Hudson River Fall Foliage 2026 Cruise
New York, NY to Albany, NY
Albany, NY to New York, NY
Revel in the beauty of Hudson River fall foliage on this captivating cruise, showcasing the Hudson Valley region at the height of the autumn season. Sailing between New York City and Albany, with a reverse itinerary also available, this small ship river cruise offers a relaxed and immersive way to experience peak fall foliage, where the shoreline glows with vibrant reds, oranges, and golds.
Framed by the Catskill Mountains to the west and the Taconic and Berkshire Hills to the east, the autumn Hudson River blends scenic cruising with rich history. Guided excursions highlight grand estates and important military landmarks, including the Vanderbilt Mansion, the home of Franklin D. Roosevelt, and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and Sleepy Hollow.
Between ports, enjoy panoramic foliage views from your stateroom or private balcony, and unwind in the evenings over cocktails and regionally inspired cuisine on this unforgettable Hudson River fall foliage cruise.
Upcoming Dates & Fares
Itinerary & Excursions
*Exact itinerary & excursions will vary by cruise date
Map & Itinerary Overview
On this enchanting Hudson River cruise, experience all the autumn beauty of New York, including the state's capital, Albany, Sleepy Hollow, and the Catskill Mountains.
Day 1 - New York, NY
Arrive in New York City a day before your cruise, settle into your downtown hotel, and take time to visit the city at your own pace. In the fall, the city takes on a different character, with crisp air, autumn color in Central Park, and seasonal events that make it an ideal prelude to the journey ahead. New York City offers a wide array of dining, arts, and entertainment, from Broadway and Times Square to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. While these highlights provide an exciting introduction, the city is just the starting point for your journey along the Hudson River. From here, your Hudson River cruise transitions from the energy of the city to the scenic beauty and vibrant fall foliage that shape the journey ahead.
Day 2 - Day of Cruising the Hudson River
New York City serves as the ideal starting point for your fall foliage cruise along the Hudson River.
Once aboard, settle into your stateroom and enjoy welcome-aboard moments as the ship glides north. Passing beneath the George Washington Bridge, views of the Statue of Liberty mark your departure, offering a memorable send-off as you set out cruising the Hudson River.
Day 3 - Sleepy Hollow, NY
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.
Day 4 - West Point, NY
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.
Day 5 - Kingston / Hyde Park, NY
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.
Day 6 - Catskill, NY
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.
Day 7 - Day of Cruising
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 our signature nightly happy hour or relax with onboard entertainment while your small ship carries you through the Hudson Valley.
Day 8 - Albany, NY
As one of the region’s oldest state capitals, Albany offers a rich mix of history, architecture, and riverfront charm. Stroll through Empire State Plaza, an architectural marvel that houses the New York State Museum and the distinctive Egg Center for the Performing Arts, or explore the New York State Capitol with its intricate 19th-century design and grand interiors, where stories of governance and history come alive. Nearby, Washington Park offers a peaceful escape with Victorian gardens and seasonal fall displays, while the streets of Troy capture the charm of a bygone era, a setting so picturesque it has served as the backdrop for The Gilded Age.
Day 9 - Albany, NY
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.
Enjoy a 1-night hotel stay, breakfast, and transportation to the ship. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.
As you board the ship, be welcomed by the crew who will ensure that every detail of your journey is seamless. Take the time to meet fellow travelers, share stories, and immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of small-ship cruising.
From panoramic deck views to thoughtfully designed lounges, every corner of the ship offers a chance to relax, socialize, and prepare for the memorable adventures that await.
Overlooking the Hudson River in Tarrytown, NY is Lyndhurst, one of America’s finest Gothic Revival mansions. Join us on 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
Celebrate fall with a visit to historic Sleepy Hollow Cemetery where Washington Irving, the celebrated author of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, is buried. Learn more about his famous short story, his enduring legacy within the community, and visit Irving's final resting place.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Discover America’s most notable military academy, considered by George Washington to be the most important military position in America. Its establishment as the United States Military Academy occurred in 1802 when Thomas Jefferson signed legislation to that effect. This guided exploration of the historic grounds of West Point includes Cadet Chapel, Trophy Point, and other stunning areas of campus. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking vistas and magnificent views of the Hudson Valley.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Learn about the past, present and future of this important Walkway. Since its historic construction and opening as the longest bridge in the world in 1889, the Hudson River Bridge served for many years as a key railroad span during America's Industrial Revolution. In 1974, the great fire ended its operation, but in 2009, thanks to a grassroots effort, it was reimagined as the Walkway Over the Hudson, the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge. Ride a 21-story, glass-enclosed elevator to the bridge for breathtaking views of the Hudson River Valley.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Led by an expert guide, visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, one of the great historic homes of America. Learn about the fascinating history of this neo-Georgian home, filled with memorabilia of the Roosevelt family and the birthplace of the president in 1882.
