Empire State Explorer
Independent Tour
New York City – Hudson Valley – Ithaca – Finger Lakes – Niagara Falls – Lake Placid – Rhinebeck
Experience the full spectrum of New York State, from the vibrant streets and iconic skyline of New York City to the serene lakes, waterfalls, and vineyards of the Finger Lakes. Journey onward to the thundering majesty of Niagara Falls, the alpine charm of Lake Placid, and the timeless villages of the Hudson Valley.
Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10
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Day 11
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Day 12
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Day 13
Day 1 : UK - New York City
Arrive at Newark Airport and make your own way to Manhattan for a 3-night stay. Taking the train to Penn Station is a quick and convenient way to reach the city from the airport.
Hotel: Ace Hotel New York
Day 2 : New York City
Enjoy a full day to explore New York. Stroll Central Park, lose yourself in any number of museums and art galleries, or enjoy skyline views from Brooklyn.
Day 3 : Hudson
Collect your car this morning from Newark Airport, and set off for the short drive to the Hudson Valley. The skyline gives way to wooded hills and historic towns set along the river, and by the time you arrive in Hudson for then night, you’ll have the chance to explore the small stores and classic upstate charm.
Hotel: The Wick Hudson
Day 4 : Ithaca
Leave Hudson and drive through rolling countryside to Ithaca. The landscape turns into hills and lakes, with waterfalls and vineyards and the collegiate charm of Ithaca in the Finger Lakes. Check in for a 2-night stay.
Hotel: Canopy by Hilton Ithaca Downtown
Day 5 : Ithaca
Spend the day exploring Ithaca’s natural beauty from Taughannock Falls to Watkins Glen. Return to town for a an evening among the lively restaurants and cafes, with a glass of wine overlooking the lake.
Day 6 : Niagara Falls
Drive to Niagara Falls today to witness this stunning natural wonder. You may wish to head to the Observation Tower for a panoramic view of the falls, or take a boat tour.
Hotel: Sheraton Niagara Falls
Day 7 : Niagara Falls
A full day at leisure in Niagara Falls. You may wish to venture over to the Canadian side for a different view, or to explore the quaint town of Niagara on the Lake.
Day 8 : Syracuse
Your drive today follows the historic corridor carved by the Erie Canal through towns shaped by New York’s early industrial age. Arrive in Syracuse for the night, at the crossroads between the Great Lakes and Adirondacks.
Hotel: The Parkview Hotel
Day 9 : Lake Placid
Today you’ll drive to Lake Placid, nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks with a timeless alpine charm. Quaint streets meet the serene waters of Mirror Lake against the backdrop of Whiteface Mountain. Check in for 2 nights.
Hotel: High Peaks Resort
Day 10 : Lake Placid
Lake Placid is renowned for its Olympic heritage, boutique shops and lakeside dining. The day is yours to combine outdoor adventure with sophistication in this mountain setting.
Day 11 : Rhinebeck
On to Rhinebeck today as you head south. One of the Hudson Valley’s most graceful villages, expect tree-lines streets, historic architecture, independent shops and farm to table restaurants.
Hotel: The Gables of Rhinebeck
Day 12 : Rhinebeck
Although Rhinebeck is small, its charm extends beyond its main street. Enjoy The Beekman Arms & Delamater Inn, America’s oldest continuously operating inn, or the Walkway over the Hudson, a short drive away where a converted railway bridge offers panoramic river views.
Day 13 : Newark departure
Return your car at Newark Airport ahead of your departing flight.
