from Ney York City, a place to experience Farm-to-Table dining,  craft beverages, shop, hike, raft and spend the night with a view of our beautiful mountains. Most of all it’s a place to have fun!

Princess Cruises

The Largest Premium Cruise Line sailing all over the World with a strong Presence in Alaska, Europe, and the Caribbean. We are consistently ranked number 1 in Alaska due to our Onboard Program- North to Alaska and our own Princess Wilderness Lodges within the state- we have 5 to help create a unique Cruise and land experience. We sail from 100 Ports in Europe, and have recently introduced our new ship- The Sun Princessfollowed by the Star Princess October of 2025both will be sailing in the Mediterranean and Caribbean this year. Our largest-ever vessels carry 4,300 guests and feature 1,500 balconies, and our exclusive Sanctuary Collection℠ experience. The Sanctuary Collections is a ship within a ship concept with access to a private dining room, private outdoor space, along with a lounge for our Suite guests. We

PERCH HOTEL

Your Respite Awaits. The Perch Hotel is delighted to offer you a two-night weekend stay in one of our premium guest rooms with the iconic Five State View. Your getaway package includes a continental breakfast each morning and two complimentary bottles of wine. Only valid on weekends from October 1stDecember 31st (excluding holidays). To redeem & book please call our concierge: 518.734.0969

WYDLER WINDHAM

With 20 acres of land and the Batavia Kill running through it, our familyfriendly, allseason resort is filled with endless opportunities for relaxation and fun. 2-night complimentary stay in our Windham View King room with balcony. Valid between April 27th, 2025, to April 27th, 2026. Blackout dates apply.

currently have 17 ships in the Princess Fleet, all featuring the Princess MedallionClass™ Experience. We are the Love Boat.

Quincy Tourism

Just minutes south of Boston awaits one of New England’s most captivating destinations, the City of Quincy (“quin-zee”). Called the “City of Presidents” and “Birthplace of the American Dream”, Quincy is the birthplace of the second and sixth U.S. Presidents, John Adams and his son, John Quincy Adams. Home to Adams National Historical Park, the United First Parish Church and Adams Crypt, Marina Bay, the largest marina in the Northeast, with shopping, dining and so much more, all while enjoying the incredible view of the Boston skyline.

SMUGGLERS NOTCH RESORT

3 nights and 3 days in Summer, Fall or Winter for four people at Smugglers’ Notch Resort. This vacation getaway includes studio mountainside lodging and use of pool and hot tubs. Activities! Entertainment! FunZone 2.0 Ozone Level! Winter also includes 3 days of lift tickets. Summer also includes use of 8 pools and 4 waterslides. Fall includes spectacular scenery at every turn!

SMUGGLERS NOTCH RESORT

100 FREE Ski Tickets!

dream destinations getaway guide listings

Renewal by Andersen

Full-service replacement windows and doors.

Rescom

Offering homeowners entry into our $36,000 sweepstakes for replacement windows and doors.

Rockland County

Rockland County is located just 30 miles north of New York City, along the majestic Hudson River, and features a unique mix of diverse natural, cultural and historical assets including scenic waterfront villages, mountain vistas, hiking trails, arts and culture, fine dining, boutique hotels, world-class golf courses and much more!

Saratoga

Discover Saratoga known as the Saratoga Convention & Tourism

Bureau, is a key economic development engine for Saratoga County; our mission is to contribute a positive impact on the local economy by promoting and marketing Saratoga County as a world-class destination for leisure travel, meetings, and events. For more information about Discover Saratoga, please visit discoversaratoga.org.

Smugglers’ Notch

Smugglers’ Notch Resort is a very special family vacation destination. It’s right in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, surrounded by over 3000 acres of pristine forest, spectacular mountain vistas, and the serenity of clear, rushing streams and cool Summer breezes. It’s the perfect playground in which to recreate, to regenerate and to relax in a familyfriendly atmosphere where

you will feel completely at ease ... and at home. The resort features 8 pools & waterslides along with fresh water areas equipped with inflatable water play toys, slides, and splash grounds. You’ll find the convenience of complimentary resort shuttle services to bring you to amenities like the 26,000 square foot FunZone 2.0 which is an air conditioned family recreation arena providing non-stop adrenaline games like Laser Tag, Climbing Walls, Ninja Warrior Courses, along with inflatables, pool table, table tennis, and the ReFuel Café. Smugglers includes non-stop family activities and entertainment when you reserve your vacation with one of the resort’s most popular packages at America’s Family Resort.

Sullivan County Tourism Home to the 1969 Woodstock Festival celebrating its 56th anniversary. Fly Fishing in the famous Beaverkill or Willowemoc Rivers and Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum. Upper Delaware Scenic and Wild National Park and Catskill Park.

Syracuse CVB

Syracuse is your spot for four-season fun. Centrally located in the heart of New York State where you’ll find picturesque parks, a fantastic food scene, yearround festivals, intriguing history, fabulous sporting events and more! Book your next getaway at VisitSyracuse.com

Town of Dennis

“WELCOME TO THE 5 VILLAGES OF DENNIS! - Unique villages , each with their own personality, welcome your visit. Dennis Village; East Dennis Village; South Dennis Village; Dennis

Port Village; and West Dennis Village, is where you will find something to please all visitors young and old. To the north is Cape Cod Bay and to the South the views overlooking Nantucket Sound. The early settlers took to the sea for their survival as captains, boat and ship builders. At one time over 400 captains called the area their home. Today the beaches both to the north and south sides bring both visitors and residents tranquility and pleasure. Dennis is a beacher’s paradise. The north side has many including Chapin Memorial Beach; Mayflower Beach; Corporation Beach; Harbor View Beach; and Cold Storage Beach. On the south side, is West Dennis Beach; South Village Road Beach; Haigis Beach; Glendon Road Beach; and Sea Street Beach. Take a day and visit them all.”

Town of Webb, NY Tourism

Old Forge is a year-round resort area in the six million acre Adirondack Park. Known as the Paddling Capital of the Adirondacks, it also features family friendly hiking and MTB trails, and Enchanted Forest Water Safari. NY’s No. 1 water theme park.

Ulster County

Featuring more than 1,000 square miles of scenic beauty, Ulster County is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, art lovers, daytrippers and weekenders alike. Located less than two hours from the greater Springfield, Mass. area, you’ll feel worlds away when you visit.

Viking Cruises

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destinationfocused journeys on rivers,

oceans, and lakes around the world. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences For The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers, #1 for Oceans and #1 for Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler in the 2023 and 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking is also rated a “World’s Best” for rivers, oceans and expeditions by Travel + Leisure. No other travel company has simultaneously received the same honors by both publications. Viking continues to be the leading small ship travel company, offering river, ocean and expedition voyages on all seven continents.

Visit Rochester

The experts on all things Rochester, New York; the front door to award winning Finger Lakes Wine Region and a short 90 minutes from Niagara Falls. Located on the southern shore of Lake Ontario and alongside the historic Erie Canal, experience worldclass arts, history, golf and entertainment. Let us help plan your next western New York getaway today!

