The bestselling and most complete guide to the gorgeous Hudson Valley is back in a new, totally revised edition. Rich with historical and cultural attractions and natural beauty, the Hudson Valley has become a choice getaway. Local author Joanne Michaels guides you through its treasure trove of restaurants, cozy inns, galleries, antiques shops, and wineries, and to its many outdoor activities. Completely revised; from the most respected travel writer in the region.

A comprehensive guide to the Adirondacks and beyond Completely updated, now in full color, this guide provides details of Adirondack Park’s history and geography as well as the cultural, lodging, dining, shopping, and recreational opportunities that abound here and in its gateway cities (including Saratoga Springs and Glens Falls). Full of unbiased critical opinions and candid reviews from an author who is immersed in the region; up-to-date, detailed maps; and gorgeous photos throughout—this is an invaluable guide for your next trip.

"Many guides claim to be 'insider' takes on travel, but few deliver truly out-of-the-ordinary info. This one does . . . many listings will surprise even natives."—New York Daily News Rich with historical and cultural attractions, the Hudson Valley and Catskills area will be celebrating its 400th anniversary in 2009. The region will commemorate Henry Hudson’s sail up the river, Robert Fulton’s first successful commercial steamship operation, and many more nationally significant events. The region is also a treasure trove for travelers seeking outdoor recreation, five-star dining, cozy bed & breakfasts or comfy inns, as well as galleries, antiques shops, wineries, farm stands, and places to hike, kayak, and canoe. In this completely revised seventh edition, author Joanne Michaels, the most respected travel writer in the region, includes hundreds of places to dine and stay, along with a wealth of information about things to see and do—all within driving distance of New York City, Boston, and beyond. With detailed maps and hundreds of honest reviews about accommodations, eateries, and activities that will appeal to both affluent travelers and those seeking special value, Michaels’s advice will aid in planning an unforgettable trip.

Saratoga Springs is special. Its reputation goes back to 1767 when Native Americans brought Sir William Johnson to the area for the healing powers of the High Rock Spring. From this humble beginning, the popularity of Saratoga Springs and its many mineral water springs grew from the 19th century to the mid-20th century. Railroads played a key role in that growth. The first train entered Saratoga Springs in 1832. Regularly scheduled passenger trains made Saratoga Springs more accessible, and as a result, it grew by leaps and bounds. Beautiful train stations welcomed visitors, the Saratoga Race Course opened, large bathhouses were constructed, the Grand Union and other luxurious hotels awaited overnight guests, and many people from all walks of life visited the casino in historic Congress Park. Visits to historic locations such as Mount McGregor and North Creek were made easier by train. Along with the railroads in and around Saratoga Springs, this book also includes historic highlights of those locations.

Known to aspiring dancers and ballet enthusiasts worldwide, Saratoga Springs is much more than the home of the National Museum of Dance. The arts have always been nurtured in the Spa City, and in 1964, the world-famous founder of the New York City Ballet, George Balanchine, decided to make the new Saratoga Performing Arts Center his company's summer home. The company has brought some of the world's most famous dancers and choreographers to Saratoga ever since. Skidmore College offered one of the best dance programs in the nation, and several prestigious academies and summer programs have made Saratoga their home, helping young people from Lake Avenue and around the world achieve that illustrious dream of dancing professionally. Skidmore dance professor Denise Warner Limoli narrates this beautiful history, from turn-of-the-century "floral fetes" to today's vibrant dance community.

Includes special sessions.