How to Get to Hudson Valley. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airports

Airports serve the Hudson Valley directly or via New York City.

Main Access Points

Stewart International Airport (SWF): Newburgh, limited commercial flights (Allegiant Air, Breeze Airways).
Albany International Airport (ALB): North of the valley, broader range of airlines (American, Delta, Southwest, United).
New York City Airports (JFK, EWR, LGA): Main international and domestic gateways.

Flights & Transfers

Flight options vary by airport. Transfers from NYC airports involve multi-step connections.

Information

Flight prices increase during peak seasons (summer, fall foliage, holidays).
SWF: Rental cars, taxis, ride-sharing. ALB: Rental cars, taxis, CDTA bus.
JFK/LGA/EWR: AirTrain/bus to NYC subway/LIRR/NJ Transit, then Metro-North train. Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

Seasonal Prices

Expect higher flight prices during peak travel times.

Airport Facilities

Major airports offer full services; SWF has basic amenities.

Direct Flights

International direct flights mainly serve JFK and EWR.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Metro-North Railroad: Frequent service from Grand Central Terminal (NYC).
Hudson River Line: Scenic route along east bank to Peekskill, Cold Spring, Beacon, Poughkeepsie.
Amtrak: Long-distance service to Albany, Rhinecliff, Poughkeepsie, Croton-Harmon.
Metro-North is the most convenient train from NYC.

Long-Distance Bus & Car Rentals

Trailways of New York: Extensive connections to many Hudson Valley towns from NYC.
Rental Car: Most flexible for exploration, recommended for farms, wineries, trailheads. DiscoverCars.com.
Requires valid driver's license (IDP if not in English), credit card, minimum age (21/25).
Major rental companies at airports and towns (Enterprise, Hertz, Avis).

Road Conditions & Safety

Road Network

Generally well-maintained roads. Major highways include I-87, Taconic State Parkway, U.S. Route 9. Rural roads can be winding and narrow.

Driving Safety

Drive defensively, adhere to speed limits. Be alert for deer, especially at dawn/dusk in rural areas. Winter driving can be challenging due to snow/ice.

Winter Preparedness

Check road conditions during winter storms. A New York State Road Map serves as a GPS backup.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Cruises

River transportation offers unique local connections and scenic excursions.

River Transport Details

Newburgh-Beacon Ferry: Connects Newburgh (Orange County) and Beacon (Dutchess County) across the Hudson River.
Mainly a commuter ferry for Metro-North passengers, also useful for tourists.
Seasonal Cruises: Private companies offer scenic cruises from Kingston, Newburgh, Peekskill (recreational).

Connections & Immigration

Ferry terminals are often near local transportation hubs.

Logistics

Ferry landings are typically a short walk, taxi, or ride-share from local transit.
Beacon ferry landing is close to the Beacon Metro-North train station.
No international seaports in Hudson Valley; all international arrivals occur at major airports.

Recreational Use

Most river boat services are for leisure and tourism.

Commuter Focus

The Newburgh-Beacon ferry is mainly for commuters.

No Boat Taxis

Regular boat taxi services are not common.

Departure Information

Departure Times

Plan your arrival at airports or stations to allow for procedures.

Recommended Arrivals

Domestic flights (SWF, ALB): 1.5-2 hours before departure.
International flights (NYC airports): 2-3 hours before departure.
Train stations (Metro-North/Amtrak): 20-30 minutes before departure.

Airport/Station Facilities

Facilities cater to departing travelers.

Amenities

Major airports (JFK, EWR, LGA, ALB) have check-in, security, dining, retail, restrooms.
Larger Metro-North/Amtrak stations offer waiting areas, restrooms, ticket kiosks.
Smaller train stations may only have platforms; purchase tickets in advance or via mobile app.

Exit Fees & Procedures

No Specific Exit Fees

No specific exit fees apply when departing the Hudson Valley.

Airline Taxes

Standard airline taxes and fees are included in your ticket price.

Check Airline

Consult your specific airline for recommended airport arrival times.

Smooth Departure

Account for potential traffic delays when traveling to airports, especially during peak hours.

How to Get to Hudson Valley