Warren County Tourism

The Lake George Area is known as the home of the “Queen of American Lakes,” Lake George, one of the largest summer destinations offering many types of water activities. Explore the region’s outdoor playground, from meandering along its ancient hiking trails to rafting through the roaring rapids of the mighty Hudson and Sacandaga Rivers.

AUTUMN MEANS DIFFERENT THINGS TO MANY PEOPLE. STUDENTS MAY EMBRACE THE DAWN OF A NEW SCHOOL YEAR, WHILE OTHERS MIGHT EMBRACE THE CRISP WEATHER AFTER A SEASON OF HEAT. ONE OF THE MORE WIDELY ENJOYED ASPECTS OF AUTUMN IS THE CHANCE TO TAKE IN THE BRILLIANT FOLIAGE.

Although New England may be renowned for its bright, orange, red and yellow panoramas, dazzling displays of foliage can be witnessed anywhere temperatures descend enough for deciduous trees to shed their leaves.

The first step to a successful fall foliage excursion is to find the right spot. The Catskill and Adirondack Mountains of New York, Amish Country in Pennsylvania, the Great Lakes from Michigan to Ohio, and many other areas can be great places to witness nature at

its most colorful. To make the most of fall foliage road trips, drivers can keep the following suggestions in mind.

· GET OFF THE HIGHWAY. To see great fall vistas, take a detour from major thoroughfares and visit small towns and mountain passes. Invest in some maps, as cellular networks may be inaccessible in remote locales.

· AVOID TOURIST-HEAVY AREAS. Drivers may prefer less crowded roadways to accompany the great scenery. Such drivers should visit areas that are not tourist meccas. Any area that plays home to forests and sprawling landscapes will do.

· GO ON FOOT. To get the best photos, head out at sunrise or sunset. Soft, golden light dappled by leaves will bring out the golden tones in photos. Going on foot will help you discover the nuances of the season and slow down for a change.

· DON’T OVERLOOK OVERCAST DAYS. Traveling in the rain may not

be fun, but overcast days might be ideal. On such days, the sun won’t be too warm and drown out the colors.

year. Small shops may not take credit cards, so if you plan to buy, cash is king.

Trees begin shedding their leaves as early as the beginning of September in Canada and the northern United States. As the days press on, the fall finery will gradually shift southward. For those who can afford to take a weekday off, do so, as wild weekends might be over come with fellow nature enthusiasts.

· BRING ALONG BINOCULARS. Wildlife is often mobile and abundant in the fall, as animals scurry to feed and gather supplies before the winter. As a result, autumn is a great time to spot wildlife that’s normally hiding in thickets and woodland areas.

Travel smart from the start by learning

· PLAN FOR STOPS ALONG THE WAY. to bring some spending money in the form of cash so that you can enjoy the small farm stands and shops that often dot rural landscapes. Pick up farmfresh produce or choose a plump pumpkin. Yard sales also are abundant this time of

The U.S. Department of State will be on site with experts from the Boston Passport Agency to answer all your passport and travel safety questions.

how to get your U.S. passport and learning about your destination well in advance of your trip!

You may also visit www.travel.state.gov or follow us @TravelGov.

Dennis

THE HEART OF THE CAPE

By Tiera N. Wright SPECIAL TO THE REPUBLICAN

Located in Barnstable County, Dennis is the heart of Cape Cod— located at its center; and comprised of five villages, Dennis, Dennis Port, East Dennis, South Dennis, and West Dennis.

“The fall is the most beautiful time to visit Dennis,” says Kathy DeMeyer, Member of the Town of Dennis Tourism Committee. “The weather is still nice with warm days and crisp nights, and the beaches are still open for long walks and solace.”

Like summer, there are a number of indoor and outdoor activities for families to enjoy. In addition to the beautiful beaches located on the north and south sides of Dennis, DeMeyer says visitors can also enjoy a number of activities such as, “boating, fishing, go carts, antique shopping, wine tasting, brewery tours, and many more.” Additionally, she adds, “the golf courses are

still beautiful and less busy, the bike path is a great fall activity, and bike and kayak rentals are available”.

For those planning their stay in Dennis, there are various options for lodging, to suit everyone’s vacation preference. Guests can choose the charming comfort of a bed and breakfast or being one with the great outdoors at a campground. Dennis also has several cottages, inns, hotels, and motels, to provide all visitors with a quality night’s sleepy away from home. In terms of dining, while takeout is available, DeMeyer says “there are many restaurants offering indoor and outdoor seating.”

For more information, and to start planning your trip, visit the Dennis Chamber of Commerce website,  DennisChamber.com, or call 508-398-3568.

MetroWest BOSTON

AS THE AIR TURNS CRISP AND LEAVES CRUNCH UNDERFOOT, IT’S TIME TO EMBRACE THE BEAUTY—AND MYSTERY—OF FALL IN METROWEST MASSACHUSETTS.

This region shines in October, offering colorful adventures, festive flavors, and just the right dose of fright…all within a short drive.

Kick off the spooky season with The Great Jack O’Lantern Journey at Mendon’s Southwick’s Zoo, running through Oct 31. When night falls, the zoo comes alive with intricate carved pumpkin

displays surrounded by live musical entertainment, acrobats, juggling, and more. Step inside the Haunted Outpost…if you dare. Enjoy cider donuts and other seasonal treats plus hand-crafted adult beverages at Boos & Brews. Can’t visit until Nov or Dec? Don’t miss Winter Wonderland, their spectacular holiday light display.

Explore the Discovery Museum’s amazing outdoor accessible nature playscape and treehouse— beautiful in autumn—plus a ton of indoor hands-on fun that blends science, nature, and play for the very best in STEAM edutainment. Join them Oct 29 and 30th for Halloween Hullabaloo; bring the little ones in costume and enjoy themed games and activities throughout the museum. Or visit later in the year to enjoy a wide variety of other special events.

Looking for other Halloween events? Try the Carnival at Deadwoodville hosted by Hopkinton

Center for the Arts Oct 24, 25 & 27; this isn’t your average haunted house—it’s a full-on descent into a twisted, otherworldly circus. Or visit Sudbury on Oct 24 for Jerusha’s Halloween Ball at the Wayside Inn (21+ only), featuring tarot readings, a costume contest, dancing, and a whiskey & wine pull for the brave and bold. Meanwhile, at Goodnow Farms’ Halloween Barn Party on Oct 24–25, century-old rafters creak and mischief-making spirits come out to play during a delightfully creepy night of fun. Prefer your weekend getaway to be less spooky? Investigate over

MetroWest

a dozen breweries in the region (like CraftRoots or Jack’s Abby), or take a behind-the-scenes tour and tasting of the incredible craft spirits at GlenPharmer Distillery. Perhaps you’d like a farm-to-table meal at Lookout Farm or Buttercup. Start your holiday shopping early with a wander of the Natick, Franklin, Framingham or Marlborough Cultural Districts, full of unique boutiques plus beautiful public art, great restaurants, museums and theaters. Soak in splendid fall colors at Hopkinton or Cochituate State Parks—both have lovely lakes great for paddling and miles of hiking trails— or explore fall foliage at Garden in the Woods or New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. Get your blood pumping at Bosse’s state-of-the-art pickleball courts then kick back in their sports theater to catch a great game. Test your friends with Level99’s huge array of escape rooms and physical challenges that are like nothing you’ve ever seen before.

