Hudson Valley Traveler from New York City
Hudson Valley Region

Approximately 150 miles

The mighty Hudson River -- inspiration of artists for centuries -- draws together the elaborate mansions of historic Hudson Valley with the ancient cliffs of the Palisades. This tour combines the natural beauty of the region with the homes of great Americans.

Exit the Thruway (I-87) at Tarrytown. Follow Route 9 north, visiting historic Philipsburg Manor, to Peekskill and Route 6, which takes you along cliffs high above the Hudson River.

Cross the Bear Mountain Bridge to Bear Mountain State Park, where visitors come to hike, swim and picnic. Then take Route 9W north to Route 218, which brings you into the village of Highland Falls. Take a tour through the United States Military Academy at West Point, with its proud military history. Return to Route 9W north to Route 218, the Storm King Highway, for a winding, mountain-hugging drive with scenic overlooks leading to Storm King Art Center.
Rejoin Route 9W through Newburgh, where General George Washington's Headquarters are located, and past several wineries, where you can stop for a tour and tasting.

Continue north toward the gracious old mansions famous for elaborate furnishings and gardens to the Mid-Hudson Bridge (Route 44/55). Crossing the river again, head north on Route 9 to the Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Sites and on to the Village of Rhinebeck. Travel north on Route 9G, and visit Montgomery Place and Olana State Historic Site.

Next turn east into the Taconics, taking Route 23B to Route 23. Take Route 22 south to Millerton. Follow Route 199 through winemaking country to Route 82 to Route 44 to the scenic Taconic Parkway, which leads to the Saw Mill River Parkway and, finally, back to Tarrytown and the Thruway (I-87)