New York State By Rail

With a new day continue to explore what else New York City has to offer, whether you choose to explore the cuisine scene or change tracks to uncover the many hidden gems. Finish ticking off your bucket list with a trip to the Statue of Liberty, a stroll around the MET for the fashion fanatics, or a visit to the Empire State Building for an unforgettable memory. Before hitting the train tracks, spend one more night in New York in the Millennium Hotel.

Take on the first train of the journey to Poughkeepsie which will take around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Once it arrives at the station at 12:45 pm, you are free to spend the day however you please. Poughkeepsie is perfect for outdoor lovers, with a scenic walk along the Hudson River and crafted hiking trails, that are sprawled across the city. However, there are plenty of cute cafes and boutique shops for those who want to explore the city. At the end of the day, check into the DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton, for an unremarkable night's sleep.

The second day in Poughkeepsie is just as entertaining as the first with places like the Vanderbilt Mansion and the Franklin D. Roosevelt ready to be explored. For breathtaking views, take a walk or bike ride across the Walkway Over the Hudson, the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge. Or if you’re more interested in historic sites, stop by the Locust Grove Estate, the former home of artist and inventor Samuel Morse. To end the day, unwind back at the hotel where you can grab a bite to eat or head straight to bed.

In the morning, board the Amtrak Empire Service train for a scenic journey from Poughkeepsie to Syracuse, which takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Armory Square, a vibrant downtown district filled with excellent restaurants, bars, and boutique shops. If you enjoy shopping and entertainment, spend some time at Destiny USA, one of the largest malls in the country. For a more relaxing experience, visit the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, which is home to many animals, including snow leopards, elephants, and penguins. Then head to the Residence Inn Syracuse Downtown, where you'll stay for two nights.

Spend a full day discovering more of what Syracuse has to offer. If you prefer outdoor activities, head to Onondaga Lake Park, a perfect spot for walking, biking, or simply enjoying the lakeside scenery. For nature lovers, a trip to Green Lakes State Park is a must, where you can take a scenic hike around the striking blue-green glacial lakes. The Museum of Science & Technology, featuring interactive exhibits and a planetarium for a fun and educational experience, is a perfect play for families as the little ones can immerse in the interactivity.

After breakfast, board the Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train for a 2-hour and 30-minute ride to Buffalo. Once you arrive, check into the Hotel at Lafayette Trademark Collection, so you can explore the city’s rich history and cultural attractions. Visit the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, where you can tour historic naval ships and learn about military history. If you appreciate art, stop by the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, which boasts an impressive collection of contemporary and modern artwork. For a lively waterfront experience, head to Canalside Buffalo, where you can enjoy activities like kayaking in the summer or ice skating in the winter.

Buffalo is the perfect base for a day trip to Niagara Falls, one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Just a 30-minute drive away, you can experience the power of the falls up close with a Maid of the Mist boat tour or an exhilarating walk along the Cave of the Winds. Back in Buffalo, consider visiting the Buffalo Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., home to over 1,000 animals. Architecture lovers may enjoy a tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House, an architectural masterpiece. In the evening, take a stroll through downtown Buffalo, where you’ll find beautifully restored historic buildings and a thriving food scene.

In the morning, board a VIA Rail Canada train for a 2-hour journey to Toronto, crossing the U.S.-Canada border (don’t forget your passport!). Upon arrival, begin your exploration at the Distillery District, a charming historic area filled with cobblestone streets, art galleries, unique shops, and cosy cafes. For a deep dive into history and culture, visit the Royal Ontario Museum, which houses fascinating exhibits on art, natural history, and world cultures. No trip to Toronto is complete without a visit to the CN Tower, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the EdgeWalk, a thrilling hands-free walk around the outside ledge of the tower.

Day two in Toronto is the end of the line for this railway journey around New York State, so be sure to explore more of what this fun-filled city has to offer. Escape the hustle and bustle by taking a short ferry ride to the Toronto Islands, where you can rent a bike, paddle a kayak, or simply relax on the beach while enjoying spectacular views of the skyline. Toronto doesn’t disappoint if you’re a foodie, with mouthwatering restaurants located on every street. The Eaton Centre, is the city's shopping centre bursting with shops that will suit every taste.

Depending on your flight time, you may have a few extra hours for some last-minute exploring or souvenir shopping before heading to the airport. Whether you choose to take a final stroll through Toronto’s bustling streets or enjoy a relaxed breakfast at a local café, this marks the end of an incredible journey through the northeastern U.S. Board your overnight flight home, with amazing memories from your adventure.