Snuggle up to the rescued animals at Unity Farm Sanctuary or get nostalgic with a Sky Bar after taking a cooking class at Duck Soup. Try amazing ethnic cuisine at Doragon Eatery, Yama Fuji, Margaritas, or Dates and Olives. We have it all!

• Ready to Road Trip?

From sipping cider to dancing with ghosts, MetroWest Boston brings fall to life like nowhere else. Download the free MetroWest visitors guide and come see what’s hiding just beyond the leaves…www.metrowestvisitors.org/guide

6 New Getaways Where You Can Delight in Autumn’s Charms

Stephanie Rosenbloom

c.2025 The New York Times

It’s the season for pumpkins and leaf peeping and at these six new properties it’s easy to delight in autumn’s charms. Whether you’re checking into a plush hideaway beside Acadia National Park in Maine or wandering through gardens near an Edwardian estate in British Columbia, these getaways offer a mix of city and country pleasures, just in time to savor the colors and flavors of fall.

NORTHEAST HARBOR, MAINE

The Asticou

On the heels of a $28 million renovation, this Maine hotel with roots dating to 1884 has reopened on the quieter side of Mount Desert Island near Acadia National Park, an autumnal wonderland.

Perched above the harbor on almost 25 acres, the Asticou now has 82 rooms and

suites awash in warm colors. Fifty rooms are renovated and in the original inn. There are also 17 new harbor-view ‘spa suites’ with terraces near a new spa, and 15 new harborside cottages with fireplaces, living areas, kitchens and porches. All rooms have linens from Maine-based Cuddledown, and Le Labo bath products. If Acadia’s thousands of acres aren’t enough to entertain you, the Asticou, part of Atlantic Hospitality (which includes Maine hotels such as the Dunes in Ogunquit), offers activities like yoga, art classes and boat charters through its sister property, the Claremont Hotel, in Southwest Harbor. There’s also a new fitness center, heated pool and hot tub. Take a 20-minute drive to downtown Bar Harbor, or pull up a chair at the hotel’s restaurant, Dahlia’s, be it for eggs in the morning or local oysters Rockefeller at night. Cap off a day of adventure with a

cocktail and lobster roll at the hotel’s cozy Moss Bar. Prices from $750 a night.

LITCHFIELD, CONNECTICUT

Belden House & Mews

Dating to the early 1700s, picturesque Litchfield is known for its architecture, from colonial houses to modernist gems by Marcel Breuer and Richard Neutra. See the leaves in all their splendor from White Memorial Foundation’s hiking trails, or from a kayak or a canoe on Bantam Lake. With the addition of this 31-room-and-suite property, it’s easy to explore Litchfield for more than an afternoon.

Created by the team behind the Troutbeck estate in the Hudson Valley, Belden House & Mews is spread across 3 acres in the heart of town. Ten of the rooms and suites (some with fireplaces, balconies and soaking tubs) are in the Belden House, which retains

its 19th-century residential feeling with a library, a living room with fireplace and window seats, and a dining room where the menu highlights New England seafood and local produce. In the morning, you’ll find coffee and tea at the bar, where, later, you can wander over for cocktails, mocktails, beer and wine. If you want to spread out, the house has a three-bedroom, 2,100-square-foot penthouse with a living room, dining room and rooftop terrace.

The other 21 accommodations, some of which you enter through private terrace gardens, are in the Mews, a modernist building behind the Belden House furnished with pieces that nod to midcentury art and architecture. All of the hotel’s rooms, by New York-based Chalimaud Design, have desks, butler service and heated floors.

Also in the Mews is the Belden Bathhouse, with a dry sauna, salt scrub and shower, steam room and 225-gallon

Japanese tub (ofuro) where you can try a cold plunge or hydrotherapy. There’s fitness equipment and a seasonal outdoor 50-foot pool, too. The property’s in-town location is close to boutiques and restaurants. Prices from $500 a night.

VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Rosemead House

On the southern tip of Vancouver Island, this 1906 Edwardian estate has been transformed into an affordable 28-room-and-suite boutique hotel in Esquimalt, near downtown Victoria. Take a 20-minute drive to go leaf-peeping at Goldstream Provincial Park, or a halfhour drive to the 121-year-old Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada, where, throughout October, you can check out the autumn display’s plants, pumpkins and gourds. The hotel officially opens

Friday, though it is now welcoming guests during a soft opening period. Its warm, eclectic style, with floral wallpaper and touches of jewel tones, makes for a cozy start to a new season. Artifacts and halls nod to British history and culture, including art and antiques from British estate auctions, oil portraits,

William Morris textiles, and furnishings and accessories from the Netflix series ‘The Crown.’ Beyond replica Buckingham Palace gates, the guest rooms are spread across the original manor as well as a new wing. (An additional 13 suites, designed for extended stays, are in the works.)

After a day of exploring,

indulge in a treatment at the Salt & Ivy Spa, or work out in the fitness center. Try the hotel’s Janevca Kitchen & Lounge for wood-fired pizzas and grilled dishes like pork chops and hanger steak from chef Andrea Alridge. Prices from $252 a night.

BOULDER, COLORADO

Limelight Boulder

This new 252-room-andsuite hotel is handy if you want to enjoy Boulder’s food and culture without being far from outdoor adventure.

Boulder is an autumnal paradise where you can go mountain climbing, kayaking or hiking on hundreds of miles of nearby trails. Limelight Boulder, on the University of Colorado Boulder cus, offers proximity to those activities while also being a 15-minute walk from Pearl Street’s boutiques and restaurants. The modern rooms, in shades of gray and deep blue, offer views of the Flatirons or of the university’s cus. All have humidifiers, Smeg refrigerators and Lavazza coffee makers. Other amenities include a heated rooftop pool with mountain views; a hot tub; outdoor fire pits; a game room with pool, shuffleboard, darts and foosball; and a fitness center. Part of Aspen One, a collection of adventure and leisure brands, the hotel also features a coworking space.

After a day of hiking or biking, stop into the hotel’s Ajax Tavern for butternut squash ravioli or a Wagyu double cheeseburger. And check out the Crepe Therapy Café, where Mawa McQueen, a James Beard Award semifinalist, has dreamed up treats both sweet (a crème brûlée crepe) and savory (a crepe with Gruyère and Swiss cheeses, rotisserie chicken, basil pesto and mushrooms).

Prices from $299 a night.

NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND

The Royce Newport

About a 15-minute drive from Fort Adams State Park and the changing leaves on trails in the Norman Bird Sanctuary, this 10-room getaway spans two historic mansions: three rooms in what it calls the Spring Street

House (circa 1785) and seven rooms in the Pelham House (circa 1859).

