Hudson River

Flowing from the scenic Adirondack Mountains and emptying into Upper New York Bay in the heart of New York City, the Hudson River has been immortalized in everything from art history to pop culture. Cruises along this historic waterway glide past famous city spots while offering breathtaking vistas of the state’s landscape.

During the early 19th century, the 315-mile river was the chief way to travel and transport goods through eastern New York State. The region’s lush riverbanks and woodlands served as the home and inspiration of the Hudson River School, a group of 19th century romantic landscape painters that included artists such as Thomas Cole and Frederic Edwin Church.

Port stops may include legendary Sleepy Hollow or Franklin D. Roosevelt’s estate of Springwood. You might also venture to Kingston’s "Millionaire Row," where wealthy New York businessmen bought property during the 1800s, or visit the campus grounds of West Point Military Academy.

These cruises are hassle-free and easy to budget, as so much is included in one price that you pay up front, including riverboat accommodations, most meals and some activities on board and on land.