Hudson River Valley
and West Point
Just north of New York City, the Hudson Valley stretches from Westchester County to Albany, the state capital. Rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, the region is home to grand estates, historic Hyde Park (home of FDR), the Culinary Institute of America, vineyards, and scenic landscapes that have inspired artists for generations. We begin in Albany and travel south to West Point, one of the region’s most storied historic sites. We’ll explore the valley’s distinctive character, from its grand estates and cultural attractions to its beautiful river views, before finishing with a sightseeing cruise on the Hudson River.
Hudson River Valley
October 17 - October 22, 2027Highlights
- Glimpse into the life of a West Point Cadet
- Visit the Grand Vanderbilt Estate
- See the Culinary Institute of America
- Time to explore personal interests
- Suggestions for things to see and do
- And More... See itinerary for details
Activity
Read more about WTT Activity Levels
65% Easy
35% Moderate (walking tours, distances traveled)
Your Responsibilities as a Solo Traveler
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
Itinerary
Sunday, 17 October 2027: Arrive Albany; Welcome Dinner (D)
Schedule your arrival no later than 4:00pm and take local transportation to the hotel. The tour begins at 6:00pm in the lobby of our hotel. We will make introductions at our Welcome Meeting and then we'll have dinner together to get better acquainted. Overnight Albany - 1 night
Monday, 18 October 2027: West Point Experience; Vanderbilt Mansion National Historical Site Grounds (B,L)
We are up early and have a busy day with good bit of driving, but the fascinating history and grand estates of the Hudson River Valley make it well worth the journey! Our destination is the United States Military Academy, more familiarly known as West Point, for a look at one of the nation’s most storied military institutions. Established during the Revolutionary War in 1778, West Point has prepared generations of military leaders and played a pivotal role in American history. We’ll learn about cadet life and see landmarks such as Cadet Chapel and Trophy Point. After lunch together, we visit the nearby Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site to stroll the spectacular grounds and multi-tiered Italian gardens. The 211-acre estate boasts centuries-old trees, vibrant autumn foliage, and stunning, panoramic views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains. Overnight Poughkeepsie - 3 nights
Tuesday, 19 October 2027: Culinary Institute of America; FDR Presidential Library & Museum (B,L)
The day begins with an exclusive tour of the famed Culinary Institute of America. Discover the artistry, history, and innovation at this world-renowned institution, which was founded in 1946 and remains the nation's premier culinary school. After enjoying a delicious lunch together, this afternoon is dedicated to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, the very first in the American Presidential Library system. Created when FDR donated his personal and presidential papers to the federal government, the museum features immersive galleries that bring the New Deal and World War II eras to life. We return to the hotel late in the afternoon, the evening is yours to enjoy as you wish.
Wednesday, 20 October 2027: FDR & Eleanor Roosevelt's Home Sites; Innisfree Garden (B,D)
We return to the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site to visit Springwood, the lifelong home and birthplace of America's 32nd president. Walking these historic grounds offers a fascinating glimpse into FDR's private world and remarkable legacy. A short drive then brings us to Val-Kill, the only National Historic Site dedicated entirely to a first lady. Exploring Eleanor Roosevelt’s modest fieldstone cottage provides an intimate look at her pioneering humanitarian work. Please note: interior home tours are subject to availability. This afternoon, we journey to Innisfree Garden, a world-renowned, 185-acre oasis designed around ancient Chinese principles. Here, you can stroll serene paths encircling a quiet glacial lake, passing tranquil waterfalls, misting fountains, and striking rock formations beautifully framed by fall foliage.
Thursday, 21 October 2027: Return to Albany; Sightseeing Cruise; Farewell Dinner (B,D)
Since we have spent several days along the Hudson River, once we get to Albany it's time to take a look from another angle with a sightseeing cruise on the river. We regroup for our Farewell Dinner this evening to share stories from our time together. We'll stay near the airport for convenience. Overnight Albany airport area - 1 night
Friday, 22 October 2027: Return home from Albany (B)
Sadly, our time together has come to an end. Based on the departure time you provide WTT, your Tour Leader can assist with organizing travelers into small groups so you can ride-share to the airport if you wish.
Hudson River Valley
October 17 - October 22, 2027Pricing
Room Share
$2,317.00Single Room
$3,075.00Non-Members
ADD $50.00Status of this Tour
More than 1/2 Full
Tour Pricing Includes
- All meals and activities expressly listed in the itinerary, PLUS...