Staying at the Royce is meant to feel like visiting a home, with its parlor, kitchen, dining room and suites, each of which is different. Original moldings and mood lighting add to the homelike atmosphere. A bluestone courtyard shared between the two houses has a fire pit with Adirondack chairs and a fire pit table with a couch, perfect for crisp autumn evenings. You’re only a five-minute stroll from the waterfront and the shops and restaurants of Bowen’s Wharf. Prices from about $1,500 a night for the entire Spring Street House and from $2,000 a night for the Pelham House; from around $500 a night for an individual suite, depending on the size and season. Bookings for the entire property are given priority over bookings for individual suites.

Island House Newport

This 24-room hotel, operated by Main Street Hospitality Group (the team behind hotels such as the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, Massachusetts), is a new contemporary building near Newport’s free, 3 1/2-mile oceanfront Cliff Walk, with its breathtaking views and glimpses of Gilded Age mansions like the Breakers. The hotel is also about a 10-minute walk from the Newport Art Museum. Each roomy suite, in shades of blue and white, inspired by the hotel’s maritime setting, has a kitchen or a kitchenette (some, like the grand and penthouse suites, have a washer and dryer), making them convenient for longer stays. You can also combine room types to create connecting accommodations. Prices from $399 a night (from November to April starting rates, from $177).

BETWEEN THE PEAKS: The Heartbeat of

Smugglers’ Notch

A PLACE WHERE STORIES LIVE, SNOW FALLS, AND FAMILIES COME TOGETHER

High in the rugged beauty of northern Vermont, where steep cliffs carve through the Green Mountains, lies a pass that’s as storied as it is spectacular. Once a secret route for Prohibition-era bootleggers sneaking contraband from Canada, Smugglers’ Notch has transformed from a shadowy smuggling corridor into one of the most beloved four-season family resorts in America.

“The history of the Notch is more than just folklore, it’s part of the resort’s identity,” says Matt McCawley, Content Media Specialist at Smugglers’ Notch Resort. “There’s a sense of adventure etched into the mountains, and we’ve embraced that spirit in everything we do here.”

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NAME WITH A STORY

During the 1920s, smugglers used the narrow mountain pass to evade law enforcement and ferry barrels of illicit whiskey across the border. Today, that same landscape sets the stage for unforgettable experiences, from world-class skiing to family adventures year-round.

“We’ve leaned into that history in a fun way,” McCawley explains. “You’ll see it reflected in trail names like Bootleggers, Rumrunner, and Harvey’s Hideaway. It’s a nod to the past, but what really defines us now is the family experience and the sense of community that brings people back year after year.”

SKIING THE SMUGGS WAY

Renowned as “America’s Family Resort,” Smugglers’ Notch spans three distinct mountains—Morse, Sterling,

the options are endless. The FunZone 2.0 Family Entertainment Complex spans over 26,000 square feet, featuring laser tag, arcade games, climbing walls, a Ninja Warrior course, and brand new giant inflatables for kids of all ages.

“For non-skiers or families who want a break, we’ve got so much to do, there’s indoor pools, ice skating, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or just relaxing by the fire with a hot cocoa,” says McCawley.

EVENTS THAT SPARK JOY

and Madonna—offering 78 trails across 1,000 acres of skiable terrain. With an average of 300 inches of natural snowfall every winter, and cutting-edge snowmaking technology, the conditions are consistently some of the best in the East.

“There’s something for everyone here,” says McCawley. “Beginners start on Morse, intermediates explore Sterling, and experts challenge themselves on Madonna’s steeps and glades. And our ski-in, skiout condos make it easy to step outside and hit the slopes.”

Smugglers’ has also built a national reputation for its award-winning Snow Sport University, which offers programs for all ages and abilities from 3 – 99, from first timer to double black diamond expert. Anyone who wants to try it, or improve in any way, there’s a lesson for you.

“It’s not just about learning to ski, it’s about sharing the experience as a family,” McCawley says. “There’s literally nothing I enjoy more than skiing with my wife and kids, and those memories we’ve made are priceless.”

A VILLAGE FULL OF LIFE

Off the slopes, Smugglers’ Notch is a self-contained alpine village buzzing with activity. Guests can unwind in cozy mountain condos, many with fireplaces and all with sweeping views. Explore a lively village filled with dinning, shopping, and even a Ben & Jerry’s ice cream shop. And when it’s time for play,

Smugglers’ Notch comes alive each week with a full slate of seasonal events, from firework displays and s’mores by the bonfire to live music, comedy nights, and a snowshoe adventure dinner.

“Our events are about bringing people together,” McCawley shares. “There’s a real sense of community here, visitors, locals, staff, we’re all part of the Smuggs family.”

MORE THAN A RESORT

What truly sets Smugglers’ Notch apart, McCawley believes, is its independence and heart. Unlike corporate-owned ski destinations, Smuggs remains locally and independently owned, allowing for a personal touch in everything from programming to guest experiences.

“That independence gives us the freedom to stay true to our values,” McCawley says.

“We tirelessly work to create a place where families can connect with nature, with each other, and with the magic of Vermont.”

Whether you’re chasing fresh powder, relaxing by a crackling fire, or exploring the mountain’s hidden stories, Smugglers’ Notch is a destination that’s as authentic as it is adventurous, rooted in history, rich in beauty, and dedicated to families.

Plan your getaway at  www.smuggs.com, call 1-844-366-1997, or email smuggs@smuggs.com

Follow along on social media for the latest events, snow reports, and family fun.

ARE THEY ANY GOOD? AI TRAVEL TOOLS ARE EVERYWHERE.

Gabe Castro-Root

c.2025 The New York Times

Creators of travel technology powered by artificial intelligence say their tools can make your life easier by doing everything from planning your dream trip to maximizing your loyalty points to telling you about a cool building down the street.

But can they really?

The answer, after putting some of the biggest players to the test: sort of.

Droves of seemingly identical AI trip planners can help you lay out an itinerary and find hotels and restaurants, with varying degrees of success. The best ones can match the conversational style of chatbots like OpenAI’s ChatGPT or Google’s Gemini.

Of course, travel planning tools also have the same shortcomings as any AI program: They don’t always have access to the latest data, they may not have the detailed information of sites such as Google Flights, and, sometimes, they just make things up.

But there are ways to make the most of them. I got advice from experts and tested out these trip planners, as well as AI-powered tools to help you stretch your hotel and airline points and translate conversations. Here’s how they did.

EXPEDIA TRIP MATCHING

The task: Turn Instagram Reels into a vacation itinerary. This well-designed travel planner is easy to use: When

you see an Instagram Reel about a destination you’re interested in visiting, send it to Expedia via direct message, just as you would share it with a friend. The AI chatbot will strike up a conversation and ask you about your preferences — “Are you more into history, food, nature, nightlife or something else?” — and tailor its recommendations for that place based on your responses.

Jochen Koedijk, Expedia Group’s chief marketing officer, said Trip Matching was designed for people who are still toying with ideas and don’t already have a trip planned. “We wanted to give a service to travelers who see something and they’re like, ‘Hey, this looks amazing. What is it?’”

Trip Matching provides links to book hotels on the spot, in case you’re feeling impulsive.

