Upstate Ny

Upstate New York is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities, stunning landscapes, and charming towns. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained and create lasting memories!

Day 1: Explore the Hudson Valley

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café in Hudson or Rhinebeck. Try some pancakes or a classic egg-and-bacon combo!
• Visit Olana State Historic Site: After breakfast, head to Olana, the stunning home of artist Frederic Edwin Church. The views of the Hudson River are breathtaking, and the kids will love exploring the grounds and the unique architecture.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Rhinebeck: Grab lunch at a family-friendly spot like The Rhinebeck Diner, where you can find something for everyone.
• Visit the Dutchess County Fairgrounds: If you’re visiting in the summer or early fall, check out any local fairs or events happening at the fairgrounds. Otherwise, take a stroll around the charming town of Rhinebeck, with its cute shops and boutiques.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Pizzeria: Enjoy a casual dinner at a family-friendly pizzeria. You can’t go wrong with a classic New York slice!
• Sunset at the Walkway Over the Hudson: End your day with a stroll on the Walkway Over the Hudson, a pedestrian bridge that offers stunning views of the river, especially at sunset. It’s a perfect way to wind down!

Day 2: Adventure in the Catskills

Morning:

• Breakfast at Your Accommodation: Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café.
• Hiking at Kaaterskill Falls: Head to Kaaterskill Falls for a family-friendly hike. The trail is relatively short, and the waterfall is absolutely stunning. Just be sure to bring water and snacks!

Afternoon:

• Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the falls or head to a nearby park like North-South Lake State Park, where you can find picnic tables and beautiful scenery.
• Visit the Catskill Animal Sanctuary: After lunch, take a trip to the Catskill Animal Sanctuary, where kids can learn about and interact with rescued farm animals. It’s both educational and heartwarming!

Evening:

• Dinner in Tannersville: Head to Tannersville for dinner. There are several family-friendly restaurants to choose from, like The Last Chance Antiques & Cheese Café.
• Stargazing: If the weather permits, find a nice spot to do some stargazing. The Catskills have minimal light pollution, making it a great place to see the stars!

Day 3: Lake George and the Adirondacks

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Diner: Start your day with breakfast at a diner in Lake George. Try the local specialties!
• Lake George Steamboat Company: Take a scenic boat cruise on Lake George. It’s a fun way to see the beautiful surroundings and learn a bit about the area’s history.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Lakeside Restaurant: After your cruise, enjoy lunch at a lakeside restaurant. Many places offer outdoor seating with stunning views.
• Visit the Adirondack Park: Spend the afternoon exploring the Adirondack Park. You can hike, rent bikes, or even go for a swim at one of the many beaches. The kids will love the outdoor activities!

Evening:

• Dinner in Lake George Village: Head back to Lake George Village for dinner. There are plenty of family-friendly options, from burgers to seafood.
• Ice Cream Treat: End your trip with a sweet treat! Stop by a local ice cream shop for some delicious cones or sundaes.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Pack for the Weather: Upstate NY can have varying weather, so be sure to check the forecast and pack accordingly.
• Stay Hydrated: Keep water bottles handy, especially during outdoor activities.
• Plan for Downtime: Allow some flexibility in your schedule for relaxation or spontaneous adventures!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family getaway in Upstate New York! Enjoy every moment! 🌲🚣‍♂️🍕