Enjoy a self-guided exploration of the FDR Library and Museum, which features exhibits that tell the story of the Roosevelt presidency beginning in the depths of the Great Depression and continuing through the New Deal and World War II, with an emphasis on both Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt’s relationship with the American people. Special interactives, immersive audio‐visual theaters, and rarely seen artifacts convey the dramatic story of the Roosevelt era.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Historically known as Hyde Park, Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site is one of the region's oldest Hudson River estates. For nearly two centuries, this home has been the epicenter to the socially prominent and the elite class of New Yorkers in late nineteenth-century America. Led by your guide, get a glimpse of estate life, the social stratification of the period, and the world of the American millionaire during the era historians refer to as the Gilded Age. Discover the over 200 acres of the original property, including historic buildings, original furnishings, manicured landscapes, natural woodlands, formal gardens and associated documents. Explore the centerpiece of the estate, the mansion, a masterpiece of American Beaux-Arts design by the distinguished architectural firm McKim, Mead & White.
Next, take a short, narrated motorcoach ride over to visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, one of the great historic homes of America. Enjoy lunch before self-guided exploration of the grounds and of the FDR Library and Museum. This building features exhibits that tell the story of the Roosevelt presidency, beginning in the depths of the Great Depression and continuing through the New Deal and World War II with an emphasis on both Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt’s relationship with the American people. Special interactives, immersive audio-visual theaters, and rarely seen artifacts convey the dramatic story of the Roosevelt era. After some free time, join us for our guided tour of the mansion, the neo-Georgian house was the birthplace of the president in 1882, filled with memorabilia of the Roosevelt family. At the conclusion of the guided tour, take some time for more self-exploration of the grounds or the library before returning to the coach. The coach ride to the first stop is about 45 minutes.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Gain fascinating insight into the story of the Hudson River and its rich maritime history in this guided museum exploration. Join one of our 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
Autumn in the Hudson River Valley heralds not only beautiful foliage, but the ripening of up-state’s abundant apple orchards. New York State produces more varieties of apples than any other, and most of these unique varieties can’t be found in the grocery store. Learn about this staple of American produce and sample the bounty of the Hudson Valley.
Expand your palette and knowledge of locally produced fruit during an informative and delicious onboard apple tasting with varieties freshly picked from the Hudson Valley’s orchards. A resident apple expert will guide you through the past and present of apple cultivation and will present a rich variety of apples for your pleasure.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
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
Traverse the historic formal approach to Olana's Main House and learn about the ideas that influenced Frederic Church and architect Calvert Vaux in sitting and designing this Middle Eastern-inspired Hudson Valley villa. Explore the intact, richly decorated historic interiors of the main floor, including the stunning central Court Hall, Isabel Church's Sitting Room designed around her husband's masterpiece, El Khasné, Petra (1874), and Frederic Church's richly appointed painting studio.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Explore this impressive museum, featuring over sixty fire engines on exhibit, as well as numerous examples of firefighting gear, as well as equipment and art, depicting the heroic history of firefighting in New York City. Current exhibits include Touchstone: Remembering the 20th Anniversary of 9/11, which contains artifacts from this tragic event. The exhibit The Romance of Firefighting includes one-of-a kind wooden hand pumpers with original artwork and intricate woodworking, and also features amazing oils on canvas. And don’t miss meeting Molly the Museum Dog, the Museum’s resident Dalmatian.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Explore the charming historic Main Street in Catskill, featuring artisans, gift shops, antiques, books, records, coffee, and more. As you stroll past colorful storefronts and vintage signs, you'll find cozy cafés perfect for sipping espresso and people-watching. Unique galleries showcase the work of local artists, many inspired by the beauty of the nearby Catskill Mountains. Antique stores invite you to uncover treasures from the past, while specialty shops offer everything from handmade candles to rare vinyl records.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Discover the charm of Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery, nestled in the historic Hudson Valley. This family-run winery focuses on sustainability and environmental stewardship, offering a unique glimpse into New York wine traditions. Stroll through the vineyard with a knowledgeable wine expert who shares insights that evolve with the seasons and the growth of the vines. Conclude with a tasting of four 2-ounce pours, allowing you to savor the flavors and craftsmanship behind each wine while gaining a deeper appreciation for the region’s winemaking heritage.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partial
Step back in time at Historic Catskill Point, where the Hudson River meets Catskill Creek. Discover the Freightmasters Building, constructed in the 1860s, once welcomed visitors from New York City who continued onward to the mountains by railway or horse and buggy. As more guests arrived with trunks full of clothing and household goods, the adjoining warehouse, now known as the Historic Warehouse, was added to accommodate them. Together, these preserved buildings offer a vivid glimpse into the region’s role as a gateway for river and rail travel.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails), Trivia, Game Shows, and more.