Like other AI tools, Trip Matching has some issues to work out. It offered generic activity recommendations for my destinations, and it repeatedly suggested I stay at hotels that had little or no availability for the dates I wanted. When I asked it to find flights for an imaginary vacation in Central Asia, it suggested I consider a layover in Moscow, despite the ongoing war with Ukraine making travel there dangerous for Americans.

MINDTRIP

The task: Provide tailored trip suggestions based on your interests.

Great visuals give this

ChatGPT-style trip-planning tool an edge. Its interface, a lively conversation with a chatbot, includes detailed maps and photos of each attraction or accommodation. Start by taking its short quiz to help tailor the bot’s suggestions to your interests. If you’re not sure what follow-up questions to ask, Mindtrip can help with that, too — its “You might want to ask” feature suggests prompts that can unlock more details about a place you’re interested in.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, you can get the details from a human: Mindtrip features about 30,000 guides made by content creators and other users. You can reserve some hotels directly via Mindtrip, which

Seek

Yourself START

Autumn’s chill brings us back together. It reconnects us with our tribe. We savor life’s joys and share victories with our family and friends. Ulster County’s botanical beauty serves as the perfect backdrop to celebrate autumn. Spend your days taking your perfect leaf-peeping hike, harvesting your best pumpkin, and reaping your reward at a local u-pick farm. Nights find you feasting at sublime farm-to-table dining, sampling delightful vintages or simply snuggling up creating the most glorious s’mores the Catskills have ever seen.

Start your life all over again this fall in Ulster County.

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earns a commission if you book through its site.

Where Mindtrip falls short is flights. The site told me it did not have “specific flight pricing or availability” for certain routes, and an internet search quickly turned up cheaper airfare for several destinations, though the tool seemed to be more accurate

for domestic flights than for international ones.

Mindtrip is free, but you’ll need to create an account after the first few messages.

LAYLA

The task: Offer trip planning advice with your emotions in mind.

To hear Layla CEO Saad

Saeed tell it, this tool works best when you share your feelings with it.

“AI really is good earlier in the journey when you don’t know exactly what you want, and you can be very expressive of what you are feeling and why you want to travel,” Saeed said.

spring into SARATOGA

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“Spoiler,” he added, “searching for flights is still definitely better on Google Flights.”

Layla, with its curly-haired young woman avatar, has a similar design to Mindtrip — a conversational text interface plus a map and photo spread — though it sometimes takes Layla a few prompts to unfurl the visuals. Its $49-per-year membership also unlocks discounts of up to 20% at select hotels around the world.

The big difference: The tone of conversation. When I told Layla I was planning a trip to Vermont this fall, it asked a few questions, then said, “Hit me up with the deets, and I’ll cook up some wicked cool things to do!” Yikes.

The other downside is that Layla gives you fewer than 10 messages before you hit its paywall. While you can still get a good amount of information before that — I found recommendations for where to rent a kayak on Lake Champlain and learned Vermont has 100 covered bridges — I wasn’t convinced Layla was worth paying for when other platforms offered a comparable product at no charge.

GONDOLA

The task: Squeeze the most out of your loyalty points and miles.

Gondola offers to help you find the best deal in the confusing universe of loyalty programs.

Users can give Gondola permission to scan their email inbox for travel reservations or enter information manually. If you have points with Marriott, Hilton and Hyatt, for example, you can search all three at once on Gondola, and it will rank your options from best to worst value, showing the cash and points rates side by side, along with the points you’d earn from each option. You can book a hotel directly via Gondola.

The site also monitors airfare and room rates even after you book a flight or hotel, so if the price drops, you can rebook at a lower rate. But you can’t book flights directly on the site.

Gondola’s target audience is people who travel 10 or more times per year, said Skyler Erickson, a co-founder.

“Our goal is like, you are a traveler who knows they’re going to stay two nights in San Francisco,” he said. “What is the best way to do that?”

Gondola does have an open-ended text box, but the site is primarily useful as a comparison tool rather than an ideas generator.

RAY-BAN META GLASSES

The task: Get travel information on the fly.

By this point, you’ve already taken your flights, checked into your hotel and headed out to see the sights. What’s that landmark in front of you? Just ask your glasses.

The Ray-Ban Meta glasses can use AI to tell you about objects like that historic-looking fountain in Rome you want to identify. All you have to do is say “Hey, Meta,” then ask it to take a look. You’ll get an instant audio response. It also has live audio translation between English, Spanish, French and Italian. That sounds impressive until you consider that Google Translate has around 250 language options.

The glasses, which start at $299, come in a range of frame and lens colors and can be purchased as sunglasses (polarized or not), blue light glasses or with transition lenses, as well as with a prescription. Battery life is around four hours for “moderate usage,” according to Meta, and you’ll need your phone’s internet connection for most AI features.

And, of course, the glasses have a camera. Photos and videos save to the Meta AI smartphone app, and a light on the glasses alerts others that they’re being recorded. But reasonable people could disagree whether it’s actually easier to take a photo with your glasses than to just pull out your phone.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.

36 HOURS IN HUDSON VALLEY, NEW YORK

Ingrid K . Williams

c.2025 The New York Times

For a weekend escape within a two-hour (or so) drive or train ride of New York City, the Hudson Valley is hard to beat. There are hiking trails ranging from beginner-friendly to near-vertical scrambles, Gilded Age mansions filled with rich history, contemporary art destinations, miles of pastoral farmland and charming small towns. In recent years, this vast region, directly north of the city, changed drastically as many pandemic-weary New Yorkers migrated upstate (and pushed housing prices skyward). The influx helped fuel cultural initiatives, creative businesses, a much-hyped brewery boom and diversified dining options. This itinerary hews close to the river, focusing on the central Hudson Valley cities of Kingston, Hudson and Beacon, as well as villages, hamlets and rural outposts worth a detour.

FRIDAY

3 p.m.

Hike through history

Experienced hikers can tackle the challenging trails of Fishkill Ridge or Breakneck Ridge near Beacon, while the

rest of us stretch our legs in Sojourner Truth State Park.

This 500-acre Kingston park, opened in 2022 on the west bank of the Hudson, bears traces of the city’s brickmaking heyday, with discarded bricks along the riverbank and a glittering, water-filled quarry surrounded by limestone cliffs. Hike the Steep Rocks Trail, a moderately strenuous, 1.7mile round-trip route with a panoramic bluff-top overlook. Or stick to the accessible Hudson River Brickyard Trail, a 2-mile portion of the 750-mile Empire State Trail, where a new waterfront pavilion offers lounge chairs and benches for admiring the view.

6 p.m.

Feast in Midtown

The Midtown Arts District, a once-blighted neighborhood in central Kingston, now hums with art studios, galleries, colorful street murals, eclectic shops and dining options to suit every taste and budget. Step inside Eliza, a bustling bistro that opened in an unassuming storefront in late 2023, and join the local crowd dining on smoky eggplant dip with grilled

focaccia ($15); charred octopus atop crisp fingerling potatoes, pickled shallots and spiced aioli ($18); and charcuterie from the deli next door ($9). A more casual option nearby is Top Taste, a no-frills Jamaican restaurant — and two-time James Beard Award nominee — that serves generous portions of meltingly tender jerk chicken with rice and peas, steamed cabbage and fried plantains ($9 for a small plate, which is plenty).

