Here’s a question for intrepid RV travelers and other winter vacationers: will you be traveling through the Hudson Valley this holiday season? Lucky you! You’re in for a treat, because our region’s best New Year’s destinations are waiting to help you celebrate.
Whether you’re traveling with kids or on the road for some well-deserved “couples time,” don’t miss the chance to welcome 2015 in the Valley. Here are some of our top party picks:
For the Grown-Ups
Entertainment venues up and down the Hudson ring in the New Year with special events geared to grown-ups. Here are three especially interesting possibilities for travelers to the Hudson Valley this New Year’s Eve.
Uptown Kingston New Year’s Eve
Stop in Kingston’s Stockade District if an enormous, adults-only, circus-themed celebration of food, drink, and music appeals. Co-hosted by Uptown Kingston, Magic Hat Brewing Company, and Chronogram, the third annual New Year’s Eve block party kicks off at 8 p.m. near Wall and North Front Streets, and features drink specials throughout the night, a ball drop, costume parties, dancing, and more.
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Lake George Steamboat Company Midnight Fireworks Party Cruise
There’s nothing quite like a holiday on the water. Take a cruise on the Lac du Saint Sacrement, one of the largest inland cruise ships in New York, for a festive, Champagne-at-midnight tour of the lake. There’s also a family dinner cruise earlier in the evening, as well as a champagne brunch cruise on New Year’s Day.
Finger Lakes Race Track & Casino
Combine a midnight countdown and a fireworks show with plenty of fast-paced play in a 44,000-square-foot gaming hall and you’ve got a New Year’s Eve to remember. Travelers to the region who enjoy games of chance should check out this holiday extravaganza. It might just be your lucky night!
For the Whole Family
Traveling with the family? That’s no reason to stay at home on New Year’s Eve! Come join the revelers at one of these family-friendly party venues on December 31.
Winter Wonderland at Kensico Dam Plaza
Spend New Year’s Eve in Valhalla ice skating under the stars and dazzle the kiddos with more than two million lights set to holiday music. Part of the annual Winter Wonderland Celebration from Thanksgiving weekend to the first week of January, this party will appeal to winter RV travelers of all ages.
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White Plains New Year’s Eve Spectacular
Here’s another downtown celebration to consider, with a midnight ball drop, fireworks, and live music. Plenty to see, do, and taste throughout the evening. Arrive early and use this handy map to locate parking near the event.
Saratoga Springs First Night Celebration
Another family-friendly choice where kids under 12 are admitted free with an adult admission. Buy a button and catch the shuttle between venues for music, children’s events, and comedy performances as the city’s civic buildings, museums, churches, and businesses open their doors to partygoers. The midnight fireworks display will top off an extraordinary evening.
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Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Planning to be in the Poughkeepskie area on New Year’s Eve? Enjoy a night of RV camping at an area RV park and then join intrepid walkers for a New Year’s Day hike across the 1.28-mile Walkway Over the Hudson. With entrances in Poughkeepsie and Highland, this remarkable walkway rises 21 stories above the Hudson River, offering New Year’s Day hikers unforgettable views.
A road trip to New York’s Hudson Valley always delivers good times, thanks to the abundance of scenic towns, villages, and state parks. For those who brave the cold to get in one more winter trip over the holidays, the area’s special New Year’s Eve events and celebrations will add an extra layer of enjoyment. Come join the fun!
Joe Laing is the Director of Marketing for El Monte RV and has been in the travel industry for over 20 years. He has been exploring the outdoors most of his life and enjoys spending time camping throughout the United States. Joe has also been involved with the RVIA’s Go RV’ing committee, campground associations, and many travel industry associations.