- All tipping of local guides
- WTT Tour Leader to enhance the individual & group experience
- Arranged room sharing with another solo traveler
- Travel Dollar credits (a benefit of WTT membership) toward future travel with WTT
Not Included In The Price
- Airfare or other transportation to and from the tour
- Airport transfers
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Beverages other than coffee, tea & still water unless otherwise noted
- Any personal expenses or expenditures
- Any pre- or post- tour arrangements
- Any gratuities for the WTT Tour Director
- Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance
Payment Dates -and- Cancellation Terms for This Tour
You have 3 days to cancel and receive a refund. Thereafter, the amount required at time of reservation is non-refundable and the following cancellation penalties will be enforced.
Tuesday, 20 Apr 2027: Last day $500 deposit can be converted to a credit for use on a new reservation; thereafter the deposit is forfeited.
Monday, 19 Jul 2027: Balance Due. Cancellation after this date but before Thursday, 2 Sep 2027 results in a cancellation penalty of 50% of your Total Tour Cost.
Thursday, 2 Sep 2027: Cancellation on or after this date results in a cancellation penalty of 100% of your Total Tour Cost.
Using Parked Credits: If traveler cancels during the 3-day cancel without penalty period, used credits will be re-parked with the original expiration date(s). Thereafter, cancellation will result in forfeiture of the total amount of parked credits used. If applicable, additional cancellation penalties will be assessed based on date of cancellation.
To Cancel: Should you need to cancel after your space on this tour is confirmed, you must use the Cancellation Form. Cancellation penalties are based on the date we receive your cancellation form. No other method of communicating a cancellation will be accepted.
Insurance Reminder
Hudson River Valley
October 17 - October 22, 2027Flights, Transfers & Lodging
Arrival & Departure Information
Travelers will make their own air arrangements as follows:
Arrival Airport: ALB - Albany, NY (Albany Int'l Airport)
Arrival Date: Sunday, October 17. Arrive no later than 4:00pm
Arrival Transfer: Use local shuttle or taxi service. Details provided in Final Travel Instructions.
Departure Airport: ALB - Albany, NY (Albany Int'l Airport)
Departure Date: Friday, October 22nd. Depart at your convenience.
Departure Transfer: Use local shuttle or taxi service. WTT Tour Leader will assist in coordinating ride sharing.
When to Book Your Air
Once you have booked your flights (or other transportation arrangements), use the Travel Arrangements Form to send WTT your flight details. Use the same form to update your information should it change.
Airport Transfer Information
When arrival transfers are not included: WTT will provide suggestions to get to the hotel in your Final Travel Instructions about 2-3 weeks before the start of the tour. You'll also be able to see who else is arriving at the same time if you want to coordinate ride-sharing to the hotel.
Don't Worry. We're Expecting You: One of the reasons we ask for your travel arrangements is so we know when you're arriving and can approximate when you should be at the hotel. Your Final Travel Instructions will have instructions on what to do and who to contact if your flight is delayed.
Lodging / Hotels
Albany, NY: Hyatt Place Albany/Downtown
Poughkeepsie, NY: Homewood Suites by Hilton Poughkeepsie
Albany, NY: Hampton Inn - Wolf Road
Whenever possible, we choose hotels that are near the city center and/or where there are things to do and places to eat within walking distance of the hotel. When the chosen hotel is not within walking distance of much, transportation options, at the traveler's expense, are typically available.
In the unlikely event WTT is unable to provide the hotel accommodation(s) listed, for whatever reason, WTT will substitute similar quality accommodation(s) at no additional cost to the traveler.
Want to Arrive a Day Early?
Worried about possible flight delays? Consider arriving one day before the official tour start date. Many of our travelers choose this optional service. Your pre-tour package includes:
- The room (standard check-in times apply)
- Breakfast the following morning
- Optional activity suggestions prior to tour
$140.00 Roomshare pp $279.00 Single Occupancy
Early Arrival Hotel: This tour uses the same hotel used on the first night of the tour.
Additional Reminders About This Tour
Hudson River Valley
October 17 - October 22, 2027Destination Information
What do others say about this tour and traveling with WTT?
How Does Room Sharing Work?
Traveling Solo? 80% of the women on your tour will be traveling solo!
On the Reservation Form there are 3 choices regarding room-sharing.
Note: Certain room-types may be unavailable at the time you make your reservation. If a room-type is unavailable the choice will be greyed out.