8 p.m.

Try a concert or a beer Kingston’s newest live-music spot, Assembly, which opened in December on the top floor of a former schoolhouse in the historic Uptown district, is already drawing international touring artists. Check the calendar for upcoming shows, which include folk-pop singer Brett Dennen, the group Fantastic Cat and Nigerian Afrobeat artist Femi Kuti. Nothing on the schedule tonight? Then stay in Midtown and walk to West Kill Supply, a 2-yearold taproom from a celebrated Catskills brewery with hunting-lodge-chic décor — antler tap pulls, wood-plank

LEFT: Kitty’s, a market cafe, in Hudson, N.Y.

CENTER: Dia Beacon, a sprawling contemporary art museum beside the Hudson River, in Beacon, N.Y.

RIGHT: Curated home-design shops and antique furniture stores along Warren Street, in Hudson, N.Y., April 5, 2025. For a weekend escape within a two-hour drive or train ride of New York City, the Hudson Valley is hard to beat. (PhotosTony Cenicola/The New York Times)

ceiling, taxidermy aplenty — and a dozen West Kill Brewing beers on draft, including the crisp Kaaterskill India pale ale, brewed with mountain well water ($7).

SATURDAY

8 a.m.

Grab bagels or burritos

10 a.m.

Walk among sculptures

About 40 miles northeast of Kingston in the hamlet of Omi, a cluster of cheerful blue clouds hovers near the entrance to Art Omi, a nonprofit arts center and sculpture park. The cumulus sculpture, by Swiss artist Olaf Breuning, is one of more than 60 works of art and architecture on display throughout the park’s 120 acres. Bring the kids, bring the dog (on a leash) and set off on a walk through the

Wake up in Midtown Kingston at the pocket-size Village Coffee and Goods with a frothy flat white ($4.25), made with beans from Partners Coffee Roasters, of Brooklyn. Then walk to Fantzye Bagels, which opened in November and serves hand-rolled sourdough bagels in a cute, sunny space where families linger over breakfast. Try a rosemary-salt bagel with a lemon-caper schmear ($6) or the outstanding Remix sandwich with folded egg, melted Jake’s Gouda, aioli and an herbaceous green sauce ($11). Or start Uptown at Camp Kingston, a popular community hangout that opened in 2023, with a warm potato-and-cheddar breakfast burrito ($11) and a campfire latte made with graham cracker milk and a toasted marshmallow ($7).

start Uptown Kingston, a pophangout 2023, with a potato-and-cheddar ($11) and made with milk and a marshmallow ($7).

sculptures northeast the hamlet of cheerhovers near Art Omi, a center and The cumulus Swiss artist is one of works of art on display park’s 120 kids, bring leash) and set through the

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LEFT: Left Bank Ciders, in Catskill, N.Y.

CENTER: A cluster of cheerful blue clouds hovers near the entrance to Art Omi, a non-profit arts center and sculpture park., in Ghent, N.Y.

RIGHT: Kingston’s newest live music venue, Assembly, in Kingston, N.Y. For a weekend escape within a two-hour drive or train ride of New York City, the Hudson Valley is hard to beat. (Photos Tony Cenicola/The New York Times)

grassy meadows to spot Pippa Garner’s customized pickup truck, Iván Navarro’s neon-lighted water towers, Chemi Rosado-Seijo’s functioning skateboarding bowl and new installations, like a climbable stacked-concrete tower by architect Jimenez Lai. Admission is free (suggested donation $15; register dogs in advance).

Noon

Visit small local farms

Support this agricultural region at the source: small working farms, many of which have stands or stores open to the public. Near Art Omi, Kinderhook Farm has been providing the community with grass-fed beef, lamb and pasture-raised pork for over two decades. Visit the farm store to stock the freezer with choice cuts or pick up picnic supplies, like salsiccia stagionata or finocchietta salami. Drive south to Churchtown Dairy, a biodynamic farm where cows munch hay in a beautiful domed barn, for a wedge of buttery, semifirm tomme cheese. Farther south, at the family-run Greig Farm, the operation includes a market, a cafe, a taproom and a bulk-refill store. There are also goats to feed out back (50 cents per serving) and pick-yourown opportunities, beginning with asparagus in May.

2 p.m.

Shop and snack

The curated home-design shops and antique furniture stores along Warren Street, Hudson’s main drag, are astonishingly expensive but great fun to browse. First, fuel up at Mel the Bakery, which moved to Hudson from a tiny storefront in

lower Manhattan in late 2023. One bite of a laminated croissant ($5), an iced cinnamon roll ($6.50) or a flaky kouign-amann pastry ($6) is all you’ll need to understand the devoted following of baker Nora Allen. Then check out the stationery offerings at the Social Type, buy a local author’s latest — Shanekia McIntosh’s poetry collection or Adelle Waldman’s novel — at the Spotty Dog Books & Ale, pet the friendly shop dog at the hip clothing store Jamestown and sample imaginative ice cream flavors, like miso-and-roasted-strawberry, amid the tropical vibes at Culture Cream.

4:30 p.m.

Enjoy craft ciders

In this apple-rich region, sample one of the valley’s favorite craft beverages at Left Bank Ciders, a small-batch cidery with a taproom across the river in the village of Catskill. Try Northern Spy, made from the heirloom apple of the same name, or Car Trouble, a complex cider aged in whiskey and cognac barrels ($9 each). Prefer to sit within apple-throwing distance of a tree? Rose Hill Farm, on a gravel drive outside the village of Red Hook, features a taproom in a soaring wood-paneled barn beside the orchards. Join families on the patio sharing bottles of the farm’s sparkling petillant-naturel-style ciders and co-ferments made with apples, plums and blueberries.

7 p.m.

Dine down by the depo t Opposite the Amtrak station

LEFT: The Culture Cream shop in Hudson, N.Y.

RIGHT:Churchtown

Dairy,

a biodynamic farm where cows munch hay in a beautiful domed barn, in Hudson, N.Y.

(Photos

Tony Cenicola/The New York Times)

HUDSON VALLEY, NY

in Hudson, Kitty’s opened in 2020 as a market cafe offering great fried chicken, pastries and my favorite breakfast sandwich in the area (egg, cheese and sauerkraut). Eventually the popular spot expanded next door into a full-service restaurant with fun upscale-diner decor: red-pleather booths, a U-shaped bar counter, butter yellow tiles and an abstract mural splashed across a wall. Take a seat at a candlelit table in the bustling dining room; standouts on the seasonal menu recently included a colorful Caesar salad with local chicories and citrusy yuzu-colatura dressing ($21), pea-shootand-potato dumplings ($26) and cinnamon-sugar churros dipped in dark-chocolate sauce ($12).

10 p.m.