Discover Albany and see what has enticed visitors for over 400 years. Albany is one of the oldest surviving settlements from the original thirteen colonies, and the longest continuously chartered city in the United States. Enjoy a narrated exploration of the city, with a stop at the New York State Capitol. Sitting atop Albany’s State Street hill, the New York State Capitol has served as the seat of government for New York since the 1880s. The building is a marvel of late 19th-century architectural grandeur, built by hand of solid masonry over a period of 32 years. Highlights of the 45-minute exploration can include the legislative chambers, Hall of Governors, Governor’s Reception Room, Hall of New York, historic staircases, and carvings. Governors who went on to the Presidency who served here include Grover Cleveland, Theodore Roosevelt, and Franklin Roosevelt. The Capitol continues to be a place of grandeur and change with visitors from every corner of the world coming to see this beautiful and unique building that you will never forget.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partial
Enjoy exploring the New York State Museum, a center of art, science, and history. Established in 1836, it is the oldest and largest state museum in the country and explores New York State’s significant natural and cultural diversity, past and present. From its beginning, the Museum has been home to some of the nation’s leading scientists, with collections that rank among the finest in many fields and total more than 16 million scientific specimens and one million cultural objects.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
In the mid-19th century, Troy was one of the wealthiest cities in the United States thanks to a booming textile industry. Enjoy a walking tour with a local historian as you view the Victorian architecture of the area and hear how such remarkable structures are preserved over time. Step back in time to the Age of Innocence, while learning about the history of the town. There is a reason that HBO is filming The Gilded Age in Troy.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Visit this fascinating museum to learn how Troy was once the "stove capital of the world" and played an important role in the construction of the Union Civil War ironclad USS Monitor. Today, the museum is one of a few buildings left with a link to Troy’s past as a major iron center. Explore an extensive display of artifacts connected with the region's industrial past, including cover iron, bells, cast iron stoves, precision instruments, textiles, and rototillers.
Accessible: Yes | Activity Level: Low
Enjoy a scenic ride to Saratoga Springs, where your experience begins at the Saratoga Automobile Museum. Delve into an expertly curated collection of classic and vintage automobiles, brought to life through vibrant exhibits and the rich stories of innovation, design, and automotive history behind each vehicle.
After your museum visit, spend time exploring Downtown Saratoga Springs at your own pace. Wander along its charming streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and classic architecture, or unwind at a local café or restaurant. When your time in town concludes, relax on the return trip back to the ship.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city? Ask your onboard Hotel General Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.
Enjoy a 1-night hotel stay and transportation to the ship. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.
Be greeted by your guide at the ship as you board your motorcoach to travel to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Located at the World Trade Center, this museum honors those who were killed in the 2001 and 1993 attacks, those who risked their lives to help others, and the courage of those who survived. Enjoy a guided exploration, during which this poignant story is told through media, narratives, and a collection of monumental and authentic artifacts. After, explore the grounds on your own which include the Memorial Pools where the towers once stood, the Survivor Tree, and the 9/11 Memorial Glade.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
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
See New York City from a fresh perspective aboard a beautifully designed 1920s-style yacht. Relax in the climate-controlled solarium or take in sweeping views from the open bow as you glide along the Hudson River past iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Battery Park, Governors Island, and Manhattan’s glittering skyline. Along the way, enjoy light narration that brings the city’s history and stories to life, all while sipping a complimentary drink.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Stay an extra day or two to enjoy all that New York City has to offer. Enjoy a performance at the Metropolitan Opera House, view exhibits at the Museum of Modern Art, or simply explore New York City, freestyle. Ask your onboard Hotel General Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.
Map & Itinerary Overview
On this enchanting Hudson River cruise, experience all the autumn beauty of New York, including the state's capital, Albany, Sleepy Hollow, and the Catskill Mountains.
Day 1 - Albany, NY
Arrive in Albany a day before your cruise and settle into your hotel, taking time to explore the city at your own pace. As one of the region’s oldest state capitals, Albany blends rich history with riverfront scenery, made even more striking during the fall season. Walk through Empire State Plaza, visit the New York State Museum, or admire the ornate architecture of the New York State Capitol. Nearby parks and historic neighborhoods offer a relaxed introduction before your Hudson River journey begins.
Day 2 - Cruising the Hudson River
Begin your Hudson River fall foliage cruise as the ship departs Albany and heads south. Settle into your stateroom and enjoy welcome-aboard moments as panoramic views unfold along the riverbanks. Framed by rolling hills and vibrant autumn color, this first day of cruising offers a peaceful introduction to the Hudson Valley. Spend time on deck or in the lounge as the scenery sets the tone for the days ahead.
Day 3 - Catskill, NY
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.
Day 4 - Kingston / Hyde Park, NY
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.
Day 5 - Day of Cruising
Enjoy a full day of scenic cruising along the Hudson River, where the pace is unhurried and the landscape takes center stage. Watch vibrant fall colors pass by from your private balcony or the outdoor decks. Enrich your day with destination-focused programs led by guest speakers, or join onboard activities such as art classes, cooking demonstrations, mixology, trivia, and game shows. This relaxing day on the river invites you to unwind and fully immerse yourself in the rhythm of the Hudson Valley. Be sure to enjoy the signature nightly happy hour and evening entertainment.
Day 6 - West Point, NY
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.
Day 7 - Sleepy Hollow, NY
Along the final 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.
Day 8 - New York, NY
Arrive in New York City as your Hudson River journey nears its conclusion. 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.
Day 9 - New York, NY
Conclude your Hudson River fall foliage cruise in New York City. Enjoy a final breakfast onboard before disembarkation, reflecting on your journey through historic towns, scenic landscapes, and peak autumn color. For guests continuing their travels, New York City offers endless opportunities for dining, culture, and onward connections.