- Select "Yes, I want to share a room" and WTT will assign you a roommate when Final Travel Instructions are sent.
- You can specify a roommate by entering her name where indicated. If your named roommate is not on the tour, for any reason, WTT will assign you a roommate unless you pay to have your own room, if available.
- Select "No, I do not wish to share a room" if you want to have your own room. Additional costs apply.
A few facts about sharing a room:
- All shared rooms have 2 beds
- All shared rooms are non-smoking
- No special requests about your roommate can be accommodated
- See "Frequently Asked Questions" TAB for more details
How Active is this Tour?
65% Easy
35% Moderate (walking tours, distances traveled)
Your Responsibilities as a Solo Traveler
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
What is the Group Size?
You will be introduced to the WTT Tour Director when you receive your Final Travel Instructions, about 2-3 weeks before the tour begins.
Learn about your fellow travelers after final payment by visiting MyWTT. Room sharing assignments will be listed in the Final Travel Instructions.
What meals are included and how are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Each day of the itinerary lists the included meals for that day (B,L,D,O=Other). When a meal is not included, the WTT Tour Director will have suggestions for where to eat.
You do not have to dine alone unless it is your personal choice. You'll most likely be dining with new acquaintances you've made, or you can join the Tour Director.
Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarian and gluten-free dietary restrictions can be accommodated on this tour with limited selections.
What clothing and items should I pack for this trip?
In general the temperature, rainfall and humidity levels vary based on the time of the year. We suggest you monitor weather apps leading up to the time you depart for the most current information.
For This Trip You May Want—
- Shoes that are comfortable for walking
- Refillable water bottle
- Smart-casual wear if you'd like to dress up a bit for dinners
- Lightweight but warm jacket/sweater for the cool mornings and evenings or the unusually brisk day
- Inexpensive rain poncho or travel umbrella, just in case
Good Packing Habits—
- Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping aids, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.
- Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
- Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
- Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
- Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.
What are the luggage restrictions for this tour?
We will be using the WTT coach on this tour. The luggage restrictions are driven by the physical space limitations and the requirement that travelers manage their belongings.
- It is best to travel as lightly as possible. Most travelers regret when they have packed too much.
- You may bring one suitcase and a day pack or shoulder bag to keep with you in the coach.
- Maximum suitcase size: 22-24 inches in height. This is the size of bag that fits into the overhead bins of aircraft. Suitcases larger than this will not fit properly in the WTT coach; don't bring them.
- The weight of your bag should not exceed 30 pounds as you will need to lift it into the coach luggage compartment.
- You are responsible for managing your own belongings. We expect you to take your belongings from the coach to your room and to bring it back to the coach and load it on days we change hotels. We do not provide luggage pulls; they are not safe and are inconvenient. The possibility of steps exist at most hotel entrances.
How much money should I bring on this tour?
Only you can determine the optimum amount of cash to take on tour. When budgeting for out-of-pocket expenses, there are several aspects to consider: the number of meals you are responsible for, the amount of money you like to have on-hand for snacks and drinks, and your individual shopping interests and habits. More and more, restaurants are no longer allowing groups to split the bill by charging to multiple credit cards. Therefore, you might want to have cash-on-hand for meals on your own when dining with others in the group.
What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?
All tips to local guides will be paid on your behalf.
- You are responsible for tipping waitstaff, porters, or other individuals who provide a service to you at the hotel, or other public locations.
- You may want to tip your WTT Tour Leader for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $9-$12 per day.
What other Additional Information do I need to know?
Can I transfer my deposit to another tour?
To get off this tour and register for another tour, you must follow these steps - in the order shown:
2) WAIT before submitting your new reservation! You must receive the Cancellation Confirmation email before submitting your new reservation. This can take up to 2 business days. The Cancellation Confirmation email will list the amount of parked credits from this tour that are now available to use on a new reservation.
3) COMPLETE the new Reservation Form and USE the parked credits towards your deposit on the new tour.
Note: If you used Parked Credits to pay the deposit on this tour, these credits cannot be used a second time and are not eligible to be transferred.
What happens if I need to cancel this tour?
Hudson River Valley
October 17 - October 22, 2027SPACE RESERVATION REQUEST
If becoming a member and signing up for a tour at the same time, you only need to fill out this form.
Our Promise to You
It doesn’t matter which tour you choose.
You’ll find your people and make memories that last a lifetime.