Stay up late in Hudson

After dinner, hop across town for a nightcap at the Hereafter, a stylish cocktail bar that opened last year on the upper end of Columbia Street and features pressedtin ceilings, warm lighting and a long wooden bar. A welcome addition in a town that typically tucks into bed early, this atmospheric bar attracts a lively late-night crowd eager to flirt over inventive cocktails, such as the House Dirty martini with oregano-infused gin ($16) and the Good Denim, a smoky mix of mezcal, amaro, sweet vermouth and local pear brandy ($18).

of Southeast Asian-inspired specialties. Try the breakfast sandwich with lemongrass-pork sausage, fried egg, chimichurri and sambal mayo on a toasted bun ($13.50) and at least one of the divine sugarcoated mochi doughnuts ($4.25).

11 a.m. | Pull over for art

On the drive south, stop to see what’s new at Dia Beacon, a sprawling contemporary art museum beside the Hudson River exhibiting works from the Dia Foundation’s collection, covering the 1960s onward (admission $20). The industrial complex — formerly a Nabisco box-printing factory — contains 240,000 square feet of gallery space filled with monumental steel ellipses by Richard Serra, a subterranean light-andsound installation by Steve McQueen (through May 26) and, in the central corridors, a new exhibit with colorful fabric banners by Renée Green. This year, an 8-acre landscape expansion project designed by architect Sara Zewde is scheduled to open to the public.

12:30 p.m.

Sample the bounty

Sunday

American artist and a menu

Up the hill in central Beacon, stroll Main Street past boutiques and thrift shops to the Beacon Farmers’ Market, held on Sundays year-round. Chat with vendors from across the Hudson Valley and snack on an aged stout-washed goat cheese from Edgwick Farm or a lion’s-mane-mushroom tart from Four Wall Farm. Then walk to Nansense, an Afghan restaurant (and former Brooklyn food truck) that opened its first brick-and-mortar location nearby last year. Order a juicy chapli kebab burger ($7), masala-spiced fries ($5) and cardamom rice pudding ($6). Then roll down the hill to Hudson Valley Brewery, one of the region’s top breweries, to sip tart farmhouse lagers and sour IPAs, like the brunch-style Peach Silhouette ($7), in the sleek new tasting room.

FROM HARVEST DAYS TO WINTER NIGHTS

Lake George’s

SEASONAL MAGIC

Everyone has a Lake George story — a cherished memory of summer days on the lake or evenings by the campfire. But while many know this Adirondack destination for its warm-weather fun, fall and winter are just as magical and memorable, offering new ways to explore, relax, and reconnect in the Queen of American Lakes.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a cozy winter retreat, the Lake George Region invites you to slow down, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and experience its small-town charm in a whole new light.

AUTUMN ADVENTURES & HARVEST CELEBRATIONS

As the leaves begin to turn, the region bursts with color

and celebration. Oktoberfest in Lake George Village fills the streets with live music, Bavarian food, local craft beverages, and artisan vendors. Across the region, harvest festivals at West and Gore Mountain feature scenic chairlift rides, artisan markets, and fall treats surrounded by spectacular foliage. Local farms and orchards invite families to enjoy hayrides, pumpkin patches, and cider tastings — the perfect way to savor the season. Outdoor lovers can hike Prospect Mountain or Pilot Knob Preserve for brilliant foliage views or join a guided tour with Hike with Jackson for insider routes. Many area campgrounds remain open through mid-fall, offering peaceful nights under the stars — a last chance to gather around the campfire before winter sets in.

Those looking to unwind can explore the Adirondack Craft Beverage Trail, where wineries, breweries, and distilleries host harvest tastings, small-batch releases, and autumn cocktail nights that pair perfectly with mountain views.

SHOP, DINE & SAVOR THE SEASON

Fall also ushers in the start of holiday shopping and hearty Adirondack dining. Downtown Glens Falls and Lake George Village come alive with boutique storefronts, artisan markets, and handmade goods. The Adirondack Christkindlmarkt, a European-style holiday market, brings local vendors, festive food, and live entertainment to kick off the season in style.

As the weather cools, restaurants showcase comforting seasonal flavors and locally inspired dishes. November is also the perfect time to take advantage of off-season lodging deals, ideal for spontaneous getaways with friends, family, or a special someone. Area resorts and inns often serve Thanksgiving dinners with stunning views — a delicious, stress-free way to celebrate before winter arrives.

WINTER WONDERLAND AWAITS

Once the snow falls, the Lake George Region transforms into a sparkling playground. Skiers and snowboarders can carve down the slopes at West Mountain or Gore Mountain, while families enjoy snow tubing, skating, or cross-country skiing on scenic trails.

The season shines with dazzling ice bars, winter markets, and cozy après-ski gatherings, all leading up to the beloved Lake George Winter Carnival, held every weekend in February. With cook-offs, games, contests, and fireworks over the frozen lake, it’s the ultimate celebration of Adirondack winter fun.

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO THIS SEASON

• Celebrate fall at Oktoberfest and regional harvest festivals.

• Experience spooky fun at Fright Fest at Six Flags Great Escape.

• Hike or drive for breathtaking Adirondack foliage.

• Sip and savor along the Adirondack Craft Beverage Trail.

• Shop artisan markets and the Adirondack Christkindlmarkt.

• Enjoy cozy offseason lodging and weekend getaways.

• Dine out for a scenic Thanksgiving feast.

• Ski or snowboard at Gore or West Mountain.

• Toast to winter at the region’s sparkling ice bars.

• Join the Lake George Winter Carnival for family fun.

From harvest hikes to snowcovered celebrations, Lake George shines year-round with beauty, flavor, and Adirondack spirit. Plan your visit at lakegeorgechamber. com.

Get in touch with us!

Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB info@lakegeorgechamber.com PO Box 272, 2176 Route 9, Lake George, NY 12845 Follow us on all the socials!

When the air turns crisp and the mountains glow with fiery color, there’s no better place to be than the Great Northern Catskills. Just a short drive from the city, Greene County blends scenic beauty, local flavor, and small-town charm into the perfect fall getaway.

COLORS THAT STAY WITH YOU

Every turn in the Great Northern Catskills feels like a postcard. Ridgelines blaze in red, orange, and gold, valleys glow in softer hues, and waterfalls sparkle against the backdrop of autumn leaves. Whether you’re at a sweeping overlook or on a quiet forest path, these views don’t just impress, they stay with you.

Fall: The Great Northern Catskills of

Greene County

FLAVORS OF THE SEASON

Here, fall is full of flavor, and sometimes the best way to enjoy it is on the road. A scenic drive through the Great Northern Catskills of Greene County takes you past roadside farm stands, country markets, and cafés serving up seasonal favorites. Stop along the way for fresh local goods or simply take in the views as you wind through valleys and ridgelines painted in autumn color. However you explore, you’ll find that the tastes of the season are as memorable as the scenery itself.

SMALL TOWNS, BIG CHARACTER

In the heart of the mountains, the Great Northern Catskills’ towns welcome you

with authentic charm. Stroll along historic main streets lined with antique shops, boutiques, and inviting cafés. Explore galleries that showcase local artists or step into country stores where every shelf has a story. Each town offers something different, yet all share the welcoming spirit of the Catskills.

