July 8, 2024 —Soon, the trees will be changing colors, the cool autumn air will have us bundling up, pies will be baked, and with each footstep, we will be crunching leaves. There is not only so much to love about autumn but there is also so much to see and do.
Upstate New York is renowned for its spectacular fall foliage, attracting visitors from all over to witness the vibrant transformation of the landscape. From scenic railroads to charming small towns, there’s no shortage of spots to enjoy the brilliant fall colors.
“At Kendal on Hudson, the fall season is one of our favorites,” says Lisa Wacht, Health Services Director of Kendal® on Hudson, the only true Life Care community in Westchester County. “Residents love attending the various festivals, apple picking, and pumpkin carving, and when they decide to have a moment of downtime, hot chocolate or apple cider is a must. It’s a really joyful time at Kendal on Hudson.”
Here is a guide to some of the best places to see upstate New York fall foliage.
Experience the Beauty of Fall in the Greater Westchester County
Westchester County offers some of the most picturesque fall scenery, making it a perfect destination for leaf peeping. With its mix of urban and rural settings, there are plenty of spots to admire the changing leaves.
For our residents, families, and the community, fall just wouldn’t be the same without taking in the beauty of the foliage. In greater Westchester County, there are numerous ways to embrace the gorgeous autumn season and discover new ways to experience its ambiance. Here are some top recommendations:
Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse
The views from the Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse are stunning year-round, but fall brings an extra touch of magic. Climb the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the colorful leaves reflected on the water.
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Located adjacent to Kendal on Hudson, the Rockwood Hall portion of Rockefeller State Park offers a beautiful array of leaves in varying colors. Enjoy a leisurely walk in the cool autumn air, bond with friends, and soak in the season.
Rockland State Park
Drive to Rockland State Park, where you can enjoy views of the fall foliage from the banks of Rockland Lake. Pack some warm and cozy blankets and picnic while enjoying the scenic beauty.
Kykuit, the Rockefeller Estate
Kykuit is a historic site in Sleepy Hollow that not only provides a glimpse into the life of the Rockefeller family but also offers stunning views of the surrounding foliage.
By exploring these spots in Westchester County and the Hudson Valley, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the fall season. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk, a scenic drive, or an adventurous hike, there are countless ways to enjoy the brilliant fall colors and make this autumn truly memorable.
Other Great Spots in New York State
In addition to Westchester County, there are many other great spots in upstate New York to experience the stunning fall foliage.
Lake George
Known for its stunning landscapes, Lake George offers some of the best fall foliage views. Take a boat cruise on the lake to see the colors reflected in the water, or hike up Prospect Mountain for a bird’s-eye view of the area.
Adirondack Scenic Railroad
For a unique experience, hop on the Adirondack Scenic Railroad. This scenic railroad takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the Adirondack Mountains, providing unparalleled views of the fall foliage.
Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes region is famous for its wine trails, but it’s also a fantastic spot for fall foliage. Visit small towns like Ithaca and Watkins Glen and explore the many parks and gorges that burst with color during the foliage season.
Catskills Scenic Byway
Drive through the Catskills Scenic Byway for a breathtaking view of the foliage. Stop at overlooks and take short hikes to fully immerse yourself in the fall colors.
Apple Picking
Combine leaf peeping with a classic fall activity – apple picking. Many orchards in upstate New York, such as those in the Hudson Valley and Westchester County, offer apple picking along with beautiful fall scenery.
Hudson Valley
The Hudson Valley remains a perennial favorite for its scenic drives and hiking trails. Explore small towns like Cold Spring and Beacon, which are surrounded by hills that light up with fall colors.
Lake Placid
Located in the Adirondacks, Lake Placid offers stunning fall foliage views. Whether you’re exploring Mirror Lake or taking a gondola ride up Whiteface Mountain, the views are spectacular.
With all these options available, your autumn season is sure to be full of beautiful sights.
Tips for Leaf Peeping
When you’re planning your fall foliage excursions, keep these helpful tips in mind to get the most out of your trip:
- Check the Fall Foliage Report: Timing is crucial for catching the peak fall colors. Use foliage reports to plan your visit when the colors are at their best.
- Visit During the Week: Weekends can be crowded, so consider visiting during the week to enjoy the scenery in a more peaceful setting.
- Plan for Weather: Fall weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and be prepared for sudden changes.
Whether you’re driving through small towns, hiking up mountains, or enjoying a scenic railroad, upstate New York offers endless opportunities to experience the beauty of fall foliage. Plan your visit, check the fall foliage report, and immerse yourself in the stunning colors of the season.
Beautiful Retirement Living at Kendal on Hudson
Come experience autumn at Kendal on Hudson! We would be happy to help you find fun and exciting things to do while giving you a taste of a lifestyle you’ll fall for. Give us a call today at 877-989-6465 to schedule a personalized tour.
Founded on Quaker principles and guided by our values and practices, Kendal® on Hudson provides a vibrant, active, and social senior lifestyle on our 25-acre campus next to the historic Hudson River. As the only Lifecare community in Westchester County, we offer four levels of service for our residents: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Support, and Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Services.