THE SPIRIT OF FALL Festivals, fairs, and community gatherings bring the season to life, celebrating everything from harvests to local art and music. Join

in the fun with outdoor markets and family-friendly events that showcase the traditions and creativity that set the Great Northern Catskills apart. So whether it’s the colors that catch your eye, the flavors that tempt your taste buds, or the charm of a mountain town in full swing, Greene County is ready to welcome you this fall. Come for the season, stay for the memories and carry the Great Northern Catskills with you long after the last leaf falls.

A four-season Recreation Destination Warren County

Asked what the Adirondack Park’s Lake George Area, Upstate New York’s Warren County, offers visitors as long sleeve days become more common, Jaynie Ellis is quick to answer.

“The fun doesn’t stop when the weather gets cooler,” said Ellis, the Social Media Manager for the Lake George Area/Warren County Tourism Department. “The Lake George Area has events yearround and is a four-season recreation destination.”

The nearly six-million-acre Adirondack Park created by New York State in 1892 to protect the mountainous region includes part of Warren County along with all or part of 11 other New York counties. It encompasses more than 100 towns and villages, 30,000 miles of streams and more than 3,000 lakes

including 32-mile-long Lake George known as the “Queen of American Lakes.”

Ellis noted that “summer activities like boat cruises, rail biking, and horseback riding” remain “extremely popular during fall weekends – and are especially breathtaking experiences on crisp days surrounded by colorful foliage in the Adirondack Mountains” with the option at day’s end to “snuggle up to a crackling fire” in settings like a lakeside cabin.

“Top attractions for families with children visiting in the fall include boat cruises with Lake George Steamboat Company or Lake George Waterfront Cruises, Gore Mountain Skyrides or West Mountain Scenic Chairlift Rides, rail biking with Revolution Rail Co., and Six Flags Great Escape,” said Ellis.

She added visitors can also take a drive up Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway with its 100-mile view from the 2,030-foot

summit, enjoy treetop ropes courses and ziplines as well as many choices for miniature golf fun in the area.

Lake George Area’s winter attractions are many and diverse in appeal. Ellis said indoor activities include Six Flags Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark, Rocksport,

which has one of the oldest commercial climbing gyms in the country, and Sky Zone Trampoline Park.

She said that “with the blanket of snow we receive” some of the top outdoor attractions in the Lake George Area include skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing when the lakes freeze over.”

“We have three premier ski resorts – Gore Mountain, West Mountain, and Hickory Ski Center. In fact, Gore Mountain is the largest ski resort in New York State,” Ellis said.

“We also have a variety of restaurants that offer unique heated igloo dining, which has become very popular.”

She added that “other ways visitors and locals alike enjoy what the season and snowfall bring are through traditions, competitions, and activities on the schedules of the Lake George Winter Carnival and Brant Lake Winter Carnival.”

The Lake George Winter Carnival features activities for kids, polar plunges and cooking competitions among its usual attractions. The ice-dependent Brant Lake Winter

Carnival includes broomball tournaments, Adirondack curling and Outhouse Races with “decorated and occupied outhouses that are pushed on skis.”

Ellis said visitors “seeking more relaxation than adventure on their getaway to the Lake George Area, especially during the winter months,” are recommended to “check out our arts, culture, and performing arts scene.”

“Visitors can really take their time touring galleries like the Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council’s Lapham Gallery or museums like The Hyde Collection,” Ellis said.

“They can let themselves be entertained by concerts, stand-up comedy, musicals, and more at places like The Park Theater or Charles R. Wood Theater.”

Ellis said in this age, with the need for many individuals to stay plugged in to their professional and personal lives, geography makes her tourism area a good choice.

“The way in which you can experience classic Adirondack outdoor adventures in close proximity to the heart of each small town makes the Lake George Area a good choice

both to get away from technology as well as being able to stay connected,” Ellis said.

She added, “If you want to go island camping and sleep under the stars, you can easily do so and still be only a few minutes boat ride from everything in Lake George Village.”

“Hiking trails and biking paths wind right through communities,” Ellis said. “You can be in the middle of the woods and easily get to the center of events and other happenings in mere minutes.”

Ellis said first-time visitors come to know the Lake George Area through a variety of avenues ranging from social media to travel guides to

“just word-of mouth.”

“Visitors who take their annual family vacations in the Lake George Area tell their friends and family about the memories they make here or invite them to tag along on a trip, and that first-time visit often turns into a tradition,” Ellis said.

She added that she felt “what attracts first-time visitors the most is the flexibility to switch things up on their vacation – one day you could be hiking in the Adirondack Mountains, the next you could be relaxing lakeside.”

“We get an equal number of inquiries on relaxation versus adventure and can accom-

modate all preferences,” Ellis said. She said she also feels visitors to the Lake George Areawho number about six million annually - like its hospitality.

“Through our variety of lodging properties visitors get the chance to enjoy both nature’s pleasures as well as social interaction and hospitality,” Ellis said. “Many accommodations have plenty of on-site recreation opportunities like private beaches for swimming or on-site hiking trails. And if they don’t, welcoming and knowledgeable owners or staff can point you in the right direction to opportunities nearby.”

IThis is where the seasons stay with you.

Sullivan Catskills

n the Catskills of Sullivan County, New York, a threeto-four-hour drive from Western Mass, the seasons follow their own rhythm.

In autumn, the hills turn vivid red, yellow, and gold, with muted shades of orange and brown. The ground softens beneath fallen leaves and feels like a blanket underfoot. The air smells of pine, damp leaves, and woodsmoke— a sharpness you can’t bottle. It’s leaf-peeping season, but it feels like the moment your first love took your breath away.

Gather with family and friends to wander the O&W Rail Trail between Liberty and Mountain Dale, where each town holds a story stitched

from its railroading past. Or climb the Tusten Mountain Trail near Narrowsburg, a 2.9mile loop where rocky paths crunch underfoot, the forest smells of pine and moss, and the summit opens to sweeping views of the Upper Delaware winding through a patchwork of fields and fading autumn trees. Walnut Mountain in Liberty offers a steep climb— thirteen miles of trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking that reward with views you’ll brag about later over fresh-roasted coffee, jalapeno cheddar bagels, or cider donuts, with the makers who are proud to tell you the story behind every bite. By mid-October, the Delaware River begs for one last ride on

a raft, kayak, or canoe before the liveries close. Gliding past golden remnants of autumn, bare branches tracing the sky, and eagles overhead feels part thrill, part daydream—an autumn memory you’ll carry long after the current slows. When winter arrives, the Catskills don’t hibernate— they shine. Slopes at Holiday Mountain and Villa Roma hum with skiers and tubers. Ice rinks at Callicoon Hills, Roscoe Mountain Club, and the Grahamsville Fairgrounds buzz with laughter, some with bonfires, too. It’s the kind

of simple magic that sticks. Snowshoeing trails wind through quiet forest paths at Hemlock Neversink, Kenoza Hall, Upward Brewing, or the O&W Trail.

And when cheeks are pink and boots are damp, there’s warmth waiting hearthside in spas that offer deep rest; and cozy inns that hold the hush of falling snow outside. Fall into color. Winter into wonder. In the Sullivan Catskills, each season is a reminder: you’re not escaping life; you’re improving it.